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Arch and Sole
Category: Shopping Fashion Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Sports Wear Sports Wear [Edit]
745 N La Brea AveLos Angeles, CA 90038
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
(323) 857-1775
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 7 pm
Sun 11 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
81 reviews for Arch and Sole
Review Highlights
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"Mahmoud is a total class act all the way." In 23 reviews -
"He found the perfect pair of running shoes for me - took..." In 9 reviews -
"...recommend this shop if you're looking for the right shoe." In 5 reviews
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81 reviews in English
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Review from Tanis G.
Los Angeles, CA
5/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
best running store in LA.
I found out about this place originally when I was training for my first full marathon with Team in Training. Mahmoud (the owner) is amazing. He is knowledgeable, attentive, asks questions, and offers great advice. He doesn't rush you to make an decision and really allows you to think about what you want and what is best for you.
No, he doesnt carry a TON of shoes.... but this isnt DSW or Footlocker; its a running specialty store and the owner reserves the right to carry the shoes that he feels are suitable for his clients.
When my first pair of running shoes were worn out, I went back and got the same exceptional customer service from Mahmoud and left with another fantastic pair of running shoes (along with a great new water belt).
If you are in the market for a new pair of running or walking shoes, GO to Arch and Sole. I would call ahead to make sure Mahmoud is there because he is the reason I will continue to be a customer there. His passion for what he does really shines through. -
Review from Dima S.
Los Angeles, CA
3/18/2012
If you're scratching your head about which running shoe to buy, look no further than this shop!
Call ahead to make sure Mahmoud is working, and get a fitting with him! Hes truly an expert in all things that have to do with running! -
Review from Steve F.
Worcester, MA
2/28/2012
Went here based on the yelpers. They don't carry Asics, not a big deal but it's hard to imagine a running shop that doesn't. So, with the limited selection, what else is there to say, Staff was friendly, brought out a couple shoes, didn't do a walk/run check, just went off my description.
I think this would be a great place for someone just starting to figure out what kind of shoe to get but the advice here is pretty much the same as you'd get most anywhere. I'd look for a place with more options to pull from. -
Review from Suzette W.
Los Angeles, CA
5/21/2012
I would highly recommend this store to anyone looking for a great running store with knowledgeable staff (Mahmoud, the owner). Great customer service. Mahmoud isn't out to be a pushy salesman - he truly wants his customers to be satisfied and most importantly running in the right shoe. I will definitely be coming back to Arch & Sole for all my running needs.
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Review from Julia M.
Costa Mesa, CA
5/3/2012
Mahmoud (the owner) is very knowledgeable and attentive. I was looking for a running shoe that was appropriate for cross-training and he was right on the money with the options he brought out for me. I used to go to a similar type of boutique running shoe store back home and was glad to find one here with expertise. The options are limited, but you have to expect that in a smaller, non-chain store. I ended up deciding on the Brooks PureFlow and am very satisfied. Mahmoud even helped my mother (who came with me) choose walking shoes that were appropriate for her joint issues. When another customer came in, he didn't rush her, he took his time. I was very impressed. If you are looking for functional, quality running shoes that will help you get the best workout you can? Go here. Just worried about being cute at the gym....go somewhere else and pick up a pair of Nikes.
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Review from Shasta C.
Los Angeles, CA
2/12/2012
I'd like to start this review off by saying the first time I went to this store, about 5 months ago, I had a very good experience. I got a pair of shoes and got started on my marathon training.
Not long after my first trip, there was an Amazon Local deal for this store where you got $50 worth of merchandise for $25. Perfect. I was going to save this for when I needed to replace my running shoes right before the marathon.
Over a month ago I placed an order for shoes. I kept calling back to check on the status of the item and they kept telling me that they hadn't come in yet. I understand waiting 2 weeks or so for something, but this was ridiculous (ordering online, I could have ordered shoes and gotten them a few days later, but I really wanted to continue supporting a small local store).
When I called again, they told me that they would be in either Friday or the following Monday. I called Monday and they pushed me off again and said that they would be in Friday. When I called that Friday, no one answered the phone. I called multiple times that day and didn't get anyone to pick up the phone. At some point it sounded as if someone picked up and then hung up on me.
