The Shoe Snob Blog

 Hello.

I hope you have all been well in 2022. It's been a while since Ive made my last blog post, As you all know I started this blog is 2008 as a way to get by while waiting for my first order of shoes to be created. Back in those days, I expected another factory to make my shoes for me, little did I know I would quickly come to own my own shoemaking factory. 

Around that time 2008, I started to follow a blog called the Shoe Snob blog and have always dreamed that one day I would get a mention by Justin Fitzpatrick the owner and winter. Over the years his authority and influence on the shoe industry have grown and grown, and now he is regarded as the best source of quality footwear content. That's why I am so proud and happy to be finally featured on his website and social media channels.

The best part for me is that we both started out at the same time and so it's always been interesting to follow another man's journey in the same field. Here is a link to his review

The Shoe Snob Blog

Thank you to all that have followed me over the years. And thank you once again to Justin Fitzpatrick.

   

New casual shoe collection on the way for 2022

Its about time that I started work on a newer and better collection of causla shoes, I cant make the athletic shoes as that's a whole different constuction process. Ive had a few idea's these past few years and now is the time to act on it.

Below is the MST Kazule 005

Created using an EVA Rubberised foam sole.

The New Collection is called Kazule, A play on the word Casual I guess.

MST Kazul 004

                                               This will come in a range of colours thats for fore

                                                             A dam fine kazual sole

 

I will make changes to the fabric band over time.

                                      

MST Kazual 003 in suede black

And a few more to be added..

Thank you for taking them to view the new Kazule Collection.

 

 

Deep Dive review by a Thai Blogger

We are Don's Footwear. We created this pair of shoes for a well known and respected Thai Blogger called shinable.co run by the talented Mr Da. We made him a fully bespoke pair of shoes so that he could review and share the experience of creating a fiddle waist pair of handwelted shoes. I'm really happy with the outcome, His blog really is a deep dive into the bespoke process, and the way we undertake the order.

You can see Mr Da's has broken down the review of the bespoke order into 4 parts, with one more blog to come later after he has worn them for a while. He selected our fiddle waist sole option( or Fiddleback) This is our hand welted signature look that we call Echelon grade. What separates from others is that we like to create ours using pegs. https://shineable.co/traditional-bespoke-lastmaker-dons-footwear/

 Deep Dive Review

Measurement Process

 and his latest blog from Feb 2022 on the shoe trees that we create. Shoe Tree's

This is where Don's footwear is based at the moment google map

however, We do plan to make a move to a bigger and better factory to come back to central Bangkok near BTS Punnawithi, I look forward to updating google maps once we have signed and bought our new location, I've very excited as it's very easy to get to and from both the sides of the expressway and easy walking distance to the BTS, And for the business side of thing its a much bigger premises and closer to my suppliers.

Maybe you might not know but we once had a Showroom at the Mahanakon building in the Sathorn area just under dean and deLuca This was ideal at the time to showcase of designs and workmanship, but this time, having a workshop and showroom in the same building is a tremendous help. we will be located very near On Nut Skytrain station which I think a lot of people have heard about. 

 

In the video above you can see the model that we created for Mr Shinable.

Don's Footwear is a specialist shoemaker creating the finest traditional hand welted shoes online and bespoke shoes offline.

Contact us on LINE: donsfootwear or call 0922649647 or via facebook

Guiddo Maggio or Don's Footwear?

Every once in a while I get an email asking why I am the best at elevator shoes, or who is the best between Don's Footwear and the Guiddo Maggio brand from Italy.

I have recently concluded that I get asked this question simply because customers tend to glance at the price difference between us both and think because GM is more expensive it means they are a better shoe. I know we all do not have the time to understand the finer aspects of shoemaking or to discover the skills and technique involved in creating a top tier shoe and with little time in our lives, we tend to just go on prices. Generally, it goes like this..If the price is too high we fear its just middlemen getting a cut, too low it seems there might be an issue later on after the purchase ( to good to be true)

Well I would say a higher price plays a part in what type of business that you are buying from:

• Own factory selling via retailer
• Own factory and sell in own channels DON'S FOOTWEAR
• From another’s factory and sell through retailers
• From someone else’s factory and sell in their own channels Guiddo Maggio

I believe Don's have the ultimate set-up. Because we own both our Brand and our channel. and that also helps Don's to offer a better price. In our factory we only created for our own brand, we dont need to create other labels to support our own factory our full attention and priority is on our own Brand. I know of only one other that created their own shoes and I believe it’s a Spanish brand, Guido Maggio outsources to another factory, that I know because I’ve had another factory contact me to ask if they wish to make shoes for us.

