MEN'S SHOES|grid|Men's|Collection|Using only the finest calf leathers from the leading tanneries of Europe, Crockett & Jones shoes are individually crafted on lasts designed to produce the best possible fitting characteristics. Each pair takes up to eight weeks to manufacture in a labour-intensive process involving over 200 highly skilled operations.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-collection-SS24-falmouth_600x.jpg?v=1710346295@MEN'S SALE--mens|default|Winter|Sale|The Crockett & Jones Winter Sale is now available online and in-store with up to 30% off a selection of shoes & boots.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-winter-sale-2023-mens_600x.jpg?v=1703673473@NEW SEASON--mens|default|New Season|Collection|Crockett & Jones’s more classic approach to design has paved the way for world recognised English style. With heritage and expertise coursing through the veins of our Northampton based craftsmen and women, our new collections are designed, developed and made to the highest possible standards in our Northampton shoe factory.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-new-season-SS24-bibury_600x.jpg?v=1710346264@Riviera Collection--mens|default|Riviera|COLLECTION|Inspired and named after the French Riviera. A European styled collection of soft, summer-weight Loafers, that benefit from more than just a fine eye for style.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-riviera-collection-cannes-tan_600x.jpg?v=1677858338@25th Retail Anniversary Collection--mens|default|25th Years|ON JERMYN STREET|13th September 1997, the day on which we opened our first Crockett & Jones retail shop at 69 Jermyn Street, is a particularly memorable event in the annals of Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-25-retail-collection_600x.jpg?v=1653325472@The Icons--mens|default|The Icons|...Timeless|Today, our products and their names have become icons, personalities even. They don’t just have relevance, they have become reference points of value and quality – recognisable from Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-the-icons-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491167@Main Collection--mens|default|Main|Collection|The Main Collection of Crockett & Jones footwear encompasses a broad range of classic and contemporary styles for men. The assortment of leather and rubber soled shoes and boots are constructed with durable uppers from the finest European leathers including: aniline calf, suede and country grains. This collection presents a wide variety of choice for business, formal and casual wear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-main-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678376269@Hand Grade Collection--mens|default|Hand Grade|Collection|This unique collection of styles from Crockett & Jones represents the art of shoemaking at its highest level. Asymmetric lasts, shaped to the natural contours of the foot, gives exceptional fitting qualities. Uppers, cut from the finest calf skins with a supple tannage, provide glove-like comfort. They are hand finished to the highest level in a process which lasts up to 10 weeks.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-handgrade-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678376268@Shell Cordovan--mens|default|Shell Cordovan|Collection|The Shell Cordovan used by Crockett & Jones is both unique and exclusive. A traditional and lengthy process of specialist vegetable tanning, hand dyeing and finishing produces the distinctive strong fibre structure and rich shiny texture of Cordovan leather.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cordovan-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678376268@Calf Collection--mens|default|Calf|Collection|Our Calf leather shoes are made from European calf skins from the finest tanneries. A strong tannage will ensure that this leather age well.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-calf-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678373892@Grain Collection--mens|default|Grain|Collection|Our embossed grain leathers are made from European calf skins with a special tannage, which keeps them supple but strong.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-grain-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678373892@Rough-Out Suede Collection--mens|default|Rough-Out Suede|COLLECTION|Our Rough-Out Suede is a tough suede with wax treatment on the surface, which gives it its rugged character and good water resistance.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-ros-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678373892@Suede Collection--mens|default|Suede|Collection|Our Main Collection suede leathers are strong, durable and offer excellent comfort.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-suede-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678373892@Unlined Styles--mens|default|Unlined|Shoes & Boots|Our unlined construction process increases flexibility, breathability and comfort, without compromising quality. By utilising only the highest quality leathers with substance that will hold up to years of wear with ease. Unlined styles are perfect for the warmer summer months.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-unlined-collection-09-03-2023_600x.jpg?v=1678373892@Winter Style Scottish Pursuits--mens|default|AW23|SCOTTISH PURSUITS|This year, the outstanding landscape that forms the Scottish Trossachs provided the perfect playground for our new Autumn Winter collection.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-scottish-pursuits-collection-islay-ros-uk_600x.jpg?v=1693586735@Winter Style Icelandic Endeavour--mens|default|Winter Style|Icelandic Endeavour|For Autumn Winter 2022, Crockett & Jones embarked upon a journey north. Taking five new styles to the land of fire and ice, we put them through their paces across the breathtaking Icelandic terrain.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-new-season-denver-dark-brown-aw22_600x.jpg?v=1662133314@Ultimate Winter Boots--mens|default|Ultimate|Winter Boots|Crockett & Jones prides itself on producing some of the finest shoes & boots in the world, but there is a side to C&J that is becoming more well-known...