My grandchildren are growing taller and their shoes needed some love. Shoe Train has a nice selection of shoes for children of any age. Shoe Train is my favorite store to measure and fit shoes. I have been coming to Shoe Train with my own kids and now, my grandkids. My granddaughter grew two shoe sizes. We found a nice pair of shoes. Service was fabulous. We had a really nice lady measure my granddaughter's feet. We tried on a couple of pairs of shoes and decided on a favorite. I think the shoes are fairly priced. You pay a little more for the time and attention you receive. One granddaughter down and one to go, see you this weekend Shoe Train. Thank you. read more

See all

I decided to go back in because I really need my children's foot measured and I didn't want I order their shoes online or get them some place random. This experience was much better. The two people I dealt with the initial visit were not there. There seemed to be about 3 salespeople working and the one I worked with was extremely friendly. They have a great selection. I can't emphasize that enough. I got some ugg books for my daughter along with unicorn tennis shoes and ASICS for my son. This was a much better interaction. I'll write the first one off as a fluke. read more

Shoe Train - Unicorn shoes - Shoe Stores Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

See all

While visiting relatives in Maryland last week, we brought our son to Shoe Train to get his feet measured and buy him some new tennis shoes. I was so excited for him to be properly measured (there aren't any children shoe stores where we live). Tessa was very warm and patient as she measured our son's feet and suggested a few different styles for him to try. Thank you Tessa and Shoe Train for a wonderful experience. We will definitely be back then next time we are in the area! read more

I waited 3 hours to see Ed. Why? Because my mom insisted and she was buying my child her special shoes. I got progressively more annoyed on a busy Saturday morning as hordes of people came in and out, and I watched as this "Ed" guy took his sweet time on each kid as I got hungrier and hungrier and more and more aggrivated by all the annoying kids and parents. My daughter was 3 and walked like a drunk person. Every doctor we took her to said she was fine and would outgrow it. And my mom was certain it was her shoes. So we waited. And waited. I hate waiting. I was so aggitated every time I saw Ed spend 20 minutes on a kid, counting down how many more names were on the list until mine. FINALLY it was our turn. Ed took one look at my daughter's walk and diagnosed that she had low muscle tone. He explained that he sees kids like her all the time, and most pediatricians don't. He fitted her with orthodic inserts, and told me she had extra wide feet, and should only wear lace up sneakers. $175 later, my daughter walked out straight and tall, without looking a bit like she'd been throwing back vodkas all day. A year later, she is running, playing like a normal child, and not falling every day. Now I know never to go on the weekend to see Ed. And, every child who goes to Shoe Train has a file with their history, so going forward any of the other sales reps can assist you. AND, Ed was an amazing resource for local therapists who could help my daughter beyond what the shoes could do. I went from being the angriest mother in the world, to the most grateful mother in the moments I spent talking to Ed. Anyone who is giving this place less than 5 stars, didn't speak to him. He is the most caring salesman I have ever met, and of couse, he owns Shoe Train. read more

Shoe Train is the absolute best. Both my husband and I got shoes there as kids and now we take our daughter. They have a wide selection of shoes and pay specific attention to the needs of your child. They fit our daughter's feet and provided some guidance for how we should expect her feet to grow in the future. Their prices are fair. There's a slight ($1-2) markup compared to other stores on some shoes, but the difference is totally worth it. You aren't just buying shoes, you are getting a valuable service as well. read more

Shoe Train - Trying on different shoes! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

This store is a gem in the disappearing world of kids shoe stores. Service and selection are what they do, and they do it well. And they treat customers right. Our twins each got shoes, different pairs, and one of the pairs had bad toe damage in like 3 days. The owner basically said "she dragged her toes, it's not a defect" and "but I'll exchange them and keep you happy, I can do that one time for these". Helped us pick a pair that might hold up better. Stride-rite does have a guarantee printed on the box, too. Apparently shoe company execs come by and ask him "what are you doing different here" and it's obvious. They take care of the customer. I buy my shoes online. But I value my money too much to buy my kids shoes online. Recommend coming here for sure. read more

