Bought my first pair of shoes from my neighborhood shoe store. I've been in there a few times and I've always loved the selection and the styles. The owners and the sales people are super helpful and friendly. The most amazing thing is that these have to be one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes I have ever worn. There's no break-in. It's immediate comfort and very attractive style. So glad I made my first purchase. I wish I would've seen the 10% off yelp promotion but that's OK. Maybe now you will. read more

Beautifully and ethically made leather shoes. They're also incredibly comfortable! I got a pair of heels to wear to a wedding (and beyond) and a pair of flats that I couldn't resist. The shop is super cute and the people really helpful. The sweet pup that greets you is a plus, too. read more

I had ordered two pairs of shoes online and had to return/exchange both since the sizing was off. (Side note: All their shoes are beautifully made - just know that you're not going to get consistent sizing across all styles with truly handmade shoes. So best to try on in person if possible!) Anyhow, doing a return of $400 of merchandise is stressful to begin with and sometimes shopkeepers seem exasperated in such circumstances. This time it was super simple: I tried on many shoes, found a pair I liked and was instantly refunded for the difference between that and the first two pairs. And maintained a discount I'd used the go around. Best of all, the shopkeeper was so patient and friendly. I went in wearing sweatpants and looking fairly disheveled, so I was honestly prepared for the snotty treatment that can be par for the course at high end store. Instead she was warm and helpful. read more

I love peeking in the store when waiting at the soup peddler. Today I found a great deal on a sample size that happen to fit me. There's a great section with deals like that, especially great if you're a 37. The regular shoes are also super trendy and well made. I'm going to wear mine out today! read more

Fortress - My sweet deal! - Shoe Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

Fortress of Inca is absolutely amazing. It's one of those brands that has a cool, authentic Austin-y vibe without feeling overtly hipster. The store is located on South 1st St. and, although it can be tricky to get to, it's definitely worth it. The products are beautiful as well as comfortable since they're made with high-quality materials like leather. They even have a clearance "rack" in the store! Not only do they have gorgeous shoes, but the people are so nice! They're all super friendly and eager to help, but definitely not pushy. I never feel pressured to buy something or guilty if I don't. I highly recommend at least dropping by and seeing what they have to offer. I brought my friend once and she instantly fell in love with the brand. (On a side note: Check out the Cameron Oxford boots. I own a pair and they're quite possibly my favorite pair of shoes ever. They're gorgeous and so comfortable I feel like I'm walking on pillows made just for my feet.) read more

Fortress - Cameron Oxford boots - Shoe Stores Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Exploiting workers with low quality product that falls apart. My heel fell of within one wear. Awful

Gorgeous shoes, gorgeous dog, amazing staff! The shoes are handmade and last a long long time!

Avoid this business. The owner is deceptive and posts reviews for his own business. AVOID! Low quality product. Fake reviews across the board. read more

Not only are the robes sold out of this shop phenomenal, but the customer service is AMAZING. I had friends visiting from out of town that decided right after the store closed that they needed a robe (because, like I said, they're phenomenal). They were leaving the next day and we thought they were out of luck in being able to make their purchase. We contacted the store and one of the owners, Evan, was able to coordinate a time for us to come pick up some robes last minute. He was incredibly gracious and we were so thankful he was willing to make time for us. I've worn the robe at some point almost every day since. It is 100% worth it. Shoes look amazing but haven't purchased any yet. If the quality is as great as the robe is, I'm sure I'll be back. read more

Fortress claims "quality and craftsmanship" but when it comes to adhesives this is false. I got a pair end of summer 2021. Since it was winter I didn't take them out many times (maybe 10) so they were lightly worn. I was returning from dinner a couple weeks ago and it started sprinkling. By the next morning the soles had delaminated from the upper. This means the adhesives selected are not even water resistant. I only walked a few blocks. Not quality by my standard, especially for shoes over $200. Will repair these shoes myself and do not plan to buy again because when I commented they said "any amount of moisture, even changes in humidity over time or feet sweat, can affect the adhesive bonds." This is not the kind of statement you want to hear from a brand claiming quality. I've never had shoes that just release their adhesive like this, even cheap ones. Wonderful mission and I like the style. Until they improve their adhesive, do not buy. read more

This is a great store! Great styles, well made, and very friendly helpful staff. I love my new gold boots.

