How long should a pair of Loake shoes last?
With proper care and attention, including the use of shoe trees and regular polishing, a quality pair of shoes can last for many years. We have many customers who tell us their Loake shoes are still going strong after a decade or more.
What is Goodyear Welted?
The Goodyear welted construction is a superior method of shoe making. A strip of leather (the welt) is stitched to the upper and inner sole of the shoe. The outer sole is then stitched to the welt. This construction allows the sole to be replaced many times, significantly extending the life of the shoe.
What is the difference between Goodyear Welted and Cemented construction?
Goodyear welted construction involves stitching the sole to the shoe, allowing for multiple resoles. Cemented construction involves gluing the sole directly to the upper. While cemented shoes can be resoled, it is a more complex process. Goodyear welted is generally considered more durable and repairable.
What is a Storm Welt?
A storm welt is a type of Goodyear welt where the strip of leather is stitched in a way that creates a ridge or lip. This helps to channel water away from the seams, offering greater water resistance.
What are the benefits of a Goodyear Welted shoe?
The benefits are numerous. They are exceptionally durable, allow for multiple resoles, are more water-resistant, and the construction allows the shoe to mould to the shape of your foot over time for a personalised fit.
What is a Barker Exclusive?
This is a specific last (the foot-shaped form used to make the shoe) designed by our friends at Barker Shoes. It typically offers a generous, comfortable fit.
What is a C Fit?
A ‘C’ fit generally refers to a standard width fitting. Please consult our specific size guides for precise measurements for each style.
What is an E Fit?
An ‘E’ fit typically refers to a wider width fitting. As with all sizing, we recommend checking the individual size guide for each shoe model.
What is an G Fit?
A ‘G’ fit is a wider fitting than an E, offering more room across the ball of the foot and the toes.
What is a Last?
A last is a foot-shaped form, traditionally made from wood or plastic, around which a shoe is constructed. The shape of the last determines the final fit, style, and comfort of the shoe.
Do Loake shoes come with shoe bags?
Yes, all our shoes are presented in high-quality boxes and include a pair of dust bags for storage.
Do Loake shoes come in half sizes?
Yes, the majority of our shoe styles are available in a comprehensive range of UK half sizes.
How can I clean and care for my Loake shoes?
Use a good quality shoe cream or wax polish that matches the colour of your shoes. Apply with a cloth or brush and buff to a shine. Use shoe trees to maintain shape and absorb moisture. Allow shoes to rest for 24 hours between wears.
How do I remove a scuff mark from my shoes?
First, try using a quality shoe cream or wax polish in a matching colour. Apply it over the scuff mark and buff vigorously. For more stubborn marks, a specialist leather cleaner may be required.
How do I remove salt stains from my shoes?
Create a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently wipe the stains. Allow the shoes to dry naturally, then apply a suitable conditioner and polish.
What is Suede?
Suede is leather made from the underside of a animal hide, which is buffed to create a soft, napped surface.
How do I care for suede shoes?
Use a specialist suede brush to maintain the nap and remove surface dirt. A suede eraser can tackle scuff marks and minor stains. For protection, apply a suede protector spray.
What is Nubuck?
Nubuck is top-grain leather that has been lightly buffed on the outer surface to create a velvety, textured feel, similar to suede but generally more durable.
How do I care for nubuck shoes?
Care for nubuck similarly to suede. Use a nubuck brush or eraser for cleaning. A dedicated nubuck protector spray is recommended to guard against water and stains.
What is Polished Hide?
Polished hide is a full-grain leather that undergoes a multi-stage process involving dyes, oils, and waxes to create a high-gloss, durable finish that is naturally water-resistant.
How do I care for polished hide shoes?
Clean with a damp cloth and use a good quality wax polish to maintain the high-shine finish and protective qualities.
What is Full Grain Leather?
Full grain leather is the highest quality leather, using the entire thickness of the hide. It retains the natural grain, making it strong, durable, and developing a unique patina over time.
What is Calf Leather?
Calf leather comes from young cattle. It is fine-grained, soft, and supple, making it a premium material for high-quality shoemaking.
What is Patent Leather?
Patent leather is leather that has been coated with a high-gloss, varnish-like finish. It is typically used for formal footwear.