I then wrote an email to the store (using the information they provided online, since no one was answering the phone), expressing my frustration. My email was never returned. Two days ago they finally called me and said that my shoes had come in. Hallelujah. About an hour later, I received another call saying that they had ordered the WRONG shoe and that they hadn't gotten a Narrow for me. The store rep even told me to just go online and order different shoes myself and NOT FROM THEIR store! At this point, I was very upset so I asked to speak to the manager. They said that they would leave the manager a message to call me back the following day when he was at the store. Well, low and behold, I never got a phone call from the manager.
I am really sad that it came to this and I have no idea how no one else seems to have had any problems. I have since asked for a refund from Amazon and they got back to me within hours... on a Sunday! -
Review from tillie t.
Huntington Beach, CA
4/17/2012
I was excited to try this place out. There are so many great reviews for this place. But I'm pretty surprised how highly rated it is considering they carry like 5 pairs of shoes! I was expecting a running shoe store to carry all sorts of different shoe lines but this place definitely fell short, the one wall with shoes was practically empty.
The girl that helped me was nice, very nice girl. But I'm glad I went in knowing what type of shoe I needed and what shoe I actually wanted. If this was my first time at a running shoe store or was new and trying to figure out what shoe fit me best, I would have been lost. She brought out 3 different types of shoes, one of them I requested because I knew I liked that shoe. Then as I tried the shoes on she didn't have me run in them or anything just walk, but we run different then we walk.
Anyways, nice people but I wouldn't come here again or recommend. -
Review from Paula J.
N HOLLYWOOD, CA
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I needed shoes because I forgot them at home, and they were old. I wanted to work out and didn't want to get home or I won't work out. This place is just down the street from Kor gym where I work out. Good selection and prices. When I need another pair, I know where to go!
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Review from Ginger F.
Pasadena, CA
2/18/2012
I trudged across town to go to this running store last year when I needed shoes to start training for a half marathon. The owner helped me out and was really great. However, he didn't have the shoes I wanted in my size and said he'd order them for me. I never got a call that the shoes had come in. I called once to follow up and someone said they'd check and get back to me. Again, never got a call. Since getting out there is a journey, I said screw it (just not worth my time and money) and went to another store. Face-to-face customer service is great, but the other stuff needs more attention.
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Review from Ramin H.
Los Angeles, CA
12/27/2011
Brilliant: one of my best shopping experiences anywhere. I've signed up for my first half marathon. I was looking for a new pair of running shoes. I found Arch and Sole here on Yelp. I was there yesterday. Nelson, was patient, considerate and, most professional. He asked me about my goals. He examined my shoes to check for walking patterns and, carefully watched me walk barefoot in the store. He measured my feet. He brought three pairs of running shoes and had me wear them each and then, jug (literally) in them to see the fit. I picked a pair of Brooks. He then told me about basics of running shoes and, long distance running. I love my new shoes (and running socks).
Thank You Nelson.
Highly recommend -
Review from Britney C.
Long Beach, CA
12/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was nervous when I made the trek from Long Beach to get running shoes. I'm a beginner but proper shoes can make or break you. Unfortunately I have very large feet for a lady, a size 11-13 depending on the brand. I didn't figure they'd have large womens sizes but it turned out that they did. They carried up to an 11 from what the gentlemen could offer me.
I explained that I was new to running when we entered the store and the extremely nice employee asked me what kind of surfaces I was running on and basically what my running goals are. He was so kind to me when I told him I'd be running my first 5k at the end of January. He watched me walk (twice) and told me about my feet and the way I move. Then came the fun part, the shoes! We tried the lady shoes but they didn't fit. Then he offered me a mens shoe and...heaven. It was amazing. I could already tell they were perfect but I tried on a couple others for good measure. He explained about the individual shoes themselves, how they were shock absorbent and well padded, etc to meet my needs. I purchased the first pair, Brooks mens Ghost 3. It's an older shoe so that meant I got it on discount. I ended up paying $98 for the shoes and couldn't wait to get out of the store to go running.