Unfortunately I'm going to have to give some weak stars to this place.... don't want to but dang... you would think this local ethical spot would extend some excellent and friendly customer service skills to go with their pricey products to complete the cycle of goodness... negative. I have had my eyes on a pair of ankle booties for awhile now. I rarely get downtown Austin so I placed an order online. New customers get 10% off on their first order. My booties were $240 and after tax and all.... then I put in my code and noticed the price of the booties stated $260... so I picked up the phone and called. A lady answered and she was obviously in a funk.. it was around 5:30pm... I had no idea it was closing shut down time.. I'm used to stores staying open until 9-10pm.. she told me she already closed down and she would have to open back up, she was extremely frustrated. She figured it out for me and explained the receipt. Very confusing to me but it was fair and I ordered the boots. I asked her her name and she said "thank you" very rude and I asked her loudly again and she said Rachel. We got off the phone and I felt compelled to email the store and share my experience. I was not looking for any discount just sharing what I dealt with and was very surprised that my home town store in Austin treated people like that. That is not how we are known people! A guy named Evan emailed me back and said that is unusual and gave me a $25 off code for my next purchase (that I did not use) and won't use. I received my shoes and they were not my size so exchanged with no issue except that it took 11 Days. I got the new pair and they fit but we're definitely worn, possible returns or floor models. See pics. They were also scuffed up and had black smudges on the heals. I dealt with Rachel again unfortunately and she was willing to exchange again but after talking to my husband and wanting to wear them already (because Fall Yall) I don't mind the 'break in' look but I prefer to do it myself. Especially after paying over a couple hundred ya know?! Husband said to just take one for the team and he really likes them on me so there's that... I love my boots and I love that my purchase is helping Peru workers. I love the ethical process and fair trade. Every dollar I spend I make sure it goes to a fair business. I ordered another color of the same boots and it's been 6 Days and I can't even get an update. Have they shipped? What's up FOI? Email me back and tell me the status? You're here in Austin, shop Local they say.... plenty in stock. Product is paid for... the order has been pending or processing for a week. You keep posting on Social media. Can you hop over and tell a reluctant repeat customer their order status? Evan? I will never visit this store personally to avoid the rudeness but I do love the ankle booties and I believe they are very good quality despite me getting the returned shoes... hoping my next order ships and arrives soon and is indeed a new pair. I ordered them for a trip and I am currently on the airplane to head out of town without my new booties..... very bummed... I guess I will call and chat with Rachel... wish me luck read more

Incredible store and such helpful service. Amy gave very objective advice and was super knowledgeable I got an incredible pair of shoes that are extremely well made and stylish. read more

This store is amazing. The quality and styles of the shoes are fantastic. I have been looking for a store like this for a while. Really unique, awesome designs here and lovely accessories too. read more

Rachel is amazing!! Seriously the most patient person in the world--she pulled out every shoe I wanted to try on and didn't even once get frustrated with my indecision! I ended up with the brown Ani booties--super excited to wear them. The store is adorable, very hip. Love that it's in the hood!! read more

I LOVE my Fortress of Inca Oxford Cameron boots! I had them since 2012, wear them constantly and they are still in top condition! The quality is A++++. People are always complimenting them. Worth it! #treatyoself read more

