We have been selling vegan Goodyear Welt footwear since 2015, working with the same family-owned factory in Portugal. Our vegan Goodyear welt shoes combine traditional craftsmanship with modern, cruelty-free materials. Here’s an inside look at how they’re made:
1. Material Selection
- Signature Italian Vegan Leather: We use our signature Italian vegan leather, made from 69% bio-based content. This innovative material combines polyurethane (PU) with bio-based components, providing a high-quality, sustainable alternative to traditional leather.
- Solid Rubber Outsoles: We use the same solid rubber outsoles, with recycled rubber content in all our vegan Goodyear Welt models. They are grippy, durable and comfy to wear. These outsoles are designed for durability and can be easily replaced by a cobbler when they eventually wear down.
2. Cutting and Preparing
- Pattern Cutting: Artisans cut the vegan leather into precise patterns for the upper part of the shoe, ensuring a perfect fit and smooth assembly.
- Preparation: Each piece is meticulously prepared to meet our rigorous quality standards.
3. Goodyear Welt Construction
- Welt Stitching: The vegan Goodyear welt method begins with stitching a vegan welt to the shoe’s upper and insole. This technique, dating back to 1869, creates a durable and flexible connection that enhances comfort and longevity.
- Insole Attachment: Portuguese cork is added between the insole and welt, providing cushioning and moulding to your foot’s shape.
- Sole Attachment: Solid rubber outsoles with recycled content are attached to the welt either by stitching.
4. Finishing Touches
- Edge Trimming and Polishing: The edges of the welt and sole are carefully trimmed and polished to ensure a refined finish.
- Quality Checks: Each shoe undergoes stringent quality control to ensure it meets our high standards for craftsmanship and performance.
5. Ethical Production
- Craftsmanship in Portugal: Our vegan Goodyear welt footwear is crafted in a small family owned factory in Portugal, adhering to ethical production standards. This includes fair wages and safe working conditions.
6. Benefits
Durability and Comfort: The Goodyear welt construction method ensures durability, reliability, water resistance, and comfort. You can trust these shoes to last and remain comfortable over time.