This was an excellent experience. Being a running newbie, I was nervous but they took great care of me and were absolutely perfect. When I wear these bad boys out, I'll definitely be going back for more. -
Review from Baila H.
Los Angeles, CA
4/25/2012
I was VERY impressed with Mahmoud's product knowledge and wisdom about healthy feet! I think everyone should take a class with him before they buy shoes! Hope he offers classes soon. Very important information for consumers. He's like the Shoes Dr. :)
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Review from Fozzy B.
Dallas, TX
1/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Nelson helped me find the best type of shoe. It's true, he lets you literally take a test jog outside in new kicks! He gives undivided attention to you and listens to concerns. There's no gait computer, it's just his keen eye watching the subtleties of your movement. No hustle or sales push. Please support this shop!
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Review from Catherine K.
Los Angeles, CA
10/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I originally came here a few years ago with Team in Training, but ended up not running the race I originally signed up for due to an injury. Now that I'm training for my first marathon, I've sent everyone I know who needs running shoes here. They are great, and are extremely helpful in finding you the right shoe, or product.
A few weeks ago I came in with some questions about the shoes I currently wear, and because I didn't really need a new pair, I didn't get one. More important, I wasn't sold a pair of shoes I didn't need, and even though they don't carry the specific model I wear, the owner offered to order it for me when I did need a new pair.
If you need running shoes, this is the best place in town to go, and if you need gear, or fuel, or anything else related to running, you've found the right spot. -
Review from HIgirl H.
Los Angeles, CA
10/20/2011
AMAZING! Mahmoud is knowledgeable, friendly, and incredibly helpful. After feeling defeated from shoe searching at Dick's Sporting goods and Sports Chalet (which as a side note had terrible customer service with the lady at Dick's not knowing anything about running or shoes and the man at Sports Chalet smelling of cheap alcohol and surely harassing customers like a drunk!), Arch and Sole was my lifesaver. In 18 minutes, Mahmoud diagnosed my abnormal foot problem, fitted me in shoes, watched me run to determine the cause of my other running injuries, and had me walking out of the store in a new pair of running shoes. Prices are comparable to other running shoe stores, but trust me, you can't find customer service like this anywhere else!
Mahumoud shout out to you! I love my Ravenna2s! -
Review from Joe P.
Los Angeles, CA
8/11/2011
This is a place stuck in old world tradition. Customer service, integrity, knowledge of it's products, helpful employees.
What can I say besides I miss the times when all places tried to be so good like this.
They have the best customs service and know so much about their products.
More expensive but well worth it. I will never buy any running shoes anywhere else ( except skinny raven in Alaska).
It is sad that the world is turning to the Internet so much and people lose this connection to real people who know what they are doing.
This place rules! -
Review from Jeff E.
Los Angeles, CA
10/15/2011
Why can't ALL stores in Los Angeles have customer service like this?
The gentleman that helped me was friendly and super knowledgeable about shoes. I went in for a pair of trail runners, I walked out with a pair of trail runners, a free pair of laces and a smile on my face.
As he helped me, there was a gentleman there who needed help, so he politely asked me if I mind him stepping away for a minute while I walked in the shoes. The fact that such a simple gesture blew me away speaks volumes about how bad customers are usually treated in this town.
Paying a little bit more for a pair of shoes and having the attention paid to what type of shoe you need by an expert in the field makes it worth it's weight in clif bars!
Oh, and my shoes came with green laces that I wasn't in love with, so he threw in a free pair of black laces!
I will definitely be back! -
Review from Jason K.
Los Angeles, CA
12/6/2011
This isn'f Foot Locker people!
I can't praise these guys enough... as everyone else has said, their level of customer service is unparalleled. I was training for my first half marathon (I'm completely new to running and clueless... my shoes were not even true running shoes).
On multiple visits they took the time to explain everything running to me and even ordered 2 different rounds of shoes until they saw what they liked on my feet... the fact that they essentially won't let you walk out of the store with a purchase until you get the exact right pair for yourself is amazing.
