Shoes – Herring Shoes Journal

Choose almond toes for elegant footwear

10 January 2024

Dress shoes and boots come in four classic shapes, dictated by the last they are made on. It’s important to consider the toe shape as although the saying is “best foot forward”, it’s usually the toe of your shoe or boot that everyone sees first! If you imagine putting your best toe forward, you may want to consider an almond toe.

For this journal article, we are going to focus on the almond toe as identified as one of the 17 best shoes for men you’ll always want on your rotation by GQ magazine. While GQ suggested almond-toed footwear features an extra piece of leather, it is more about the shape this extra piece of leather covers.

An almond toe has a narrower end than a rounded toe. This does not mean your toes are all scrunched up, of course. We would never recommend that! The narrow part of an almond toe is elongated so gives your footwear a sleeker look without being too extreme. For comfort, the shoe widens where the ball of the foot is, so no pinching at all, just endless elegance.

To emphasise an almond toe, some shoemakers do add an extra layer of leather or decorate the toe area. Barker’s Lerwick semi brogue is a good example of this, but I think an almond toe almost looks sleeker if it is unadorned.

Our Chaucer wholecut is the most unadorned of all shoes and it really stands out as a result while the Carroll has the Derby-style lacing system but is as sleek as they come from the facing through the vamp to the tip of its almond toe.

If you like some decoration, then our Dunkeld (below) and Roche monk shoes are among the most elegant in our range featuring delicate brogue detail or check out our classic Henley spectator shoes.

Man in work clothes wearing Dunkeld slip-on brogue black shoes — The Dunkeld

Loafers have not escaped the almond toe treatment either. Our perennially popular Dillon, plus the James style, have also been made on the appropriately-shaped last.

For boots, the Wilson Chelsea or Orwell double-monk styles will give you the elongated toe you might be craving.

Any of these styles will give you modern elegance and a dress shoe that GQ approves of! These are ideal for formal office attire, business meetings, and special events and occasions. An almond toe is where sleek meets chic.

Shop almond toes here.

Herring Shoes

Why you need expanding cedar shoe trees

23 November 2023

It’s an easy mistake to think shoe trees don’t really do very much and they are just a ‘nice to have’ accessory, but the truth is they are without doubt the most important accessory you can buy for your beloved shoes (view them on site here).

You can see how much difference shoe trees make to the level of creasing on the uppers

Picture the scene: you have been wearing your lovely new pair of leather soled shoes to work for a week or two, everyone has commented on how smart they look and in response you are proud to say how comfortable they are and maybe throw in some stats about the leather quality and the construction, show that you really know your stuff! Fast forward eight months, you have been enjoying wearing your shoes but suddenly you notice that there is a small hole appearing in the soles, surely if you are buying quality shoes the soles should last longer than this? You know they can be resoled and this is the beauty of welted footwear, but you didn’t expect them to need a resole quite yet. You would be forgiven for then reaching out for some advice and this is where the following bit of knowledge can be the most important thing you learn about handmade shoes.

The truth is leather soles can wear quicker than expected, especially if you’re wearing the same shoes day in day out, even if they cost you £1000. Why? It’s simple: moisture. Like it or not, your feet perspire and this goes through the cork and into the sole cumulatively over time. The sole is then in contact with the pavement which is essentially creating a sandpaper effect as you walk, throw in a wet pavement and you are really putting your soles through it! You can purchase rubber soled shoes of course, this will help hugely too, although you won’t get that ‘traditional’ look you get with a leather soled pair of shoes.

A side angle to better show the difference between a shoe with trees in and one without

We of course understand that the above is unavoidable and leather soles are perfectly well equipped to deal with daily wear and tear, but by reducing the amount of moisture in the shoes you can make a HUGE difference to how much time is needed between resoles, this is where wooden shoe trees come in and cedar wood in particular which wicks away moisture brilliantly! Not only will they prolong the life of your soles, stop mould growing in the shoes (trust us, it happens more than you would realise) but they will also help keep your uppers looking less creased as they act like the original last they were made on, this means they will help keep their original shape, let’s face it no-one wants bent/turned up shoes. Oh and one final benefit, that wonderful smell of cedar!

Whilst there are many variations of shoe trees, we highly recommend expanding cedar shoe trees. Expanding shoe trees should not be confused with something that will expand your shoes, it simply means they are lightly sprung around the toe to fill in as much space at the end as they can. They should be a snug fit and the stronger spring between the heel and front will make sure they have the perfect amount of flexibility to ensure moisture is wicked away without affecting the width of the shoes.

To summarise: By using shoe trees you are prolonging the life of the soles and keeping the shoes looking cared for. Shoe trees are an investment.

So, when you get home and take your shoes off, make it a habit to put your shoe trees in and place your shoes in a nice dry spot that isn’t too near a radiator!

Herring Shoes

What’s the difference: Oxford and Derby shoes

21 November 2023

Let’s dive into one of the most asked questions we receive here at Herring Shoes HQ: What makes a shoe a Derby or Oxford?

You can thank the students from Oxford University for the terminology ‘Oxford’. Back in the 1800s they were the ‘in’ style to be seen wearing and they became well known for wearing them almost exclusively and from then the name has stuck.

We should start by saying we know it’s a common misconception to picture a shoe with a line across the toe cap when someone mentions an Oxford. But this is not what defines an Oxford, this line is called a ‘capped toe‘ and can be found on both Oxford or Derby styles, so it’s important to know any good shoemaker will not refer to an Oxford capped shoe as an Oxford style purely because of the cap.

So, what exactly is an Oxford style? When referring to shoes as an Oxford, this terminology means the construction of the lacing area has a closed-lacing system (a V shape when worn) which is stitched flush with the rest of the upper. It is a classic form of a dress shoe and considered the most elegant, neat and tidy variation. It has nothing to do with the pattern on the shoes.

Tip: If you find that the V shape disappears when tying your shoes, this is likely a sign they are a little too large for you.

The Herring Knightsbridge is an Oxford style with a toe-cap.

The Derby (AKA the Gibson). Instead of the V shape lacing above, you have what looks like two flaps of leather that sit above the upper to create an ‘open lacing system’ which is stitched over the facing. This means there is more space in the instep area.

When would you wear an Oxford?

Traditionally this style is synonymous with suits and smart dress only. The truth is, you can wear them with pretty much anything depending on the pattern. For example, an Oxford toe capped style is best suited to smart dress and formal occasions, but if you were to swap the toe cap out for a lovely brogue pattern then all of the sudden you can get away with pairing them up with jeans, chinos, and more smart/casual attire.

A brogued pair of Herring Munster with Oxford lacing

Why would you wear a Derby?

So, the above also applies to the Derby style but there is one key element that may make you consider this construction instead: Flexibility over the instep. If you have a higher instep (it is more common than you’d think) then you may find yourself buying shoes larger than your actual size to compensate for your prominent instep and ultimately this is not great as the rest of the shoes won’t be a good fit. A Derby will allow you to buy your regular size and also have the flexibility to expand to your instep, the difference in comfort is immediately noticeable, especially if you have always struggled to find shoes to fit you properly around the lacing area. Let’s not forget that the Derby is the perfect style for that country chic look, especially when paired with a thick country sock!

Herring Shoes

What is a factory second?

9 November 2023

If you have ever visited a shoe factory, or indeed a large retail shop, you have almost certainly found the ‘factory seconds’ section and spent more time than you wish to admit trying to find the fault that makes them a factory second.

