I am not a shopper, which is why I love Tops when I need shoes. I just find Vince, tell him what I'm looking for, and he brings me the perfect shoe. Every time. I'm usually happily back out the door in 10 minutes. Tops has the shoes. Vince knows what they are. - Jennifer K.

While Tops for Shoes isn't exactly overrun with competition — especially in downtown Asheville — when it comes to footwear, the much-loved local store operates as if the stakes were extremely high. Separate men's, women's and children's sections are stocked with styles that range from casual to high fashion and classic to trendy. And then there's the sale section — racks upon racks of must-haves, enhanced by (be still our fluttering hearts) penny sales. — A.M. - A.M.-Posted on Mountain Xpress Best Of page

Even in New York City I can't walk in and find three pairs of size 11 like I can at Tops! - Elizabeth, Chapel Hill, NC

We just received a lovely request via e-mail from a customer in Hickory, NC who said, "PLEASE CONTINUE TO SEND ME SALE NOTICES- THANKS FOR THE GREAT SELECTION AND GREAT SALES! YOU ARE WITHOUT RIVAL! Thank you so much! - June, Hickory, NC

I have looked all over the world for shoes to fit my wide feet... Justine fit me in two pairs. - Stephanie, currently residing in Japan

Thank you kindly for handling this problem... This is why we shop at TOPS FOR SHOES!! - Marcia, Plantation, FL

I'm so blessed to be working with people like y'all... I appreciate your kindness, thoughtfulness, and love. - Maggie, Asheville, NC

The lady who waited on me was knowledgeable about the product, interested in my need, and a very interesting person. - Betsey, Little Switzerland, NC