Malaysia Watch Forum

Off Topic => Travel & Living => Topic started by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 07:39:43 AM

Title: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 07:39:43 AM
So who here has custom shoes made to fit?
Always wanted a pair and dont know where to start.

Maybe i havent been looking hard enough but i dont recall anyone said there is any in the Klang Valley area?

Roughly how much are we looking at minimum?

Come on show off your shoes ;D
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 08:04:49 AM
u're opening a whole can of worms...

fyi local custom shoe makers can be found in pertama complex or perhaps even kulitkraf will take up your order. also san lee shoes in cheras (google for it). and thomas chan (find in bsc and other branches). but none can match the quality and durability of a nicely made ready to wear english pair of shoes.

(http://www.pbase.com/kelvinphoto/image/127880881.jpg)

(http://www.pbase.com/kelvinphoto/image/111265026.jpg)
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: chin on August 10, 2011, 09:29:29 AM
Good topic, since I have oddly shaped feet (wide but not long) and conventional shoes does not fit properly.

BTW my 1st experience with custom shoes were from Pertama and the shoe did not fit properly, waste of money as it was too tight so only wore like 3 times. 
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 09:33:04 AM
actually ready made shoes (Ready To Wear) come in configurations that fit various foot sizes...

1) last shape
2) shoe size (essentially length)
3) width size

the issue with most shoes off the shelf, they are made in some generic last shape and 'estimated' width size fitting most asians with the only variation being the shoe size available to customers.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: David_cheong on August 10, 2011, 09:38:44 AM
Peter

There is one hand-made shoe shop at the summit.
(I bought one and wearing now...very comfortable / real leather)

Not too sure whether they do custom made.

Check it out the next time when you are there.

dc
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 09:58:52 AM
Great looking pair of monks.

Love leather shoes but not much occasions to wear em. I only wear barogues and wing tips for work. Guess as u grow older, you'll want something that would still look good on a 60 year old.

Great photos as usual  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 10:00:04 AM
thanks... shoes like these are always contemporary and can easily last beyond a decade if well taken care of and serviced.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 10:04:00 AM
Btw, what do u use on ur shoes? Looking great and spiffy.

Just got myself some Obernaufs and would try it out on my shoes and bags later
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 10:05:30 AM
those are shot when the shoes are new but my shoes are kept in excellent condition with saphir products, horsehair brushes and shoe trees. of course, i never wear them 2 days in a row and always use a shoe horn.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: acurusaragon on August 10, 2011, 10:46:27 AM
There is one shop at the ground level of Wisma Central besides KLCC and infront of Avenue K .

Just  search for the leather shop on the left as u enter from the main door. (RM300 - 1000 or more depending on design and material)

Nice stuff !
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 12:06:44 PM
I always wondered whats the reason to never wear them 2 days in a row?
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 12:11:29 PM
I always wondered whats the reason to never wear them 2 days in a row?

gives the leather a chance to breathe, get back into its original shape and also lose some of the trapped moisture from your sweat.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 12:19:55 PM
Ahhh.....thanks for explaining it to me.
When i got time over the weekend i'm gonna check out the shops you mentioned.

I've never seen any (frm my limited views on forums) custom made shoes without shoe laces.
Are they available? Or is it not recommended?
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 12:22:54 PM
Ahhh.....thanks for explaining it to me.
When i got time over the weekend i'm gonna check out the shops you mentioned.

I've never seen any (frm my limited views on forums) custom made shoes without shoe laces.
Are they available? Or is it not recommended?

u mean slip ons? anyway, do let us know ur findings. i have yet to be impressed by the locally made shoes (especially considering you pay a premium on custom made). fyi a real custom made, u need a last (a wooden mould) of your feet for them to make the shoes out of. not anyone can/want to do this.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 12:27:58 PM
Oh yes slip ons, i'm a lazy bugger hehe.

The mould is to be kept with the shoemaker as a record of your size correct?

I've seen some on the forums but alot cost a brand new Rolex at times, so just wondered today if we have any local shoemakers. I think my max would be rm1k for it, if thats possible.

