Loake have been handcrafting footwear since 1880 and are synonymous with quality and style. But are they worth the price? Let’s take a deep dive into why Loake are one of the best known English footwear brands and why they are well worth the investment.
Loake History
Founded by three brothers: John, William and Thomas Loake in 1880, when Queen Victoria still reigned, Loake has always been a family run business. In 2019 Andrew Loake resigned as Managing Director and passed the mantle to Andrew Cory whose forbears are also Loake family. In 1894 Loake found their home in a factory in Wood Street, Kettering, Northamptonshire where they still operate today. It has a floor area of approximately 20,000 sq. ft, accommodates over 300 workers and is considered one of the finest and most advanced shoe factories in the country.
During the First World War, Loake played their part in supplying sturdy boots for the British Army. All their shoes are hand crafted from top quality materials – making Loake Shoemakers a prime example of British excellence and pedigree. From one queen to another, Loake have regularly supplied goods and services to the late Queen Elizabeth II, the late Duke of Edinburgh, and the His Majesty the King.
How long do Loake shoes last?
If you’re looking to invest in a pair of Loake shoes you’ll want to know that you’re going to get plenty of wear out of them. Luckily you’ll be glad to know that they specialise in the Goodyear Welted construction. This construction is the best in the biz. The ‘welt’ is a piece of leather that attaches the upper part of the shoe to the insole and to the outsole. In this construction style, the stitching runs around the outside of the sole, maximising water resistance, and leaves a void between the insole and outsole which allows space for added cushioning. This is traditionally filled with cork which is lightweight and flexible. This means the shoe will mould to your foot as you wear them ensuring comfortability, breathability and a shoe that is uniquely yours.
Are Loakes worth it?
Loake shoes are absolutely worth the investment if you’re looking for shoes with substance and style. Across the web, you’ll find Loake shoes are a must-have for any gent who loves a little classic luxury.
Not just a brand reserved for professional settings, Loake broke out of the formal-only scene in 2012 and are now worn by well-dressed gents around the clock. Loake Shoemakers carry the expertise to make a myriad of classic and fashion shoes, designed to take you from the office to a wedding to that all-important investment meeting and even the humdrum day to day.
