Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Shoe Repair Services in Seattle Since 1928
Swanson's Shoe Repair has been a trusted name in Seattle since 1928, founded by Swedish immigrant Bjorn George Swanson. Originally established as Progressive Shoe Repair in downtown Seattle, the business relocated to Wallingford in 1947, evolving into a community staple while maintaining its family legacy. With four generations of Swansons contributing to its growth, the shop now employs seven skilled professionals who combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. We specialize in repairing shoes, boots, bags, and belts using premium materials like Vibram composite soles and JR leather. Our expertise extends to orthopedic adjustments, zipper replacements, and protective soles, serving both everyday needs and specialized repairs.Featured on KING 5's Evening Magazine, we pride ourselves on quality workmanship and personalized service. Our team's deep knowledge ensures every repair meets exacting standards, preserving footwear for generations. Committed to teaching the trade, we balance tradition with innovation to meet evolving customer needs. Located at 2305 N. 45th Street, we serve Seattle and surrounding areas with reliable, transparent service. For over nine decades, Swanson's Shoe Repair has built its reputation on durability, precision, and community trust.
Services
Shoe Repair
Boot Resoling
Zipper Replacement
Shoe Stretching
Orthopedic Adjustments
Bag Repairs
Leather Care
Waterproofing
Heel Replacement
Sole Replacement
Details
- Year established: 1928
Highlights and features
- We have over 90 years of experience in traditional and modern shoe repair techniques.
- Our team uses premium materials like Vibram composite soles for durable repairs.
- We offer specialized orthopedic adjustments requiring medical prescriptions.
- Featured on KING 5's Evening Magazine for exceptional service and craftsmanship.
- Seven skilled professionals provide personalized attention to every repair project.
Services
Shoe Repair
We provide comprehensive shoe repair services using premium materials like Vibram soles and JR leather. Our expertise includes heel replacement, sole repair, and waterproofing treatments. Customers benefit from durable, cost-effective solutions that extend footwear lifespan while maintaining original quality.
Orthopedic Adjustments
Specialized shoe modifications require medical prescriptions for precise orthopedic support. Our team implements custom adjustments to improve comfort and mobility. This service ensures proper footwear adaptation for specific medical needs while maintaining structural integrity.
Bag Repairs
We restore damaged bags and leather accessories with zipper replacements, strap installations, and material repairs. Services address rips, wear, and structural issues using professional techniques. Customers receive functional restoration that preserves the item's original appearance and durability.
Shoe Stretching
Professional stretching services accommodate various foot shapes through width, length, and instep adjustments. Our methods maintain shoe structure while improving comfort. This service provides practical solutions for achieving proper fit without compromising footwear integrity.
Waterproofing
Water-resistance treatments protect footwear against moisture damage using specialized sprays and coatings. The service extends shoe lifespan in wet conditions. Customers gain practical protection while maintaining the footwear's original appearance and breathability.
Questions
What types of shoe repairs do you offer?
We handle heel replacements, sole repairs, zipper installations, orthopedic modifications, and waterproofing treatments for shoes and boots.
Do you repair items other than shoes?
Yes, we repair bags, purses, belts, and leather goods with services including zipper replacement, strap installation, and material repairs.
What are your business hours?
We're open Tuesday-Friday 10AM-6PM and Saturday 8AM-4PM. Closed Sunday-Monday and major holidays.
Can you perform orthopedic shoe modifications?
Yes, we implement medical footwear adjustments with required prescriptions for customized support and comfort solutions.
What materials do you use for repairs?
We use Vibram composite soles, JR leather, and original Birkenstock materials to ensure quality and durability in every repair.
How long does repair work take?
Most repairs require approximately four weeks turnaround time due to current workload and material preparation requirements.
Videos
Reviews (5)
L. W.
Jan 07, 2022
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These folks have done many repairs for me over the years and I'm always pleased with their work. They're low-key and honest and have done a couple of quick fixes while I stood there thinking they were evaluating whether the shoe was even repairable! Only problem I've ever had was waiting a while for a repair because they're so busy. Such a great business!
Wave Blakely
Nov 27, 2021
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If you love your shoes, then, yes, take them to Swanson's Shoe Repair! I do. You will look sharp! I trust them with everything. They are amazing.
Lauren Sparks
Nov 20, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
I had a broken rivet on my pair of Birkenstock Boston clogs and one of Swanson's excellent craftspeople fixed it in a matter of minutes! It was my first experience soliciting a shoe repair, and while I realize it was a simple fix, I know that I will be back for resoling and other repair work now that I know it is so accessible.
I had a broken rivet on my pair of Birkenstock Boston clogs and one of Swanson's excellent craftspeople fixed it in a matter of minutes! It was my first experience soliciting a shoe repair, and while I realize it was a simple fix, I know that I will be back for resoling and other repair work now that I know it is so accessible.
Luka Phouvong
Nov 19, 2021
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I have a pair of brown leather FRYE I've become quite fond of and the bottoms started to split from the boot. I brought it in and they told me the stitch was not the whole bottom but they could repair it. I agreed and 3.5 weeks later pick them up today. It took longer than excepted but I'm sure it was because of the thanksgiving holiday and they are really busy. They were still very friendly. Shoe repair, boot repair, or advice if to repair your boot or shoe, you should go give them a try.
Simon
Oct 30, 2021
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This place is apart of Seattle history. Its been around since 1947. I picked up my boots this week and was unsatisfied with the result after 3 weeks in the shop. The owner immediately noticed that they must have put them in the pick-up bag without a final look over. Brought them back and picked them up the next day. They corrected the issue quickly and did a good job on resoling my boots.