So Kelvin, did you got your custom made overseas?
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 12:31:19 PM
Oh yes slip ons, i'm a lazy bugger hehe.

The mould is to be kept with the shoemaker as a record of your size correct?

I've seen some on the forums but alot cost a brand new Rolex at times, so just wondered today if we have any local shoemakers. I think my max would be rm1k for it, if thats possible.

So Kelvin, did you got your custom made overseas?

it's a record for the shape of your feet (as mentioned, the shoe is more than just its size).

normally an english made bespoke can be ard RM12k-20k+

some japanese shoemakers can even cost more.

there are some famous ones like vass that can be had for much less.

mine are definitely not bespoke. they are not even customized/made to measure. merely RTW. i am happy that the lasts of the shoes that i have present me with no problems and a very comfortable fit.

if u're lazy, i'm assuming u wont be using a shoe horn and shoe tree... so expect the shoe to condemn fast no matter how much u pay for it (unless u getting crocs).
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 12:40:19 PM
Actually using both, and my most expensive Bally still going strong after almost 8yrs of on and off wear.

Interesting new topic to learn.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 12:41:40 PM
Actually using both, and my most expensive Bally still going strong after almost 8yrs of on and off wear.

Interesting new topic to learn.

good lah. is ur bally goodyear welted?
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 12:54:50 PM
Seriously, Pete, your Bally can last for almost 8 years? :o The Clark's that I'm wearing daily now can only lasted me for 3-4 years only leh. The Airsoles is so comfortable to walk with. So much so that the inner sole lining of the extra pair of Clark's that I bought, stored & never ever wear, ........... has gone rotten! :HammerHead:

a properly made english goodyear welted shoes should be able to last beyond a decade if properly maintained.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1186234/Ones-antique-clothes-How-Prince-Charles-king-wardrobe-recycling.html (Prince Charles' 40 yr old Lobbs).

the clarks that you wear have rubber/plastic made soles that are never as durable as treated leather soles plus they cannot be replaced/serviced. furthermore, i'm assuming they are corrected leather which will peel after a couple of years.

to top if all off, u did mention you're wearing them 'daily' which is a sure way to kill them before their expected lifespan. the extra pair that you have is just left alone without any maintenance?
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 10, 2011, 12:57:51 PM
I think my Bally is more of a loafer type.
Not sure if goodyear welted or not, has a rubber sole though.
The insole though is leather.

Bought it dirt cheap cause the Bally boutique in San Francisco was closing down, i dont wear it much maybe cause it is a little tight, not wide enough.
When the weather is cold its ok, when i brought it back to Malaysia i wear it when i wear shorts.

I dont care for it too much and surprised that it lasted as long as it did. For the past few years i only wear it maybe less than 50 times in a year.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 01:04:42 PM
I think my Bally is more of a loafer type.
Not sure if goodyear welted or not, has a rubber sole though.
The insole though is leather.

Bought it dirt cheap cause the Bally boutique in San Francisco was closing down, i dont wear it much maybe cause it is a little tight, not wide enough.
When the weather is cold its ok, when i brought it back to Malaysia i wear it when i wear shorts.

I dont care for it too much and surprised that it lasted as long as it did. For the past few years i only wear it maybe less than 50 times in a year.

yes not goodyear welted.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 01:29:43 PM
thanks for sharing the article.....  :thumbsup:

as i grow older i think i would just stick with a few basics so that i can continue to wear 'em when i am 60. although not as bespoke and exclusive as Charlie but still timeless albeit mass market.

so bring on those brogue, wingtips and desert boots  :laugh:

Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 01:31:20 PM
thanks for sharing the article.....  :thumbsup:

as i grow older i think i would just stick with a few basics so that i can continue to wear 'em when i am 60. although not as bespoke and exclusive as Charlie but still timeless albeit mass market.

so bring on those brogue, wingtips and desert boots  :laugh:

 :thumbsup: just make sure they are goodyear welted and done in uncorrected leather and u'll find years of enjoyment out of your shoes  ;D
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 01:32:42 PM
I cant tolerate leather soled leather shoes, .......... not comfortable to walk leh. Hence, never learn to appreciate Bally :laugh:

i on the other hand love leather soled shoes.... and insist on only leather lined shoes too. breathable...is the major concern because i can spend 20 hours straight in a single pair of shoes.