When it comes to premium custom made Owing your own factory is a must and gives a chance to create a better custom shoe, and have a better understanding over a marketer. We have been able to do that from the beginning. So, who is better? Well, Im slightly biased, but I would say we are better than Guiddo Maggio simply because Don's came along first, We started in 2005 and launched in 2009. The owner of Guiddo Maggio first came to me for advice around 2010 via a few phone calls on Skype, then slowly over time copied my styles, then managed to get my old webmaster to sell him my contact list. that's how he managed to get himself going, My family and friends still get his promotional emails from to this day, He always tends to copy things that I do a few months or years later, Trunk Shows, Styles, Website design, Content. I always laugh to myself when my good friend and loyal webmaster mentions to me what they have been up, Italians tend to say they are unique when it comes to design and they are always in competition with the French over who is the best at class and style and I believe they are the best in the world at that sort of thing, And so to have this guy trailing me ( a Scotsman), following my moves, its kind of cool haha.

The GM brand often like to criticize us that we are made in SEA in their blog posts and so I guess this is my long-awaited reply,, His only unique selling point is they are made in Italy, however, Its a huge problem in Italy that many shoes uppers are made in awful conditions across the water in the Slavic countries and shipped over and assembled in Italy ( there is a youtube video on the problem here) . Then next there is a problem with the Leather tannery Labour condition in Tuscany. So all in all, I don't think a Made in Italy statement beats a real Shoemaker like myself.

Don’s Footwear make everything in house. Except for the leather tanning which I buy from a Japanese owned tannery that has a high level of quality control as they supply to the entire Japanese police force and all leather must be tested regularly. I also make bespoke shoes, which is regarded as the creme de la creme of shoemaking And our bespoke offerings are made always in the west end bespoke way,, A wooden last needs to be created, shaped and labelled for the client use only, bespoke patterns are made, test pairs are made before going onto making the final pair. The prices range from 1000-6000 USD across the world.
https://shoegazing.com/2017/08/20/buyers-guide-bespoke-prices/

Guido Maggio cant offer this service as they are simply a generic fashion brand. We make Fiddle back waist shoes, which only the best bespoke shoemakers can create.

This is our top line of shoes
https://donsfootwear.com/en/echelon-grade

Guiddo Maggio Shoes are Good year welted at best which is means the shoes are simply held against a machine to fix the sole on. Everyone one of our shoes in bench made from the best fiddle waist to the lightweight blake stitch. I’ve also been trained in London and Sweden. and I have helped a few other brands launch and given consulting on how to improve shoemaking. All in all, We lead the way and others follow when it comes to elevator shoes, This might feel like a rant, but it’s good to get the facts out there.

Don's Footwear Reviews 2021

Its now at the time of year when I like to post a few of the remarks that I receive from the wonderful and loyal customers of Don's Footwear, I would like to start by sharing a message that I received from a gentleman that I managed to meet in person on my Turk Show visit to L.A

"I am a U.S. resident and have been a Don's Footwear customer since 2017. The quality of the shoes and boots that Alan Donnelly creates and manufactures are unparalleled. Simply put, you will have an extremely difficult time finding a bespoke shoemaker that dedicates this level of craftsmanship and attention to detail while combining style with the highest standard of materials. Many of the pieces I have ordered from Allan and had delivered to me are reminiscent of 1920's and 30's type footwear in terms of the material quality and style. The consistency to detail and level of precision is constantly evident; even with almost constant and continuous wear. If you are looking for an incredible level of dedication and quality, Allan Donnelly's footwear is going to be extremely difficult to top. The products created and produced by this company are, to put it bluntly, the best I've seen. You will not regret adding Don's Footwear to your list of preferred establishments." 

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Below is some of the feedback that I received personally via email, Naturally I have removed all the names.

18th Dec

Hi Allan,

Just letting you know that the shoes arrived today and I am blown away by them. Not only by the skill used in creating them but the fit is something I have never experienced before. As soon as I slid the first one on, I knew they were amazing and now I know why people pay for bespoke shoes.

I can't thank you enough for managing to finish these off and have them delivered for Christmas and yes, the customs got me, which I don't mind, it's just the extras that they charge which is annoying.