|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-ultimate-winter-boots-stock_600x.jpg?v=1670346573@The Black Editions--mens|default|The Black Editions|Collection|We present to you a concept never seen before from Crockett & Jones. An over-sized, ‘Cleated’ rubber sole is showcased using a selection of contemporary black leathers. ‘The Black Editions’ is an audacious collection of English footwear, influenced by Japanese style.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-the-black-editions-collection-aw21-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491493@Unstructured Collection--mens|default|Unstructured Collection|SUPERFLEX Sole|Further refining our unlined construction process with a trio of loafers, we have created our first ever UNSTRUCTURED collection. New additions SALCOMBE, SEATON & SOUTHPORT. All styles are Goodyear welted, made in our own Northampton factory.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-unstructured-collection-salcombe-ss22_600x.jpg?v=1646650944@Waterfront Collection--mens|default|Waterfront|Collection|The Waterfront Collection consists of two new styles. The first is a footwear category yet to feature in the Crockett & Jones collection. The second is a more relaxed take on a somewhat popular category.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-waterfront-collection-SS24-falmouth_600x.jpg?v=1710346565@Ivy League Style--mens|default|Ivy League Style|AN ODE TO HERITAGE|Crockett & Jones is relaunching its own sporty, plain front, 5-eyelet Derby… Cornell, an Ivy League Blucher! These are typically broad in the toe, featuring top eyelets.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-ivy-league-collection-cornell-ss22_600x.jpg?v=1646650935@James Bond, No Time To Die--mens|default|No Time To Die|James Bond|Crockett & Jones proudly announces its official partnership with EON productions, the makers of the James Bond films. Crockett & Jones have previously worked with the 007 filmmakers on Skyfall, Spectre and the forthcoming film No Time To Die.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-james-bond-no-time-to-die-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491574@James Bond, 60th Anniversary--mens|default|60th Anniversary|JAMES BOND|Crockett & Jones and EON Productions announce the release of a new style, Hamilton, in celebration of James Bond’s 60th anniversary.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-mens-james-bond-60-anniversary_600x.jpg?v=1670251310@Loafers--mens|default|Loafers|Penny, Tassel...|Loafers have grown from strength to strength over recent years and are the most casual style available from a Goodyear-welted shoemaker such as Crockett & Jones. Today, we have an extensive collection available in Calf, Suede and Grain in both ‘Lined’ and ‘Unlined’ forms.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-loafers_600x.jpg?v=1614741385@All Boots--mens|default|Boots|Derby, Chelsea, Chukka...|The Crockett & Jones boot collection has grown considerably over recent years. Diverse in style and material there are few situations where a pair of Crockett & Jones Boots cannot be worn! This comprehensive collection covers a wide variety of boot styles.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-boots_600x.jpg?v=1614741385@Derby Boots--mens|default|Derby Boots|Cap Toe, Brogue...|The most popular of all the boot styles, a Derby boot is a fully lined, high leg and all together, more substantial boot.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-derby-boots-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491135@Chelsea Boots--mens|default|Chelsea Boots|Suede, Calf, Grain...|Expert pattern cutting, and shoemaking of the highest order, means Crockett & Jones makes some of the finest Chelsea boots on offer today.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-chelsea-boots-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491262@Chukka Boots--mens|default|Chukka Boots|Two eyelet, Three eyelet|It is believed that a Chukka boot has both a sporting and a military heritage. A Chukka boot (or Desert boot) is constructed using three pieces of outer material|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-chukka-boots-2_600x.jpg?v=1632491291@Oxfords--mens|default|Oxfords|Toe Cap, Semi-Brogue...|The most easily recognisable of all classic styles, is the elegant English Oxford, synonymous among the English shoemakers. A formal style that dates back over two hundred years, it is thought to have been named by the students at Oxford University.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-oxfords_600x.jpg?v=1614741385@Derbys--mens|default|Derbys|Brogue, Split Toe...|Derby shoes are possibly the most versatile of all shoe styles, bridging the gap between smart and smart casual wear with ease. Available in great variety, the Derby is also considered to be more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-derbys_600x.jpg?v=1614741385@Monk Straps--mens|default|Monk Straps|Single, Double...|Unbeknown to many, a Monk strap style hosts similar fitting qualities and construction to a Derby. You could think of a Monk style as a ‘modern day’ Derby, of sorts. With open quarters, and a whole cut vamp and tongue, Monk straps (single and double buckle) are remarkably comfortable on the foot.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-monk-straps_600x.jpg?v=1614741385@Velvet Slippers--mens|default|Velvet Slippers|Plain Albert, Embroidered...|The development of the Albert Slipper coincided with the fashion of men wearing smoking jackets at the turn of the century. It is generally agreed that the style was named after Queen Victoria’s consort Prince Albert. Today however, times are very different but the velvet slipper remain as popular as ever.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-slippers_600x.jpg?v=1614741464@Driving Shoes--mens|default|Driving Shoes|Elise, Exige...