Store

If you're at all interested in what's going on from your knees down but have to keep to a budget, get thee to The Sneakery. This Ballard boutique is to footwear as independent record stores are to CDs -- its stock is well-chosen, well-organized and reasonably-priced, and its vibe is easygoing and inclusive. Where many Seattle boutiques sport plastic Modernist furniture (if they have any seats at all), The Sneakery boasts comfortable couches -- inviting passers-by to get out of the rain for a while and, y'know, maybe try on a few pairs of shoes.

That's not to say you'll want to stop at a few pairs. Here you'll find all-natural shoes from Vegetarian; candy-colored rain boots from Chooka; classic tube socks from Skater Socks; and as you'd expect, a terrific selection of stylish sneaks by Converse, Gola, Saucony, Posture Foundation and more, in styles ranging from faux-wingtip to classy tweed. And the prices, while higher than Payless Shoes, are fantastic for shoes of this quality. The owner, Drea, once worked in record stores and understands that she's not running a shoe gallery. The Sneakery's stock is priced to move -- most of the premium stuff can be had for $5 to $10 less than you'll find it elsewhere -- and move you it will.