Why is Northamptonshire famous for its boots and shoes

Do have a look at the introduction to our 'History' section.

Northamptonshire's shoemakers have almost 900 years experience in making boots and shoes. Over the centuries, our craftsmen and designers have perfected their skills, processes and materials. Northamptonshire is now the world centre for gentlemen's shoes of the very highest quality. We are predominantly famous for the welted shoe. (See below).

There is no doubt that the boot and shoe industry in Northamptonshire was driven by war. Northamptonshire provided boots for the English Civil War, the American War of Independence and over 2/3rds of the 70 million pairs of footwear for the 1st World War, including for the Cossack army. Long Buckby in Northamptonshire was famous for the very high quality of its long boots.

Northamptonshire welted shoes are worn by numerous discerning, famous clients.