|These soft, unstructured and ultra-comfortable loafers / moccasins were made famous by the Italians in the 1960s. They are typically adorned during the warm summer months, and are often available in bright colours and soft suedes.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-mens-driving-shoes_cb68536a-098e-4c68-9fb7-d359cfb175af_600x.jpg?v=1614741548@WOMEN'S SHOES|grid|Women's|Collection|With a long-standing heritage of producing low heeled shoes for Women, dating back to 1920, the new Women's Collection has been developed in-house with quality, comfort and feminine elegance in mind. Encompassing Loafers, Oxfords, Derbys, Monk Strap and Boots.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-collection-all_2_600x.jpg?v=1631525358@WOMEN'S SALE--womens|default|Winter|Sale|The Crockett & Jones Winter Sale is now available online and in-store with up to 30% off a selection of shoes & boots.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-winter-sale-2023-womens_600x.jpg?v=1703673582@Women's Collection--womens|default|Women's|Collection|With a long-standing heritage of producing low heeled shoes for Women, dating back to 1920, the new Women's Collection has been developed in-house with quality, comfort and feminine elegance in mind. Encompassing Loafers, Oxfords, Derbys, Monk Strap and Boots.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-collection_600x.jpg?v=1614741466@The Icons--womens|default|The Icons|...Timeless|Today, our products and their names have become icons, personalities even. They don’t just have relevance, they have become reference points of value and quality – recognisable from Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-boots_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Calf Collection--womens|default|Calf|Collection|Our Calf leather shoes are made from European calf skins from the finest tanneries. A strong tannage will ensure that this leather age well.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-calf-collection_600x.jpg?v=1670258743@Grain Collection--womens|default|Grain|Collection|Our embossed grain leathers are made from European calf skins with a special tannage, which keeps them supple but strong.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-grain-collection_600x.jpg?v=1670258743@Suede Collection--womens|default|Suede|Collection|Our Main Collection suede leathers are strong, durable and offer excellent comfort.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-suede-collection_600x.jpg?v=1670258743@New Season--womens|default|New Season|Collection|Crockett & Jones’s more classic approach to design has paved the way for world recognised English style. With heritage and expertise coursing through the veins of our Northampton based craftsmen and women, our new collections are designed, developed and made to the highest possible standards in our Northampton shoe factory.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-collection-womens-new-season-collection-aw21_2_600x.jpg?v=1631525177@Boots--womens|default|Boots|Chelsea, Lace-up...|The Crockett & Jones boot collection has grown considerably over recent years. Diverse in style and material there are few situations where a pair of Crockett & Jones Boots cannot be worn! This comprehensive collection covers a wide variety of boot styles.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-the-icons_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Loafers--womens|default|Loafer|Tassel, Fringe...|Loafers have grown from strength to strength over recent years and are the most casual style available from a Goodyear-welted shoemaker such as Crockett & Jones. Today, we have an extensive collection available in Calf, Suede and Grian in both ‘Lined’ and ‘Unlined’ forms.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-loafer_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Oxfords--womens|default|Oxfords|Toe Cap, Semi-Brogue...|The most easily recognisable of all classic styles, is the elegant English Oxford, synonymous among the English shoemakers. A formal style that dates back over two hundred years, it is thought to have been named by the students at Oxford University.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-oxford_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Derbys--womens|default|Derbys|Town, Country...|Derby shoes are possibly the most versatile of all shoe styles, bridging the gap between smart and smart casual wear with ease. Available in great variety, the Derby is also considered to be more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-derby_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Monk Straps--womens|default|Monk Straps|Single, Double...|Unbeknown to many, a Monk strap style hosts similar fitting qualities and construction to a Derby. You could think of a Monk style as a ‘modern day’ Derby, of sorts. With open quarters, and a whole cut vamp and tongue, Monk straps (single and double buckle) are remarkably comfortable on the foot.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-monk_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Velvet Slippers--womens|default|Velvet Slippers|Plain Albert, Embroidered...|The development of the Albert Slipper coincided with the fashion of men wearing smoking jackets at the turn of the century. It is generally agreed that the style was named after Queen Victoria’s consort Prince Albert. Today however, times are very different but the velvet slipper remain as popular as ever.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-slippers_600x.jpg?v=1614741549@Unlined Styles--womens|default|Unlined|Shoes & Boots|Our unlined construction process increases flexibility, breathability and comfort, without compromising quality. By utilising only the highest quality leathers with substance that will hold up to years of wear with ease. Unlined styles are perfect for the warmer summer months.