Grove Shoe Service: Craftsmen Who Repair, Replace, Renew

We are a throw-away society. If something breaks or rips, it generally gets tossed. This country has led the charge on making everything disposable. Hey, just use it once…and then let me sell you another.

In the near past, this was not most people’s lifestyle. We used to repair our goods. My mother had an extensive sewing kit, and could fix anything requiring a needle and thread. Her mother came from Norway, toting along a loom among her few possessions. She made most things by hand, and was very self-reliant. Today we have a society that offers everything from disposable dog diapers to disposable quiche pans.

Thankfully, at our shoes and other leather items can be repaired and renewed. Pete and Sia Orologas have run their full-service shoe shop on Broadway for 14 years, after spending 15 years at a location in College Grove.

Pete told me, “We can do any repair on shoes including custom orthopedics.”

Indeed, the shop is well know for its orthopedic work, and is regularly recommended by area podiatrists. Sia added, “We also repair luggage and purses.”

“I originally learned the trade from my uncle, who first had the store in College Grove,” Pete explained.

He said that 50 percent of their business is repair or customizing, and the other half is retail sales. The shop sells high-end healthy foot brands, such as Aetrex.

In addition, the store offers half price on closeouts of quality shoes and handbags. I saw a nice pair of Florsheim shoes for $50 that originally retailed for $100. If you can find your style and size, a great deal can be had here. Of course it is hit or miss as the stock changes often, but worth checking out.

On the repair side you can have your shoes resoled, replace the heel, dye them, or get a high-luster polish. Chances are that whatever you need fixed, they have dealt with it before and can help. Friendly service is offered to all.

Grove Shoe Service is located at 7131 Broadway, between College Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue. The store hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.; closed on Sunday. You can visit their website where you can find a discount coupon, or call 619-697-0274 for more information.