Goodyear Welting Explained

Perhaps surprisingly, the Goodyear Welt has nothing to do with car tyres – it's a particular type of shoe construction, involving a strip of leather that runs around the bottom edge of a shoe.

What is Goodyear Welt Construction and what are the benefits?

The Goodyear Welt is a strip of leather that is sewn around the bottom edge of a shoe, attached to both the insole and the upper. The welt can then be easily unstitched, which thus detaches the sole without damaging the rest of the shoe, meaning it can be replaced time and time again as it becomes worn.

Cork is used to fill the gap between the insole and the outer sole, which moulds to the unique shape of the wearer's foot over time, providing enhanced comfort and superior fit.

This method of construction provides superior water-resistance compared to other methods such as Blake construction, where the sole is stitched directly to the insole, creating a channel through which water can seep into the shoe.

The Goodyear Welt construction method has been used by Loake for over 140 years, representing a commitment to quality craftsmanship and durability that ensures your shoes can be repaired and resoled multiple times, making them a lasting investment.

See Goodyear Welting in Action

Watch our craftsmen at work in our Northamptonshire factory, demonstrating the traditional Goodyear welting process.