X out of 10

Got a hole in your sole? If you have a pair of shoes that have fallen out of repair, but you just can’t bring yourself to toss them in the bin, give Swanson’s (2305 N 45th St in Seattle) a shot. Stepping into the tiny old shop makes you feel like you’re stepping out of a time machine, and for a good reason: the Swanson family has been repairing and restoring shoes in this same spot for the last 60 years.

Swanson’s also repairs all types of leather goods, including luggage, purses, and wallets. They’ll even give your shoes a professional shine job for about $3.50 (half what you’d spend for a lesser job at, say, Nordstrom), and give you advice on keeping your new kicks in the best shape possible.

X = 8.7: Taking your shoes to Swanson’s is a great way to bring your old shoes back to life and keep new ones looking good. Plus, it just feels good to support a small, local, family-owned and operated business. Be warned, though: they only accept cash.