A pair of bespoke footwear should improve with age.

Nevertheless repairs will be inevitable at some point. The most common repairs will be re-heeling and, less frequently, re-soling. The frequency will depend on the wearer's gait, weight and on whether the footwear had been looked after. Other repairs may be necessary from time to time and short of major damage to the uppers most can be effected successfully.

When repairs are required, do so as soon as possible. Further usage will damage the shoes considerably more. The place to have footwear repaired is the firm who made them as the last is often required. Failing that, use another firm of bespoke shoemakers whose workmanship you are confident of.

Properly repaired the shoe will continue to provide long service.

© J. Amesbury & Co. Ltd