Custom Handmade Shoes — What to Know Before Ordering
Custom Handmade Shoes — What to Know Before Ordering Written from real workshop experience, not a retail showroom. Ordering custom handmade shoes is different from buying ready-made footwear. This guide explains what truly matters before placing an order — from fit to materials, timelines, and expectations. 1. Fit Comes Before Style Custom shoes start with measurements, not colors. Foot length, width, instep height, and walking habits matter more than design trends. A good maker will always ask about fit first. 2. Leather Quality Matters More Than Brand Names Leather is not just leather. Grain structure, tanning method, thickness, and flexibility determine how the shoe will age. Ask what type of leather is used and why it fits your purpose. 3. Construction Type Defines Longevity The way a shoe is built determines whether it can be repaired. Handmade shoes are designed to last — not to be replaced every season. Construction should always be discussed before ordering. ...