Trained in Italy by Angelo Imperatrice, Francis Waplinger then worked under Roberto Ugolini as his apprentice. Upon returning to the USA, he followed another apprenticeship with Pennsylvania-based Hungarian shoemaker, Marcell Mrsan. Not sure what width you need, then why not give our experienced staff a call. We are happy to help and advise. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy shoes that are made just for you both in their fit but also their design and leather. Wearing bespoke shoes is as delightful as they say and a veritable pleasure with every step. What Next?

Not only is the manufacturing process extremely complex but bespoke shoemakers will only use leathers and materials to match the level of their craftsmanship. Therefore, even the most affordable leathers included in the price for bespoke shoes tend to be of impeccable quality.Nevertheless, Allan and Payson also produce more conventional dress shoes and specialise in both in-house wooden lasts and hand welts. They also offer a unique service where you can recycle an old leather sofa into shoes if you supply the leather yourself!

While the client can customise and request different leathers, it’ll only be for other skins of equal or superior quality. Hemingway are proud to have partnered with Tony Slinger to develop our bespoke, handmade shoe service ‘Hemingway by Tony Slinger’ Truly exceptional bespoke shoemakers such as Gaziano Girling may sometimes charge more. The reasons for this vary but it can be due to their own base construction techniques, selection of materials, or even simply their reputation and demand. The Wide Load boots fit a treat. I've tried wide fitting ones from another store but they weren't wide at all. These really are the business. Fit really well. Cheers guys!

Why Buy Bespoke Shoes?

Aside from Paolo Scafora above, every shoemaker we’ve listed here only crafts wooden lasts themselves. The process is particularly time-consuming and can take months to achieve. The team in our London store will also be delighted to help you with any questions you may have. You can visit us at: As a result, the trial shoes are often made from second-grade leather and may not include any of the desired customisation options. After all, the test shoes are made only to trial the lasts’ accuracy. If there are any fitting issues, they’ll likely be drawn on and cut open to identify the problem. At James Taylor & Son we are dedicated to making wonderful footwear, to fit feet of any shape or size. Firstly, there is the question of necessity. Some people truly struggle to find shoes that fit them at all. Whether its due to foot conditions, abnormalities, or simply having an awkward foot size, ready-to-wear shoes are simply not suitable.

Since the shoemaker is seeking providing the client with perfection, they will likely reconvene after another pair of trial shoes have been made. Indeed, the Italians do have a reputation for making more affordable bespoke shoes. However, this doesn’t at all suggest that the quality is inferior. Another family business, Aubercy has been managed by three generations since it was founded in 1935. Today, Xavier Aubercy has proudly taken charge while his parents continue to work play a vital role in the workshop. Aubercy was even recently awarded the “Living Heritage Company” title by the French Republic. Since then he has specialised in handcrafted bespoke and advanced orthopaedic, starting his own firm Tony Slinger LTD in 2008.American Express Apple Pay Diners Club Discover Google Pay Maestro Mastercard Shop Pay Union Pay Visa Useful articles on wide width shoes, the top wide fitting brands, as well as guides on how to look after your feet. Traditionally, bespoke shoemakers will take your measurements by hand as well as drawing outlines of your feet on paper. You’ll then likely have an in-depth discussion on how you like to wear your shoes in terms of tightness. Tony has been handcrafting shoe for nearly 40 years after completing an apprenticeship with the prestigious HW Poole and Sons he led the team that won the contract to supply handmade boots for the Queens Household Cavalry.

Alternatively, you might want to invest in bespoke shoes simply for your own gratification. After all, it is the apex of luxury shoe-making and if you have the means, why not experience it for yourself? Our easy to understand guide takes you through the different ISO safety codes to ensure you get the right work boots to protect you from hazards at work.Dean Girling and Tony Gaziano have 25 years of experience working for celebrated bespoke makers such as George Cleverley, John Lobb, and Edward Green. In 2006, they founded their eponymous brand to explore new ground through unique contemporary designs inspired by traditional shoe-making pedigree.