love the feeling of sliding on carpeted floors  :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 01:34:58 PM
I cant tolerate leather soled leather shoes, .......... not comfortable to walk leh. Hence, never learn to appreciate Bally :laugh:

i on the other hand love leather soled shoes.... and insist on only leather lined shoes too. breathable...is the major concern because i can spend 20 hours straight in a single pair of shoes.

love the feeling of sliding on carpeted floors  :laugh: :laugh:

i too enjoy leather soles very much. once seasoned, they provide sufficient grip and u can line them with rubber soles if u really want. my leather soled shoes are among the most comfortable i have.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 01:37:32 PM
http://www.whatmakesaman.net/wordpress/2008/09/21/10-classic-english-shoemakers-part-1-introduction/

http://www.elegant-lifestyle.com/classic_shoes.htm

http://www.askandyaboutclothes.com/forum/showthread.php?49981-RTW-Shoemakers

more articles for u to read
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: hanz079 on August 10, 2011, 01:44:37 PM
Wow, this thread is becoming really informative...  :thumbsup:
Since my last pair of Bally leather shoes already koyakted, I was planning on getting a pair from Braun Buffel. Leather Soles and all, costs around 1k+
All this talk about bespoke shoes have got me thinking because everytime I shop for a leather shoe, If the width fits, the length is longer than it should be.
If I get the correct length, both sides of my feet will hurt... fat foot perhaps? ;D
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 01:45:12 PM
i really wish i can buy those shoes and wear them...

the only ones i spend on are those "psuedo" italian-made-shoes-by-the-hands-of-poor-exploited-former-eastern-bloc-exploited-immigrants-that-is-sold-in-Tangs  :laugh:

i find only those are adequately priced with full leather sole and lining and would last me a year.

due to the nature of my job... i need to walk---walk-----walk-----kick-------run------ for hours and hours...so i really work 'em shoes.

off days and when i am on my casual best..it would be Clarks DB or Redwings :Laughing_on_floor:
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 10, 2011, 01:50:13 PM
don't buy those braun buffels. there will not last long as well as the soles are glued/cemented and the leather is mostly corrected.

suggest u guys just go clear up the existing stock of cheaneys (2nds) and C&Js at plal. well worth the price as they last a long time (unless u're just too lazy to maintain with polishing/proper usage).
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 01:57:01 PM
yes...i always believe buy products from manufacturers who made em and not manufacturers who have licensed other manufacturers to make for em

etc..shoes from shoe makers ....sun glasses from sunglasses makers and not fashion houses...

Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 10, 2011, 01:58:12 PM
i dont have custom made shoe but buy off the shelf, mostly italian leather shoes,
most comfortable shoe i wore was my first pair clark sportive bought in 1982
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 10, 2011, 01:59:54 PM
Adidas with impact-absorbent Adiprene cushioning and Torsion midfoot support is just the one for you........hu, terrenceterrence :laugh:

too bad they do not make leather brogue with leather lining and soles.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: Sid Vicious on August 10, 2011, 05:47:06 PM
This is exciting.

I owe a pair of Paul Smith. V nice and comfortable.

Leather sole to top it off as well.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 11, 2011, 07:47:11 AM
zitan, now the clark shoes made in asia not so lasting, in end of 2008 bought one for chinese new year wore a few times.
the sole glue give way, call clark malaysia, send to them, one week later, call me go to isetan to chose a new pair, very good after sale service. from now on i buy only stitching sole shoe , all expensive shoes have stitching sole.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 11, 2011, 07:50:01 AM
zitan, now the clark shoes made in asia not so lasting, in end of 2008 bought one for chinese new year wore a few times.
the sole glue give way, call clark malaysia, send to them, one week later, call me go to isetan to chose a new pair, very good after sale service. from now on i buy only stitching sole shoe , all expensive shoes have stitching sole.