What is Crust Leather?
Crust leather is a type of leather that has been dyed but not finished with a topcoat. This allows it to be custom-polished to a wide range of shades.
What is Repello Suede?
Repello is a specific brand of suede known for its excellent Scotchgard protection, offering superior resistance to water and stains.
What is Aniline Leather?
Aniline leather is a high-quality, semi-transparent dye treatment that allows the natural character and grain of the leather to remain fully visible.
What is Pull Up Leather?
Pull-up leather is treated with oils and waxes. When stretched or bent (pulled up), the colour lightens in those areas, creating a characteristic vintage look.
What is the difference between a Derby and an Oxford shoe?
The key difference is in the lacing. Oxfords have closed lacing, where the quarters (the sides) are stitched under the vamp (the front). Derbys have open lacing, where the quarters are stitched on top of the vamp. Derbys are often considered slightly less formal.
What is a Monk Strap shoe?
A monk strap shoe replaces traditional laces with a buckle and strap system. Single monk straps have one buckle; double monks have two.
What is a Brogue?
A brogue is a style of shoe characterised by decorative perforations (or “broguing”). They range from full brogues (wingtips) to semi-brogues and quarter brogues.
What is the difference between a formal and casual shoe?
Formal shoes, like plain Oxfords, are typically made from smooth, dark leather with minimal decoration. Casual shoes, such as brogues or derbies, often feature more decorative elements and can be made from a wider variety of materials like suede or grained leather.
What is a Loake 1880?
The Loake 1880 collection represents our finest range of shoes. These are premium quality, Goodyear welted shoes crafted in our own factory, using the finest materials and traditional techniques.
Are Loake shoes made in England?
Our Loake 1880 range is proudly made at our own factory in England. Some other collections are designed by us and crafted by our specialist partners overseas.
What is the correct way to measure my foot?
Measure your foot in the afternoon, as feet can expand during the day. Stand on a piece of paper, mark the very back of your heel and the very tip of your longest toe. Measure the distance between the two marks in centimetres for the most accurate sizing.
What if my shoes don’t fit?
We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. Please refer to our returns and exchanges policy for detailed information on how to proceed if your shoes do not fit correctly.
How long will delivery take?
Delivery times depend on your location and the shipping method selected. Please see our delivery information page for full details and estimated timeframes.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we deliver to many countries worldwide. Please visit our website for a list of available destinations and the associated costs.
How do I return an item?
We operate a straightforward returns policy. Please follow the instructions on our returns page to initiate the process.
How do I track my order?
Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a confirmation email containing your tracking information and a link to monitor its progress.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal.
Is my payment and personal information secure?
Yes. We use secure server technology to encrypt all your personal and payment information, ensuring it is protected at all times.
What are shoe trees and why should I use them?
Shoe trees are foot-shaped forms, usually made from cedar wood, that are placed inside shoes when not being worn. They help to maintain the shoe’s shape, absorb moisture, and prevent creases from setting.
Can my Loake shoes be resoled?
Yes, absolutely. The Goodyear welted construction of our shoes means they can be resoled multiple times by a skilled shoe repairer, greatly extending their lifespan.
Do you have a repair service?
We offer a professional repair and refurbishment service for Loake shoes. This can include re-soling, re-heeling, and general restoration to extend the life of your footwear.
How long will a repair take?
The duration of a repair service can vary depending on the work required. Please allow several weeks for the process to be completed to our high standards.
How much does a repair cost?
The cost depends on the specific repair service. A full price list is available on our website.
How do I start a repair?
You can initiate a repair by completing the online form and sending your shoes to our recommended repair centre.
What is the Lifetime Licence?
The Lifetime Licence is a specific repair service option that can be purchased for certain styles, offering a discounted rate on future sole replacements for the life of the shoe upper.
How do I look after my Loake boots?
Care for your boots as you would our shoes. Use appropriate polish or conditioner for the leather type. Pay attention to the welt and sole junction, and ensure they are clean and dry after wear in wet conditions.
How waterproof are Loake boots?
While no leather boot is entirely waterproof, our boots, particularly those with storm welts and sturdy leather soles or rubber outsoles, offer a high degree of water resistance. Treating them with a suitable protector spray will enhance this.