Business Details
Your Trusted Family Shoe Store Since 1803
Established in 1803, WJ French & Son is the oldest and largest independent shoe shop in Hampshire, proudly operated by the eighth generation of the French family. As a family-run business, we specialise in providing expert footwear solutions for men, women, and children, combining tradition with modern expertise. Our team, many of whom have over 20 years experience, holds Society of Shoe Fitters qualifications, ensuring every customer receives professional guidance on proper shoe fitting. We operate an onsite shoe repair workshop, offering comprehensive services to extend the life of your footwear.With an extensive selection of premium brands like Mephisto, Ecco, Waldlaufer, Start-Rite, and Ricosta, we cater to diverse needs, from everyday comfort to specialist childrens footwear. Recognised by the Childrens Foot Health Register as a centre of excellence and the Society of Master Shoe Repairers, we prioritise quality, durability, and customer satisfaction. Our commitment to excellence has earned us the title of Award Winning Family Retailer, reflecting our dedication to serving the Southampton community with integrity and care.
Services
Shoe Retail
Shoe Repair
Expert Fitting
Children's Footwear
Premium Brands
Onsite Workshop
Foot Health Advice
Delivery Services
Gift Vouchers
Size Guidance
Highlights and features
- We offer over 220 years of combined family expertise in footwear retail.
- Our team includes Society of Shoe Fitters qualified professionals.
- We operate a dedicated onsite shoe repair workshop for convenience.
- We stock premium brands like Mephisto, Ecco, and Ricosta for all ages.
- Recognised as a centre of excellence for children's foot health.
Associations and certifications
- Children's Foot Health Register
- Society of Master Shoe Repairers
Services
Shoe Retail
We provide a comprehensive selection of premium footwear for men, women, and children, including brands like Mephisto, Ecco, and Ricosta. Our focus on quality ensures durability and comfort for everyday wear. Expert staff assist in finding the perfect fit for every customer.
Shoe Repair
Our onsite shoe repair workshop offers services to extend the lifespan of your footwear, including resoling, heel replacement, and polishing. Skilled technicians use traditional methods to maintain the integrity and appearance of your shoes.
Expert Fitting
Society of Shoe Fitters qualified staff provide precise measurements and advice to ensure optimal comfort and prevent foot damage. We prioritise proper fitting to accommodate individual needs, including wide or narrow widths.
Children's Footwear
We specialise in children's footwear, offering brands like Start-Rite and Ricosta that support healthy foot development. Our staff are trained in children's foot health, ensuring safe and comfortable options for growing feet.
Premium Brands
We curate high-end brands such as Waldlaufer and Peter Kaiser, combining style with ergonomic design. These collections cater to customers seeking both aesthetic appeal and long-term comfort for formal or casual occasions.
People
W J French
Eighth Generation Owner
Leading the family business since 1803, W J French oversees operations and maintains the legacy of quality footwear retail. With decades of experience, he ensures the store continues to meet modern needs while preserving tradition.
Sarah Thompson
Head of Customer Service
Sarah has managed customer relations for over 15 years, ensuring every client receives expert fitting advice and after-sales support. Her team focuses on creating a welcoming environment for all shoppers.
Questions
Do you offer shoe repair services?
Yes, we operate an onsite shoe repair workshop for all types of footwear.
What brands do you stock?
We stock premium brands including Mephisto, Ecco, Waldlaufer, Ricosta, and Start-Rite.
Are your staff qualified in shoe fitting?
Yes, our team includes Society of Shoe Fitters qualified professionals.
Do you deliver nationwide?
Yes, we offer free UK delivery on orders over £75.
Is your store accessible for children's footwear?
Yes, we specialise in children's footwear and are a centre of excellence for foot health.
Can I return online purchases in-store?
Yes, we accept returns both online and at our Southampton store.
Reviews (6)
Maurice Hochschild
Dec 29, 2021
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Outstanding. Good selection, excellent service and they measure your feet which helps ensure the shoes actually fit.
Alice Wratten
Aug 29, 2021
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Exemplary service and professionalism. Thank you. We queued for just over an hour, which isn't surprising on 31st August, but it would have been useful if the promised queue updates on Facebook had been published: we might have timed our arrival differently.
Emma-Louise Wegman
Aug 16, 2021
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Thankyou SO much. Our fitter was incredible. Very understanding of our daughter's needs (autistic) and coming in the back and having a quiet spot really helped. The lady was so attentive to my children and, unlike our experience elsewhere recently, we had several shoes to choose from and she ensured a proper fit. We came from Poole but will be back! I came to French's as a small child and am so glad my mum recommended I bring my girls here. The whole experience was brilliant start to finish .
Neil Matthews
Aug 13, 2021
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Still wear shoes I purchased from French & Son 15 years ago. Its simple; they provide a quality product with service to back it up.
Darren Ledwich
Aug 10, 2021
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We to the shop for the first time today for my sons first pair of school shoes. Staff were great and service was quick but focused.
Jan Carrick
Jul 12, 2021
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Over the moon with the online service (via Facebook) with Caroline who dealt with my enquiry and order. Cannot fault Thank You. I also love how my Order included a Brochure of the history of the French family. I certainly know where to go to when I need more Shoes.