If you have seen our previous blogs you will know there are around 160 processes that go into making a pair of welted shoes. Whilst some of these processes are more intricate than others, they all require a tremendous amount of skill and absolute focus from the craftsperson (easier said than done in a loud working factory). When the shoes have gone through the final stages and are ready to be packed, they are meticulously checked before going in the box and at this point they must determine whether this exact pair meet their strict criteria. The makers are only human, it is natural that there will on occasion be the odd ‘imperfection’ from one of the 160 stages that is deemed not acceptable for a full priced pair of shoes.

Wouldn’t it be a terrible waste to throw a pair of shoes away just because of a small imperfection? The truth is, many of us wouldn’t notice or even mind these imperfections. They will never be imperfect to the point that the shoes are not fit for normal wear and tear, that is the important factor to remember, they are very much fit for purpose (you can even challenge your colleague to see if they can spot the imperfection!). We think factory seconds offer a higher quality of shoes to our customers that perhaps would otherwise have been out of their price points, and just think, each one truly is unique!

To give you an idea, you can expect to see some minor marks or cuts in the leather, poor stitching that does not look symmetrical on close inspection, blemishes/deep creasing in the leather, or even wrong markings on the shoes, we have shown some examples below.

So, our advice is that if you see a factory second available in a style you like and in your size, give them a go! And who knows, maybe there will be a nice selection added to our website shortly…..

Herring Shoes

Shoe care – 2023 edit

3 November 2023

Shoe care is important no matter the time of year. Water is, and always will be, bad for good quality leather, particularly good quality calf leather uppers and soles. This blog will focus on calf leather as opposed to polished or suede. For suede leather care, please see this link for our previous blog. (PS scroll down to find your exclusive 15% shoe care discount).

You will need: (Click here to see all below items on our website).

One or two cloths/rags. I like an old cotton t-shirt, but whatever you have lying around, just make sure there’s no loose dirt on there.
A horse hair brush. I prefer a medium sized one.
A good quality cream. I wouldn’t worry if you can’t find an exact colour match. If in doubt, get a slightly lighter shade, never darker. We use Saphir 1925.
A good quality polish. Again, don’t worry if you are unable to find an exact colour match, get as close as you can or a slightly lighter shade. We use Saphir Pate De Luxe.
Saphir Renovateur Macadamia.
Saphir natural leather sole oil.
Shoe trees…ideally wooden.
A welt brush. If you don’t have one an old toothbrush or something that will help you get product in between the uppers and the welt.
An apron is recommended but not essential. It will protect the clothes you’re wearing from product spill and let’s be honest, it makes you look like a pro!
Dasco Protector spray. This will add that final bit of protection.

Your shoes deserve the best quality products and we appreciate this is not cheap, but bear in mind it will last you many years and keep your shoes looking their best! With this in mind we have created a special code for you to use on full priced shoe care products to save you 15%. Just use the code SHOECARE23 in the basket when placing your order. As above, this link will take you to a pre-populated basket including the above items (make sure you change the shoe trees size to what you need and amend the shoe cream and polish colour to suit), just don’t forget to use your code!

Let’s get down to business:

Step one

Get that apron on! You want a nice clean base to work off, so you need to remove all dirt off your shoes, including your soles. Make sure your shoes are dry and take out the laces, then insert your shoe trees to give your shoes some shape and push out any creases. Now grab your brush and take off as much dirt as you can (you may want to do this outside or over a sink). If you need to use a damp cloth then you can, just be sure not to soak the shoes and allow them to dry before moving on to the next step. Get the dirt off your brush ready for later. It should come off easily using your hand to brush against.

Step two

It’s time for some renovateur. I personally use my finger for this step but you can use a cloth if you prefer. You want to apply a thin even coat over the uppers, welt, and heel, basically everywhere apart from the sole. This product goes a long way, so you only need a very small amount. If you notice some colour coming off then this means you have a build up of old polish and it’s good to get this off so just wipe off the excess with a cloth. Leave them to rest for five minutes and then use the brush at a moderate speed, back and forth, to remove any excess. This will leave your leather nicely nourished and ready for the next steps.

Step three

Now we apply our cream. I would use a cloth for this as the cream can stain your fingers. As above, you want to apply a thin layer of cream over the shoes, but avoid the welt and sole (if the colour matches your heel stack and welt then you can use it there too, usually this is a dark brown). Pay particular attention to the toe and work in small circles just to rub it in nicely, this is the part where your scuffs and scratches will get covered up. Get your welt brush and make sure you get the cream in the areas around the stitching where the welt meets the uppers. This is where water is going to soak in through the shoes and the cream is going to help repell it. Leave the cream on for two to three minutes and buff off with your brush. Spend a little longer on the brushing here and you will notice a wonderful sheen already. Your leather now has its first layer of protection while covering up those little marks.

Step four

Possibly the most satisfying part…applying the shoe polish. Make sure your shoes are fully dry from the previous steps. Use a cloth and two fingers to get a small amount of polish from the tin. Start at the toes using small circles and even spread it until it dries, then get a little more and do this around the whole of the uppers, taking time to use small circles and don’t forget to use your welt brush for the stitching and welting area. If you want a bit more of a shine, you can use drops of water to create a bull shine as per this video our MD Jason made (well worth a watch). Once you have applied the polish you only need to wait two to three minutes. Don’t wait too long as the polish can be hard to buff off. Get your trusty brush and brush fairly quickly with a little force to create some friction. This helps to set the polish and will create a noticeable shine. Be careful not to catch the end of the brush on the shoes when doing this. It’s easily done if you get distracted and you will be cursing yourself. This is your second layer of protection. If your shoes could talk, they would be thanking you (or walking you to the pub….)

Step five (skip this stage if your shoes have a rubber or crepe sole)

Without doubt the largest factor in soles wearing out quickly is moisture. When you think about it, walking on wet concrete is almost like sandpaper on your lovely leather soles and if you do this repeatedly, they are going to wear down extremely fast, no matter the quality. You can’t always avoid wet weather, of course, and by making sure you rotate your shoes and let them rest and dry with good quality wooden shoe trees (and following our care advice in this blog), you will be prolonging the need for a resole two-fold, so it’s worth having at least one other pair to wear during the week and alternating between them both.

Back to business. The good news is they are nearly ready, you just need to seal that leather sole. Apply the sole protector with a cloth. Your sole will likely soak quite a bit up, so don’t go crazy, but apply enough that you can see it has evenly soaked up. Leave them to dry for at least one hour before wearing them out.

By now your shoes are looking a million dollars. It’s satisfying right?

Step six

This is optional, but one final layer of protection will help. We are using a colourless protector spray, this is going to really seal in what we have done above. A light, even spray over the uppers and a brush to get the excess off is all you need, but check the bottle for further instructions if you aren’t using Dasco Protector spray and just make sure it is suitable for leather shoes.

Congrats on a job well done!

Please feel free to ask us any questions at all about shoe care, we are always at hand of help you get the most out of your shoes.

Herring Shoes

New autumn styling for 2023

14 September 2023

Corsham boots, Wallace jacket and cashmere scarf

It’s time to admit that summer is over in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn is well and truly here. Despite soaring temperatures at the start of the month, there is definitely a nip in the air in the mornings and evenings, and the days are getting shorter. Fear not though, autumn is a great time to switch up your style without having to wrap up too much against the cold. We have put together our first autumn/winter edit to give you a little guidance.

