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Joined 3 years ago
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Cake day: September 12th, 2023

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  • It’s hard to find a single article that covers everything, but this might be a good place to start: https://www.allenedmonds.com/the-journal/made-here/process?icid=BottomNav_Our_Process

    Allen Edmonds is one of the last big companies to manufacture traditional men’s shoes in the U.S.

    Their quality isn’t as good as it used to be, but they still follow many of the same processes. That page will give you some of the basics on how they are made.

    Welted shoes are designed to have their soles replaced. Allen Edmonds does make sneaker like shoes that can be resoled, but they aren’t really “buy it for life” like a welted shoe.

    https://vcleat.com/ has lots of articles about older brands and high-quality shoes. Might not be the style you’re going for, but some of the information should still be good.

    I mentioned used because eBay and thrift stores can be good sources for high quality shoes, if you know what you’re looking for - and if you don’t go in with expectations. Usually, I leave a thrift shop empty-handed. But I’ve also thrifted some real gems that are either in great shape, or just need some cleanup.




  • So, sneakers aren’t repairable. There are plenty of shoes that offer great support, but if you’re looking for a sneaker look, you’re probably going to be stuck with disposable shoes.

    Similar for vegan. Vegan leather-like shoes are made of plastic or canvas, and they will wear through/crack.

    Leather is one of the most sustainable shoe materials. I own, and I regularly wear, shoes that are older than I am. The leather needs conditioning and care, but it does not disintegrate the way vegan shoes do.

    Leather wears in. Plastic wears out.

    If you’re interested in learning more, I can share more info about shoe construction and what to look for.