When you step into Saved Soles, Topeka’s premier new shoe store, you’re not just walking into a shop—you’re stepping into a dream long in the making. Owned by Eric Patterson, Jr., and managed by his longtime friend, JB Beard, Saved Soles opened in July 2024. It’s more than a place to buy the latest Yeezys or Jordans; it’s a space born from passion, hard work, and a love for the stories behind the shoes.
Eric and JB met in high school, where they were rival track stars. Their rivalry turned to friendship during a regional meet. Eric had pulled both hip flexors and a hamstring before their final race, but the two wanted to compete against one another. Ready to quit during the race, Eric was surprised when JB slowed down beside him, yelling for him to keep going. Together, they caught up to the pack and won the race—a moment that foreshadowed their future partnership. Today, JB continues to push Eric to chase his dreams.
“He’s always known I sold shoes, but when I had the idea of owning a business, I wanted to talk to him first,” Eric says of JB. “He’s been here helping from day one.”
The Start of a Passion
Eric’s love for sneakers goes deeper than suede or leather – he’s drawn to the stories behind each pair’s design: from the designer to the release date to who wore it first.
Eric’s entrepreneurial journey began in middle school when he borrowed $200 from his father to buy and resell shoes for a profit. He quickly repaid the loan and reinvested his earnings. Over the next decade, he sharpened his business acumen.
Then, while participating in Leadership Greater Topeka, an opportunity presented itself. Eric was a member of the class, which visited West Ridge Mall and heard the mall’s owner, Cody Foster, discuss his vision. Eric shared his interest in shoes and business with Cody, who suggested that Eric open his store right there at the mall.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to open a shoe store,” Eric says. “When the opportunity came to open my own business, it just made sense.”
Building Something Bigger
Saved Soles is more than a business for Eric and JB - it’s a mission.
“We believe God gave us this opportunity, and we want to put Him at the forefront of everything we do,” says Eric. “We’re called to love every single person, and we can have fun doing it.”
Whether it’s making a shot on the mini basketball goal, playing Madden, or participating in an Uno tournament, Eric and JB aim to create a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The pair says they want to provide what they call old-school customer service.
Saved Soles specializes in rare, sought-after shoes, many of which people in Topeka have never had the opportunity to see, let alone own. One of the most impressive pieces in their collection is a pair of Yeezy Red Octobers, valued at $26,000 and one of only 5,000 pairs created.
The store operates as a buy, sell, and trade shop, with a focus on authenticity. Every shoe that comes in is authenticated, cleaned, and prepped before it hits the shelves, ensuring customers are getting the real deal.
A Family Effort
Eric’s entrepreneurial spirit runs in the family. His sister owns Sanctuary Salon, and his mother runs Patterson Family Childcare Center, where his wife Tierra also serves as director of the second location.
“My family has always been in my corner,” Eric says. “Tierra works long nights but always makes time to help me out. I couldn’t do this without her, my mom, dad, and sisters.”
Looking Ahead
The future of Saved Soles is bright, with plans to expand the store and offer more styles. “Once you achieve your dream, you start dreaming bigger,” Eric’s father always told him.
“We want to grow with Topeka and bring people really cool shoes they can’t find anywhere else,” he says.
Whether you’re a seasoned sneakerhead or just curious about the culture, you’ll leave Saved Soles with more than a pair of shoes—you’ll leave with a story.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to open a shoe store. When the opportunity came to open my own business, it just made sense.”
Eric’s love for sneakers goes deeper than suede or leather - it’s about the stories behind each pair’s design. “Every shoe has a story.”