As we near the end of the year, I (Chris Woodford) wanted to take a moment to thank you for being a part of what we do. Your investment in understanding and supporting us — whether you already own a pair (or pairs) or are considering a hand-crafted pair in the future — means the world to us.
It's also been a real pleasure meeting so many of you at the factory for fittings this year. Your interest and enthusiasm has been truly inspiring.
Our Factory showroom
An Experiment for 2025
At Crown Northampton, every decision we make — whether it's business, design, or production — comes from within our factory walls. My belief is that we don't just make shoes; we make something that matters.
Crown is more than just a business; it's a way of preserving the legacy of shoemaking, and that means going to extraordinary lengths in making your shoes.
Everdon in No.8 Chromexcel, handstitch detail
Those that know about the lengths we go to, go directly to the source - and that source is Northampton — the original skill centre, where the last remaining shoemakers are 3rd, 4th, and 5th generation. Frankly, I would like more people to know. In an ideal world, the whole world would know...
Others have emulated and copied and reduced what we stand for for so long that Cobbler's Town is being forgotten. Those of us still here remain because of a stubborn refusal to reduce quality and to let the dream die.
Images (from top to bottom): Northampton town market, Our closing room, Lee hand lasting, limited edition Tumbled Cordovan drop
I care about what I make. We are proudly part of Northampton's long heritage, not a watered-down superficial look-a-like. I want to show you why I do this — why it's so hard, but why it's worth it.
In 2025, we will continue making beautiful, meaningful things in a world full of oversold, overhyped, overcopied crap.
Meet the Maker: A Monthly AMA with me, Chris Woodford
Starting in early 2025, I'm going to try something different: live AMA sessions. I'm excited to connect with you directly, answer your questions, and share more about the world of Crown Northampton. More details will follow, but you can start thinking of your questions now!
Coming soon: Ask Me Anything! (here I am visiting the Horween tannery).
Get Involved & Join the Conversation
Join us for our monthly "Meet the Maker" AMA sessions, where you'll have the opportunity to ask me anything about Crown Northampton. It's a chance to connect with the heart and soul of the brand, learn more about our process, and become a part of our vibrant community. Start thinking of your questions now, and stay tuned for more details on how to participate. For now, if anything comes to mind we’d love you to send us your questions:
Email: info@crownnorthampton.com
Instagram: @crownnorthampton
An Open Book: Some of the things we will explore together
Here are a few of the questions I've already been asked:
Q. Why is making in Northampton so difficult — and why do you care so much?
Q. How do I order the right size?
Q. What are Lactae Hevea soles?
Q. Are people really wearing your sneakers with suits?
Q. How do you design your sneakers?
Q. Why are your sneakers expensive?
Q. Who else makes from start to finish in Northampton?
Q. What would you buy (if it wasn't your own product)?
Product questions, design questions, business questions — anything to do with Crown and shoemaking — nothing will be off-limits.
Cheers!
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up another year at Crown Northampton, I'm filled with gratitude for your continued support and excited for what the future holds. Your belief in our craft and your passion for quality footwear keep us going. Here's to another year of crafting exceptional shoes and sharing our journey with you, our incredible community.