I purchased the Leia in Camel for 175$. I vary between an 8.5 and 9. I purchased a 39. The shoes fit perfectly. The design and color are also perfect. (Everyone has been complimenting my shoes) NOTE: Yesterday was really hot, my feet were swollen and there was a little bit of rubbing on my big toe, but as the leather softens and the weather cools I'm sure it won't be a problem. SIDE THOUGHTS: I hope the elastic band lasts and doesn't snap/give too much. The shoe is flat and has no arch support so for my flat footed friends, your knees might get tired in these shoes and you'll have to be mindful about pulling up on the inner arch. The customer service for this company deserves to be recognized GLOBALLY! Some companies have forgotten the definition and importance of customer service. Fortress of Inca, however, has not, and knows how to communicate effectively and timely. The shoe is 'pricey' in comparison to what's on the market, but the QUALITY is what justifies the price. I will DEFINITELY be purchasing more shoes from them in the future. Shipping was fast--TX to OH. I ordered them July 13th and had them on my feet on July 18th. read more

I bought the Men's Pinto Boot in tan and they are beautiful! I had very personal, friendly service. The selection has a very unique style and solid construction from high quality leathers. On top of being handmade in Peru, they are fair-trade! After all of that, I still the price was still competitive compared to many other stores in the area for a product that is far superb. I will definitely be going back to expand my shoe collection! read more

Everything in the store is not only beautiful, but functional. Extremely high quality, hand-made shoes from Peru. Plus, all products are sourced and made responsibly granting fair wages to designers and workers in Peru. Will definitely go back! read more

This is an amazing brand with quality products. I bought my first pair the other day from Anthropologie and i am officially OBSESSED. I am receiving non stop compliments and can't wait to purchase another pair for my upcoming vacation. read more

These shoes are AH-MAY-ZING!! Not only are the shoes ethically made, they are so comfortable too! The leather breaks in so well and they are easy to wear all over town. The shop is super cute and the folks that work there are really sweet and helpful. I can't say enough good things about Fortress of Inca. Love love love! read more

Visiting Austin for the holidays and came across this store! For a small store, they have a great selection of shoes with some handbags and clothing sprinkled in. I ended up buying a pair of their handmade mules in a light sand/bone color that are very comfy. To top it off, the owner was super friendly and told us all about the beginnings of his brand. Happy to have found this place! read more

I recently bought the Michelle mule in grey steel and I LOVE everything about it. The fit is perfect (and accurate to my usual size), the leather is soft & beautiful, and the construction is clearly a high quality. The staff at the shop is also super friendly - I would highly recommend! read more

I LOVE Fortress of Inca! If you want quality shoes with high moral standards, look no further. Not only do I physically feel good walking in my new shoes, my soul is at peace knowing how much this company cares about their footprint. Great service, great selection, great prices, and best of all - great mission and story. I'm so happy this place exists - they have a loyal customer for life! read more

So so so sweet! The couple who runs it is lovely. Shoes are gorgeous. Go.

I just bought my third pair of shoes from this very special shop in South Austin and I couldn't be happier with the style, comfort and quality of each pair. I love the look and the feel of the shoes, wear the first two pairs often and think that both lines the shop carries are beautifully made and fairly priced. I am hard to fit and very picky and have been thrilled by how super comfortable everything this store sells is. I can't wait to come back for more! read more

I'm a big fan of this brand that offers handmade shoes, boots and leather accessories from Peru. Since everything is fair-trade there is the added bonus that whatever you end up getting from here is also guilt-free! So I splurged and got a pair of ankle boots and a fringe purse and a leather cuff to wear on my wrist. Also, Mong who works there was super friendly! read more

What's not to love about gorgeous handmade leather shoes. Add to it the fact that they're responsibly sourced materials that support fair wages and I was sold from day one. One summer sandal purchase turned into a winter boot, turned into a spring platform, etc...I'm a huge fan. read more

I ordered by first pair of Fortress of Inca's after discovering the designer while shopping at Anthropologie. I was looking for a stylish, comfortable, quality shoe. And I found just that in the Paloma flats. But what I love even more, and why I will continue to shop with FOI, is their customer service. In a bizarre turn of events, I never received the first shipment of Palmoas. I reached out to FOI directly and they moved quickly to search for another pair and process shipping at no additional charge. Thank you FOI for taking great care of me while also offering funky flats to your customers. read more