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-styles-womens-unlined_600x.jpg?v=1627032336@ACCESSORIES|grid|Belts & Accessories|Collection|The Accessories Collection consists of essential shoe care products that if used regularly, will ensure your Crockett & Jones shoes age well over time. The Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Calf--belts|default|Calf|Belt|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Suede--belts|default|Suede|Belts|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Grain--belts|default|Grain|Belts|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Shell Cordovan--belts|default|Shell Cordovan|Belts|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Woven Calf--belts|default|Woven Calf|Belt|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_600x.jpg?v=1614741587@Rough-Out Suede--belts|default|Rough-Out Suede|Belt|The Crockett & Jones Belt Collection is made from skins chosen from the very best tanneries in Europe which are specially dyed to exactly complement our footwear. Each belt is fully lined, expertly stitched and has a hand-finished buckle of the highest quality.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-belts-all-2_2e7ab457-a0d9-4a86-92f9-c453f9aec276_600x.jpg?v=1614743625@Socks-acc|default|Socks|COLLECTION|Our new socks collection, from the London Sock Company, combines contemporary classics with a splash of colour. The new additions are comfortable, durable and stylish.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-socks_600x.jpg?v=1667567547@Saphir Medaille d'Or--acc|default|Saphir|Medaille d'Or|Crockett & Jones only uses the highest quality components combined with the most skilled craftsmanship - a successful recipe for producing beautiful handmade shoes that represent excellent value for your investment. Proper care and maintenance of your shoes will help to ensure their longevity in wear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-medaille-dor_065f75a0-dba8-4e96-85b3-47eae99d0fd4_600x.jpg?v=1614741588@Shoe Care Kits--acc|default|Shoe Care Kits|Perfect For Travel|Crockett & Jones shoe care kits come with a variety of shoe care products in a, zip up, leather holdall. Proper care and maintenance of your shoes will help to ensure their longevity in wear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-shoe-kit_600x.jpg?v=1614741588@Shoe Trees--acc|default|Shoe Trees|Aid Drying & Reduce Creasing|Shoe Trees are an extremely important part of caring for your Crockett & Jones shoes. Shoe trees have excellent moisture absorbency, gradually dry your shoes from the inside and reduce creasing of the vamp.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-shoe-tree_13d09d98-55f7-4f5b-99c9-e713cf39e156_600x.jpg?v=1614741588@Shoe Brushes--acc|default|Shoe Brushes|Polishing & Buffing|To properly care for your Crockett & Jones shoes, you should use two or three different brushes. Shoe brushes should be used to remove dust and light dirt from your shoes, whilst you keep others separate for the removal of excess polish after application.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-shoe-brush_600x.jpg?v=1614741588@Polishing Mitt--acc|default|Polishing Mitt|The Final Buff|A glove like design, made using our high quality dark brown calf suede and genuine lamb’s wool, produces the perfect accessory to give your calf and grain shoes its ‘perfect’ final buff.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-polishing-mitt_600x.jpg?v=1639646049@Shoe Horns--acc|default|Shoe Horns|Essential|Shoe Horns are equally as important as Shoe Trees & Polish when caring for your Crockett & Jones shoes. A Shoe Horn provides a smooth surface to easily slip your foot into your shoes and thus reducing damage to the heel of your shoes, particularly loafers.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-shoe-horn_600x.jpg?v=1614741588@Shoe Bags--acc|default|Shoe & Boot Bags|Protection|Shoe Bags should be used to store your shoes to protect them from dust, scratches and light, especially whilst travelling.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-shoe-bag_600x.jpg?v=1639646049@Laces--acc|default|Shoe & Boot Laces|Replacements|Over time, laces can become frayed and unsightly. Polish aside, a new pair of laces is a great way to give your shoes & boots a new lease of life.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-accessories-laces_600x.jpg?v=1653381179@STORES|gallery|Stores & Stockists||Crockett & Jones’s finest English shoes & boots are stocked by many luxury stores worldwide, including our own flagship retail stores in London, Birmingham, Paris, New York and Brussels.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-2048-5e88c1b20e087fb7bbe9a3771824e743c244f437e4f8ba93bbf7b11b53f7824c_600x.gif@Our Stores|default|Our Stores||Crockett & Jones flagship retail stores can be found in London, Birmingham, Paris, New York and Brussels. Each store houses a comprehensive collection of Goodyear welted shoes & boots.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-our-stores_600x.jpg?v=1614741591@Stockist Locator|default|Stockist Locator||Crockett & Jones’s finest English shoes & boots are stocked by many luxury stores worldwide, including our own flagship retail stores in London, Birmingham, Paris, New York and Brussels.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-stockists_600x.jpg?v=1614741591@Special Order Service|default|Special Order Service||Crockett & Jones flagship retail shops offer a Special Order service for the customer who wishes to have a pair of shoes or boots made to their own unique specifications.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-special-order_600x.jpg?v=1614741591@SHOE CARE|gallery|Shoe Care||Proper shoe care and maintenance of your Crockett & Jones shoes will help to ensure their longevity in wear. If you follow the guidelines below, there is no reason why your shoes will not last for many years.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-2048-5e88c1b20e087fb7bbe9a3771824e743c244f437e4f8ba93bbf7b11b53f7824c_600x.gif@Calf|default|Calf||Full grain European calf leather, produces some of the finest shoes in the world. Smart in appearance, smooth calf can be found throughout our collections, and if cared for well will age beautifully.