Picture the scene…. The weekends are still sunny, but the air is crisp and cold. The leaves are crunchy underfoot and are begging to be scuffed and kicked. You have decided to grab a quick break away to log cabin, B&B or small hotel in the countryside…or have just sneaked out for a quick walk and a pint or roast dinner at your local pub.

We have teamed sturdy but stylish boots with comfy knits and jeans to embrace the new season. For boots, we have chosen our classic Corsham in all its brogue glory and the Cambridge for its rugged yet refined classic qualities. We have also thrown in the Castlewood. This is a bold Chelsea boot style that uses a sturdy Commando sole. It’s a bit biker but without the buckles. We have it in brown calf too. All three can switch from countryside trail to a log fire in the pub in a flash!

We have chosen our lovely Harry ribbed sweater in olive. Made from premium Elton vale cotton, this will give you some extra warmth without cocooning you too much!

If a jumper is too much just yet how about complementing your favourite tee or shirt with our stylish all-rounder, the Wallace waxed jacket from Peregrine? This isn’t your classic Young Farmers’ jacket; this is much more contemporary. You could throw this on for rural rambles but also chuck it over a suit in the city. This is a smart investment.

Cambridge boots, Harry knit and Bovey holdall

Equally, a scarf can also add a little warmth where a jumper would be too much. If you have never had a cashmere scarf, can I recommend one? Just a little bit of luxury around your neck is a touch of class and comfort. We used our black plain cashmere scarf for this shoot but I am partial to a classic camel.

For luggage, we have suggested the Bovey holdall for a weekend away or the Grantley backpack for those who can pack a little lighter or are looking for a bag for work.

Equally useful for office life and weekends, is a decent umbrella. Our Thirlemere umbrella was designed in Italy using the finest Malacca wood handles and a sturdy frame. There is nothing quite like the feel of a solid wood handle and it marks this out as a quality item. We have intentionally left the canopy free of branding for the classic look.

So that’s the chaps sorted but what about the women? Our latest edit features the edgy but elegant Garda. This has a bold cleated rubber sole, and its patent leather upper lends this style to a city location as well as country getaway.

While the Paula is a Chelsea boot made exclusively for us in the Tricker’s factory using super-soft Muflone leather. It feels so supple it could be used for gloves, but in this boot it gives amazing softness but the appearance of a strong and durable boot. The lightweight rubber sole gives you height as well as weatherproofing and grip so you can wear them whatever the weather. The best part? No-one else will be wearing them as they are exclusive to us!

And here ends our first autumn/winter edit. We hope you enjoyed it and have been inspired for the new season. Do not lament the end of summer, embrace the new season with style!

Herring Shoes

What shoes should I wear to a job interview?

11 August 2023

This is a tough question as the world of work has changed beyond recognition in recent years. The pandemic meant many of us swapped formal office attire for more casual clothing while we worked from our homes. But work life has shifted again, with more of us heading back into the office by request or by choice. Some of the casual nature of clothing is still in evidence but all that needs to be put aside for a job interview.

As an interviewer and an interviewee, I have always dressed smartly. This is usually the first time you will meet your future employee or employer in person. Yes, you may have had an initial call or video meeting, but a face-to-face interview is the real deal where from-the-waist-up attire is not enough!

Shoes are also a good barometer of a person’s demeanour. I am not talking about value here. No-one expects you to splash the cash in pursuit of a new role, but rather making sure what you do wear on your feet is in keeping with the occasion.

Herring Aldgate briefcase and Herring Carnaby brogues

Even if your would-be new career is in a more relaxed industry sector, never wear trainers or flip-slops. You can still exude casual professionalism but not in your sneaks and certainly not with toes and heels bared! If you only have one pair of smart shoes, then plan your outfit around these because, believe me, people will be looking at your feet.

That said, you do not have to quash your individuality! Shoes and boots can be a real window to your soul (not sole), and give an indication of your personality, which interviewers want to see. I am going to offer a few suggestions below, but if you already have your interview shoes lined up, make sure they are clean!

Old shoes can be given a fresh lease of life with some care. Make sure they are polished, brushed and whatever is required so they look as good as they can be. A clean pair of shoes shows you take care of your appearance and your things! If you show care in these areas, the assumption will be that you will take care of your work commitments too.

If you are looking to invest in a new pair of shoes for an interview, then here are a few suggestions that will also work well for a range of other occasions.

A classic pair of brogues vs a classic pair of Oxford capped shoes

Black Oxfords
A classic black Oxford is a real investment, especially if you are going for a role with a formal business or organisation where suits are expected…think law and accountancy firms. You cannot be too smart for these interviews. Aside from the interview, they will be ideal work shoes for the future, and the perfect shoe for black-tie occasions, wedding and funerals too. We have a wide range available that includes Goodyear-welted styles that can be repaired for many years to come to make your investment a sustainable choice.

Brown brogues
I have gone for brown brogues as they look great with navy and dark grey suits, but we have plenty of black brogues and semi-brogues too. Not just the shoe of choice for the country set, they are also suitable for city slickers and town-based go-getters. The brogue is undoubtedly a formal shoe and will prove you are taking your interview seriously.

Monk shoes
Monk shoes show a little more flair but not in a disrespectful way. Single, double and triple buckled monks are super-smart and are just something a little different from a traditional lace-up. This means they stand out but not too much. I think they offer a hint of swagger! They also transfer to the weekend and can be worn in both smart and smart-casual environments.

Boots
If you are a boot man, this is ok too. You can get boot versions of Oxfords, brogues and monks. I am not a fan of the Chelsea boot with a formal suit as I like to see a little detail and finesse – such as lacing or broguing – but for less formal interviews, they could do the trick. Leave your heavy cleated boots at home though especially if they are full of mud! Our aim is to look sleek and stylish not rugged and ready-for-anything…unless you are interviewing for the SAS!

Want something a little different?
These are genres of the above but have a little edge to them if you want to remain loyal to your personality without condemning your chances of being hired. For instance, the Disraeli is a standout slip-on Oxford while a spectator shoe, like our Henley, is a respectful statement. Lastly, what about a wholecut like the Chaucer? These will never be described as run of the mill, but they still ooze sophistication, style and professionalism.

Hope the above guide has given you a few pointers. An interview can be very nerve-wracking but get the shoes right and that is one less thing to worry about…and may even be the clincher against another candidate! Good luck.

Herring Shoes

We like a best dressed list…but what about the footwear?

26 July 2023

The summer season sees a whole host of events held across the world where celebrities are scrutinised for their fashion choices. The Met Gala, Wimbledon, the Tony Awards, Ascot, Henley Royal Regatta, etc. What we find little frustrating at Herring is that the best dressed articles in glossy magazines, newspaper and websites mainly focus on their outfits. The reporters at these events clearly ask: “Who are you wearing?”, but the designer roll call stops at the ankle.

Meanwhile, we are all shouting: “What about the shoes?” As footwear fans, we know shoes or boots can make or break an outfit and yet they are unfairly ignored. Sometimes these photos don’t even show their footwear!

Well, I have had a good look at some recent photos and here is my executive summary.

At Wimbledon, loafers were king! Formula One star Pierre Gasly teamed his suede tasselled tan loafers with a double-breasted navy jacket and white trousers. Ted Lasso‘s Phil Dunster opted for the same type of shoe but complement his loafers with cream slacks and a camel-coloured twinset. Marvin Humes styled cream loafers with a green suit.