In the end it turns out the shoe we all decided on just didnt work for me at all... tried them for a week, the guys took them back and got a pair that helped me to beat my goal time in the race. Seriously, you can't go wrong here. -
Review from Elaine H.
Los Angeles, CA
1/8/2012
Seriously, my favorite shoe shopping experience...EVER. They were very nice and helpful. I love that they really try to understand and meet your needs. They even let you test out your sneakers outside!! What!!!! They also gave me the option of returning the sneakers after two weeks if they didn't work out. I always hated sneaker shopping because of the strict return policy but Arch and Sole were very lenient and seemed genuinely invested in trying to help you out. Will return for new running shoes again later this year.
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Review from Angela B.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 2/2/2012
The shoes that I bought here have continued to live up to their first promise and no shin splints or achy knees later and I am a very happy runner. Whenever these shoes finally wear out I will be back for more.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/1/2011
I decided over the weekend that it's time to finally enter and complete a Triathlon, but the last… Read more »
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Review from Spencer V.
Los Angeles, CA
5/25/2011
I have been running/working out my entire life and a good pair of shoes is the most vital piece of equipment you can have. I've purchased shoes here in the past and have always been very pleased with the service, prices and quality of everything.
I recently had an ankle injury and have been going through physical therapy. Part of that rehab was to go out and get some insoles for my shoes. Not surprisingly, my doctor (who sees all the UCLA athletes) recommended that I go see the crew at Arch and Sole. Enrique helped me out today, took the time to examine my gait, listened to my situation and generally took great care of me.
Once again, Arch and Sole comes through. One of the best shops of its kind in the LA area.... -
Review from DSarah H.
Los Angeles, CA
4/10/2011
After going to a podiatrist for some foot issues, the doctor gave me a "prescription" to purchase one of three running shoes that he said would take most of my pain away. He wanted me to go to a specific store, but I read the reviews - since Arch and Soul is close to where I live, I decided to stop in.
I didn't expect to have the amazing experience that it turned into. Mahmood looked at the recommendations, then he looked at my feet, then he looked at my gate as I walked across the store in my socks. Then he told me that he disagreed with the shoe recommendations from my doctor and he very clearly and succinctly told me why.
Mahmood is an expert and enjoys sharing what he knows in order to help people.
He brought out a pair of the recommended shoes and then showed me the pair he thought was more appropriate for me, and brought two more pairs out as well.
I tried all of them on and the ones he recommended were so amazingly better than the others - I couldn't believe the difference!
The ones the doctor had recommended for me were about $40 more than the ones Mahmood said were right for me. Both pairs are made by Brooks.
I was going to discuss the choice with my doctor and left the store without purchasing the shoes. Mahmood was totally gracious. After thinking about it for a few minutes, I decided I didn't need to discuss anything with my doctor and came back to get the shoes. Mahmood invited me to come back again soon so he can check a few more things later. Totally awesome, caring, knowledgeable service - and no "do you need socks, etc" pitch. He was totally there to help me and that was his complete focus.
Had I gone anywhere else, I probably would have purchased one of the doctor-recommended shoes with the hope that they would feel right after I got accustomed to them. But Mahmood knew what I needed and I am grateful! I wouldn't have thought that a different model in the same brand would make such a difference in how I feel!
I am SO thankful to all the Yelpers who guided me to Arch and Soul, I just had to add yet another "Yelp" for this gem of a running shoe store in LA.
Thanks, Mahmood! I hope to stop back in again soon! -
Review from Kim A.
Los Angeles, CA
3/26/2012
I purchased a Groupon for this place after reading all the glowing Yelp reviews. It was a long drive for me to get there. The owner was there and it is true that he seems extremely knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. Unfortunately, he doesn't seem to have anything in stock! He told me and my sister that he would place an order for what we needed. We never heard back. My sister called and called and even emailed. It got to a point where no one would even pick up the phone when she called. We never were able to use our Groupons. This was too much of a hassle. I will stick with my usual running store in the future.
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Review from Angel T.
