Business Details
20 Years
experience
Your Trusted Children's Footwear & Dancewear Store in Torquay
Established in 2006, The Shoe Zoo has become a trusted destination for high-quality children's footwear and dancewear. Founded by Peter and Claire French in Torquay, our business was created to address the challenge of finding well-fitted, durable shoes for children, delivered with compassionate service. Over the years, we have expanded our offerings to include a dedicated dancewear department and a welcoming caf, creating a unique shopping experience that caters to families and dancers alike. Our team of experienced fitters prioritises proper footwear sizing from a child's first steps, combining expertise with a friendly approach to ensure comfort and confidence.With both physical and online stores operating seven days a week, we remain committed to providing exceptional customer support, verified by numerous testimonials praising our knowledgeable staff and stress-free environment. Our partnerships with trusted brands like Start Rite, Lelli Kelly, and Skechers guarantee premium products, while our in-store amenitiesincluding a photo keepsake service for first-time buyersdemonstrate our dedication to memorable, family-centric service. This combination of experience, specialist knowledge, and community-focused values positions us as a reliable authority in children's footwear and dancewear retail.
Services
Children's Shoe Sales
School Footwear
Dancewear Department
Shoe Fitting Service
Online Store
Dance Shoe Fittings
Gift Items
Shoe Care Products
Dancewear for Professionals
Gift Vouchers
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 18 years of specialist children's footwear expertise since 2006
- Our trained fitters provide precise measurements for optimal shoe comfort
- We stock exclusively quality-assured brands like Start Rite and Lelli Kelly
- Our dancewear department caters to both beginners and professional dancers
- We operate seven days a week with dedicated customer support
What people say
Great service
Awesome quality
Friendly staff
Stress-free experience
Special needs support
Services
Children's Shoe Sales
We offer an extensive selection of children's shoes from trusted brands, ensuring proper fit and durability. Our trained fitters help families find appropriate footwear for daily wear and special occasions. The service caters to all age groups with regular stock updates and seasonal collections.
School Footwear
Our specialist school shoe department features approved styles meeting uniform requirements. We stock brands like Start Rite and Lelli Kelly, with fitting expertise to ensure comfort during school hours. Customers benefit from extended return policies for growing feet.
Dancewear Department
We provide comprehensive dancewear and footwear for various disciplines, including ballet and ballroom. The department offers pointe shoe fittings with trained professionals and stocks beginner-to-professional level equipment. Our inventory includes leotards, tights, and dance accessories.
Shoe Fitting Service
Our expert fitting service uses professional equipment to ensure accurate shoe sizing for children. The process includes growth tracking and recommendations for appropriate footwear types. First-time customers receive a photo keepsake and caf voucher.
Online Store
Our website offers the full product range with free UK delivery on orders over 45. The platform features detailed size guides, 30-day returns, and live customer support. Regular promotions include seasonal discounts and bundle offers.
People
Peter French
Co-Founder
Co-founded The Shoe Zoo in 2006 after identifying gaps in children's footwear retail. Brings extensive industry knowledge from sourcing quality brands and developing the store's unique family-friendly approach.
Claire French
Co-Founder
Co-founder with hands-on experience addressing parents' footwear concerns. Developed the store's child-centric services, including the first steps fitting package and special needs support framework.
Questions
What are your current return policies?
We accept returns within 30 days of purchase with proof of purchase. Items must be in new, unworn condition with original packaging. Online purchases have the same return window.
Do you offer professional shoe fitting services?
Yes, our trained fitters provide free foot measurements using professional equipment. We recommend appointments for school shoe fittings and first-time buyers to ensure optimal comfort.
What dance shoe brands do you stock?
We carry major dancewear brands including Bloch, Capezio, and Freed of London. Our inventory covers ballet slippers, pointe shoes, tap shoes, and ballroom footwear for all skill levels.
Can I purchase gift vouchers?
Yes, we offer both physical and digital gift vouchers in various denominations. Vouchers can be used in-store or online against any product, including sale items.
Do you provide after-sales support?
Our customer service team assists with post-purchase queries including returns, exchanges, and product care advice. We offer shoe care products and fitting checks within the return period.