Duran Duran frontman Simon Le Bon went for brown calf loafers with white trousers and shirt, and a cream jacket and tie.

House of the Dragon‘s actor Fabien Frankel wore black tasselled loafers with a light-grey suit. Model Oliver Cheshire also opted for black, but no tassels, to go with a cricket style cardigan and chinos.

Not everyone opted for loafers at Wimbledon though, there were plenty of black formal shoes thrown in and some pristine white sneakers, along with some brown Oxfords on the feet of actor Tom Hiddlestone and black lace-up boots from new Dr Who Ncuti Gatwa.

At the Met Gala, the black formal shoe was key…unsurprisingly for an evening event. Tennis legend Roger Federer, and actors Bill Nighy, James McAvoy and Bradley Cooper sported polished Oxfords. They are a classic and finish off a black-tie suit very nicely. At both the Met Gala and the Tony Awards, there was also a fair smattering of chunky soled black shoes too.

Henley Regatta attracted a fair few loafers! We spotted brown and navy versions that go so well with a summer blazer or suit. White sneakers and deck shoes also made an appearance. Olympic diver and epic knitter Tom Daley though went for ever-classic chestnut double monk shoes.

So that’s your round-up. Day-time equalled loafers and night-time equalled black Oxfords! You can hit the internet to see photos of all these stars; meanwhile here are a few footwear suggestions for your summer events and gathering.

For the loafers, the Sagres tasselled loafer would fit right in at Wimbledon or Henley, while the navy Trovatore loafer would hit the spot too. For the Fabien Frankel look, we have our Blackheath tasselled loafers. These are super smart!

For the more formal shoes, you can make a splash à la Tom Daley style with our Braybrooke double monks in dark leaf grain or go for a single double monk with our Monkwell or Roche styles. To emulate the Hiddlestone vibe, our Sussex Oxfords are a paired thing of beauty or we have the rather lovely tan Sligo Oxfords too.

Lastly, the evening attire. For that polished look, check out our Newcastle Oxfords or for the super-shiny dancing feet, we have our Jive Oxfords.

Herring Shoes

Casual summer shoe styling for men in 2023

9 June 2023

The summer months can be a little tricky or even sticky on the footwear front for men. While no-one wants sweaty feet, not everyone wants to bare their toes and heels for public scrutiny. Staying sharp while maintaining your cool can be a challenge. Here are a few hot summer shoe tips for this year.

Espadrilles
Not a toe or heel in sight, but still very much all about summer. Our espadrilles are made from gorgeous soft suede and have a light, flexible sole so are perfect for shorts with a tee or polo shirt.

Slippers
Don’t mock it until you have tried it! These are the epitome of louche slouching! The open-backed element makes them the perfect blend of flip-flops and loafers. Team our Baronet slippers with linen trousers and be the lord of lounging, or try our Snaff loafer with dark shorts and an open-necked shirt.

Sneakers
Sparkly white sneakers are a staple for both men and women these days. Thankfully, they are easier to keep clean in the warmer months. Our Split leather style fits the bill but if you want some standout colour, how about our green and orange Voyager trainers?

Deck shoes
These are so easy to slip on and off and wear with jeans or chinos on colder days or with shorts when the sun does shine. We stock Sebago and Sperry classics along with our own range both with and without ties. The Padstow is our bestseller with the Padstow II new for this year.

Moccasins
A softer version of the deck shoe, our Murlo II does not come with the laces and ties but are a great casual shoe for popping on and off as and when required. They come in great shades of soft suede too.

Loafers
The king of the summer shoe when you need to raise your game a little. The St Jean combines a lovely suede upper with a lightweight sole for a semi-casual shoe that will work with jeans, chinos and shorts.

In the spotlight

The Jerry

31 May 2023

The Jerry was new to our Premier Collection last year. Developed by our long-term friend and Journal contributor Jerry Tharapos, this is a really beautiful, bespoke boot that deserves a bit of attention. It is the culmination of a great relationship, expert shoemaking, and a two-tone style, so we are quite sentimental about it!

Where to start? A somewhat Dickensian laced boot with six eyelets and two hooks, this Balmoral-style boot it is now very contemporary care of the 205 last the Jerry has been made on to give it a squarer, chiselled toe.

Balmoral boots are akin to an Oxford in boot form, with some distinct features: a closed lacing system, a distinct upper and lower portion of the boot, low heels, a rounded toe, and above the ankle in length.

The British royal family had their part to play in their existence with Prince Albert originally commissioning them for walking through the Balmoral grounds but also to be worn indoors. Ever a fan of boots, Queen Victoria was quick get in on the act too.

Our version is two-tone with the vamp, toe cap and heel-counter made from calf leather and the contrasting top and tongue made from suede. We have one in burgundy calf and blue suede, and the other in navy calf and suede. Both look superb.

We also added broguing along the lower and toe-cap seam and on the two-cap too. Every detail has been thought of.

The mastermind behind their design was Jerry, who will not mind us saying, is a rather natty dresser. He is big fan of burgundy leather, period dramas and vintage styles. A self-confessed modern dandy, Jerry looks sharp and likes to blend old and new styles, usually with a bit of tweed thrown in.

However, it is the skills that goes into making shoes and boots like this that attracted Jerry to Herring in the first place. His namesake was handmade by the wonderful craftsmen at Cheaney in the heartland of shoemaking in Northamptonshire. They are Goodyear-welted which means they can be repaired again and again, if you look after them. This means that if you wear the sole out; you can get it replaced, but not lose the comfort of that you have broken into the upper.

So, if you want a bit of royalty-approved, two-tone, brogue-ish quality footwear in your life then take a look at the Jerry. As their co-creator Jerry would say: “Be dashing…be daring”.

In the spotlight

The Salcombe

22 May 2023

We called it last week with our Guide to Loafers…the spring/summer season is finally upon us! So, we thought we would showcase one of our all-time classics in the deck shoe world, the Salcombe. Named after the South Hams boating mecca that neighbours our headquarters in Kingsbridge, this has been a mainstay in our casual collection for many years.

Like any of our shoes, there is some serious craftsmanship at work in the background. This style is made for us by deck shoe specialists in the city of Guimarães in Portugal.

A&R Pontes is at the heart of a renowned industrial cluster that comprises footwear, clothing and home textiles. Established in 1999, the company comes from a family business dedicated to the art of shoe manufacturing since 1945. They balance the value of a shoemaking tradition and craftsmanship that has been passed on from generation to generation, but with a forward-thinking attitude. They are our kind of people!

Although based on a moccasin, the deck shoe we know today originates from 1935 when the first one was designed by Paul Sperry (we sell Sperry deck shoes too). There are two theories as to what his thought-process was:

He loved boats and wanted a nautical-style moccasin. He also cut grooves into the bottoms of the sole to create more grip.
He noticed his dog did not slip on ice and upon studying his dog’s paws, he saw the significance of grooves and cut grooves into the soles of his own shoe.

However Mr Sperry developed his shoe invention, the deck shoe was then taken on by the US Navy with their own design, leading to global popularity.

The cleated non-marking rubber sole is clearly a necessity for staying upright in wilder weathers on boats and ships. Deck shoes are also slip-on to make them easy to take on and off. The porthole style eyelets usually feature a 360-degree leather lacing system to ensure they fit securely. The aprons are top stitched often using contrasting thread.

