Repairable, water-resistant, and wearable for years to come. Goodyear Welted Shoes are simply built to last. Sustainable and never superficial, our Goodyear Welt collection will step you through this season, and the next, and after that one too – you get the idea.
The Goodyear Welt is the most resilient form of shoe construction, it gets its strength and repairable qualities from the machine stitching that unites the upper and the linings of the shoe to its sole and the bonded leather welt, then a final stitch holds the sole in place. This way there are no direct links between the outsole and insole of the shoe, maximising its water-resistance.
The History of The Goodyear Welt
The Goodyear Welt technique was created by Charles Goodyear Jr in 1869, initially mastered by Northampton’s shoemakers, the durable construction remains synonymous with superior craftsmanship across the globe.
The invention of the Goodyear Welt machine revolutionised the way in which shoes were made, meaning more shoes constructed more efficiently and with more durability than handstitched shoes. Welt sewing is a skill that takes many years to master, while the machine stitches the sole, the shoe is held by hand, so the stitching is worked entirely by the maker’s eye and judgment.
What Are the Benefits of a Goodyear Welted Shoe?
A Durable Construction
Can Be Re-Soled
Water-Resistant Soles
Naturally Shock-Absorbing and Insulated
A lifetime investment
Goodyear Welted Vs. Blake Stitch
There are two titan constructions that reign supreme when it comes to footwear, the Goodyear Welt and the Blake stitch construction, but when it comes to choosing, what is the difference between them?
Goodyear Welt Shoes
Truly authentic as a dress shoe, a Goodyear Welted pair is instantly recognised amongst shoe connoisseurs. The strenuous construction calls for heavy duty soles with hardy welts and stitching, qualities which herald its long-lasting status, the robust construction means soles are heavier and less flexible, but worn over time, they’ll mould to your foot’s shape.
Blake Stitch Shoes
Shoes that are Blake stitched are characteristically closer cut, unlike the Goodyear Welt, there are no external stitches so the sole and the upper nestle tightly into each other. A simplified construction, a Blake stitched shoe does not include a welt. Just a run of stitches which unites the outsole, insole, and bottom of the shaft, making a beautifully crafted shoe that’s both lightweight and flexible . Although the sole can be replaced the Blake Stitch is less hardy than the Goodyear Welt, and should be avoided where wet weather is concerned.
Ultimately both the Goodyear Welt and Blake Stitch constructions are worthy additions to your repertoire, each with immaculately crafted qualities that are as unique as its wearer.
How to Care for your Goodyear Welted Shoes
Rub a little bee’s wax onto the inside of the heel to soften up the leather lining.
Wear your Goodyear Welted Shoes in dry conditions for thefirst few wears, fine grit on leather soles will build a barrier against your moisture and increase the lifespan of your shoes.
By investing in some good quality shoe polish and conditioning cream, your shoes will not give you a flawless finish but will protect leather uppers from dirt, grit, and the elements.
Wearing your shoes on consecutive days can cause damage, give your shoes a well-deserved break by rotating your shoes through the week. This will help to help dry them out from rain and any perspiration.
Shop the Goodyear Welt Collection
There’s only one more step to become a true shoe aficionado, invest in the Goodyear Welted pair. They’ll ignite your love for the classics, trust us on this. We’re not ones to brag, but our Goodyear Welt collections, for men and women, really are the hallmark of quality.