the stitch that u mentioned, is what we call goodyear welting. it's not just plain stitching (there are of course those which are stitched for the sake of adding stitching and nothing else).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welt_(shoe)

clarks do have some models built this way.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 11, 2011, 08:24:06 AM
lanatir, thank you. learn something new today.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 11, 2011, 11:39:26 AM
no money go overseas, my shoes from mun loong, metrojaya, isetan, ck tang, p lal store and now tang. i still have shoe
more than 20 years since i bought it in 80'
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 11, 2011, 12:10:27 PM
no money go overseas, my shoes from mun loong, metrojaya, isetan, ck tang, p lal store and now tang. i still have shoe
more than 20 years since i bought it in 80'

the shoes from plal should be really good stuff and SHOULD last this long
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 11, 2011, 01:15:13 PM
lanatir, plal store, i think they was the only direct imported shoe until last few years, now i cannot find them.
i bought from them a. testoni (italy), k shoes (england), sioux (germany) i still have them. this shoes with me
more than 25 years still very good condition.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 11, 2011, 01:16:39 PM
plal is still operational and world famous now. just google for their 'temporary' location which is away from TAR
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: takashi78 on August 11, 2011, 01:26:35 PM
Do a search online, i just did.
Their store moved.
In Jln Gasing only.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 11, 2011, 03:50:31 PM
lanatir and takashi78, thank you.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 20, 2011, 06:30:46 PM
hmmm.. lanatir, do you fix metal heel and toe taps to any of your shoes?

Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 20, 2011, 11:22:42 PM
hmmm.. lanatir, do you fix metal heel and toe taps to any of your shoes?

nope. dont fancy them
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: lanatir on August 21, 2011, 11:39:44 AM
We are all gentlemen here, terrenceterrence, & aint tap dancer :Laughing_on_floor:

the taps are not for tap dancing. they are actually to protect the sole from uneven wear.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: besview on August 21, 2011, 12:03:48 PM
Decades ago,it was a fad to fix taps front and back and ppl get shiok with the tapping sound they emit.Double purpose really,be in and protection against premature wear n tear :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 21, 2011, 12:09:49 PM
We are all gentlemen here, terrenceterrence, & aint tap dancer :Laughing_on_floor:

try googling it up the difference, gentleman
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: terrenceterrence on August 21, 2011, 12:12:09 PM
Decades ago,it was a fad to fix taps front and back and ppl get shiok with the tapping sound they emit.Double purpose really,be in and protection against premature wear n tear :thumbsup:

i guess before the age of mass production, a good pair of shoes are not cheap. so extra care is taken to make sure each pair last
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: wslee on August 24, 2011, 09:23:50 PM
Since you all were mentioning about shoes.Was wondering anyone of you bought Tod's shoes before
I heard it was very comfortable
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: engkow on August 25, 2011, 06:05:46 AM
i went in the shop at klcc, saw the driving shoe very nice, soft leather, when saw the price ......ahh expensive..
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: Sid Vicious on August 25, 2011, 06:40:19 AM
It's very comfy

You can get i at the Millium group outlet at Wangsa Maju I think. Back season RM800 if not mistaken.

If you into this, have a look at Car the brand. Apparently they use recycled tyres as the sole. On sale can get around this price too
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: besview on August 25, 2011, 02:02:59 PM
Decades ago,it was a fad to fix taps front and back and ppl get shiok with the tapping sound they emit.Double purpose really,be in and protection against premature wear n tear :thumbsup:

i guess before the age of mass production, a good pair of shoes are not cheap. so extra care is taken to make sure each pair last


Yup,those days most shoes were imported from England where got Larrie,Bonia,loewre? used to have small nails driven thru the edges of the heels as it made less noise.
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: wslee on August 25, 2011, 08:20:15 PM
It's very comfy

You can get i at the Millium group outlet at Wangsa Maju I think. Back season RM800 if not mistaken.

If you into this, have a look at Car the brand. Apparently they use recycled tyres as the sole. On sale can get around this price too

Sid,Millium Group Outlet at wangsa Maju,do you mind to give specific location.Thanks
Title: Re: Custom shoes
Post by: Sid Vicious on August 26, 2011, 12:51:57 AM
PM sent