What makes your shoes special?

Our shoes are foot shaped. They are made to fit your feet so you feel grounded in contact with the earth which is not only good for the feet, but also beneficial to your posture, and the alignment of your knees, hips, back and your whole body. Our shoes are also built to last and designed to last a very long time and repairable when they need it.

Will you make shoes in two different sizes? I have one foot bigger than the other.

Yes we can make both shoes in different sizes and in ¼, ½, ¾ too. We do 3 width fittings (Standard, Medium and Extra Wide)

All of our shoes are made to your bespoke requirements. We can create shoes in quarter sizes, half sizes or indeed whole size differences in both feet.  Generally we will undertake a fitting either by post or in person to capture the most accurate information to make your perfect shoes.

Can you repair my current shoes?

I can repair the shoes as long as I have made them myself. In most cases it's a resole that is needed but I can repair the upper or replace laces etc. It is important to take great care of the leather too. Leather is wonderful resilient material but without proper care it can become weak or brittle. For tips and care instructions please see the aftercare page on my website. 

How many different styles do you make?

My shoes come in 4 widths and with or without brogue. I also make a buckle shoe, a trainer and a Mary Jane style. The boots are either lace up or pull on and can be to any height on the leg. Shandals come in 3 designs - slip on, buckle and lace ups. 

What’s the difference between lined and unlined?

The lined are the most popular as they tend to be more substantial, made from high quality soft leathers and extra comfortable. There are hundreds of choices with lined as you can match the upper and jazz up the lining or ring the changes with the edging.

The unlined are perfectly durable but just one layer of leather so are prone to stretching a little more and can feel less substantial. We use a different leather for unlined available in around 10 colours.

Can I have more than one set of laces with my purchase?

You can have as many as you desire. Many people order black shoes for work and a kaleidoscope of laces to match different outfits or occasions. 

Do you only work with leather?

I have often used fabrics like tweed or canvas to make the uppers but the innersole I use is made from leather which is not possible to replace as this very special leather allows you feet to embed into it. The innersole is integral to the construction of my shoes and is not able to be replaced. 

Do you make vegan shoes?

Since natural leather is a waste product, we don’t like replacing leather with plastic based substitutes, so no - not until I can find a non plastic replacement.

Can I order shoes if I can’t come to Wales for a fitting?

Yes we do fittings via post. We send a stock pair in the design that you like to try on for fit along with colour swatches and then talk about where they fit and where they don’t - then we make them and post to you.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes, we ship worldwide. I have customers all over the world. Worldwide shipping is £37.50 and £15 within the UK for special delivery.

Are you able to colour match other accessories? Such as a handbag?

Yes. So far I have matched leather colours to an Aga, a record player and a special edition blue Mini Cooper.

Are you able to make something I have designed myself?

It really depends on the design. Some ideas work with my construction and some don't. I have often worked in collaboration with others to create different projects etc. I don’t copy other shoes generally and like to stick to my own designs or adapt them.

How long does the process of making your shoes take?

It really depends on the complexity of the fitting, and our waiting list at the time. We normally take around 3 weeks to make your shoes if there is no waiting list, once we have completed the fitting. 

How do I care for my new shoes?

Please see the aftercare to learn how to care for your bespoke shoes. 

Do you have a shop location? Can I visit you?

Yes. I make all my shoes at my shop in Machynlleth which is open to the public but if you are coming from afar it’s best you can make an appointment. 

How long do your shoes last?

This is the question I get asked a lot. I have customers that are heavy on shoes and need a resole every year but others who need it every 5, 10 or even 20 years. It really depends how you walk, you might wear down one side quicker for example.

Do your shoes offer arch support?

My shoes are very specifically designed to perfectly sculpt the arch so they fit very closely to the foot. They don't have an arch built into the shoe because I believe through many years of having your arch 'held up' this will make the muscles in your feet lazy and not allow your muscles to work as they naturally do when you walk with nothing on your feet. 

Why do your shoes look wider that average?

They are foot-shaped. Put your foot on the floor and a shoe next to it. Most manufactured shoes are not the shape of feet. After years of wearing them your set will eventually mould to that shape. I believe shoes should mould to the feet rather than your feet mould to the shoe.

Any other questions please don't hesitate to ask: ruth@ruthemilydavey.co.uk