Salamander of Chicago
Comfortable, stylish European shoes emphasize wide sizes for men and women.
Message from Salamander of Chicago
Salamander of Chicago offers an extensive selection of European shoes, most imported directly from Europe. Many styles are carried exclusively in the United States by Salamander of Chicago. The next generation of this family-owned business has taken comfort shoes to the next level stocking fashion forward shoes in medium and wide widths that are actually comfortable to wear. Salamander of Chicago's knowledgeable staff will take the time to professionally fit adults and children. You may also place orders online or by phone. Customers are encouraged to call with questions about styles viewed on the website. If necessary, the sales staff can recommend a brand or style that will fit specific needs.
Editorial by Citysearch
The SceneA recent interior renovation gave this formerly dowdy store a much-needed update, with fancy light fixtures and light wood shelving. Although it's a chain across Europe, Salamander is only in three U.S. cities--Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. Salespeople don't work on commission, so the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
The Goods
About 85 percent of the shoes are made in Germany, with others from Austria, Spain, Portugal and Italy--don't be shy about asking for translation of sizes and description tags. Widths typically start at B and go up to EEE, giving wide-footed customers a good fit from European designers including Romika, Rieker, Portania, Peter Kiser and Salamander's own line. Like everyone's favorite Birkenstocks (sold here), form often follows function in German-made shoes. A good selection of kids' shoes is just as focused on comfort (mini-Birks are too cute).
Key Points
- Family owned & operated
- European Designers
- Knowledgable staff
The Inside Scoop
- Know Before You Go - Drivers can only enter this quaint strip of Lincoln Avenue from the north. Exiting from the south is permitted, albeit a little tricky.
- Fit for a Child - If your child isn't patient enough for shoe shopping, take a print of his foot, and Salamander will send you a pair of shoes to fit.
- Ya, Sweden - Want something really unique? Pick up a pair of the hand-painted Swedish clogs.
- Brands - While the shoes aren't the most stylish, brands like Lloyd's, Reiker, Finn Comfort and Birkenstock are regarded as top quality, using high-grade materials and hand stitching.
- Parking - Meters line one side of the street but are extremely difficult to score. A better option is to trawl Western Avenue for metered spots.
- Gotta Go? - Customers travel from as far away as Ohio to get their fashionable wide shoes. If you've come a long way, baby, you can relax: Salamander has a public restroom, built especially with long trekkers in mind.
Insider Pages Reviews for Salamander of Chicago
When i walked in here i thought they had really nice shoes. i bought a couple pairs and i think they are very comfy. the prices are good and the people are nice.
Posted 04/21/09 | Report Abuse
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The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable and that's something you can appreciate. I purchased more than $400.00 worth of shoes that day. I would recommend them.
Posted 11/18/08 | Report Abuse
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Latest reviews from Citysearch.
?Reflex? on the feet with reflections about Salamander
by PamelaAntol
Reflexology is a theory that there are ?reflex? areas on the feet that correspond to specific organs, glands, or other parts of the body. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, and encourages overall healing. So, if your feet are so important you need to make sure your feet are comfortable. The best way to do that is to shop at Salamander Shoes. The staff is knowledgeable with regards to sizing and comfort to provide just the right shoe for you. The shoes I have purchased are high quality and look good wear after wear. When you first see the price you may think they are expensive, but if you calculate the price per day you wear them, you?ll find they the price is cheaper than any where else. When you care enough to give your feet the best -- shop Salamander?s.
Posted 03/01/09
cute and comfortable shoes-a ladie's best friend
by kkimble101
Needed a pair of shoes for a trip to Spain that were cute, comfortable for walking, but also went w/business clothes and jeans. I explained this to the staff who brought out every pair of black shoes w/the type of heel I was looking for that they had in my size. This kind of service was impressive and fun b/c they picked shoes that I never would have picked out on my own but was presently surprised with how they looked on. I settled on a pair of crushed black patten Mary Jane's. I already had an inexpensive, not so comfortable pair of black Mary Jane's but felt good going with these b/c the fit was great, I could actually run in them, and they were unbelievably comfortable and still cute enought to compete w/the beautiful shoes on my Spanish counterparts! And I am confident that they will last b/c this is the 3rd pair of shoes I've bought from Salamander.
Pros: Great service, great neighborhood, great comfort
Cons: Sales shelf is a little overwhelming, but that means lots of sales
Posted 02/24/09
LOVE these shoes!
by SueBrady
Great selection of high quality great looking shoes. These shoes last! I've had several pair for many years and they still look great. The store staff is very knowledgeable about shoes, sizing and special requirements for foot issues - many of their shoes can accommodate special insoles or orthotics if you need that. These shoes are worth the money. Staff was very helpful and was able to acquire the size I needed in the color I wanted. Will definitely be shopping here again.
Pros: high quality shoes and excellent service
Cons: parking but you can shop online
Posted 02/06/09