One of the most common questions we hear: How do your shoes feel on foot?
With decades of shoemaking behind us, we don’t just craft shoes - we understand how they’re worn, broken in, and lived in. The way a shoe feels is just as important as how it looks, which is why we work with the finest natural materials, designed to shape and respond to your feet over time.
As Bespoke Unit writer Carlos put it after testing our Everdon Rambler: “Sliding your foot into this boot is a treat… I can already feel the fit adapting in all the right places.”
It’s something we hear a lot. Every collection has its own distinct feel, built for different needs and experiences. Here’s what to expect:
Hand Stitch Collection - A Sculpted Fit
The Hand Stitch range is designed with precision in mind. Made using Crown-selected materials like veg-tanned leather uppers and linings, these sneakers are structured to shape closely to your foot. Because veg-tanned leather is as natural as it gets, it softens, flexes, and moulds over time - adapting to your foot and staying true to its shape.
The more tailored last results in a naturally more fitted silhouette, designed to feel secure while evolving to your movement. Beneath it all, a bed of cork sits below the insole, compressing gradually for a truly personal fit. Expect a snug fit at first - one that gradually shapes to you, becoming more comfortable with every wear.
If you’re wondering how that feels in practice, Bespoke Unit writer Carlos recently put the Everdon Rambler (the latest addition to our Hand Stitch range) to the test. His review breaks down how these materials perform on the move - you might find it a useful read.
Classic Collection - A Versatile Fit
The Classic Collection offers a little more room straight out of the box. Within the range, construction plays a key role in how each style fits and feels. The Overstone, with its derby-style open-throat design, allows for more adjustability across the width, making it a great option for those who need a little extra give. In contrast, the Upton Wholecut, with its uninterrupted leather upper, provides a sleeker, more structured fit that gradually shapes to the foot over time.
These sneakers are built for durability, and the materials have been carefully selected to reflect that. They’ll take a few wears to soften - typically four to six outings - but once they do, they’ll become a staple in your rotation, design to last for years.
Jazz collection - Light and Laid Back
Unstructured, flexible and incredibly lightweight - the Jazz Collection is as close as you’ll get to slipping on a jazz dance shoe. If you were lucky enough to wear one as a kid, you’ll know exactly what we mean.
Inspired by the carefree attitude of the ‘70s, this range is built for effortless movement. Serge Gainsbourg swore by soft, supple dance shoes, claiming nothing else felt as good on foot. Mick Jagger was another advocate of the style, proving that comfort and cool go hand in hand.
Stitchdown Collection - Classic Comfort
Our Stitchdown boots and shoes have earned a reputation for their easy comfort and once people try them, they tend to stick with them.
This range stays true to the heritage of traditional English desert boots - unlined, flexible, and comfortable from the first wear. The C. F. Stead suede we use is exceptionally soft, giving them an almost slipper-like feel. Just like the originals, they don’t include a shank unless requested, enhancing their natural flexibility and relaxed fit.
Finding the Right Fit
Every fit is different, and how your shoes feel matters just as much as how they fit. One of the advantages of being Made to Order is that we have the time to get both just right.
Plenty of our customers reach out after placing their order to fine-tune sizing - whether it’s adjusting for width, accommodating different-sized feet, or adding arch support for a truly personalised feel. You can also leave a note at checkout if you’d like us to get in touch to discuss fit before we start making your shoes.
Everything happens under one roof in our Northampton factory, meaning we can fine-tune the details before your shoes even leave the workshop - so they feel just right from the very first step. If you ever have questions about fit, comfort, or break-in, just get in touch - we’re always happy to help.
Belts & Off-Cuts Collection
Order a matching belt alongside your footwear and we’ll make it for your at a special price - crafted from the very same leather.
Any Crown order gives you access to our Off-Cuts Collection, where we turn leftover leather into wallets, keyrings, and other small leather goods.
Explore the Off-Cuts Collection
Any Questions?
We handle everything in-house, so we’re always here to help. If you have questions before or after ordering please drop us an email or leave a note at checkout, and we’ll make sure everything’s just right.
