Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Premium Footwear in Austin
Founded in 1937 by Bob Karotkin and Irving Ravel, Karavel Shoes has been a cornerstone of Austin's retail landscape for 88 years. As a family-owned business, we have evolved from a single Buster Brown children's shoe store on Congress Avenue to a premier destination offering men's, women's, and athletic footwear, along with certified orthopedic shoe customization. Our commitment to quality products and unmatched service remains unwavering, driven by generations of family leadership. In 2023, we expanded to a spacious 1011 W. Anderson Lane location, quadrupling our showroom size to better serve Central Texas. Our team of expert shoe fitters employs a biomechanical approach to ensure every customer finds their perfect fit.With a legacy of innovation, we introduced Austin to the largest running shoe selection in the region through Karavel Run. Our valuesrooted in the founders' visionprioritize personalized service, extensive brand offerings, and community engagement. We pride ourselves on adapting to industry trends while maintaining the trust of loyal customers. From classic styles to cutting-edge athletic designs, Karavel Shoes combines tradition with modern expertise. Our rewards program and event partnerships further demonstrate our dedication to enhancing the customer experience.
Services
Men's Shoes
Women's Shoes
Athletic Shoes
Socks
Orthotics
Running Shoes
Shoe Repair
Custom Fitting
Kids' Footwear
Branded Apparel
Details
- Year established: 1937
Highlights and features
- We offer 88 years of footwear expertise in Austin.
- Our family-owned business maintains generational craftsmanship.
- Certified orthopedic shoe customization services available.
- Expert biomechanical shoe fitting for optimal comfort.
- Largest running shoe selection in Central Texas.
What people say
Expert shoe fitters
Perfect pair found
Orthopedic customization
Family legacy
Spacious showroom
Services
Athletic Shoes
Karavel Shoes offers the largest selection of athletic shoes in Central Texas, featuring top brands like Asics, Brooks, and New Balance. Our expert fitters use biomechanical analysis to match footwear to individual training goals. From running to cross-training, we provide performance-driven options for all activity levels.
Orthotics
Certified orthopedic shoe customization services address specific foot health needs. Our specialists fit custom orthotics for improved comfort and mobility. This service combines medical expertise with premium footwear for long-term foot wellness solutions.
Shoe Repair
Professional shoe repair extends the life of premium footwear. Our skilled technicians handle resoling, heel replacement, and structural repairs. Using quality materials preserves the integrity and comfort of your investment shoes.
Kids' Footwear
Specialized children's shoe fitting ensures proper foot development. We offer durable, comfortable options for all ages and activities. Our staff guides parents through growth-friendly footwear choices with expert sizing assistance.
Branded Apparel
Complementary branded apparel and socks enhance footwear purchases. We curate stylish and functional options that match popular shoe lines. These accessories complete outfits while maintaining brand consistency and quality standards.
People
Bob Karotkin
Co-Founder
Co-founded Karavel Shoes in 1937, establishing Austin's first Buster Brown children's shoe store. His commitment to quality laid the foundation for generations of family leadership and community trust.
Irving Ravel
Co-Founder
Co-founder who helped transform Karavel from a single location to a multi-store operation. His vision expanded product offerings while maintaining the core values of personalized customer service.
Rick Ravel
CEO
Third-generation leader preserving family legacy since 1937. Oversaw 2023 relocation to a larger showroom while maintaining commitment to Austin's evolving footwear needs and community values.
Michael Wittenstein
COO
Stepson of Rick Ravel, ensuring continued family ownership. Manages daily operations with focus on modernizing services while upholding the business's 88-year tradition of exceptional customer care.
Questions
What are Karavel Shoes' store hours?
Monday-Saturday: 10am-7pm, Sunday: 11am-6pm at our Austin location.
Do you offer shoe repair services?
Yes, we provide professional shoe repair including resoling and structural fixes.
Are orthopedic shoe fittings available?
Certified orthopedic customization and biomechanical fittings are core services we offer.
Can I return online purchases in-store?
Yes, returns are accepted in-store within 30 days of purchase.
Do you carry running shoes?
Karavel Run offers the largest running shoe selection in Central Texas.
Is Karavel Shoes family-owned?
Yes, we've been family-operated since our 1937 founding by Bob Karotkin and Irving Ravel.
