Sometimes, Less Really is More
The Crown Northampton Adnitt - a shoe that just feels right and looks right - has been quietly gaining attention, most recently thanks to Iron Snail’s glowing review. Originally designed for the Japanese market and gaining renown as shoes so comfortable they're like wearing 'marshmallows', they were repurposed for a different audience. As part of our Jazz Collection, the Adnitt brings together timeless style, premium materials, and a lightweight design - perfect for travel, the office, or a relaxed coffee run.
The Crown Jazz Collection itself has a long history. Originally born from a dance shoe our family factory began crafting in the 1980s, it found a devoted following through our wholesale partners in Japan. Decades later, it still carries that same lightweight feel - so comfortable, it’s like floating with every step.
A Classic Reimagined
We first added the Adnitt to the Jazz Collection back in May 2022 - a nod to the iconic German Army Trainer (GAT). Originally created in the 1970s for military use, the GATs clean, minimalist silhouette and durable build have made it a staple in timeless, casual footwear.
We’ve reimagined this classic with premium materials, thoughtful construction, and a handcrafted finish. The result? A shoe that combines unstructured comfort with a refined simplicity that will never go out of style. It’s also an easy entry price point for those curious about Crown Northampton that are looking to experience our craft for the first time.
When we relaunched the Jazz Collection in 2022, we partnered with Richard Biedul - a man known for his impeccable taste and collaborations with the world’s top fashion houses. Spending the day at our Northampton factory, Richard styled and modelled the collection while gaining firsthand insight into our shoemaking heritage. As he put it:
“Crown Northampton shares a beautifully unassuming dedication to quality.”
Richard Biedul
Read the Blog: Richard Biedul Visits Crown Northampton
The Details Behind the Adnitt
If you’ve worn our Harlestone, the Adnitt will feel like catching up with an old friend. Built on the same last, made by the same skilled hands, it offers a familiar fit and is crafted with the same exceptional standards.
The Adnitt isn’t for scaling mountains or running marathons - it’s crafted for more everyday gentle moments, bringing together timeless style with unmatched comfort. Here’s what makes it special:
- Tumbled Calf Leather and Janus Suede: Soft, forgiving leather that feels great right out of the box
- Leather-Lined Interiors and Veg-Tan Insoles: Designed to mould to your feet over time for a lived-in feel.
- Cork-Filled Midsoles and Vibram Soles: A pairing that blends day-long comfort with lasting durability.
- A Full Leather Sock and Heel Pad: Small details that quietly make a big difference
- Fully Resolable: Built to last, ensuring your Adnitts can be loved and restored for years to come
- Named After Adnitt Road: This street was once a hub for Northampton’s shoemakers; our tribute to the town’s rich shoemaking heritage
- Tested by Us: Our team loves wearing them to keep comfortable during a busy day in the factory
- Available Colours: Brown, Sand, Black, Grey, and White. (Blue is coming soon!)
Whether you’re discovering Crown Northampton for the first time or adding to your collection, the Adnitt combines decades of shoemaking heritage with a design that feels as relevant today as it will tomorrow.
P.S…
Thank you again to Michael from Iron Snail for reaching out to us and showcasing the Adnitt! Don’t forget: every Adnitt purchase gives you access to our exclusive Off-Cuts Collection - small leather goods made by hand from the rarest materials