The Salcombe is a little different. While we have retained the lacing feature around the collar, we have done away with it at the front. Instead, we have added a penny loafer-style saddle. Less fuss but still very much a deck shoe with a non-marking rubber sole. One of reviewers on our website commented: “Very comfortable and so happy no laces.” We seemed to have made one customer happy at least!

In truth, we know we have made many of our customers happy as the Salcombe is a very popular footwear choice in the warmer months. The blended deck shoe-loafer style makes them the ideal shoe choice as you leap to shore from your boat in search of the nearest local restaurant for lunch. If you have not got a boat, they work well as a weekend shoe. They are the ultimate in smart-casual and look great with a shorts, chinos or jeans with a polo shirt or casual shirt.

Herring Shoes

Your guide to loafers

17 May 2023

Enough is enough! We are officially embracing the spring/summer season. We have had to wait it out, but I definitely saw the sun today! In shoe world, the sun means loafers. While loafers are good for autumn/winter too, the warmer months mean we can wear them without socks and expose the ankle a bit!

The origins of the loafer are said to come from the moccasin. They are both slip-ons, have a low-slung profile to expose the ankle and feature a stitched apron. However, while a moccasin is seen as a soft-soled comfort shoe, the loafer has much more clip to it care of a separate sole and a small heel.

As has been the case with other shoes and boots, the British royal family may have had a hand, or foot, to play in the development of the loafer. King George VI asked Wildsmith Shoes to come up with a house shoe for him to wear around the palace and other royal residences, and the result was what is known as the Wildsmith loafer.

Meanwhile in Norway, Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger introduced a loafer to the town of Aurland after he had travelled to North America to learn shoemaking. When travelling Americans then saw them on sale in Europe, they took them home where they were spotted by the editor of Esquire magazine.

The European and American loafers continued to develop with the penny loafer first produced by GH Bass in the 1930s. This distinct style includes the saddle, with a diamond-shaped cut-out, that bridges the stitched apron. Apparently, US prep school students used to tuck a penny in the cut-out and that’s what gave them their name.

Meanwhile, back in Blighty, the ever-so-fashionable Edward VII was sporting the penny loafer – he favoured the brown and white calf style. Of course, he did!

Aside from a penny, the loafer has seen the addition of tassels, bows, fringes, full-width saddles, and brass snaffle horse-bits. The introduction of the horse-bit was down to Gucci. They also began making loafers out of black leather to elevate their status from a casual shoe to footwear that could be worn in the office.

Shoemakers across the world continue to produce loafers in these styles and they are still ever-popular with both men and women. An example of the evolution of the loafer is our Snaffle style. Made in black deerskin, this features a silver-coloured snaffle metal bit. These are definitely smart enough for the boardroom!

If you fancy a tassel in your life, then the Guildford is lovely and sharp, but could also be a casual alternative. Made in navy grain or a pebble grey suede, this is a real classic with a part leather and part rubber sole.

For a more casual look, we have some new styles for the season. The St Jean is made from a gorgeous soft suede and has a light-coloured rubber sole, so is definitely a spring/summer shoe. The Matira has a boating feel to it with an elasticated heel and cushioning for extra comfort.

We are officially calling it! It is time for loafers. Let’s go people; lets embrace spring/summer 2023.

In the spotlight

Aigle boots

3 May 2023

https://www.herringshoes.co.uk/aigle/parcours-2-vario_rubber-soled-boots/green-and-bronze

We really do hope summer is almost upon us, but the puddles and muddy tracks would suggest otherwise. There is still a real need for a good pair of wellies! However, even when the sun does begin to shine and festival season kicks in, a decent rubber soled boot is always very handy.

Aigle has been making natural rubber boots by hand in France since 1853. As you know, we love handmade footwear. Just like our British Goodyear-welted shoes, Aigle used the Goodyear-vulcanisation process to ensure a soft, durable and waterproof product that was ahead of its time.

Moving into the 21^st century and Aigle is now famous for its contemporary boot designs, incredible comfort and for still being authentic to its roots by continuing to be made in France from natural rubber.

Let’s start with the ladies for this In the Spotlight look at Aigle and the aptly named Aigletine. Aigle have somehow made a welly boot look feminine! Made in a dark drown rubber, which looks great with blue jeans, it has an equestrian flair with a contoured fit and an adjustment strap. Meanwhile, the black Cessac is slightly shorter in the leg, so would be good for gardeners that often find themselves on their kneeling pads…whatever the weather!

There is the Cessac version for the men too, while the equestrian style is called Benyl M and comes in a countryside khaki shade. The crème de la crème of rubber boots for men though is Aigle’s Parcours 2 Vario. This features a triple density anti-fatigue rubber sole which will give you greater comfort meaning you can wear them for long periods. The Parcours 2 Vario has a green upper with a bronze and grey cleated sole, so looks very smart too.

Aigle has also put their considerable outdoor footwear manufacturing talents into creating rubber-soled walking boots. With the Army’s Ten Tors Dartmoor-based challenge on our doorstep, walking boots are important round here but also for people who love to walk up hill and down dale in the rest of the UK’s beautiful countryside.

The Sonricker GTX is light-weight and breathable while the Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing and the Vibram outer sole makes it very robust and durable. A little less traditional to look at but no less suitable for what they were made for, the Tenere LTR GTX is a very robust all-terrain hiking boot made from Gortex leather. They have got a military, desert-boot feel to them and come in black or chestnut. These are seriously stylish boots that are made for walking. Lastly, the Muntagna are the most technical of the three and look ready for any challenge!

All these boots have been through an average of 60 manufacturing steps and strict quality tests to guarantee their waterproofing. Comfort is achieved with a foam upper and lining. This means Aigle’s beautiful boots are not your average welly or walking boot. They are fit-for-purpose but look good too. If you are looking for some waterproof footwear in your life, then make a splash with these boots.

In the spotlight

Herring Dunkeld

26 April 2023

Welcome to a new feature for Herring in which we will quite literally shine the spotlight on new and classic shoes and boots we have to offer you, while also throwing in a sprinkling of other products too.

But why? It has come to our attention that we have such a large selection of hand selected styles that you may not have seen some new or classic options (they may well be the ones you have been searching for all year) and by highlighting them here, we are bringing them back to the forefront for you to see.

An excellent example of this is the Dunkeld semi-brogue. The semi-brogue is a true classic and a style of shoe we are known for. A gentleman needs a pair of semi-brogues or two in his wardrobe as they are so versatile. In the office, at a wedding, down the pub, at the rugby club and so on, a semi-brogue can be dressed up or dressed down to suit any occasion with the intricate detailing unique to the semi-brogue making a subtle statement about your style.

When we set about designing the Dunkeld, we wanted to create something that would celebrate classic elegance but would have a twist. Available in a classic black calf, we also requested a rosewood version. Our trained artisan friends at the Carlos Santos factory in Portugal have done us proud on the latter with the exquisite hand-burnished calf creating a stunning look.

The Dunkeld is also made on a Z160 last to give it a very slender shape with a chiselled toe box that is highlighted by the delicate fleur de lys-stlye broguing.

The modern twist for this very traditional shoe is in the elastication. It is a superbly hidden feature that is tucked under a fan of delicate leather panels. By incorporating elastication, we have been able to do away with laces that some people find fiddly or just prefer the convenience of a slip-on shoe. However, they still look like traditional lace-up shoes with the inclusion of clever faux leather laces.

