Posted on January 02 2023
When it comes to purchasing a new pair of dress shoes, there are many factors to consider, including the type of construction used to make the shoes. Goodyear welted and Blake stitched are two popular methods for constructing dress shoes, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we'll compare the two methods and help you determine which is the best choice for you.
What is Goodyear Welted Construction?
Goodyear welted construction is a traditional method of shoe construction that has been around for centuries. It involves attaching the upper part of the shoe to the insole using a strip of leather called the welt. The welt is then stitched to the outsole using a series of stitches called the Goodyear stitch.
The Goodyear stitch is named after Charles Goodyear Jr., who developed the process in the 19th century. The stitch is extremely strong and durable, making Goodyear welted shoes a popular choice for those who need a long-lasting, high-quality pair of shoes.
One of the main advantages of Goodyear welted shoes is their durability. Because the welt is stitched to the outsole, the shoe can be easily resoled when the outsole wears out, which means that Goodyear welted shoes can last for many years with proper care. Additionally, the construction method allows the shoe to retain its shape over time, making Goodyear welted shoes a good choice for those who need a dress shoe that will maintain its structure and fit.
What is Blake Stitched Construction?
Blake stitched construction, also known as the Blake rapid method, is a more modern method of shoe construction that was developed in the 20th century. It involves stitching the upper part of the shoe directly to the outsole using a single seam.
One of the main advantages of Blake stitched shoes is that they are typically lighter and more flexible than Goodyear welted shoes. This makes them a good choice for those who need a comfortable, lightweight dress shoe. Additionally, Blake stitched shoes are often more affordable than Goodyear welted shoes, as the construction method is less labor-intensive.
However, there are also some drawbacks to Blake stitched shoes. Because the upper is stitched directly to the outsole, it is not possible to easily resole the shoes when the outsole wears out. This means that Blake stitched shoes may not last as long as Goodyear welted shoes. Additionally, the construction method may not provide as much support and structure as Goodyear welted shoes, which may not be ideal for those who need a more structured fit.
Which Construction Method Is the Best Choice?
Ultimately, the best construction method for dress shoes will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you need a long-lasting, high-quality pair of shoes that will maintain their shape and fit over time, Goodyear welted shoes may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a comfortable, lightweight pair of shoes that is more affordable, Blake stitched shoes may be the better option.
It's important to consider the type of activities you will be doing in your dress shoes, as well as the level of support and structure you need. If you need a shoe that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, or if you need a lot of support and structure, Goodyear welted shoes may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you need a more flexible, lightweight shoe, Blake stitched shoes may be the better option.
In conclusion, Goodyear welted and Blake stitched
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