Once again thank you for such a professional approach to help a newbie into the world of bespoke shoes.

Yours sincerely

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My man....ill would give you a hug...but we too far....thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'll be ordering again from you soon. Thanks.

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16th Dec 2021

Shoes are here. These are stunning mate. Thanks so much

 

Best

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28th Nov 2021

Thank you for the beautiful shoes, Allan!

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18th/Nov/2021

Hi Allan,

 

The shoes just came in. They look great ! Thank you for making & shipping them in a short timeframe !

Have a great weekend !

Regards

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8th Nov 2021

Hi Allan,

 

I got the boots on Thursday and they look beautiful. I'm so impressed with your work. I have at least 14 boots or shoes from you and I'm sure I will order more in the future.

 

I'll make sure to make a comment on your website.

 

Thank you,

 

Anthony 

 

13th Sept 2021

Allan, 

 

Another masterpiece. Latest shoes are built like a fortress and look like a palace. Brilliant work sir.

 

Kind regards, 

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10th Sept 2021

Hi Don just thought I'd let you know I'm going away in an hour and the boots  just arrived on my doorstep! The quality of the boots are absolutely excellent you sir are a master craftsman!

 

Kindest Regards

 

Allan

Owner

1st Sept 2021

Hello “Don”/Allen,

 

Just want to say that you are the best. I’ve bought a couple shows from you and they have held up amazingly well. Big props to you and your company!

26th July 2021

The Fossatos that you made for me are a masterpiece. Best footwear that I have ever used. Perfect fit right out of the box. Easiest to take on and off. And what I had asked you to do is not easy, to make a stable shoe with that degree of elevation, but you did it. What else can I say besides, "Thank you!"

17th July 2021

Just received the shoes today it was absolutely gorgeous. Thank you. Will be ordering another shoes on the first of next but hopefully it will get here sooner.

 

12th July 2021

I really love the boots. Thank you so much!

 

6th July 2021

Hey Allan,

 

I just got the shoes and they are PERFECT! A true work of art! I can’t wait to order my next pair. Thanks for keeping me in the loop with pictures and answering all my questions.

 

25th June 2021

These are the best pair of shoes I've ever had. I'm glad I took advice from the Karavel shoe expert. He told me I'd need exact measurements for my wide (while short) feet. These don't hurt at all and don't need that excessive break-in, I usually do for size 8 shoes. because the instep is too low and the shoe is way too narrow.

21st June.

Hi Allan,

Received the suede Cacciatore boots and it turned out great. Looking forward to another pair in the near future, possibly in a Chelsea Boot Style.

21st June 2021

Beautiful boots.Thank you!

 

28th May 2021

Shoes arrived and they fit great. Thanks. I will be in touch soon for my next pair.

25th May 2021

 

I just wanted to let you know I am beyond satisfied with these, they look and feel incredible. I will be ordering more soon. 

 

Cheers

 

21st May 2021

Hi Allan,

 

Just to let you know I received my boots yesterday and Absoutley over the moon with them.  Can’t wait to wear them.  If you would like me to leave a review or anything anywhere please let me know.  Hopefully can order another pair in the future.

 

Thanks for all your help 

 

 

14th May 2021

Hi Allan

 

Just got the boots.

Absolutely amazing and extremely comfortable.

Rubber sole looks like it could stop artillery fire!

Please let me know where I could leave you a review.

 

Thanks again!

 

10th May 2021

 You are the most in touch guy to your base in the business! 

 

22nd April

Hi Alan ,I custom ordered two Chelsea suede boots over 4 years ago.They are still like new.I saw my special order in video on your website,I now live In Miami Fla.Love the boot and seeing it on video,Thx 

 

19th April

That picture has only the pairs made by you. Thank you Allan, sincerely, for dramatically increasing my quality of life. You can't even imagine.

 

8th April

Wow they are so beautiful!! 

Thank you again, I love them 

 

7th April

Hi Allan,

 

Love them. Thanks. I will look and see what I want next and send you a picture and we can start a new pair.

 

Robert

 

 

27th March

The addidons arrived today.

I love them! Can't imagine how someone returned them, I'm very impressed as usual

 

17th March

Allan:

 

Thanks for such great expedient freight service.  The boots are The Best I have ever seen or worn. Just magnificent.  