So, we know they look good but what’s going inside? Like so many of our custom-made, exclusive shoes, these are welted. A welt is key to maintaining the durability of a shoe. Invented by the Charles Goodyear Jr (from the American tyre family), it is a leather strip that is sewn around the edge of a shoe-upper to which the sole is attached. It is the buffer between the upper and the sole meaning that the sole can be cut off and then a new one attached without damaging the upper.

This means the Dunkeld can be repaired again and again, which means you hang onto your favourite shoes, that have moulded nicely to your feet, for so much longer. To help you choose a welted footwear, we clearly mark all our welted shoes with our “Sustainable: Designed to be repairable logo” on our website. The investment made in these shoes will pay you back as you will not need to replace them for many years but can simply repair them.

Back to how good they look! The black calf style is formal shoe and will look very elegant with a dark suit, while the rosewood could be dressed down a little but would be a standout feature with a navy or grey trousers. For sure, this is a classic.

Herring Shoes

Exclusively made for us

20 April 2023

‘Exclusive’ is a term that is bandied around a lot by marketeers. We are also keen on a bit of ‘bespoke’! It struck us that we may need to explain what these terms mean when it comes to our footwear.

When we mention ‘exclusive’, we mean this style of shoe or boot has not been made for anyone else. Herring has had a hand in designing the final look of the product, whether that is choosing the leather type, the finish, the last, the sole, the colour of the sole or interior, and any decorative design feature.

This means you will not find these shoes sold anywhere else. They are all Herring’s!

We have a proud history of teaming up with the best shoemakers in the UK and Europe, and we like to tell you where our shoes have been made and by which manufacturer. We have worked with the Northamptonshire greats, Barker and Cheaney, Bolton-based Walsh for their sneakers, and Carlos Santos for their beautiful hand-finished shoes from Portugal, among others.

We visit their factories and have built up a professional and respectful relationships with their management and very skilled craftsmen. Together, we create iconic designs that they do not make for any other reseller or store.

This is how we have always worked. We have ideas and passions that we want the very best in the business to turn into stunning footwear. In short, every Herring shoe or boot is custom-made to order with a large serving of our own flair and expertise applied.

Here is short run-through of some of our exclusive styles:

Dunkeld brogues – made by Carlos Santos
If you find laces fiddly but want a formal shoe, it can be hard to find anything that looks sleek and formal. Dunkeld is both, with a faux leather lace and delicate leather pieces covering the elastication, made on the Z160 last for a chiselled toe box. These look stunning with a suit.

Horwich trainer – made by Walsh
Herring Horwich is handmade in the UK for us by Walsh, a famous name in the world of training shoes. Following on from our successful collaboration last year, the Horwich is a completely new addition to the range and focusses on clean sharp contrast colours for a distinctive retro vibe. We have used multiple materials and finishes to elevate this bespoke design.

Burlington II – made by Barker
This is a classic shoe. The Burlington II is a new style incorporating a round-toed, semi-brogue with a Derby or Gibson lace plus a hybrid leather-rubber sole in case it rains. This is a premium shoe, handmade in Northamptonshire by Barker using the finest materials.

Charlton II loafer – made by Barker
Also good for spring/summer, the Charlton II takes its inspiration from the classic tassel loafers of old. On a great-fitting 386 last, this elegant loafer is on a Goodyear-welted leather sole and is, again, handmade just for us in Northamptonshire.

Disraeli – made by Cheaney
The Disraeli is a fantastic new addition to our work-friendly range of shoes as it offers the sleek toe cap silhouette of a traditional Oxford but the convenience of an elasticated front. This is handmade from start to finish in the UK and is repairable at the original factory making Disraeli a sound investment.

These are classic shoes that would not look out of place in a Jermyn Street flagship store, but you will not find them there. You can only find these exclusive, bespoke (got them both in there!) styles in our convenient online store.

We will be introducing our new exclusive styles in more detail over the next few weeks. Let us know what piques your interest.

Sole mates

Sole mates: Joe Marchant

14 April 2023

Our latest sole mate is Joe Marchant. Last seen on the international stage playing for England in the Six Nations, it’s back to club rugby for the rest of the season with the Rugby World Cup 2023 hot on its heels. With two appearances for England in the Six Nations and some standout performances for his club, Joe is hoping his ability to play at centre and on the wing will stand him in good stead for selection for Steve Borthwick’s 33-man squad.

But first a little background detail. Joe was an England debutant at centre in 2019 having made his way through the age groups at U18s and U20s levels. He joined the Harlequins academy in 2014 and made his club debut in 2015. A brief sabbatical with Auckland’s Super Rugby team, the Blues, gave him a new string to his bow though when coach Leon MacDonald made it clear he would be playing on the wing as well as at centre. Wing and full-back are often interchangeable and, as we have seen from the England’s line-ups in the past few seasons, fly-halves and centres often swap, but not so much centre and wing.

“I think it is a good thing to play a number of positions, especially at club level. I often play 60 minutes at centre and then the last 20 on the wing. It also depends on who we are playing against. For example, for teams that kick a lot, one of my strengths is being under the high ball, so it makes sense for me to be on the wing. I just love being on the pitch, to be honest.”

The centre partnership conundrum continues for England with more than a dozen players in the 12 and 13 shirts since the last Rugby World Cup in 2019.

“It’s hard because there are so many good options, but the centres have seen the most change, especially with Faz (Owen Farrell) being able to play 12 and 10. There’s always going to be a lot of changes and combinations. Even this campaign, the centres were so different. First week was me and Faz, then it was Ollie (Lawrence) and Sladey (Henry Slade), and Manu (Tuilangi) came in at the end. There are so many different options and strengths, so it has to come down to who you are playing against.

“We all want to play. It’s about keeping your head down, training hard every day and waiting for the opportunity; any one of us could get picked.”

Joe has returned to his club to help battle for a top-four spot. With just four rounds left with the middle of the table so tight and some clubs due for a bye week, it is tough to call who will take the play-off spots, but few would ever write-off Quins!

Whatever position Joe plays, he seems to shine the most when he plays alongside his familiar club mates, such as fellow England team mates Marcus Smith, Alex Dombrandt and Danny Care (who received an England call-up as recently as 2022). Quins’ convincing win over Exeter Chiefs earlier this month saw Joe speed over for the fourth and fifth tries of a whopping 40-5 win, potentially fuelled by his enthusiastic dancing to “It’s Raining Men” in the changing room beforehand. Check out the video…it will bring a smile to your face!

“We were so excited to play at Twickenham and there have been a few times when everyone has been singing and dancing before a match. It was definitely good for us. When we our enjoying ourselves as Quins, we can do a lot of good things!

“Me and Marcus had pretty clear comms from Steve (Borthwick) to go away and play like international players for our club. Basically, go back and put in a good performance. Marcus went straight back in, and I got back on the bench against Ireland.”

Joe will be swapping London for Paris next season as he heads to Stade Francais where he will hook up with Quins’ former head coach Paul Gustard, who is now defence coach at Stade Jean-Bouin. Joe will still be able to take part in this year’s Rugby World Cup but will not be able to play for England afterwards. All in all, this was a decision he did not take lightly after nine years at The Stoop.

“It was really hard. The England stuff was on my mind even though I was not in the squad at the time. I have really enjoyed my time at the club and love playing for England, but I felt it was the right time to try something new.”