The little one is walking and needed new shoes. I heard this was THE place to get children's shoes so we made the drive. It's in a tiny mall that seems kid friendly. The store had a large selection of shoes and boots. Mostly for older than my 16 month old but a good selection for her as well. We signed in and was helped immediately. Ed was really nice and measured her feet. He was quite knowledgeable about shoes and noted she has more narrow feet. He found some adorable boots and shoes for her. The store also has a play area for kids and a nice selection of socks and shoe laces. I'm glad we drove up here for her shoes. It's worth it since kids are kinda squirrelly and they're kind and patient!! read more

Although many of my friends rave about Shoe Train, I was skeptical about driving 30 miles for shoes for a three year old. This store is more than worth the drive! We went on a Sunday afternoon and were promptly greeted by a friendly sales associate. She spoke directly to my son as she quickly measured his feet, but she did not hover as we surveyed the options. My son had a ball trying on shoes and walking/strutting around the store. Yes, the prices are steep, but if you have a kid with wide feet, you know what a pain it is to find shoes that fit. I will happily fork over money for shoes that fit properly. We will definitely return. read more

I was nervous to go into a store with my 18 month old because of COVID and he won't wear a mask yet, but I desperately needed to find him new sneakers that are the right size. I was completely comfortable with their COVID safety measures. Shelia was amazing and sized my son's feet for both sneakers and sandals. She told us what to look for in a shoe and explained how his foot shape and toe box should change over time. I was really impressed and was in and out, while getting a bunch of helpful tips. I won't be going anywhere else to get my son's shoes! read more

This place is amazing! My son has special needs and finds the process of trying on shoes to be as traumatizing as going to a doctor (don't ask why). But the folks at The Shoe Train aren't phased at all. They are fun and friendly and get the job done fast. As a parent this is absolutely essential. We came in May 2018 and were served by Luca. Five stars! We'll be back for sure! read more

We've been here twice and both times had a really positive experience. It's super crowded, so you have to put your name on a list, but they work through the list quickly. We got there right when they opened this morning and it was already crowded, but we were in and out in about 30 minutes. They have a train set for the kids to play with, and my 2 year old did pretty well, all things considered. Our fitter was professional and nice. They had the shoes we were looking for in stock and we left with an adorable pair of See Kai Run sneakers. My daughter was very excited that she got to pick out stickers on our way out. We will be back the next time she needs shoes (just like seemingly everyone in Montgomery County)! read more

Shoe Train really can't be beat. The prices are worth the selection and service. They happily measure the kids every time and are so sweet and kind to them. We've never had to wait long, but just in case there is a car set for kids to play with. Successful visits end in complementary stickers. read more

Like many other reviews, I love this store. Though it can be busy at times and waiting for great people to fit my daughter's feet with sometimes an impatient child can be trying, this is the best place and they do the most for you. I will continue to bring my kids to this store until they outgrow the store. I drive from Virginia and its worthwhile even though traffic is a nightmare. I do a lot of online shopping and whereas you might price out the items cheaper, the service you are getting from the salespeople is unmatched anywhere. This store is like shoe stores of old where you felt like you were getting a great service and a great fit and reasonable prices. read more

Best place to buy shoes in the area! That's why the line might be out the door. But that's also why there's a train set for the kids. And, it's worth the wait. Guarantee the fit. And it's true! Just exchanged a pair that was worn once and my daughter is now over the moon with her new shoes. Ken is a rock star manager who has been doing this since 1980. Experience matters. Highly recommend! : ) read more

I wanted a shoe store to take my toddler and have her get fitted because I was having a hard time finding shoes that fit and that she liked. They have a great selection of shoes. Ken greeted us and was wonderful. She warmed up quickly and we left with two pairs of shoes 15 minutes later. I will be back with her and my new little one! Thank you! read more

Desperate for a real shoe store, all the way up in Frederick, I took my barefoot walker in to find out why none of the shoes I have bought him will stay on his foot. I quickly found out that he has an extra wide foot. We have been back 4 times since. The wait can be long on weekends, but they have a train table to keep toddlers busy while parents browse. If the old shoes still fit, they let you know and don't push buying more on you, which I really appreciate, and they let you know their best guess as to how much longer they will fit. Wishing they were closer, but still plan to continue a quarterly journey for new shoes. Heading there tomorrow! read more