 

I would please ask for one minor adjustment for my next pair of boot.  Just for my own comfort level and for eaaier fit with a normal straight pant leg, could you please reduce the very top of the shaft of the boot by one inch. I included a pic for a visual.   The body of the shaft itself is perfect, but the very top is a bit wider than I am used to in cowboy boots.  Every other aspect iscabsokutely perfect. Thank you. 

 

AWESOME BOOTS!!! @TexasXil

 

1st March

I got the shoes last night, they're really fantastic. Thank you once again, the quality of your work is excellent. I realized I've been buying from you for 10 years now...starting with that unfortunate flood in Thailand!

 

 

13th Feb

Thanks so much Alan—the last pair my fiancé loved so much she demanded I get another pair :)

 

Mark

 

27th Jan 2021

Hi Don,

 

I am happy to share that the booths arrived Yesterday. My son Travis was elated. He said that the boots were a work of art.He loves them. We will be doing more business in the future. Thank you for the workmanship and the constant communication.

 

 

 25th Jan 2021

I realize this was YEARS ago and wanted to again thank you for glorious shoes. I love everything about them and still wear them regularly! 

 

5th Jan 2020

Hi. Is there a place I can leave a review for you? These are some of the best quality shoes I have ever owned. Thanks again, - Daniel

 

 

 

3rd Jan 2020,

 

I received the shoes and I must say! You have really out done yourself and the shoes are great!!! They are awesome!! I hope you make more different styles in this new sneaker athletic shoe line of yours. I love it and I may just order another for my work and make it with black rubber soles! 

 

I really like them! Thank you very much! 

 

 

1st of Jan

Dear Allan,

 

I want to thank you tremendously for the best pair of shoes I've ever had. Everything about them is remarkable and I look forward to coming back. 

For more reviews of the years have a look on the Don's Footwear webiste

Thank you all once again! Here we go for 2022. 

 

 

Best shoes for short guys that don’t hurt ft. Midsole tech

It seems like there’s always a price to pay for wanting an extra height boost. 

Bigger shoes? Painful insoles. “Off the rack” elevator shoes? Awkward and uncomfy gait change etc... 

But below we have the best shoes for short guys that ACTUALLY don’t hurt - thanks to Midsole technology, created by Don’s Footwear. 

List of best shoes for short guys 

These shoes below are also made for people who are on their feet all day - from business professionals to simply active individuals. 100% guarantee all-day comfiness, style, height, and secrecy - thanks to Don’s Footwear’s Midsole Technology. 

Check out our dedicated Midsole Tech shoe page right here. 

D.O.N. Issue III 

Shoe overview: The D.O.N. Issue III is a gorgeous modern boot that comes in 3 finishes, from matt to standard, and glossy.

Best for: Any any sort of night outing where you prefer to keep a lower profile in regards to your height alteration. 

How tall can it make you? 2.0 to 3.1 inches 

Minimalist Lowtop 

Shoe overview: The Minimalist LowTop is probably the only elevator shoe you’ll see out there with a design as low key and simplistic as this. 

Best for: Make no mistake, this little powerhouse is the “ace up your sleeve” for days spent around people who know you, as they’ll never know WHY you happen to look “different” that day - thanks to these sneaky shoes. 

Like we said, this design is low profile, along with a high “effective” rate. Best for casual outings. How tall can it make you? 2 - 3.1 inches. 

All shoes on this list have one thing no other brand in the world has - Midsole Technology

What is Midsole Technology and how can it help you IMMEDIATELY? 

The problem with most elevator shoes: Even the best elevator shoes have soles that cannot accommodate as much in terms of comfortability, as the height increase only extends down to the heel portion of the sole - which can get a little tiresome after a while for your feet. 

The solution: Midsole technology designed by Don’s Footwear is unique in that the insert has been engineered to allow for the height-increasing portion of the shoe to extend down to the midsole area of the foot (hence the name “midsole”.) 

How can it benefit you INSTANTLY: The fact that Midsole Tech by Dons Footwear extends to the midsole area of the foot means 2 things - 

1.) A more subtle heel increase all around = less noticeable elevator shoes as most will not be able to tell where the sole arch begins and ends, let alone that it is raising your heel, to begin with. 

2.) Insane comfortability due to a more natural flatter sole profile.

Elevator shoes containing Midsole Technology are designed for busy individuals who want height increase along with maximum comfortability WITHOUT ANY SACRIFICE. 