Away from the rugby pitch, Joe has a black belt in karate and a dog called Otis. He is a keen guitar player, is learning French and is dating singer-songwriter Hollie Shearer, daughter of England football legend Alan. He has recently been part of an LGBTQ+ Pride event on behalf of the club. Quins seem to be leading the way when it comes to inclusivity having founded the sport’s first LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, Quins Pride, in 2021. This season’s Pride game against Newcastle Falcons is scheduled for April 15.

Joe also likes a good pair of shoes with the Herring’s Sussex Oxfords and our Carnaby brogues in his collection. These are full-on, traditional shoes and are perfect for black tie events, weddings, and other formal occasions, but also for date nights!

“Hollie and I like to dress up and just go out for dinner. I really like that smart look. I am not the most fashionable person out there; Hollie is a big influence on my fashion sense. But I like a nice long jacket and a smart pair of chinos with good shoes. I think that looks really strong and the shoes make all the difference.

“A lot of the time in rugby, you are going to great places, representing your club or your country, so I think it’s really important to look right.”

Good luck to you Joe. We wish you all best for the World Cup and life in Paris. You’ll be taking a bit of British flair with you though with some of the smartest shoes we have to offer.

Sole mates

Sole mates: Steve Thompson MBE

26 January 2023

For rugby fans, Steve will not need an introduction. A Rugby World Cup medal winner with England in 2003, this flanker turned hooker will go down in history as a sports legend. More on his sporting accolades later because these days, Steve is more interested in shining the spotlight on the effects of contact sport on the brain following his diagnosis of early onset dementia caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

I first met Steve when I was a reporter on the Northampton Chronicle & Echo. Back then, he was known as Steve Walter and was a young up-and-coming player for Northampton Saints. He was Northampton bred, so local interest in him was always high. I went on to become communications manager for Saints at the same time ‘Wally’ reverted to his birth name as Thompson and I then spent a fair bit of time in the first few months of my new job answering fan’s questions, such as: “What ever happened to that talented player Steve Walter?” Well, he never went away. He just got even better.

I was fond of Wally. He was a rough diamond from a tough background who rose to become a world champion. Yes, he had the swagger that all the England players had at that time; a trait I believe was encouraged by the then England coach Sir Clive Woodward to give them the confidence to go on to beat teams like the All Blacks in their own backyard. Most of the time though, he was as good as gold. Would turn up to media sessions, might moan a bit, but did the job with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile.

On the pitch, Steve was immense. He bucked the trend for short hookers. He was tall, hefty, strong, but mobile. His skills in roller skating, basketball and football gave him an edge on the rugby field while his upbringing on one of Northampton’s most impoverished estates and a spell as a doorman meant he was fearless.

When former Saints director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan swapped him from flanker to hooker, he ended up creating the beast that his Scotland squad would end up facing when Steve won his first cap for England in 2002. The Sun newspaper celebrated his debut with a photo of Steve wrapped in a snake from the reptile shop that was over the road from Saints’ ground Franklin’s Gardens. You see…fearless!

He went onto win 73 caps for England and was part of the beefiest front row that had taken to the field for the British & Irish Lions on their tour to New Zealand in 2005. It is worth noting that Steve had only played for England for 18 months before he won the World Cup. While other players retired after 2003, he went on to play in the 2011 World Cup too despite having broken his neck in 2007.

Steve’s professional career spanned 13 years until another neck break brought it to a close in 2011. I could go on waxing lyrical about Steve’s career. I watched the majority of his games for Saints as his tenure with the club ran at the same time as mine, but there is more to life than rugby.

Rugby though has had a devastating effect on Steve’s life. Now married to Steph, and dad to Seren, Slone, Saskia and Saxon, Steve is living a quieter life in Cheshire having been diagnosed with dementia in 2021. He had become tired, irritable and forgetful to the point of not being able to remember the rugby moments that fans want to talk to him about. His autobiography, Unforgettable, is a sobering read and details his condition and the history of CTE in other sports, but also his determination to fight for change in the sport and the treatment of concussion while he still can.

More than that though, Unforgettable is also a celebration of his love for his family. I am glad he is finally got to create a lovely family of his own. His concern for their future is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching in equal measure.

But Steve is fighting on for them. He juggles work with being a director of the Powder Monkey Brewing Co., plus regular red-light and cold-water therapy and plenty of fresh air while fishing in the Manchester canals to try to slow dementia’s progress. As an aside, he also accepted my invite to follow the Herring Shoes page on LinkedIn and that connection has grown into a supportive relationship between Herring and Steve, not least to help him find shoes for is wide feet!

He said: “I struggle with having really wide feet. So, it’s been great that Herring have been able to find types that fit.”

When I was told Steve had taken delivery of the Murlo II moccasins, I was not surprised. Wally was wearing sliders with his tracksuits before it became cool. The Murlos are perfect for Steve! He also likes the Ensign trainer, our Kirkby Chelsea boots, the Aigle Sonricker walking boots, and our super-smart Sturgate brogues.

When Steve dresses sharp, he likes to look sharp! When we went to Twickenham for a Premiership launch, he turned out in a black Eden Park suit, pink shirt, and Church’s brogues, while the rest of the captains were in training kit. As an aside, we also drove home up the M1 in his convertible car…it took a long time to rake the knots out of my hair!

Steve is also a believer in slow fashion or at least, he used to like to hang onto his boots. Despite being given plenty of free rugby boots in his time, Steve kept wearing his until they fell apart. Herring applies the same theory to our shoes with many of them designed to be repairable, but rest assured we do not use gaffer tape!

Brought up in the Northampton heartland of shoemaking, Steve is a welcome sole mate to the Herring clan. While this has been a rather personal account from someone who used to know him and is saddened to read about his diagnosis, I am pleased to see he has forged a relationship with Herring and is battling on to keep life as normal as possible for as long as possible.

Sole mates

Sole mates: Teddy (Ed) Draper

18 January 2023

Having the same values and philosophy as we do here at Herring Shoes is important to us, not just anyone can be a ‘sole mate’. A great feel for quality footwear and clothing helps too, as is understanding sustainability and slow fashion. For these reasons and many more, we are over the moon to have Teddy on board, it’s been a real highlight for us here at Herring Shoes HQ.

For those of you that perhaps don’t recognise Teddy’s name, you will almost certainly recognise his face. He describes himself as a journalist, tv presenter, radio broadcaster, and podcast host. Having worked for Absolute Radio, Rock N Roll Sports podcast, and presented some of the 2012 Olympics, it’s fair to say he has an impressive CV.

Let’s fast forward to the present. Teddy is perhaps the most recognised Sky Sports News presenter on our TV’s, often breaking the latest stories whilst seamlessly transitioning from newsreader to interviewer. Naturally, he is always immaculately dressed too (especially now he’s wearing our shoes of course).

Teddy’s friendly and personable character is an unteachable asset that has no doubt helped him throughout his career and when paired with his journalistic qualities, it’s no wonder his personal podcast is such a big hit. ‘Sport and Life‘ (available on both Apple and Spotify) has been a labour of love. On his pod he chats to people in the world of sports, fitness, business and health. When you start delving into his episodes you soon realise he covers these topics and much more, the variation of guests is truly refreshing. Here are some of my personal favourites on the podcast: Dr Chidi: Lifestyle Medicine, Former boxing champion George Groves, Dr Mark Draper on Vitamin D, Matthew Mansell: Former pro rugby player and Athlo app founder

‘I’m very excited and honoured to join the Herring family and to partner with these great people on my podcast. Primarily, it’s the history and quality of the handmade shoes that go all the way back to 1966 (epic year for English sport!). I’m grateful and proud of the opportunity to be associated with a family business based in Britain that has a growing global reputation. I love my Herring brogues for their classic smart appearance, but also the incredible comfort – you can wear them all day, in and out of the studio. They feel almost like a trainer, and still feel fresh and supported come the close of play on my work day. Massive fan of my Red Wing boots – stocked by Herring – too as they, again, look fantastic, are very practical and you can wear them all day long.