Updated - 3/14/2011
I went back again to get shoes for the LA Marathon. The couple who run it are so sweet, helpful, and exceptionally good at what they do. They had me try on a wide variety of shoes, watched me walk in them, tried different pads, etc until they, and I , were satisfied that I had the right shoes.
Their prices are more than fair, the location is easy to find, and has ample street parking. This place is great for all athletes, whether beginners, or professionals. I won't buy my shoes anywhere else. A definite five stars!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/26/2010
I had been training for the marathon in my awful, beat up old nikes. Both of my big toenails were… Read more »
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Review from Nicole M.
10/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is my go-to running store, and I recommend it to everyone I can, I love it so much. I've been running basically since high school, and know the importance of investing in the right shoe to keep my knees, legs, feet, etc. in working order, and there's no substitute for a legit running store with expert staff to get the right shoe for you. I'm generally a bargain hunter, looking online for good deals, but with running shoes you can't substitute bargains for real quality, and Arch and Sole is a great place for a wide selection of excellent running shoes... and if there's something right for you that's not in stock, they'll get it for you.
I started upping my running ante with long course triathlons a couple years ago, and switched to trail running, so I really needed some guidance in making the right choices for a trail shoe versus my usual road shoe. Mahmoud, the owner, is always incredibly helpful with multiple options and inside scoops on what shoe is perfectly right for each individual person. (He also is just super nice and cool.) He'll check out your gait, listen to your problems (pronation, arch pain, ankle pain, etc) and then bring you out a few shoes that might work for you. And it's always about what's best for the customer, never ever EVER an upsell: the first trail shoe I bought happened to be an older model, and was therefore nearly thirty bucks cheaper than another shoe I was considering, and he totally agreed the cheaper one was the way to go. I always know I can trust the folks here, and look forward to doing business with Mahmoud, so I can update him on my latest races and see if there's anything I new should try. If you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, you've gotta stop by, it's a great little shop and you'll get exactly what you need there. -
Review from Elliot B.
Los Angeles, CA
11/22/2010
I lost a bunch of excess weight and got healthy by eating right and starting to exercise. After losing the first 20 pounds I started to walk and then eventually run. However, the more I ran, the more my feet would hurt. I tried several pairs of running shoes in various price categories, but nothing seemed to help.
I decided to go into a running specialty store and after lots of YELP research I chose Arch and Sole.
I was a little skeptical about what the experience might be like...could be possibly be as good as everyone says? The answer is yes. Mahmoud is a really nice and knowledgeable runner. He examined my current sneakers, feet and gait and pointed out the issues that were contributing to the discomfort and which shoes would help overcome those particular issues.
There was absolutely no hard sales pitch. After trying on a few pairs I could really feel the differences between them. Mahmoud also pointed out that I would benefit from a size up in length and down in width. He was sooo right.
I since compared the pricing, and arch and sole is priced the same as the internet retailers. However, there is no comparison between the information-less online experience and the warm friendly expertise that I found at Arch and Sole. -
Review from nina s.
Los Angeles, CA
1/27/2011
There I was on the treadmill running my little heart out yesterday, when I started to feel a burning sensation tingling through my feet.. And I knew it was time to get a new pair of running shoes.
I had been putting it off for long enough, but had the Arch and Sole info tucked away in my phone, so after my workout, I sat through horrendous 101 traffic to get there, and was circling the block looking for parking for about 10minutes.. I called them to find out their closing time, the girl on the phone--Susana-- said "Closing time is 7, so we will be closing shortly" I almost cried, and told her I had been circling the block.. She graciously offered to wait for me since I was already in the area... =)!
I walked in at about 702 and there was Susana, sweet as ever, waiting for me... she saw me strut, looked at my old running shoes and brought out a few different shoes for me to try on... She was very informative, very helpful, very nice.... and I did not feel rushed at all! She even kept offering new suggestions after the initial 2 pairs she brought out...
Great customer service, great attention to detail, and I got a great pair of running shoes that I am looking forward to breaking in tonight! =)...
Susana, it was truly a pleasure!!! -
Review from Blair F.
