Velos sur pieds

A custom last was carefully developed to offer anatomical comfort in the forefoot with an elegant yet modern toe shape, suitable for formal events, business meetings or social engagements.

Prototypes were built around strategic structural-stitching details to reinforce the mid and forefoot areas to harness and support the feet while walking or cycling. This distinctive aesthetic created a sporty visual reference to leather strapping used on toe cages of traditional bicycle pedals.

On the summer-focussed prototypes, additional ventilation holes were positioned in key areas for all-day comfort and a contemporary brogue appearance.

The bespoke sole - made in leather for natural support, breathability and a traditional feel - featured a lightweight cork midsole for enhanced comfort. The under-sole was reinforced in the shank area with custom-developed, durable rubber panels named Pedal-Pads® to provide reliable pedal-grip and protect the leather under-sole from cycling wear and tear.

Prototypes were worn and tested by musician, artist and writer David Byrne who “Loves the shoes, especially the pads made for cycling”. Franz Ferdinand frontman Alex Kapranos admired their “perfectionism”.

The shoes were further refined with a unique final feature. To aid the wearer’s safety in low-light conditions innovative, retractable, reflective leather Luma-Tabs® were created and discreetly integrated in the heel counter for instant, dynamic high-visibility.

Following almost two years of development, a final prototype was produced in close collaboration with expert artisans in Montegranaro, Italy. Their extensive experience crafting shoes for Church’s, Prada and Armani and exemplary knowledge of materials, meticulous construction techniques and hand-finishing ensured an impeccable product.

Additional pre-production specifications included a full-length calfskin internal lining for comfort and feel, a ‘Blake Rapid’ chassis for flexibility and light weight, and one of the worlds finest calfskin leathers for structural integrity and long-term elegance.

The debut collection (A/W 2016/17) included an Adler Derby, Zip Boot and Double Monk Strap available in either natural calfskin, polished calfskin, pebble-grain calfskin, waxed suede and a special-edition version in Horween Shell Cordovan leather.

The collection was launched worldwide in an exclusive agreement with leading online luxury retailer Mr Porter. The shoes now form part of the permanent collection in MoMu, the fashion museum in Antwerp, Belgium. 

The lifestyle collection included a full series of accessories. Flat caps in robust wool and water-resistant nylon featuring the retractable Luma-Tabs®, borrowed from the shoes, to provide high-visibility and a more secure fit. The caps cover the nape of the neck for warmth and extended protection from rain and wind.

Gloves, wallets and small leather goods featured a bicycle handle-bar leather-tape detail for improved grip and a sense of cycling, whilst walking.

Mr Porter