I love ShoeTrain so much. I went there when my daughter had orthotics and they took great care of her. They were the only specialists in the area, and I know I can trust them. Even during Covid, they were so polite on the phone and brought my order out to me. They had what I couldn't find online and they were on sale (Keens). I hope they survive the pandemic. read more

I have always had the best experiences at Shoe Train. We've been customers since my daughter was first walking and every time, they are so great with her and we always leave with her so excited with her new shoes! I recommend this store to everyone I talk to looking for shoes for their kids. read more

If worn or damaged shoes marked up 20% are your thing, this could be your place. My kid rightly suggested that a better name would be Shoe Trainwreck. read more

I've never been to a kid's shoe store before so I didn't know how complex it can be to find the right shoe and orthotics necessary to ensure kids have the right support and gait. I just usually buy off the net. I was hoping for Ed (the owner) but he was out on vacation. We went with Bill, who clearly knows what he's doing also. He reminded me a bit of the soup nazi with his delivery, so be careful with asking too many possibly perceived redundant questions. All of the sales people here seem to take their time, which is good when your sales person is taking care of you, but bad when you have to wait. When you get there, make sure you sign up on the wait list at the counter. They keep track of all the records for the kids that they assess. Time well spent b/c of the analysis they provide that most doctor's offices don't bother with. Shoes and othotics at full price though. Store located at the Cabin John Mall, but not the strip mall section. You can kill time with plenty of shops inside with a Mickey D's and a sushi joint and toy store. read more

My son needs extra arch support (the cookies) for his tennis shoes. It is not easy to find a shoe store that has the service. After having a really awful experience at a children shoe store in Arlington, VA, I was very happy to find this store. The shoe store in Arlington, VA installed the arch support without measuring my son. They put in a really large cookie (arch support). They were so high and uncomfortable. My son couldn't wear the brand new shoes. As soon as I found out Shoe Train installs the cookies, I took the shoes there. They told me that I must bring my son (and the shoes) there, so they can do the measurements and install the correct amount of the support at the right place. I was happy to know that they were knowledgeable and wanted to do things the right way. They were also really nice to remove the existing arch support for free. We were there for 10 minutes and my son left wearing his new shoes. read more

Staff is very knowledgeable and experienced! Shoes always fit well and selection is good. They have customers who make the trek out here from all over the DMV. Super busy on weekends though. Try to go early or during the week. read more

This is our second trip to buy shoes for our grand daughter. Although we have always had a wait, it has been well worthwhile. The services has been wonderful (Ken Neufeld). Taking time to pick out just the right shoes (color and style) to make our grand daughter smile. Look forward to our next visit to buy snow boots. read more

