We had another great experience yesterday, as usual, at Shoe Train. We always find the sales staff to be honest and knowledgeable and helpful, and Pablo was no exception. He did a great job fitting our son for new sneakers, and was a champ about it when hunger (it was dinnertime and we had not yet eaten) overcame our child and overrode some of his "best behavior" instincts, finding ways to appease him easily and quickly. Thanks again! read more

Excellent customer service! Ken is very very good with kids! Shoes priced reasonably as well! No need to go to a crowded mall with hordes of shoppers read more

They seemed to have a good selection but after waiting on a Tuesday morning in late August for over 90 minutes (our estimated wait time) the list had hardly moved. Part of my irritation with the wait is that the staff didn't seem the least bit apologetic that after waiting the 90 minutes that they had estimated, I was looking at another hour or so to get a salesperson. They do offer a pager, but we really could not kill more than 90 minutes with two kids in the Cabin John mall. They could and should use a reservation system - for at least some portion of their customers (i.e. like restaurants that reserve half the restaurants and leave the rest for walk-ins). Also. they might consider upping their staffing for busy periods like back to school. I just spent $200 on Zappos to buy my kids shoes - so I am would have thought that they would have the sense to add a few $10 an hour sales people for customers like me who don't feel like spending a half day in a loud, chaotic store. On that note, the store is quite messy (not just b/c of the customers everywhere but b/c boxes are stacked in random places and there are lots of low level displays that the kids turn over). read more

Every time I have taken my daughter to Shoe Train, we have had outstanding service. It's a popular shoe store, and therefore a little crowded. However, we have never had to wait more than 15 minutes, even when the store is full. The man who waited on us gave us his full attention and we did not feel rushed, even though my 7-year-old had a tough time making up her mind on the shoes she tried on. I recommend this staff and this store without hesitation. read more

Excellent service and very knowledgable staff!!! A reason why it's been THE go to kids shoe store for so many years

We have been getting shoes for my daughters at Shoe Train since they were old enough to wear shoes. This store is special. It is special because the people there actually know their stuff, can answer questions intelligently, and can really help. They don't just make sure the shoe fits, they watch the child walk in it to see if it is the right shoe for her feet. More retailers should provide this kind of service. read more

Hate this place. It's the kid's shoe store of last resort. Silly sign-in service that guarantees incredibly slow service. But today I actually found the exact pair of crocs I needed without needing to sign in! Then I stood at the cash register while one of the salespeople helped a customer and didn't even acknowledge me. I'm standing there with my credit card and shoes desperate to give this lousy business money and he doesn't even say "just a minute." Hate this place. read more

We first started coming here with my son when he was 4. Now he is 38 and today went with his family to get my grandsons back to school shoes. Another in a long line of great experiences. Great selection, great service and fair prices for the quality of shoe you get. We are happy second generation customers and don't even think about going anywhere else. As others have noted, it can be crowded at peak times but the wait is manageable and we'll worth it. read more

My husband and myself took our 1 1/2 year old for a pair of shoes, the wonderful staff informed us that she was measured wrong at another store and was wearing shoes that were to small. We ended up buying her a pair of boots and sneakers that she wears all the time. read more

We love this store, it's awesome! I think it is probably the best kids shoe store around. You can find there shoes from all different brands. I am French, and I love European shoes for my kids, so this is the place! The shoes are always very good quality, people are friendly and knowledgeable. Collections change regularly, so you are pretty much assured that you will not find the shoes you bought on somebody else - my daughters are very much "into fashion" and would not tolerate that!!! Pretty much all my European friends shop there for their kids. They also have all kinds of accessories and goodies too, such as umbrellas, raincoats, etc. In short, a big "thumbs up"! On top of everything else, it does not hurt that the store is in a very nice mall - we always hang out there, and there is plenty to do. read more

My daughter was born with three toes on her left foot. We were told by multiple doctors that shoe train was the best place to shop for our situation. They have been amazing about fitting her and padding her shoes. We love this store! read more

Just from reading the owners responses to the negative reviews tells me everything I need to know. I will not be going here. Respectable owners will apologize and try to resolve the situation whether or not they feel they were right or wrong, not belittle their customers or point out areas in where they are wrong. (This is based on reading multiple negative reviews for this store.) Unfortunately working in retail sales, being right isn't what's important. Sometimes you have to swallow your pride say sorry and fix it. Or else you will drive away those customers (that pay your bills) and potential ones like myself. Word of mouth and these reviews play a huge role in future business success or failure. Also while you may have more good reviews. One negative review cancels out 10 positive. I came on here looking for a good place to buy shoes for my toddler and was appalled by what I saw. It wasn't even the negative reviews that turned me away, because many people do lie or make things up, it was the way the owner responded to the situation that really turned me off. If I were to have a problem at the store, I feel like the owner or manager would be quick to point the finger at me instead of stepping up and taking action. read more

