WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN MAKING CUSTOM MADE SHOES / CUSTOM MADE BOOTS AND CUSTOM FIT ORTHOTICS

WE USE THE FINEST LEATHER FOR OUR HANDMADE BESPOKE SHOES / HANDMADE LEATHER SHOES

MAKE US YOUR NO#1 CHOICE FOR CUSTOM SHOES AND CUSTOM FIT ORTHOTICS

At Special Footwear and Orthotics we believe in using only the finest quality materials for custom made shoes to ensure that you receive not only a high standard of craftsmanship, but also shoes of great durability.

There are many different types of leather that can be used in the making of custom made shoes, it is made from different animals and there are many different types of finishes, each with its own characteristics, be it light, heavy or durable. Whatever needs you have, we are here to help you choose a material that suits you and your life. You will find a brief description of the most common animals used for the production of leather and also the different finishes below. Contact us now for more information on arch support shoes / handmade leather shoes.

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Types of Leather


Full grain leather
Full grain leather is produced from the top side of the leather which is the outside. The surface is smooth and polishable

Corrected grain leather
Corrected grain leather has the surface buffed away, taking away any imperfections. A glossy appearance is created by applying a smooth coating of finish colour. Though corrected grain is a less expensive leather it still takes skill to manufacture so as to ensure consistency and durability

Nubuck
Nubuck is produced from full grain leathers. The grain is abraded away to create a slight surface nap. This can be adjusted to be very fine, or a longer softer effect can be produced

Suede
Suede is produced from the under side of the skin and has a distinctive nap. The nap can be altered to be very fine, or long and almost hairy in appearance

Laminated leather
Laminated leather has a layer of film laminated onto the surface. Laminated leathers may not withstand wearing conditions in upholstery and footwear and are therefore usually restricted to leather goods and low quality shoes

Printed leathers
Printed leathers can have any kindof pattern or design placed on the surface. The designs are embossed onto the leather surface under pressure and add to the characterof the material whilst structurely the leather remains unaffected

Aniline
Aniline is the highest quality material. The colour comes from the dying process. The leather is literally ‘naked’ which allows the natural beauty of the leather to show through. All skins will have some faults, even aniline leathers. Slight scratches or surface marks are part of what make up this natural material and should be regarded as such. These faults do not affect the performance of the leather

Oiled and Waxed leather
Oiled and waxed leather has oils or waxes coated onto the surface of the leather to produce a tacky finish that gives improved grip. They are commonly used in many sports like American football gloves


Animal Skins used to make Leather


Cattle
This is the most commonly used skin for making leather with approximately 65% of leather produced from cattle. Cow leather (more commonly called calf) is available in a great variety of sizes due to their relatively large size, can be used for a great range of products from shoes to upholstery. As a cheaper alternative Buffalo leather is sometimes used instead of cow.

Pig
10% of leather is produced from Pig skins. Pig skin is known for being recognised by the hair pattern whichis left on the leather even after the hair has been removed. Pig skin producesa fine suede. The leather is used in a range of products from shoe lining to upholstery.

Sheep
About 20% of leather is produced from sheep. Sheep skins are much smaller than cow skins and for that reason it generally cannot be used for making footwear or furniture. It is, however ideal for making clothing due to its softness and flexibility.

Crocodile skin
We can also offer Crocodile Skin as a material for our custom made shoes.

Goat or Kid
Goat leather only accounts for
about 5% of the leather produced in the world. Goat skin has a very characteristic pattern and so gives a unique look to shoes made from this leather. Goat skin is used for a variety of products from gloves to footwear and even upholstery. It is well known for producing a much finer suede than cow hide does.

Other
Leather from the skins of other animals such as kangaroo, snakeand some fish including stingray are also used in the manufacture ofleather goods.