I usually don't write things like this, but I feel compelled that something needs to be said about our experience at Shoe Train in Cabin John today. Let me start with a very brief history. We went a few months ago to Shoe Train and spent a fair amount of money on shoes and orthoitcs. We went in today for some new shoes and updated specialty insoles. While waiting our turn we were talking to another mom and mentioned that we just came from Nordstroms, where they had kids shoes 20% off. A couple minuets later one of the employees, and older woman, pointed me out in front of the entire store and YELLED at me for mentioning the sale at Nordstroms. and when I say Yelled, it was loud, in front of a packed store, to the point I heard customers asking "what is this all about" and EVERYONE was staring. She had a few more choice words for us. I said "fine, we'll just leave".. she screamed out "good" and we left. After a not-so- happy meal break at McDonalds, my wife, who NEVER looks for conflict went back in hoping to express her disappointment to a more rational employee. She was met with even more attitude from another employee who was clearly (by her attitude and body language) looking to escalate the situation. My wife walked out, letting them know that we will tell everyone we know how they treat customers who dare speak of another store. Also, if you need Orthotic insoles, the brand they carry are called "Chipmunk" and can be found online for less than half of what the Train sells them for. It really was a surreal experience. We were there to BUY shoes. We had a great experience there the first time, but will never step foot back in there. They clearly do not appreciate their customers. Do yourself a favor and buy elsewhere. You'll save money AND be treated with respect. Sorry for the long post, but this was just ridiculous. I hope they read this and are ashamed. We have never been treated this poorly before. Especially by a small local business. ---UPDATE-- Response to Mariana's reply to my review Mariana, Thank you for responding. I am glad that your online response to the situation matches the response my wife received when trying to address the situation in person. You are nothing, if not consistent. I find it hard to believe that another customer was upset because of the conversation we were having with another mom about shoes in a shoe store. As for repeatedly telling everyone within earshot about the sale, the store was packed. I was talking. People hear what other people say. My last name is NOT Nordstrom, I was not walking around handing out flyers in an attempt to drive business away from you. Quite the opposite. I actually was defending Shoe Train when another mom was complaining about prices and selection. And let's look at the core of why I was there. I WANTED TO BUY SHOES FROM YOU!! I also find it the epitome of hypocritical that you find it okay to belittle and disparage the employees of Nordstrom's who, like your employees are trying to make a living. I was simply speaking of my experience, nothing more, and nothing less. In regards to your 75 year old grandmother of 9, she could be 15 years old, or 130 years old, and it would make no difference to me. What she said, the tone in which she said it, and volume in which spoke it in, is completely unacceptable for ANY Person to address a customer. She should be ashamed of herself for embarrassing my family the way she did, in fact, I am embarrassed about how she made herself look. I agree that some of your employees are wonderful and very skilled. Bill is the reason we chose to come back to Shoe Train as a repeat customer. We were willing to pay more because of his expertise. We came in with all intention of spending money -we spent about $120 the first time we came in on shoes for a not-yet-walking toddler, and were willing to do it again. Shoe Train does have a great reputation that was built over 35 years BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER. It's only a matter of time before you can no longer ride his coat tails. Clearly, by other reviews your service is slipping, and strictly by the attitude we encouraged in store, and online, I can only imagine you realize this and are under intense pressure. I sincerely wish you the best of luck. I can buy shoes anywhere. You only have a selective pool of potential customers. Conversations like this should be unnecessary, but when they are, well, I can buy shoes anywhere. read more

We needed to have our 13 month old expertly measured for a pair of Stride Rite Soft Motion. The online presence of baby shoes has made a real children's store with knowledgeable sales people hard to find. Our experience at Shoe Train was very positive. Location is a little different , it's located in an unusual office building type of "mall." The salesperson was very good with our toddler and fitting was quick. Brio table was great fun. read more

Everyone says Ed is the best, but that assumes you will actually get to see Ed. We checked in, wroite Ed's name down and checked the waiting list. There was one person ahead of waiting for Ed and he was with someone at the time. After waiting for an hour, it was our turn. Ed called us and then went to get a card to log all of the information. He then came back and said there was someone waiting who had "forgotten" to put his name down. I had a 12 month old and a 7 year old with me - I never would have stayed if I knew there would be another person ahead of us. Now, i have no idea how to get my baby fitted and I have to find another time or another place to get orthotics for my oldest. WHAT A WASTE OF A MORNING. So needless to say, I left and the other person was served. ia m sure they are thrilled, but they should make appointments for Ed. read more

Great staff and always a comfort knowing they are making sure the shoes are a great fit. They are knowledgable about all the brands. I have 3 kids and usually spend several hundred dollars in one visit, but I know their shoes fit properly and that's all good for me. They also keep a record for each child. And of course, locally owned... :) read more

I wish this store was closer but we still don't mind making the trip to Shoe Train from Baltimore. We went today for shoes for both my kids today. Rob waited on us and did a great job. Every time we go we have fabulous service. They take the time to measure the kids feet to make sure they have the best shoe for them instead of the best style the kids want. I would defiantly recommend Shoe Train to everyone. read more

Bill Wong, the man, the legend. Went in for the first pair of shoes for our 15mo old. Bill sized him quickly and painlessly. Brought out three pairs of shoes, explained the differences between them, and it was the best retail experience I have ever witnessed. For all of the negative reviews here, what can I say, haters gonna hate. read more