All shoes on this list are perfect for shorter guys who want a slight height boost and maximum comfortability. Check out how Midsole actually works right here. 

Or check out our video on Midsole Technology down below! 

Elevator shoes with MIDSOLE TECH from Elevator Shoes on Vimeo.

Vans II 

Shoe overview: A hybridization of rubber/leather soles encompassed by a sheening glow of leather and/or suede - and about as casual as you can get, without losing any style. 

Best for: Rocking with the younger crowd who deem casual streetwear over anything else, with a rogue twist for individuals who want a subtle height increase. 

How tall can it make you: 2 - 3.1 inches 

Check out our dedicated Midsole Tech shoe page right here!

MST Engineering Boot 

Shoe overview: The best boot for a multitude of situations that require the sturdiest of “foot armor” - you can’t go wrong with the MST Engineering Boot. 

Best for: This boot is perfect for rough-rounded individuals or those with a more active lifestyle needing a slight height boost, along with an insane comfortability factor. A steel toecap can be added upon request. This boot is designed to be comfier than regular boots, is tougher, and makes you taller! 

How tall can it make you: 2.0 - 3.1 inches 

Note: this boot is slightly heavier to the touch than our average boot due to the double leather layer under the heavy-duty, however once on the foot, it feels like a regular boot. 

MST Loafer II

Shoe overview: MST Loafer II created by Don’s is the updated version of a traditional Italian classic. A classic shoe versatile enough for any situation, business or otherwise. Best for: Business or business casual events, as the finishing comes in standard, glossy, and matt suede or leather - enabling you to be as versatile as possible. 

How tall can it make you: 2.0-3.1 inches 

Check out our dedicated Midsole Tech shoe page right here! 

MST Manchester

Shoe overview: A stylish look with a more “out there” design, combined with a double leather sole (for a sneaky extra height boost), meet the MST Manchester. 

Best for: Office attire, formal events, for professionals on their feet all day and who want the most comfort. 

How tall can it make you: 2.0-2.75 inches 

Remember all these shoes have patent-pending Midsole Technology meaning these are single-handedly the comfiest elevator shoes out there and ONLY ones with Midsole Tech! 

A BIG problem with most elevator shoes is the awkward position of the heel that makes you notice that your feet are slanted - like a man in heels! 

Midsole Technology fixes this problem for good! 

So good you’ll be able to run in your elevator shoes if you want! No seriously...you can run in these - 

But ONLY in elevator shoes made with MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY by Don’s Footwear.

Polgatoe Slender 

Shoe overview: The ultimate formal footwear for individuals who want a sleeker look, as this model has a no sole-edge - which overall makes the Polgatoe Slender sleeker-looking and narrow whilst making you look taller still. 

Best for: Busy individuals who long for a longer, more streamlined look, and who perhaps desire something less boxy and big. 

The Polgatoe Slender also comes in a longer toe box, ensuring more comfortability. How tall can it make you: 2.0-3.1 inches

MST Low-Cut B101 

Shoe overview: The MST Low-Cut B101 is the perfect footwear for guys eager to maintain a low profile with this low-cut square toe cap slip-on. 

Best for: Office environments, important interviews, and for straight cut hassle-free men who’d rather avoid too much attention. Go up to 3.1 inches in height and not notice a damn thing! 

How tall can it make you: 2.0 - 3.1 inches 

MST Terni 2

Shoe overview: The MST Terni 2 will be your go-to for only the most formal of events - like that of office occasions - when you dare to garner all the attention. 

Best for: Confident guys and men who want a little more “oomph.” 

Shy guys stay far away. 

How tall can it make you: 2.0 - 3.1 inches 

Do you want to actually be taller AND wear “regular” shoes while doing it?  

Midsole Technology by Don’s Footwear will help you... 

Be taller 

But most importantly… 

They will make you feel as though you’re wearing regular shoes...since you won’t be able to feel the height difference at all.

And because you won’t feel it, no one else will notice it either, which means Midsole Technology will be your best-kept secret. 

If you want to learn more about Midsole Technology and how it could help you become taller without risking any discomfort or public embarrassment, check out our info page right here. 

Or check out our entire dedicated Midsole shoe collection right here. 

End your pain, discomfort, and embarrassment, by getting literally every single thing you could ever want in a height-increasing shoe...with Midsole Technology. 

Check out our other in-depth article answering all your elevator shoe questions right here if you’re still unsure!