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-shoe-care-calf_fd0f4058-3a5b-4028-850c-122e21c6c50d_600x.jpg?v=1614741624@Suede|default|Suede||High quality suede is far more robust that most might appreciate. Do not be fooled by its velour like finish. Suede is very easy to care for, if you know how…|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-shoe-care-suede_600x.jpg?v=1614741593@Grain|default|Grain||The grain used by Crockett & Jones is embossed, full grain European calf. Of a slightly heavier substance than our smooth calf, grain can better withstand the elements throughout the colder seasons.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-shoe-care-grain_600x.jpg?v=1614741593@Cordovan|default|Cordovan||Cordovan is extremely hard wearing and will get better with age. It has a depth of colour that is difficult to achieve with any other material, but requires a little more care and attention than other leathers.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-shoe-care-cordovan_600x.jpg?v=1614741593@Rough-Out Suede|default|Rough-Out Suede||Our most casual of materials, those who own Rough-Out Suede C&J’s get quite attached to it, but how do you give it the correct care and attention…?|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-shoe-care-ros_600x.jpg?v=1614741593@GUIDES|gallery|The Guides||Crockett & Jones and its products is a vast, but fascinating subject. To understand what lasts, styles, soles and materials go into our product collection, we have created a number of informative guides.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-2048-5e88c1b20e087fb7bbe9a3771824e743c244f437e4f8ba93bbf7b11b53f7824c_600x.gif@Last Guide|default|Last Guide||Crockett & Jones is well known for its diverse selection of lasts. Once understood, our broad variation lasts can bring much enjoyment to your fitting and purchasing decisions.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guide-last_5b20697a-1a8f-44a3-8bd9-c85dfdfd9184_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@Style Guide|default|Style Guide||As they say, knowledge is power… Our Style guide gives you a little insight into the different types of English shoes that are available from Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guide-style_02f426aa-c7bc-4fca-9a9a-4c657ccd7c0c_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@Sole Guide|default|Sole Guide||This guide brings together our wide variety of soles on offer, in one place. With the growth of the rubber sole, today, our collection of fine footwear covers an almost unending array of scenarios.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guide-sole_a5a50166-fa77-4df7-bfa1-3d205250fe58_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@Material Guide|default|Material Guide||‘Leather’ is a vast topic, one that Crockett & Jones takes very seriously indeed. In our opinions, you can only produce high quality shoes by utilising and fully understanding high quality materials.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guide-material_16df619c-f48e-4266-bd01-5e376bb5e8bb_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@Fitting Guide|default|Fitting Guide||There is never a substitute for trying a pair of shoes on in person. Our ‘fitting at distance’ guide is exactly that, a guide and it will help us to answer your fitting enquiries to the best of our abilities.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guide-fitting_78106101-e853-4f0b-b680-f9f35e6c45eb_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@MAKING & REPAIR|gallery|Making & Repair||Founded in 1879 in Northampton, at the heart of England's most famous shoemaking town, Crockett & Jones specialise in the manufacture of high quality Goodyear welted footwear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-2048-5e88c1b20e087fb7bbe9a3771824e743c244f437e4f8ba93bbf7b11b53f7824c_600x.gif@In the Making|default|In the Making||Crockett & Jones has been manufacturing shoes in Northampton, England since 1879 and much of the factory today, looks just as it did when it was first built.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-making_600x.jpg?v=1614741594@Repairs|default|Repairs||One of the benefits of owning a pair of Goodyear welted shoes is that you can have them re-soled without damaging the uppers, thereby prolonging their lifespan.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-repair_600x.jpg?v=1614741593@Our Heritage|default|Our Heritage||Founded in 1879 in Northampton, at the heart of England's most famous shoemaking town, Crockett & Jones specialise in the manufacture of high quality Goodyear welted footwear.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-heritage_600x.jpg?v=1614741594@THE ARTICLE|gallery|The Article||Delve into the authentic world of Crockett & Jones. Inspired by the people, the heritage and the products of Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shopifycloud/shopify/assets/no-image-2048-5e88c1b20e087fb7bbe9a3771824e743c244f437e4f8ba93bbf7b11b53f7824c_600x.gif@The Article--sub|default|The Article||Delve into the authentic world of Crockett & Jones. Inspired by the people, the heritage and the products of Crockett & Jones.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-the-article_19ec9441-405d-43d6-89b4-da8b66cb0948_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@Guest Author|default|Guest Author||Well-respected menswear and womenswear journalism and an uprising of customer-turned online sensations will bring a host of Articles for you to enjoy at your own pace.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-guest-author_85317ac4-0535-44c1-b539-fdd30a420ad5_600x.jpg?v=1614741739@In the Media|default|In the Media||A snap shot of Crockett & Jones’s media features. View press cuttings from our trusted media partners and friends. Advertising & editorial from throughout the year.|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-in-the-media_3b61627e-54b9-40ab-8211-6786e22dac3d_600x.jpg?v=1614741740@#madetobeworn|default|Social Media||Tag your wonderful photos with 'crockettandjones_official' or tag your images with #madetobeworn to be feature on our social wall…|//www.crockettandjones.com/cdn/shop/files/menu-cta-made-to-be-worn_8095f31f-c782-48ef-944c-86f383d8110f_600x.jpg?v=1614741740@

