Merced Boot & Shoe Repair

This man never disappoints. I take him my shoes as soon as I buy them. Being in the valley these type of shoes wouldn’t last a month. I did go to another place ONCE! Never again! Definitely worth the price to add a little protection. I have other shoes that he has worked on, there is no damage on the soles. I’ve worn off the heel tips several times and still no damage to the soles or surrounding area.

Sadly, I cannot comment on the actual repair work because the owner refused to repair the purse and pumps I brought in. They were not real leather but that is not unusual today. And — really? — someone wants to pay you to perform a service your shop provides and you turn them away? Nothing in the shop name nor any signage inside says «Leather Only.» The owner told me I should just throw them away and buy new ones.
Instead, I took them home, sat down to figure out how to fix them, and did it myself that evening. Not easy — I would much rather have given Merced Boot & Shoe Repair my business (and cash) — but I was able to fix them. It’s been about 3 months and they’re still going strong. When I do have a leather repair in future, I’m not sure I’ll take it to this establishment.

This hole-​in-​the-​wall place is small but mighty. It’s easy to miss (sandwiched between A Blooming Affair and Tino’s barbershop) unless the door is open and you can smell the old leather. Dusty cowboy boots line the window (and walls) and the owner (Irfan) hides out in the back, doing his job. He can chat about current events, re-​sole your wing-​tip leather shoes, replace a strap that’s broken, put a new hole in your belt, and your shoes are nice and shiny when you get them back. Shoes can be re-​soled in rubber or leather.
You can buy used cowboy boots, male and female, and if he doesn’t carry your size he’ll keep an eye out for it at the flea markets (or you could just go to the flea market yourself).
Make sure you get there before 4:30 (when he closes) and bring CASH (sorry VISA). Also, I think he’s single, so ladies, hurry over and get your shoes fixed up!