The Thread | ArticleWell-Heeled Heritage: The Stories Behind 5 Men’s Footwear Brands That are Built to Roam
ByJohn B
Here we are again, that perfect time of year when summer’s lingering sun gives autumn a bit of extra glow, reminding us why this season’s got to be one of the best. The flip-flops are back in the cupboard and it’s time to bring out the kind of footwear that handles wet pavements and muddy paths like a pro. If you’re anything like us, you’re partial to a bit of quality kit, so let’s take a closer look at the origin stories behind some of our favourite shoemakers. We’ll even spotlight a few standout pieces… see what we did there?
Clarks: Somerset’s Gift to the World
Clarks has been doing its thing since 1825, starting out in Somerset and eventually making its mark across the globe. While Clarks is best known for the legendary Desert Boot, they’ve got a fair few other icons in the line-up too. Take the Wallabee, with its distinctive moccasin construction, rounded toe, and minimal stitching – instantly recognisable and effortlessly cool. When it launched in 1960, the Wallabee was well ahead of its time in both comfort and style, and it’s hard to find a shoe with more cultural influence. Over the years, the Wallabee has been embraced by subcultures from hip-hop to indie, mod to prep – even icons like Wu-Tang Clan made them their signature in the ‘90s, securing their cult status.
We’ve highlighted the Evo version here in black suede, which takes the Wallabee’s laid-back vibe and adds an understated elegance. Suede ages beautifully, giving each pair a unique, lived-in character that only adds to its charm. The Clarks Wallabee Evo keeps everything that made the original a classic, with a few updates for the modern, style-conscious wearer. It’s everything you’d want from an iconic shoe.
Red Wing: American Made with British Soul
These Minnesota-made boots have well and truly earned their place in the wardrobes of style aficionados over the decades, thanks to their no-nonsense build and timeless appeal. Originally made for workers back in the early 1900s, Red Wing boots were crafted for serious durability, solid grip, and an all-around toughness – so it’s easy to see how they’ve developed such a loyal following. The 6” Classic Moc Toe is a prime example: built to last, it only gets better with age, picking up scuffs and character that turn every pair into something personal. Like a good leather jacket or a favourite pair of jeans, these boots get better the more you wear them – a bit like this author, really.
Here we’ve got the Moc Toe 6” in briar oil slick leather, a mainstay in workwear and streetwear since the 1950s. Its thick leather construction, Goodyear welt, and traction tread make it the go-to for anyone who needs serious performance. And that signature moc toe design? It gives a bit of extra room in the toe box, adding comfort to the boot’s solid construction. Built for hard work, this is one of those boots you’ll rely on for years, if not decades – no breaking in required.
Oliver Sweeney – British Craftsmanship at Its Finest
Since 1989, Oliver Sweeney has been crafting some of the most meticulously made British footwear out there, blending heritage techniques with a contemporary edge. Known for their detail-driven approach and traditional shoemaking, these guys know how to make a pair that really stands out. Sure, their brogues and Oxfords are classics, but they’ve got some cracking boots too – like the Allegro, a British icon, blending craftsmanship, design, and versatility.
The Allegro leather Chelsea boot takes on that enduring British silhouette – a style with roots in the Victorian era and brought back into the spotlight in the ‘60s by The Beatles. The Allegro nails this essence with a sleek, clean profile that has just the right touch of attitude. A slight heel and elasticated side panels make it as comfortable as it is stylish, and in tan leather, it’s adaptable enough to go with anything from jeans to a sharp suit. Bravo, Oli – this one’s a keeper.
Barbour – From Jackets to Boots, It’s All Classic British
Barbour – the brand that practically defines British heritage. Famous, of course, for those wax jackets, but Barbour’s also got some cracking footwear up its sleeve. The Bede Wellington is as British as they come, with that classic Barbour tartan lining and a rugged build that’s just the ticket for autumn’s rainy days. If you’re into gear that pairs function with a bit of understated cool, then Barbour’s boots should definitely be in your rotation.
These Bedes come in olive green, but we’ve got them in black too if that’s more your vibe. Either way, these wellies are synonymous with British country life, carrying on that heritage with a classic look that’s as comfortable in muddy fields as it is at festivals. With a cushioned footbed and lined interior, they’re a dream for long walks in wet conditions. Easy to slip into and secure once they’re on, these wellies bring practicality and timeless style in one tidy package.
Tricker’s: Northampton’s Finest Footwear
Since 1829, Tricker’s has been making boots and shoes in Northampton that don’t just stand the test of time – they genuinely get better with it. As one of Britain’s oldest shoemakers, Tricker’s brings a level of craftsmanship that’s hard to beat. Their Stow Brogue boot is as classic as they come: robust, Goodyear welted and built to handle anything, especially rainy days in the Peak District and beyond. These boots are made to be worn, weathered, and well-loved for decades.
Here we’ve got the Stow Brogue boot in black Olivvia leather, a specially treated leather that’s both tough and environmentally sound. Tanned with olive leaf extract, Olivvia leather is a sustainable alternative to traditional tanning, leaving a rich, soft finish that’s unmistakably Tricker’s. And no need to worry about practicality – this rugged leather is more than up to the challenge of wet and muddy terrain, which, being British, is rather handy.
And there you have it – five icons that do more than just look the part. They’re the kind of boots and shoes that stand by you no matter what the weather does. As the days get cooler and the nights get longer, you’ll be glad to have a pair (or two) from these legends ready to go, so grab your pair and head out there!