Kassis Bros. Shoes in Columbia — A Family Shoe Store Since 1946

What Kassis Bros. Shoes offers

Kassis Bros. Shoes is a family-owned shoe store in Columbia that has been in business since 1946. The store carries dress shoes, casual shoes, and work boots for men, women, and children. You'll find brands like Clarks, Rockport, New Balance, and Saucony, along with local and regional lines. The store also offers shoe repair services on-site, which means you can drop off a pair for resoling or heel replacement and pick it up later in the week.

The store is located on Main Street in downtown Columbia's historic district, within walking distance of the State House and the Columbia Museum of Art. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. The shop itself is small and narrow — typical of older downtown storefronts — so browsing is intimate rather than sprawling.

Key Takeaways

• Kassis Bros. carries everyday shoe brands for all ages, with a focus on comfort and durability rather than high fashion.
• The store offers shoe repair and restoration services, including resoling, heel replacement, and stretching.
• Located on Main Street downtown, the store has been family-operated for over 75 years.
• Staff can help you find the right fit and often know the inventory well enough to order shoes not currently in stock.

Shoe brands and types in stock

The inventory leans toward practical, comfortable shoes rather than trendy styles. Clarks dominates the women's section, with flats, loafers, and sandals in neutral colors. Rockport offers dress shoes and casual leather options for men. New Balance and Saucony cover athletic and walking shoes. You'll also find work boots suitable for construction or outdoor jobs, and children's shoes in common sizes.

The store does not stock high heels, sneaker culture brands, or fashion-forward lines. If you're looking for a specific brand or style not on the shelf, the staff can often order it for you, though this typically takes one to two weeks. Call ahead if you have a particular shoe in mind.

Shoe repair and restoration services

Kassis Bros. repairs shoes in-house rather than sending them out. Common services include resoling (replacing the bottom), heel replacement, stretching, and cleaning. A resole typically costs between $40 and $80 depending on the shoe type, and a heel replacement runs $20 to $35. Turnaround is usually three to five business days.

Bring the shoes in person so the staff can assess the damage and give you an accurate quote. They'll ask when you need them back and let you know if that timeline is realistic. Shoes with structural damage to the upper (the part above the sole) may not be worth repairing, and the staff will tell you that honestly rather than taking your money.

Hours and location

Kassis Bros. is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and closed Sundays. The store is located at 2015 Main Street in downtown Columbia. Street parking is free for the first two hours, and paid lots are nearby. The store is not wheelchair accessible due to a single step at the entrance, though staff can sometimes bring shoes to the door if you call ahead.

During the holiday season (November and December), the store may extend hours on weekday evenings. Call to confirm if you're planning an evening visit.

What to expect when you visit

The store is staffed by the Kassis family and long-term employees who know the inventory and can fit shoes properly. They'll ask about your needs — whether you're looking for comfort, durability, or a specific activity — and guide you toward options. The fitting room is small, so expect to sit on a bench while you try shoes on. Staff will bring multiple sizes and styles without making you feel rushed.

The store does not have a return policy posted, so ask about returns or exchanges before you buy. Most independent shoe stores allow returns within a week if the shoes haven't been worn outside, but policies vary. Cash and card are both accepted.

Why Kassis Bros. matters to Columbia

Kassis Bros. is one of the last independently owned shoe stores in the Midlands. The business has survived decades of retail consolidation and big-box competition by staying focused on fit, quality, and service. Many customers have been coming to the store for 20 or 30 years, and they return because the staff remembers their shoe size and preferences.

The store is also part of Columbia's downtown revival. Main Street has seen new restaurants and galleries open in recent years, but the presence of long-standing businesses like Kassis Bros. gives the district continuity and character. If you shop there, you're supporting a local business that has been part of the community since before most of Columbia's current neighborhoods existed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to call ahead to get shoes repaired?

No, you can walk in with shoes that need repair. The staff will look at them, give you a price and timeline, and you can decide on the spot. Calling ahead is helpful if you have questions about whether a particular repair is possible, but it's not required.

Can Kassis Bros. stretch shoes that are too tight?

Yes, the store offers stretching services for shoes that are snug in the width or length. Stretching costs $15 to $25 per pair and takes about a week. It works best on leather shoes and is less effective on synthetic materials.

What if the shoe brand I want isn't in stock?

Ask the staff if they can order it. Most brands carried by Kassis Bros. can be ordered, and delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You'll usually need to pay in advance or put down a deposit.

Is there parking near the store?

Yes. Street parking on Main Street is free for two hours. Paid lots are one block away, and the State House parking garage is two blocks away if you need longer parking.

Does Kassis Bros. carry children's shoes?

Yes, the store stocks children's shoes in common sizes from brands like Clarks and New Balance. Sizes and styles vary, so call if you're looking for a specific size or width.