Teddy enjoying his Red Wing classic Moc’s

Looking to grow the sport and life podcast has created a dilemma – you require partners to amplify the show, but I’m determined to stay true to my principles and promote something of quality and benefit to the listeners. My conviction that Herring was a great match was cemented when my father-in-law shared an anecdote: his wife bought him two pairs of Herring shoes in 1986 and not only does he still wear them, but maintains “they’re the best shoes he’s worn.” As far as recommendations go, that’s hard to beat. ‘ Teddy, January 2023

If you haven’t already given ‘Sport and Life‘ a listen, then I strongly implore you to do so. You wont be disappointed. If however you do need some encouragement, then his latest episode ‘Sports broadcaster Richard Graves‘ may contain a little gift for any new order on our website 😉

Sole mates

Sole mates: David Prutton

17 January 2023

We are delighted to have David wear our shoes, we know the high standards that are needed when you are in the spotlight and making sure that you look the part is vital.

It’s fair to say Sky Sports presenter and ex-footballer David Prutton knows a thing or two about football. Pairing his football knowledge with a charismatic personality and trendy wardrobe, it’s no wonder David is the main Sky Sports presenter for their EFL broadcasts. If you aren’t seeing him on a Sky Sports channel then you will no doubt find him hosting sports podcasts and events outside of his football hosting schedule.

When he isn’t working David spends time with his wonderful wife, two children and their family dog, if there is any time spare he’ll be riding his Triumph or in the garage tinkering (we’re not sure if he spends more time tinkering or riding though…).

“It’s an absolute pleasure to be associated with Herring Shoes and all it represents. The quality, variety and advice that is inherently them makes it a truly unique company and I’m proud to be part of the Herring family.

From biker boots to brogues and everything in between, they have something for every occasion and the care and attention shown makes their customer service and experience second to none. Great people, great shoes and great times spent with all involved.
Cheers guys”- Prutts.

David’s top three pairs are the Herring Cirencester, Biker and Red Wing classic 6 inch moc.

To follow Prutts on Instagram just click through here.

Prutts in the sky studio wearing his Cirencester

Herring Shoes

What leather should I choose?

16 January 2023

Just as there are many different types of shoes and boots, there are multiple kinds of leather too. What you choose can completely change the look of your outfit. We have put together a brief guide on the types of footwear leather available, so you can make an informed choice. You can even filter our shoes on our website by type of leather to narrow your choice when browsing.

First though, you need to understand the difference between full-grain, top grain, and split leather:

Full-grain leather is the entire top layer of dense, tightly packed fibres of a hide and the softer, more pliable, corium layer underneath.
If you sand or buff the full-grain part of the hide from the top to get rid of any lumps and bumps, you would be left with the top grain. Full-grain is considered superior to top grain.
Split grain is produced by splitting the full grain from corium layer. Both pieces of leather can be used for making shoes and both are considered genuine leather.

Leather types

Calf or calfskin
This is the most popular leather for shoes and boots. Most of our footwear is made from top grain calf as it has a lovely smooth finish, is very durable, and comes in different levels of suppleness to suit most styles of shoe or boot. It can be polished nicely to give a great shine and looks good for a long time.

Our classic Oxfords are a great example of a calf shoe, but so is our new Muswell Chelsea boot and so many others in our range. Calf really is a very versatile material to work with.

Polished leather
Polished leathers are treated to give a high shine appearance and are also often known as corrected leathers. The treatment they are given to make them shine can give an initial firmer feel to the shoe. Due to the extra covering given to the leather, small imperfections are covered up. This means that less expensive leather skins can be used so you will sometimes find that polished shoes are cheaper than a calf leather equivalent. A great example of a good quality polished style would be the popular Canning II Rubber soled brogues

Grain leather
Grain leather is usually a top grain calf leather with an embossed texture. It can be confusing that full grain leather isn’t often grain textured so you need to know that grain leather refers to the embossed pattern but full grain or top grain refers to the quality. The beauty of footwear made from grain (textured) leather is that it ages well as creases are easily hidden.

While grain leather lends itself to a more casual or rugged shoe or boot, it also works well for super smart footwear too. Perfect examples of the two is our Herald rubber-soled chukka boots compared to our Salamanca chukka boots. Same style of boot but a totally different vibe!

Please note that grain leather has several names due to the different patterns that the grain creates: country calf, fjord calf, hatchgrain, scotchgrain, sienna, Utah and willow are a few you may come across…and mock croc, of course.

Suede
A favourite with many of us at Herring due to its lovely but surprisingly durable texture. Suede is created by separating the underside of the skin or corium from the top grain. This makes it more delicate than a full-grain leather, but it’s no push-over! Looked after properly, suede can even be worn in inclement weather. You can even get what is known as roughout suede, which has a rougher (funny that) texture.

We think suede works well in the spring and is so versatile. For example, a suede loafer looks great with shorts, any brown suede shoe or boot brings out the best in blue jeans, while a blend of calf and suede can make your footwear really standout. Apply the suede filter on our website and have a peruse. On the first page of results alone, I am drawn to the James loafers, the Kirkby Chelsea boot and the new Jerry two-tone boots. For some rugged suede, check out the Coniston IIs; there’s nothing delicate about these bad boys!

Cordovan crup
This is beautiful horse hide leather, sometimes referred to as shell cordovan. The term ‘cordovan’ derives from the Spanish city of Córdoba and means ‘from Córdoba’. This leather is tanned carefully for a long period of time and hand-infused with natural oils to give the lustrous almost translucent look that is so prized, along with a long-life resilience that other leathers cannot match.

It is the best of best and is very sought after. It is super shiny and does not crease, but rather ripples instead, while also being durable and resistant to water. In short, cordovan crup looks beautiful. Our Barcelona II loafers are made from cordovan crup along with our Crawley brogues and Cromer boots.

Patent
Get those dancing shoes on and make way for patent leather! This is where leather has been treated to give it its high-gloss shine. It is a popular choice for wearing with black tie. As I say, patent just lends itself to dancing! Look no further than our Aston Oxfords. Beware of plastic alternatives that are prone to cracking.

Deerskin
Like goat and sheepskin, deerskin is rarely used for uppers of shoes and boots, as they are a bit more delicate. Consider how supple sheepskin slippers are and you will understand what I mean. We do use deerskin for our Noble slippers because they are super soft…even the sole is soft. We also have loafers made from deerskin too with a choice of leather or rubber sole depending on how much durability you require.

Best of the rest
Other leathers you may have heard of include nubuck, which feels like suede but is produced by sanding down the full- grain layer. Bison and buffalo has a very distinct natural grain, while kudu is also a grain but carries the beautiful marks and imperfections of this type of hide. Very strong and resilient, pigskin is often used to make footballs and gloves, but also works well for super-smart shoes. There are also several exotic leathers, but these are not seen so much these days due to strict regulations that ensure they have not been illegally sourced.

I hope you have enjoyed this whistle-stop tour of the types of leather used in shoemaking and understand why your choice of leather makes a real difference to the look and feel of your footwear.

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