We've been going to Shoe Train for almost 10 years...certain when Ed owned it and now under Marina's ownership. This is not a review of the many wonderful salespeople we've come to know and trust, this is a review of the rudest salesperson I've encountered in a long time. We went to check the measurements of our children today. We waited almost an hour and a young woman finally called our name. She rushed thru the sizing of my children's feet and brought out some shoes that she thought might work. The size of the shoes may or may not have been correct but she was eagerly surveying the store to make sure she could rush us thru as quickly as possible to get to the next customer. I guess the commissions are the primary form of payment for salespeople. We are very accustomed to nice salespeople who take their time with us. My children have wide feet and she told us they are narrow. (what?) One of my children complained the shoe was tight and she ignored it. My kids were not liking the selections and when I asked which pair they would like to have. Note, we waited an hour, and we've now taken maybe 10 minutes of this salespersons' valuable time... She responded "Unless you see something specific, I have a lot of other people waiting to be fit" and started immediately boxing the four pairs of shoes she brought out. I'm not paying inflated prices for lousy service-which I didn't mind paying previously because the former salespeople really took their time to make sure the fit was correct--even sometimes sending me on my way because the feet hadn't grown.., so it is doubtful I'll ever return to this store again. Such a shame. It was such a wonderful store made up of a caring owner and staff... read more

BEST customer service around, hands down. Everyone is extremely knowledgeable and really good with even the most reluctant shoe shopper. Sheila is wonderful - so helpful and informative. I used to shop at the mall for my kid's shoes but will only be coming here from now on. Reasonable prices and you can't beat the customer service. Thanks Shoe Train!! read more

First-time customer this morning with a 10YO w/sensory issues. We'd already been completely ignored at two other shoe stores yesterday in Montgomery Mall and we were pretty deflated about it, but a neighbor recommended Shoe Train and I'm so glad we went. I cannot remember the name of the clerk who assisted us once our name was called (after we signed in it was about a 10-minute wait; even the 4-5 clerks assisting couldn't make up for the back-to-school shoppers on tax-free week!), but she was fantastic with my daughter, even took her to the stockroom to help her choose shoes that she liked when her preferred shoe style turned out to not be the best choice for her feet (wide and 2 slightly different sizes, so hard to fit!). While we were there we picked up some new socks (they have socks without seams at the toes! YAY!) to boot; the clerk helped us pick ones that were the right size for my daughter's feet (there was a size overlap and we weren't sure which one was best). We really didn't pay much more than we would have at the Stride Rite where we got such substandard service yesterday, but the attention to my daughter's needs was worth the wait and the extra. Very happy customers here; will indeed be coming back. :-) Updating December 2017: Been bringing my kid here every August and sometimes mid-school-year for shoes and every single time it has been STELLAR! Thank you so much for being there, for being patient and accommodating and not making me feel like Bad Mom because my kid is wired a bit differently. read more

My daughter not only has a very narrow foot that is extremely difficult to fit, she is also exceptionally picky. Sheila spent a great deal of time with us while we tried on nearly every shoe in the store that could possibly fit my daughter. Sheila's patience and advice were greatly appreciated. read more

When I came here as a child some thirty five+ years ago it was always a special occasion. After recently moving back to the area & taking my almost 5 year old daughter here, I'm glad to know some things never change! In an era of rising prices and diminished service, Shoe Train bucks the trend! Can't remember the fitters name, but I'm certain they are all great. He made her feel comfortable, asked HER what she was looking for (while still checking with me first), listened to what we both asked for and gave us great options. He also recommended a few other brands that would work well with her feet for our next trip. No, this isn't Nordstrom rack BUT you can rest assured that your child will walk out with shoes they love, that FIT WELL and don't hurt or damage their feet. Such a great experience for both Mother & Child. Honestly made a usually painful outing A LOT of fun and something to look forward to. Highly recommend! read more

The staff at this amazing store is always up to date on their product knowledge of each brand and shoe they carry. Marina is absolutely incredible!! She has an infectious smile that brightens up my day! She has a great eye for product, and there is never a doubt that she's picking the best of the best shoes to make up her wonderful assortment of shoes! I know I'm going to be walking out with a few pairs of shoes when Pablo and Ed start bringing out different styles, that they know I'd like. They're phenomenal employees, always informing me on the features and benefits of the shoes and insoles. I can't wait to go back to do some more shopping!! read more