Los Angeles, CA
3/1/2012
this place has the best customer service of any retail store in Los Angeles. I look forward to getting new shoes so i can go shop at arch and sole. I had foot problems from running and thanks to this store my feet are pain free.
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Review from Amy C.
West Hollywood, CA
9/12/2011
The owner is so helpful and knowledgeable about everything foot related. I love to support private businesses who deserve it!
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Review from Michael M.
Hollywood, CA
9/6/2010 1 Check-in Here
You often here the cry to "by local" and "support local business". This is very true with this store.
The owner has 15+ years of experience and I consistanly get good advice on shoes. Try getting quaulity advice on workout shoes from a kid at some store in a mall. -
Review from Bonnie C.
Los Angeles, CA
11/9/2010
I went to get fitted for shoes elsewhere and ran into issues after I was done with my half marathon (har har har, pun intended).
Mahmoud is the owner of this awesome little shop. Not only is he a runner with considerable experience but he is extremely knowledgeable. He knows his products inside and out. I went in there determined to buy a pair of Pearl Izumi shoes but walked out instead with a pair of GORGEOUS Mizuno shoes. I can't wait to take them for a spin.
I told him about the problems I was having with my current running shoe, I told him about the issues I was having with my foot and he really listened. He told me where my shoe was lacking, assessed my gait carefully multiple times and was able to pinpoint where I was favoring my foot.
He brought out several pairs of shoes for me to try and never once tried to push any of his products on me, even after I had decided which shoe I was going to buy. He didn't try to sell me socks or clothes or hats.
What really won me over was the dog he's fostering. A man who treats animals with kindness, respect and love, in my eyes, will treat the people he meets the same way. -
Review from Jess R.
10/6/2010 1 Check-in Here
I had come in here in search of "water socks". You know - the shoes that can go in water.
I went into a small shop that looks very nicely taken care of. One employee was there, helping another woman, but he told me he'd be with me in a second. I browsed around the store while I waited. I was impressed with the modest selection - everything seemed great!
Unfortunately, they only had one pair of water socks in stock, and they weren't my size. I talked to owner Mahmoud about what I thought I needed them for, and he explained to me why they are good and urged me to buy the proper footwear for the activity I'd be doing. He recommended tons of places for me to shop for them.
I loved his knowledge, personality, kindness, and willingness to make suggestions about other stores to shop at. Oh, and I loved his doggie. -
Review from Tiffany M.
San Francisco, CA
2/24/2007
This is a great little shop, and a real gem for runners... or those, like me who are simply aspiring runners.
The people who work here actually run (cough-cough-New Balance Store!)...So, they know there stuff. Plus, they know shoes, product lines and updates, as well as feet. My husband and I used to make custom foot beds so we really don't like people BSing us about shoes and footbeds... and these people were the real deal... Boy, were we pleased!
They also let my husband run and up and down la brea in a couple models to test them before committing. And when they thought that I would be good in something that they didn't stock, they were honest and didn't try to make me buy something that was simply there.
I really loved the people here and hope that many yelpers start frequenting their store... c'mon you really ought to be running, shouldn't you? -
Review from Marilynn L.
Los Angeles, CA
8/4/2011
All the reviews are true. I typically don't go out of my way to write a redundant review but this place is so great that I just had to add to the enthusiasm. The owner asked me a few vital questions, analyzed my gait, brought out three pairs of shoes, watched me walk in all of them, and then sold the most comfortable running shoes ever to me. Oh, and threw in a GU for me to try on my next long run. Fast, knowledgeable, and kind service. You can't ask for more (and my shoes ran the same price online so he didn't mark up at all!).
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Review from Eduardo X.
Los Angeles, CA
2/15/2010
I like for my Yelp to be mostly about food, but this place is so exceptional I must give them their justly deserved five stars.
Besides, you need a good pair of shoes to exercise off the weight you inevitably gain from all the delicious food out there!
I must start by saying I'm not the most athletically gifted person, but in the last year or so I've really enjoyed running. I'll never be a marathon guy, but I enjoy my 3 mile runs four times a week.
