All different types of people walk the streets of San Francisco; businessmen and women hurry down Market Street in dress shoes and heels while young tech tycoons stroll through the Mission District in casual sneakers. For those who are only in town for a visit, a comfortable pair of shoes is an absolute must. When exploring neighborhood after neighborhood in search of the best coffee shops, galleries and eateries, it’s easy to cover some serious territory in the small city that is only about 7 miles long by 7 miles wide. So it makes sense that the City by the Bay should play host to a plethora of heel-clicking-good shoe boutiques. From Hayes Valley to North Beach, stunning shoes adorn window displays, offering ample shopping selections.
A selection of footwear from Paulo Shoes (Photo by Alex Johnson)
While San Francisco is small, it is also mighty. Some of the world’s most innovative companies and thinkers call the city their home, and their progressive ideas do not stop with new software and apps—great Bay Area thinkers are even revolutionizing what we put on our feet. At San Francisco-based shoe manufacturer Rothy’s, a contemporary type of footwear is being created. Made of 100-percent recycled materials, the brand’s fashionable flats are as eco-friendly as they are stylish. The company uses recycled water bottles to create a soft fabric that is breathable and wicks away moisture, perfect for all-day wear. The shoe company touts itself as being the first ever to create a seamless shoe by implementing a 3-D knitting process.
And while some shoppers are in search of an eco-conscious flats, others might desire the latest from high-end fashion houses, boots that make a statement or chic shoes for the little ones in their life. No matter the craving, shoe-lovers will find their footwear expectations exceeded on the streets of San Francisco.
1. Jimmy Choo
Find an assortment of cutting-edge styles, from pumps and sandals to made-to-order shoes, at the Jimmy Choo boutique in Union Square. After finding that perfect pair of shoes, further accessorize by perusing the designer’s collection of sunglasses, scarves, hats and leather goods.
2. Gimme Shoes
Offering stunning designs from distinct designers, Gimme Shoes boasts a loyal following from Bay Area locals who appreciate its wide selection. Find sough-after brands including Ellen Verbeek, Robert Clergerie, Walk by Anat Dahari and many more at the popular shop.
Freda Salvador offers many sophisticated styles. (Courtesy of Freda Salvador)
3. Freda Salvador
San Francisco-based Freda Salvador features swoon-worthy, casual yet sophisticated styles. After the shoes are designed by Megan Papay and Cristina Palomo-Nelson they are handmade in Elda, Spain, by a tiny family-run factory, ensuring quality craftsmanship and singular styles are available at the SF shop.
4. Wingtip
Wingtip offers pull-on and lace-up boots for men in its stunning gentlemanly oasis. Beyond luxury shopping, the space also offers a bar and lounge, game room, whiskey corner and golf simulator.
Jimmy Choo has cutting-edge accessories and shoes. (Photo by Angie Silvy)
5. Camper
With decades of experience designing and crafting fresh footwear, the Spanish brand Camper offers many shoe selections for children. The brand’s young design team works with skilled artisans to craft more than 500 different models of shoes for men, women and children each season.
6. Peek Kids
At Peek Kids shoppers can find sneakers that will keep kids running all day long. Find kids classics like Vans and Converse on the shelves, as well as more chic designs for the young fashionista.
More to Shop
7. Arthur Beren Shoes (222 Stockton St.; 415-397-8900)
8. Superga (2326 Fillmore St.; 415-614-9903; supergasf.com)
9. Janie and Jack (Westfield San Francisco Centre: 865 Market St.; 415-495-7066)
10. Small Frys (4066 24th St.; 415-648-3954)
11. Ambiance San Francisco (Inner Sunset: 756 Irving St.; 415-661-1663)
12. Paolo Shoes (524 Hayes St.; 415-552-4580)
– Briana Verdugo
