Glossary

Brogue - A Brogue is a style of shoe that is characterised by its decorative perforations and edge serrations.

Cut through the noise with our handy shoe glossary and you’ll be talking like a true craftsman in no time. 

Brogue - A Brogue is a style of shoe that is characterised by its decorative perforations and edge serrations.

Derby - A Derby is made with an open lacing system whereby the eyelets are sewn on top of the vamp.

Goodyear Welt - A Goodyear Welt is a method of shoe construction that allows for a pair of shoes to be repeatedly resoled. The process is named after its creator, Charles Goodyear Jr, and dates back to 1869. A strip of leather known as the welt is sewn to combine the welt, upper and lining to the wall of the insole.

Insoles – Approximately 2.5 – 3.5mm thick, an insole is a strip of material which extends from the toe of the shoe to the heel for the foot to rest upon.

Last - A last is a solid mold around which a shoe is crafted. Lasts come in all shapes and sizes and determine the dimensions of a finished shoe.

Loafer – A loafer is a slip on shoe, without laces, which can be worn with socks or bare foot.

Moccasins – Traditionally made from deerskin or soft leather, moccasins are made from a single piece of leather which is joined together at the top with raised stitching.

Oxford – A Oxford is constructed using a method known as closed lacing which means the shoelace eyelets are attached underneath the vamp.

Quarter - The quarter of a shoe sits behind the vamp and covers the back and sides of the foot. It forms an integral part the upper of a shoe.

Vamp - The Vamp is the front and central part of a shoe that covers and protects the foot.

Wingtip - A wingtip is part of a shoe that covers the toe and extend out to the sides in a shape that resembles wings. Wingtips often feature detailed perforation for added intrigue.

Leather - As well as looking smart and effortlessly stylish, leather is a highly durable and relatively low maintenance material. Simply use a pair of shoe trees to help maintain your shoe’s shape and give them a regular polish to help preserve their shine and prevent dullness. As leather is a natural material it will dry out over time, to counter this we recommend applying a shoe cream or leather conditioner about once a month.

Suede - Slightly less formal than leather, suede is characterised by its napped finish. Suede requires a little bit more care than leather and does not get along too well with water. You should avoid wearing suede shoes in heavy rain and always make sure you apply a healthy dose of waterproof protector spray to combat accidental splashes.

Hi-Shine - As the name suggests, Hi-Shine shoes have a striking, highly-polished upper. Ideal for special occasions, a pair of Hi-Shine shoes are sure to add a special finishing touch.