Leather Buying - An Interview

Words by Crockett & Jones
Buying leather may sound easy. Pick up the phone. Place an order. Leather arrives… not at Crockett & Jones where great importance is placed on buying the most expensive element to our high quality English footwear. To accompany our articles ‘Material World’, we thought it appropriate to hear from the voice of experience, Mr Steve Horne, on the encyclopaedic topic of what a leather buyer does.
Crockett & Jones - Leather Buying - An interview with Steve Horne
Can you give us a brief rundown of what did you do before you joined Crockett & Jones?

For the majority of my career I worked for R Griggs and Co Manufacturers (famously known for producing Dr Martens). I started as a Clicker and after cutting my teeth for a mere 10 years, stepped up to Room Supervisor which quickly became a position of Clicking and Closing Manager. After a period of time in management this was followed by Upper Production Directorship, which incorporated Head of Quality, Clicking & Closing with responsibility of 220,000 uppers per week. Across the whole group this equated to the purchasing of 750,000 ft of leather each week.

Eventually times changed and as the brand developed and manufacturing outputs were stepped up I was under tremendous pressure. With the introduction of a new board of Directors the brand become very successful whilst in my opinion, the product quality dipped. My position became more administrational and of a cost cutting mentality, buying on price and not quality. After all, due to the volume of leather, I was able to have a marked impact on profit if my buying was efficient and astute… naturally pressure was exerted. This was hard to deal with for me as my affiliation and commitment was to the founding family and the original direction of the company and product. This clash of opinions eventually resulted in my moving to Crockett & Jones, where product quality is important above all else.