The only place I've found that consistently works for my boys with big, wide, pronating feet. We've had several fitters there, and all have been good at watching how my kids walk/run and giving specific suggestions for shoes, and inserts. It's more expensive than most places I've looked, but for us its been worth the extra money for the extra help and knowledge, and (usually) a solution to my 9 year old saying his feet hurt. read more

Today I brought my boys in for new shoes and Sheila was amazing and knowledgable. When I told her the types of footwear my boys needed she brought out exactly the type of shoes I was looking for. She also noticed the unevenness of the wear on the bottom of my older one's shoes and recommended a change in his orthotic that would help him wear it more evenly (he has flat feet). She is very observant, patient, and listens to what you're looking for. She's fabulous and I'll definitely be requesting her next time. Thanks Sheila! read more

This place is wonderful- very kid friendly and easy to navigate. It was recommended by my child's PT but it also has a great selection of shoes at reasonable prices with high end customer service . Sheila in particular was not only helpful and friendly but also very knowledgeable about what my child needed. read more

Our daughter-in-law loves this store. Our grandkids require custom fit shoes and this store is where she shops. I spoke with Layla about getting gift certificates and she was most helpful with options. Thank you. read more

This is a fabulous store for getting high quality shoes and a perfect fit for children. Other childrens' shoe stores don't always know how to properly fit shoes, but show train does a great job. We have been getting my son's shoes here for four years. He has a very wide foot that's difficult to fit and they always find him the correct shoes. I now take my one year old daughter here and they also fit her with the right shoes for her foot. Their customer service is great and of course they are very kid friendly! David fit my son on our last visit and did a great job! read more

Very positive experience at Shoe Train today. Went to the store with my 6 kids, 4 of them needed new shoes! Pablo was experienced, patient, friendly and helpful. He really listened to what the kids wanted and what I wanted and took the time to find the shoes that would work best for them and explained to me the difference between the fit of the different shoes. read more

We love Shoe Train. The service is excellent, although the wait can be long since the place is so POPULAR!!!!! We have been going out there for the best selection of shoes for our twin boys. One of our children has grown into adult sizes so unfortunately, he won't be a customer anymore. But the other one's feet are smaller so we will happily return there for him!!! read more

The absolute best show store I have found in the DC area, let alone the country. The fitters are world class and know my children and their feet. -- I go about 3 times a year and buy seasonal shoes for all my kids. The store keeps records of their sizes and really know how to "fit" correctly. Best selection and customer service around. Highly recommend. -- Also, some of the styles are brands I have only seen at this store and yet the prices are very reasonable. -- Almost the way stores were when I was a youngster where you get undivided attention and see the same sales person season to season. Recommend Show Train without reservation. read more

We've been going here for about the last year and a half since our son demanded lace-ups sneakers -- not Velcro! Our son has big extra-wide feet and the Shoe Train staff fit him quickly. The staff is kid- and adult-friendly and knowledgeable about their products. read more

My 3 year old needed foot inserts and shoes. Shoe Train had exactly what we needed. The sales person was very helpful in providing the inserts and selecting the right shoes. read more

We've been to Shoe Train three times, and have had very positive experiences. Dianne was our fitter and she was fantastic with my girls. My 5 year old needed shoe inserts and is very picky on colors. Dianne was so patient, bringing pair after pair out until we found one that fit her just right and met her color preferences. I highly recommend Shoe Train--great selection and staff! read more

I have been buying shoes for my daughters at Shoe Train for their entire lives. When I visit other shoe departments at major stores, I am always disappointed when I return home to find the shoes do not fit properly. I don't mind spending a little extra (but not always the case) to ensure that my daughter's shoes fit correctly. This is so important in their development. You get what you pay for...why go anywhere else when Shoe Train does it all perfectly? Plus, they have activities in the store to occupy the kids while they are waiting. read more

I got my daughter's first shoes at Shoe Train. The store was referred to me by a good friend who said she didn't buy her kids' shoes anywhere else. Now I see why. They have a wonderful selection of shoes and the sales people are extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Dianne helped us out and properly measured my daughter's feet, looked at how she was walking and offered us a variety of shoe options. We ended up getting a pair of open toed sandals and stride rite shoes, which are very comfortable and look durable. I'll definitely be back for my daughter's next pair of shoes! read more

