Wildsmith Shoes: Shoes Made in England from Herring

British shoemaking, and in particular English shoemaking, is still centred around Northamptonshire where skilled workers have made the finest shoes for centuries. Although the industry sadly contracted during the last decades of the last century, it is now on the up and English-made shoes are sought after the world over for their comfort, style and robustness. 

Wildsmith Shoes were worn by many renowned clients: the brand has been revived by Herring Shoes

Herring Shoes have been around for a relatively modest  half century, but their commitment to English manufacture was underlined when they recently revived an old shoemaking name. Wildsmith was established in 1847 and supplied King George the VI with a stout house-shoe, now called the loafer. Other renowned clients included royalty, President JF Kennedy, Cary Grant and David Niven. 

Matthew & Rebecca Wildsmith

They clearly had the right idea about shoes; as John Wildsmith once said, “You are either in your bed or in your shoes, so it pays to invest in both.” Sadly the name disappeared until it was acquired by Herring Shoes who sent me a pair of Wildsmith Grant brogues to try. British-made, they are made with leather soles using classic Goodyear-welted construction. A slim shape and a different but sleek broguing design give them a contemporary and elegant appearance. On the foot, they are very comfortable indeed. 

My Grant brogues from Wildsmith

For anyone looking for a blend of traditional shoemaking skills with a contemporary design, Wildsmith from Herring is a range to look at including loafers, brogues, boots and plain oxfords and derbies. Prices will range between £275 and £400 at launch. More information is available on wildsmith.com and see also Herring Shoes.

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