The best local shops in Ames

“Emerhoff's Footwear has been helping Ames find proper-fitting shoes since 1941 with friendly sit-n-fit service and a wide range of sizes and widths for men and women. Think Dansko, Brooks, Vionic, Clarks, and Kizik, plus staff who work with local podiatrists to match fit to real-life feet.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Family footwear brand featuring athletic & casual shoes in a range of styles, plus apparel.”

“Chain store selling a wide array of brand-name footwear for men, women & kids.”

“Worldly Goods is a nonprofit fair trade shop with handcrafted finds from over 50 countries, featuring makers like Matr Boomie, Kenyan Home Collection, Paper Baristas, and artisans from Nepal. Swing by this week to snag a meaningful gift that empowers communities and actually feels good to give.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Fitness Sports - Running & Walking Shoe Store dials in your fit with personalized fittings, 3D gait analysis, foot and arch scans, and slow-motion video so your shoes actually work with your stride. Bonus: jump into their weekly group runs or coaching and keep the summer miles rolling.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Footwear chain founded in 1911 offering a wide selection of brand-name shoes for men, women & kids.”

“Long-running footwear chain (since 1921) offering a range of brand-name shoes for the whole family.”

“Beat the humid bog this week with Little Woods: Herbs and Teas, a family-owned Ames shop blending loose-leaf and herbal teas by hand from whole ingredients, no additives, flavorings, or extracts. Browse house blends, bulk botanicals, culinary spices, and teaware, then brew something iced and actually refreshing.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 9, 2026