Shoe Train is THE place to find shoes for kids that are hard to fit and/or hard to please. They have been the only source for tennis and dress shoes for my child with double extra wide feet for years, and they are a consistent source of *comfortable* shoes for my other child who has narrow feet and needs shoes to feel just right to wear them at all. The shoes are not cheap, but the price is well worth a lack of drama every school morning while the kids get dressed. If you must shop during a peak time, come prepared with books or screens for you and kids and settle in - the service and shoes you receive once it's your turn will be worth it! read more

It was my first time getting shoes that would support my son's new leg braces. Ken helped us and was so knowledgable...clearly someone who has been working with children a long time. He helped my son get the right shoes and put him completely at ease. I highly recommend both Ken Neufeld and Shoe Train! read more

Had to get a summer pair of sandal ' s for my very active 5 year old boy. As a father, he had been here with mom and knew the routine. I tried to shop dad style like at the hardware store and my son read me the riot act on how to get the personalized service. He was right. While exceptionally busy, I had to sign in, pick doubt my styles, and my son played on the train table keeping busy. I can easily imagine that nearly 100 of the train units walk off every month and are later discovered by the parents in the car or at home. Consider this business cost next time you visit. Keeping the table stocked with train cars did not go unnoticed. Meanwhile, I got personalized help from the manager who fitted my son and reviewerd our choices. They were out of stock on my initial selection, but offered alternates. Put on the Keen sandal as suggested and my son ran around the store. It was sized for growth until September. Price was equal to amazon or alternate store. Bottomline, you shop here for the personalized kid service and not on price. If busy, it may take more time, but the fitted shoe is correct for the growing foot and they have distractor mechanisms to help with active kids. Since they are an individual reseller store, they do not have the buying depth to hold inventories like amazon, especially seasonal items. However, will help with alternatives. It is a family sole propeitorship and not a box chain store making me appreciate the financial they take to provide a valued service. The store actually occupies two store units and must pay double rent and utilities to allow for a better experience with larger crowds and more inventory space. The only down side was I never actually saw a train or locomotive in the store decorations! read more

We are so lucky to have such a first class children's shoe store within walking distance to the house. I can count on proper measurement and great products every time. read more

Absolutely love this store and the people that work there. We went back after purchasing my 2.5yr old's sandals because would mention that his feet hurt and just stop wanting to walk after about ten minutes in his new sandals we had just purchased 3 weeks prior. We were going to ask, but did not expect, anything to be done about exchanging the sandals but when we got there they exchanged them with no problem. Sheila was the person helping us -and was extremely sweet and patient with my 2.5yr old, as he was due for a nap- Sheila saw that we were taping my son's toes as he has a toe on each foot that was curled under, these were recent orders from a podiatrist and we had already purchased his sneakers (of which he was wearing) from Shoe Train as well about a month prior. Sheila, who has been working there for over 25 years, noted that she wanted to see how his sneakers fit him as we had just started taping his toes and she didn't want the shoes to be too snug as it might change his gait. Ultimately, Sheila was not comfortable having him continue to walk in his sneakers or his sandals so she refitted him with new sandals and sneakers and the only thing I paid for either was the $3.50 difference. ((Also, they have the largest variety of boy's shoes I've ever seen, we've been to Nordstrom and they only had three sandals for him to choose from in a sea of girls shoes, so he loves to be able to pick from the variety of options)). read more

Best kids shoe store. Helpful and knowledgeable staff. Wide selection. Reasonable prices.

I was hesitant to make the drive to MD for shoes but my son has recently discovered that he needs arch support for his feet, and I decided to take the chance since Shoe Train had high recommendations. We were not disappointed. We did not see Ed, but Bill, who was very knowledgeable and helpful in talking to my son about why he shouldn't shove his shoes on and off without actually tying them. We had a short wait, and Bill spent a good deal of time with us helping my son choose the shoes he liked, watching him walk in them, and showing him the correct way to lace them so they wouldn't come loose. They keep records on the child's foot issues so when we return (we will) they will know what to look for. They installed the shoe "cookies" while we waited and my son walked out in his cool new shoes. A great experience. read more

I have three kids and I would never buy them shoes anywhere but here. The people who work here really know what they are doing - unlike most kids' shoe departments. My kids have actually worn every pair of shoes I have bought them from Shoe Train. The selection is the best I have seen anywhere. It is well worth the haul! read more

My kids are second generation Shoe Train customers. It is definitely right that avoiding the weekend rush is advisable. At the same time, it is hard to criticize Shoe Train for the weekend wait, which is just a sign of its quality service and expertise. read more