What do you believe your responsibility is at Crockett & Jones?

My responsibility is to ensure all materials, upper and sole, meet our requirements. By this, I mean that they are suitable for Crockett & Jones’ production expectations. Controlling costs for upper materials and informing the board of Directors of any components that are going to cost ‘extra’, which results in lost profit. If we purchase or test a new leather, I will look at the efficiency of that leather and the usage that it should yield and produce a costing. This puts the Managing Director (Jonathan Jones) in a position to make an informed decision around that particular material.

Quality control is an ongoing and ever increasing part of my position which comes to the fray when introducing new materials into the business. Making sure this is done smoothly, without creating havoc in the factory is seriously important! I get heavily involved when our factory report a quality issue or if they see a change in an existing leather, which is a regular occurrence and ongoing headache for any footwear manufacturer. Best practise from the factory floor is the beginning of the quality chain and is something that I continually instil in the next generation of staff and supervision.

A lot of your work is focused on quality and supply, can you tell us why these are so important for a high quality manufacturer like Crockett & Jones?

Unless we get the previous point right, the rest of production cannot follow. If we send leather into the factory that is not up to the Crockett & Jones standards the product suffers, the factory struggles and we cannot meet wholesale customer delivery dates. Leather buying (and Clicking) is link number one of the supply chain (in production) and if we allow cut leather sections go that are the wrong colour, wrong substance or are sub-par it will cost C&J further down the line: extra production costs, high reject rates and the shoes will not stand up to our Managing Director’s exacting standards.

This is of course one of the reasons why management must be hands on. If leather issues are not flagged up by our Clickers it has a knock on effect throughout the next stages of production – Closing, Lasting, Finishing. The difficulties come when leather issues are only apparent after Lasting or Antiquing, these stages are so far into the production process it means heightened costs have already be incurred and time wasted. These types of latent issues are often unavoidable and simply have to be absorbed as a cost of remaining dogged in producing fine aniline, full-grain calf shoes.

Crockett & Jones
Our relationships with the various tanneries around the world are extremely important. What do you expect of your suppliers?

We expect leather deliveries to meet our pre agreed standards. We work very closely with our tanneries so that they understand our aims, particularly when we are working with them on new leathers. Myself and our Managing Director are at the stage in our careers where we have exceptionally good relationships with all of our tanneries. If we decide to put in a claim or send leather back for quality issues they rarely quibble because they believe us. We have built a trust, understanding and respect that if we deem there to be an issue, there is an issue.
Over time, we have helped to up-skill our close suppliers. This means that they are developing new leathers that are already at the level that we would require.

One thing I learnt very early on in my career; tanneries view leather in very different way to shoe manufacturers. As an example; they would say flesh cuts were the biggest issues out there, but from our perspective, they are easy to see, are in one location and we can easily cut around them. Yet issues that are not so obvious can cause us no end of headaches, such as growth, disease or chatter.

Is there a concern that high quality tanneries will eventually disappear?

Five years ago I would have given you a different answer but today, the world of tanning is quite stable. Many of our main suppliers have been bought out by cash rich groups who invest heavily in their businesses. Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, they all own tanneries whom we deal with… We deem this to be a positive as they are in it for the long haul. You’d think they would take all of the good skins for themselves, but they can’t use the skins we use for footwear as the patterns for Hand Bags are large. Initially, the only downside was the prices of skins went up because the hide suppliers knew tanneries had plenty of backing. This has since stabilised.
Tanning is hard work and requires high investment. Machinery is expensive and is doesn’t last long because of the working conditions and they were making little return on investment. Now, with financial backing, tanneries are developing new systems for management and traceability so from our perspective the future looks bright. The one thing that this investment hasn’t yet impacted on is improving the feeding habits of the calves to reduce growth in the skins, this might yet come. We hope.

Leather is a vast topic, what are you looking for in the leather that you buy for Crockett & Jones?

The leather used by Crockett & Jones is almost certainly going to be calf (other than a few specifics) and the main factor that we put great focus on is the ‘break’ of the leather because this translates into the performance of the leather as it is required to flex over and over again and continue to look good. (More on smooth calf and ‘fine break’ can be read here.

