One of the best things of working with various shoemakers and order shoes in person with them, is the actual order process. Where you try on potential test shoes, maybe have your feet measured and decide model, leather, sole and other details. Together with the shoemaker you go through things to get it just right for you.
As great as it is to be able to order from all over the world over internet, nothing will ever beat ordering shoes in person, especially if it’s a custom order. The photo here is from a trunk show with Ken Hishinuma of Khish the Work, last year’s world champion and this year’s bronze medalist. I’m looking at ordering a MTM version of his brilliant take on a plain toe derby, and it would be pretty special one. Let’s just say that it was a thrill to go through his leather swatches. More on that pair would come later on.
Hi Jesper,
Interesting, thank you. Looking forward to your experience and the result.
Why are you opting for MTM in this case when there’s a bespoke option too?
Just asking as I am in doubt if I should go MTM or bespoke with a shoemaker in London…
Bård: In this case, mainly price, an MTM order with machine stitched soles is much lower in price than if I’d go full bespoke with fitting shoes and fully handmade. It was also a standard MTO model I wanted, not something unique. Then one should also consider how well the standard lats work for your feet and how close one can get to a “perfect fit” with just modifications vs doing fully personalised lasts. In some cases you might be able to reach almost all the way with MTM at lower cost, if not full bespoke are more worth it. Usually the maker can assess this reasonably well.
Hi Jesper, thank you so much for your reply. That makes sense.
I myself was thinking of either Mr. Efe Laborde’s MTO (explained by you on this site). Or else his bespoke…
but then I’ve never had bespoke shoes before.