A friend recommended this store to me for getting good shoes. My 2-year-old daughter has really wide feet, so it's hard to find shoes that fit her correctly - sadly, no Target shoes for her big ol' feet. Since my daughter is so young, she cannot tell me if a shoe feels good or not, but they are able to measure well and know how to tell if the shoe is fitting correctly. I had always thought Stride Rite was the only place to get good kids' shoes, but they carry a variety of quality brands here. The shoes are, price-wise, about equivalent or a little less expensive than a Stride Rite store (SR is in my experience about $50, the past two pairs of shoes I've bought at Shoe Train are $39 and $44). Shoe Train staff really know their stuff. We will keep coming back here even though it's a pain for us to get all the way to Potomac. I can't comment on the wait for the average weekend visit - I work part-time, so I intentionally take her on the weekdays I don't work. (Same thing for our Costco visits!) I've not waited longer than just a few minutes to be seen, and they are really patient with taking all the time my active toddler needs. read more

Drove all the way to Potomac from Capitol Hill to get my son finally fitted for proper shoes. Sheila was lovely and so knowledgeable about the quirks of my 2-year old, who was a late walker and has funny feet. Will be back and wouldn't go anywhere else from now on. read more

Simply the best! I was sized for my first pair of shoes by Mr. Ed at the old store in the mini mall in Potomac Woods. He ALSO sized my son's first pair of shoes! They are kind, down to earth and meticulous about sizing and proper fit. They take their time to find the correct shoes for your child. My son had orthotics and they are the best fitting specialists for those too! I love Shoe Train. read more

Doctor Recommended this place for my son foot issue. Bill was excellent! He measured and sized my son; providing individualized and thorough attention. He walked out such a little happy camper. We will return soon for resizing. read more

I have two boys and have been coming here since they were infants. We first heard about this place via word of mouth and we've been just really amazed how great it is. They give you that comfort that they know exactly what type of shoes your kid's need. When you leave you feel like they took out all the guess work with your kid's growing feet. Definitely recommend, best place for kids shoes. read more

I've been to Shoe Train three time over the course of 1.5 years for shoes, sandals and sneakers for my 2 kids. I figured I would come here and pay a premium to get shoes that fit well but the prices are very competitive and even cheaper than what I find online and I leave knowing they fit well. The salespeople are good with both of my little ones even though my girl is standoffish at best. I can't speak to long waits because I always go during the week but I'll be there when it's time to re-up simply because they always have sizes and the kids walk out happy with their shoes. I still remember those days as a kid so I want to provide them with the same experience. read more

The very rude staff skipped people who were in line, and made no attempt to rectify their mistake. We will not be back. read more

Shoe Train - Shoe Stores Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

The staff at Shoe train are amazing and very helpful. I specially had a wonderful experience with Mr. Bill. In addition, there is a great selection of shoes and the prices are very competitive compared to other stores. I love Shoe train and I will be coming back soon! read more

I've been to many children shoe's store and none is like Shoe Train. For one thing, their sales representatives are all very knowledgeable in shoes, especially, Ed. My daughters has a certain foot problem that requires special shoes (so they say) but thanks to Ed, he helped us pick out a good pair for her...one that was affordable and practical. I will definitely continue to take my daughter, and eventually, her sister there. read more

I never thought that going to a kid's shoe store could be such a wonderful experience! Went on a Saturday, thinking that the wait would be crazy. The store was crowded, but we were helped within minutes. We had Bill, and man does he know his stuff. I explained to him that my daughter's feet turn in a bit, and he watched her walk, checked her feet and flexion, and told us what is going on with her feet and exactly what we need to look for in a shoe. He then brought out a nice selection of sneakers and sandals. He was so kind and friendly talking to my daughter, who is slow to warm, and involving her in the process. She came home and immediately wanted to put on her new sneaks. She has a newfound confidence with running and jumping, which I attribute to the positive experience at Shoe Train...and the right shoes! read more

This was a great store. All the staff were well trained in shoe measurement, very patient and ery helpful. I went for adult running shoes, though they are mostly for kids shoes. They helped me find a great pair of shoes. Well recommended shop. read more