Review Highlights
“My boot mission has been long and hard but Janet at Rowells saddlery made it a piece of cake and solved it .” in 4 reviews
“I received the same great service when I purchased horse riding gear and a few other items.” in 2 reviews
“A good place to check out if you've got a cowboy or cowgirl on your Christmas list.” in 2 reviews
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Overall rating
21 reviews
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1 star
- Audra W.Alameda, CA05735May 16, 2022
I found a really great pair of high-quality black leather cowgirl boots here. Also found some really cute Wrangler baby clothes for a great price!
Very friendly, old-fashioned store I'd love to come back to sometime. It reminds me of my own family's store and I felt right at home popping in here.
10/10 recommend. Very happy with my experience :)Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 1 - C W.Hayward, CA94189Apr 8, 2024
I hope the employee who abruptly took a hat from me while I was attempting to photograph it, due to the desired size being unavailable, is no longer employed at that location. It might be more suitable for her to consider roles with less customer interaction, such as positions at the DMV or in mortuary services, as their approach to customer service was notably lacking. This experience has dissuaded me from returning to the store.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Vivian A.Oakland, CA718238Jun 1, 2022
Bought my first western belt in my life here. The sales lady helped me every step of the way. I had no idea how to thread a western belt properly and attach a buckle. It was complicated but she was very patient. I was very impressed with the quality of the materials as well. Wonderful store. I will be back!
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Christina M.Hayward, CA0197Apr 5, 2022
Rowell's Saddlery is truly a piece of Rodeo and Western history. They sell a variety boots, western apparel and accessories, saddles, saddle repair, jewelry, belts and more. The customer service was exceptional. I purchased my first (but not last) Stetson felt cowboy hat. Such a gem! You all should know that they do custom fitting and shaping on the spot.
WHAT??! That's right you guys. If you need anything shaped or reshaped go see Janice.
Guys got a check out the store! Rowell's Annual Rodeo is coming up. They are celebrating their 100th Anniversary. So go get your gear!!Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Aug 27, 2018
I grew up in Castro Valley and have shopped at Rowell's Saddlery most of my life. It is an institution in this town which is why I turn to them when I have a need. Today marks the last time I do business here.
I called Rowell's to confirm that they sold a brand of boots. I assume they did since I have bought there in the past but wanted to be sure. The woman who took my call said they had a few pair of women's Justin boots. I told her that I needed to try on a pair to confirm my size. I obviously bored her with my explanation that I had a pair of vintage boots that the boot company wanted for their archive collection. In exchange they were sending me a new pair of boots, but I needed to know my correct size.
In an exasperated tone, the salesperson informed me that they charge for boot sizing. I was shocked when she told me the charge was $40! Needless to say I did not go there to try on boots.
Instead, when I called the Justin Boot Company in Texas to order my new boots I informed them of the boot fitting charge. They were appalled that a vendor would not allow me to try on a pair of their boots free of charge and made note of the account (asking the exact spelling of this vendor's name and location).
I understand that online sales has put a dent in sales for independent retailers but a little bit of positive customer service goes a long ways (and negative service doesn't help business at all).Helpful 4Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Chris S.Castro Valley, CA49283151Jul 6, 2021
Stopped in for my first real pair of boots. Staff was friendly and helpful and they had comfortable good looking boots for my size 13 feet. Glad to support a local business that made it through the pandemic so far.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Aug 25, 2019
Wanted cowgirl boots and headed here after driving by for years. Great service and I walked out with a great starter pair. My only issue is I wished there was a bigger selection of women's boots! Cool red kids boots and a cool red pair for dudes but not for gals. Still my pair are comfortable and look great. I liked that I kept it local and got a sales rep who knew how to help me get the right fit.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Mar 18, 2018
Unique and small mom and pop type shop in the sleepy town of Castro Valley.
A bit of everything. A good place to check out if you've got a cowboy or cowgirl on your Christmas list. Long time CV resident withstood the test of time - so they must be doing something right.
Some display items are not for sale. Seems a bit off - minus one star for that.Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Dec 30, 2014
You just don't find service like you receive here at many places anymore. Marge, I believe her name is, is just the sweetest! She goes out of her way to help you find what you're looking for and makes great suggestions.
On one occasion I came while there was a street fair going on and there were many items set up outside on display. I went to try on a hat, and here comes Marge from inside with the mirror and held it up for me while I adjusted and admired the hat.
I received the same great service when I purchased horse riding gear and a few other items. Their selection is small and I know of larger western stores where I could get the same items, but the outstanding service is what keeps me coming here.Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 2Oh no 0 - Sword F.San Francisco, CA031Oct 19, 2020
Untrustworthy. Poor business ethics. Went in to buy a 20X black hat. The price for these hats will set you back well over $500.00. They did not have my particular size in black and told me they had to place an order to have it shipped from the factory distributor. Several days later it "came in". I paid for it and off I went. Turns out I did not receive a factory dyed black 20X Resistol. I received a red one they had lying around in the stores inventory that they attempted to dye black. Sneaky and unprofessional. Lied to me. When I go into an establishment to buy a hat at this price range or even for a 5X I expect it to be a pristine, professionally factory dyed hat. Not a fraudulent store dyed cover up. PERIOD. I was a repeat customer for years and have never and will never return to this scammery again.
Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0