The Loake factory offer five distinct shoe collections. Each of these has distinct features but the Loake 1880 collection of city and country shoes and boots is the pinnacle of their shoemaking skill. There is an overseas factory which makes the Design Loake, Lifestyle and L1 collections but the Loake 1880 and Shoemaker collections are branded ‘Made in England’.
Only the best full grain calf leathers and suede leathers are used in the making of Loake 1880 footwear. Whether they are made with leather soles or rubber soles for enhanced grip and wear there are a number of unifying features. The upper leathers are all fully leather lined with leather insoles. The soles are Goodyear welted to a leather welt. This is important when it comes to re-soling as a plastic welt does not lend itself to repeated successful sole replacements. Goodyear welting is universally regarded as the finest method of shoe construction. It enables repeat resoles without undermining the integrity of the upper leather.
We particularly like some of the lasts on which the Loake 1880 collection are made. The last determines not only the fit of the shoe but also its overall look and shape. In the city range the Capital last is truly elegant and unlike so many modern toe shapes is not unnecessarily long. Whilst the Jockey last is great for the Chelsea boots.
Do visit our shop in Hurstpierpoint to view a large selection of the Loake 1880 collection or log into www.bradshawandlloyd.com where you can view the entire range.