We are looking for a top grade selection which has more to do with our pattern mix. We want aniline finishes which gives you depth of colour and sets you apart from main stream footwear. Finally, we keep a close eye on cost. Our ethos is to produce fine footwear that represents value for money and we don’t want our end product pricing to get silly!

Crockett & Jones remains heavily focuses on using top-grade European calf and these are getting scarce. What affects the supply chain of leather?

Eating habits mainly. Less veal is being consumed all over the world and there is a movement towards health conscious consumers eating less red meat. There is also the wave of vegetarian or vegan diets that is gripping the world.

Feeding habits of the calves. Bearing in mind all of our leathers are a by-product of the meat industry, farmers want to grow their animals quickly for the consumption of meat. This causes extended growth marks on the skins of the calf and often renders the skin unusable for the production of fine shoes. Growth was always present in the neck area, but today this has crept down to about 18 inches above the ‘but’, the main cutting area for vamps.

I still believe top footwear brands require top materials. You get long term wear and the appearance is maintained (if cared for well).

The Crockett & Jones MTO collection is extensive, as is the leathers available for product development. Are you continually developing new leathers with suppliers?

They bring the development to us, but we are continually feeding back to our tanneries to make good materials even better. A good example of a tannery working closely with us is Baker’s Russian Grain. We first started working with Bakers (an English tannery) in October 2013 and it took them 5 years to develop a leather suitable for footwear. Other than the odd skin here and there, Crockett & Jones has exclusivity for use in footwear.

Don’t forget that Crockett & Jones air on the side of conservatism and are far from a fashion brand. We are never going to look for five new colours a season. We are far more interested in leathers that can perform well for our customers year after year and when they finally wear out are replaceable because they are still in our collection.

How do you work with your suppliers if a leather is not quite working as well as you might have hoped, will they make changes?

Tanning process no. Production methods yes. For example, we had a ‘milled calf’ that was incredibly soft but it just wasn’t holding up as well as we want it to. Rather than throw it out of the collection, the tannery agreed to stake it (a machine that gradually flexes the leather), instead of milling it which was loosening the fibres too much. The new process still gives us a lovely soft feel and finish to the leather, but the fibres are now strong enough for our footwear.

Crockett & Jones
People are always amazed at how much of the leather is discarded because it is not deemed suitable for production. Can our customers do anything to help us use more of the skins, given that the tannage is still excellent?

Customers can absolutely help by accepting the natural beauty of leather. To reduce the massive amount of wastage customers and retail staff can help educate their peers on growth, which can be likened to the grain in a piece of English oak. To be honest, some customers wouldn’t even notice them if there were included, but for now, the management provision is to not include growth…

In my previous role, we had an issue with rejects, so I invited a random selection of customers to the factory to inspect a collection of substandards. I asked them their opinion without giving any prior information, but nobody mentioned leather faults. Women tended to comment on stitching and the indent made by the sewing machine feed wheel. Men commented on issues with the soles. When I pointed out the leather issues, all parties said that they thought that was the natural leather… I have since always asked myself whether or not shoe manufacturers are focusing on the same issues an end consumer might.

Leather sections cut with a little growth are still cut from the same skin as no growth and are thus utilising the same high quality tannage, which ultimately benefits the customer. At the moment this leather is being throw away. Surely this section with some natural character is better that than a corrected leather that has been coated in some sort of man-made material to offer uniformity!

How can a customer decipher between what is a high quality leather and what is not?

Performance, but this means you have to be wearing the shoes before you find out how good they are! Before performance you can spot high quality leather through its depth of colour, which we call Anilinity. Every pair is different and not uniform. Natural looking, uncovered grain.
In simple terms a painted door is pigmented and a waxed/stained Oak table is aniline. At Crockett & Jones, it makes my job far more pleasurable that we are only looking for aniline finishes.

What would say to the next generation of custodians, whose job it is to ensure Crockett & Jones remains as a highly respected shoe manufacturer?

Have a good and trusting relationship with your suppliers. That is so important. Make sure you understand and appreciate issues from both sides of an opinion. Know and appreciate your production headaches as well as your tanneries. Always look for something better and never stop looking. Enjoy your work and take time to realise what Crockett & Jones means. Your first cost is not always your true cost…

Repair Enquiry

Store Contact

Preorder Enquiry

Thank you!

Your enquiry has been sent. Our Customer Care Team will respond to your message as soon as they can. For urgent enquiries, please call us: +44 (0)1604 635 927.

Added to your bag