Being among the flattest of flat-footed people, the Nikes and New Balances weren't working for me.
And then I fell in love with THE BROOKS BEAST.
These guys would get five stars just for introducing me to this shoe that I so adore, but the fact that the owner (I assume he's the owner) was so damn helpful, friendly, and an expert at his craft just took the cake. He sat with me for a good 30 minutes just observing me walk, bringing out different types of higher-end geek-delight running shoes until we settled on the Brooks Beast.
I also truly appreciated his patience with all the questions I had, and I cannot forget to mention how much he stressed that one should treat their running shoe with such vigilant love. I swear this guy must display his personal shoe collection in a closet museum, because he really stressed how special we should treat our shoes. And he's right -- they save my sorry old flat feet, so I must agree with him.
He even threw-in a couple of pairs of socks. Nice socks, that is. Such an enthusiastic fellow, he really loves his craft and it shows. Or should I say it shoes?
I've recently also taken up hiking, and I called them for some advice (I believe his wife picked up the phone this time). She sounded like she was busy (usually there's only one person in the store), but she still answered my every question and even suggested that for budget-mindedness I might be okay with the Brooks Beast, at least for awhile.
Yes, they actually encouraged me to try the SAME SHOE -- i.e. they didn't try and talk me into spending more money. The only place I know of that also won't talk you into spending needless money is the Mac store.
I am very loyal to few brands. Hondas, Apples, and these guys are among the short list.
Go visit these guys, you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Sam R.
Cerritos, CA
7/18/2010
I came to Arch and Sole at the recommendation of my sister and I was pleasantly surprised. She said the owner Mahmoud was legit but legit doesn't do him justice.
My sister called him before we arrived to see if he could delay closing up shop as we were running late and wouldn't arrive before his store closed, (7PM) and to my surprise he was more than happy to. He definitely didn't fit the bill of a typical employee or employer in a shoe store. He doesn't just shove shoes a bunch of shoes in your face, but brings out the best possible shoe for you after making observations on the peculiarities in your walk (he will ask you to walk toward and away from him). He also doesn't keep you in the dark, he answered all my questions and walked me through the whole process of why he chose the shoes he did for me.
He sat down with us, engaged in conversation, and simply made what might seem a dull affair to most quite the enjoyable experience. I'm happy that my first yelp review was for such a great establishment and I will continue to give them my patronage.
They also offer discounts for certain running groups (my sister's group gets a discount) so that might be even more incentive to come here the next time you're looking for a good pair of running shoes. -
Review from Cristina H.
Los Angeles, CA
9/7/2011
I highly recommend Arch and Sole. I have been purchasing my athletic shoes there since they opened their doors. You will get outstanding customer service and product knowledge, no matter who assists you there. Everytime I go for a new pair, I get the same outstanding service and professionalism. This business really values there customers and it shows in the way they take time with you to address your needs and make sure that you get the perfect fit.
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Review from Adrienne F.
West Hollywood, CA
8/15/2008
This store really knows they're stuff!!! Due to a really bad running injury two years ago, I stopped running. But recently my friend and I started to get back into running. After my first short run, I desperately needed a new pair of shoes.
I found Arch and Sole through Yelp. What a god-send! The salesman there was so knowledgeable. I brought in my old running shoes and he analyzed my walk/run style from the wear on my old shoes. He then suggested a few pairs without any Pressure or Rush to Sell!
After I decided which shoes I wanted, he even replaced the insoles with my OLD superfeet insoles. He didn't try to sell me new orthopedic insoles just because mine were old.
He was only interested to help me find what I needed! I highly recommend this store!!!! -
Review from Alexander C.
Los Angeles, CA
6/19/2008
This place rocks! I've been going ever since I did Team in Training last season. All staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. No one is there to "sell" you a shoe. They get to know your feet and from there they recommend shoes based on your running style.
I highly recommend this shop if you're looking for the right shoe. And it's just North of Pink's.
Thanks Arch and Sole! -
Review from Angela S.
Los Angeles, CA
6/9/2011
Great store in a great location!
