From the simple, but imposing Roman sandals, to today's most sophisticated and expensive sneakers, footwear has evolved from being an object to protect the feet to a symbol of identity and, in many cases, distinction.
Throughout history, countless styles of shoes have been created, among which some have stood out due to their design, manufacturing process, materials, etc.
Among the models that have set the standard, in this article we will focus our attention on those made with Shell Cordovan, one of the most appreciated materials due to its quality, the scarce raw materials with which they are made and the careful manufacturing process, among others. factors.
To begin with, I tell you that a pair can easily exceed 15 thousand pesos and reach even higher costs, depending on the manufacturer, as in the case of the models offered by the renowned Alden or Brooks Brohters, as well as Johnston and Murphy, among others.
Below, I share six considerations regarding their manufacturing, which will explain why they are so special and appreciated.
“Carrying dreams on your feet is beginning to give them reality.”
Roger Vivier, fashion designer
Where does Shell Cordovan come from?
Shell Cordovan is a type of leather that comes from the upper part of the haunches of horses whose breeding, unlike cattle, is very minor.
Its particularity lies in the fact that it is the layer that is directly in contact with the animal, which gives it a special fibrosity and makes it very durable.
A curious fact is that, according to shoe experts, the use of this part of the horse for high-end footwear dates back about 30 years since, previously, this leather was widely used as a razor sharpener in hairdressers and barbershops. .
“The difference between style and fashion is quality,”
Giorgio Armani, fashion designer
Shell Cordovan, where does its name come from?
The part from which this type of skin is obtained (the upper curvature of the horse's hind legs) is what gives it the designation “Shell.”
It is obtained from a relatively small part of leather that, many times, is only enough to obtain one pair of shoes. But what is an important part of its name is its curved shape, similar to a shell.
“Good shoes take you to good places.”
Seohyun, singer and dancer
A little history
Given the limited supply of the leather with which they are made, the tanning of the leather for Shell Cordovan shoes is limited to some areas of America, Europe (England and Italy) and Japan.
The Horween Leather Company, founded at the beginning of the 20th century in Chicago, is the brand with the largest production of the raw materials to manufacture them and its legacy goes back more than five generations.
Among other secrets, this firm characterizes its tanning by the hot oiling treatment, which has differentiated it from its competitors.
The quality of the leathers used by this manufacturer results in a wide range of products that range from the aforementioned shoes to belts, jackets, wallets and even sporting goods such as professional baseball gloves, as well as basketballs used in the game. NBA and American football, like those used in the NFL.
Cordovan, meanwhile, is derived from Córdoba, the Spanish city once famous for the quality of fur dyeing.
“Fashions fade, style is eternal,”
Roger Vivier, fashion designer
How do they obtain that characteristic color range?
The art used to treat the leather is another characteristic feature of this footwear. In total, the process can last about six months, in which up to 100 different processes are carried out.
In short, before becoming a beautiful pair of shoes, the leather must go through several stages ranging from shaving, dyeing (which can take between three and four weeks), smoothing, drying, treatment with vegetable oils ( with ingredients such as chestnuts and quebracho tree bark), hand dyeing with aniline, ironing (which seals the dyeing), polishing, measuring the thickness and size, and finally, the sealing that gives the buyer the guarantee that your footwear is made from authentic Shell Cordovan.
Due to their dyeing with natural oils, Shell Cordovan shoes are usually sold in shades close to brown. There is even a characteristic color of the same name, very similar to burgundy with slight lighter shades, which, over time, changes towards a softer brown.
Therefore, when buying them, in addition to the price indicator, you should pay attention that the pair chosen is Cordovan because of the leather, and not just because of the color.
Do you want to know if a guy is well dressed? Look down”,
George Frazier, style specialist
How to care for your Shell Cordovan?
If you have reached this point and this shoe has not convinced you, I will tell you that this type of leather is very resistant to water and, unlike other natural materials, it is more resistant to scratches (if you have deer boots you will understand. easily) and cracks caused by use.
Be careful, when purchasing them, you should also consider that your new pair will require more finicky care than a pair made from calfskin.
To preserve the good condition of your Shell Cordovan you have to purchase a set of special creams, made with natural oils that will help you care for and preserve its characteristics. Of course it goes without saying that solvent shoe cleaners, very common on the market, are prohibited!
“I feel like slippers are the ruin of many relationships,”
Lady Gaga, singer
Is there Shell Cordovan for all tastes?
The range of styles allows you to use them with either a very formal, smart casual or informal look.
For the former, you can opt for Oxford models (wing tip or saddle bal) or Monk strap; For the second group, there are long-winged brogues, loafers and, of course, boots.
Finally, let's not forget that the current trend is to manufacture high-priced tennis shoes or sneakers, which go very well if your outfit is more relaxed, but maintaining that classic touch of good taste.
As the master shoemaker George Glasgow Sr said: “You have to invest in a good mattress and good footwear”. What do you think?
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Rene Gonzalo Hernandez Communicator and analyst. He has worked as a content creator for traditional and online media of the IP and public institutions.