Joseph Cheaney and Sons: The Art of the English Shoe
“Since 1886, Cheaney has been at the pinnacle of English shoemaking. They represent the Northampton Stand—a refusal to compromise on the traditional Goodyear welted construction that makes a shoe truly immortal.”
1. The Heritage
Cheaney is a survivor of the golden age of British footwear. Every single pair of shoes goes through approximately 200 separate operations, taking eight weeks to complete.
Their "Goodyear Welted" process is the hallmark of quality; it allows the shoe to be completely dismantled and rebuilt, meaning a pair of Cheaneys can last a lifetime.
2. The Location
They operate out of the same red-brick factory in Desborough, Northamptonshire, where the company was founded over 130 years ago.
3. The Difference
Sustainability: Their Goodyear welted construction is the ultimate eco-credential - as the soles are stitched rather than glued, they can offer a full factory refurbishment service to rebuild the shoe once the sole wears down and by using high-grade calf leathers and traditional Veldtschoen construction, their boots and shoes are designed to be essentially "immortal" if properly cared for.
Community: By keeping production in Desborough, they support a hyper-local ecosystem of tanneries and specialist toolmakers, keeping the region's historic trade alive.
Standards: Recipients of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, they aim to uphold the highest UK labour standards so every craftsman is treated fairly.
4. The Hero Products
The 'Mallory' Derby Boot: A rugged, military-style boot made from Veldtschoen leather, designed to be completely waterproof and exceptionally tough.
The 'Deal' Derby: A classic plain-front shoe that highlights the incredible quality of their hand-burnished calf leather.
The 'Arthur' Brogue: A quintessential English wingtip brogue that looks as good with denim as it does with a suit.
5. The Essentials
Certifications: Queen’s Award for Enterprise (International Trade).
Product Index: Men’s Footwear: Oxfords, Derbys, Brogues, Monk Shoes, Loafers, Chelsea Boots, Veldtschoen (Country) Boots, Chukka Boots, Driving Shoes, Slippers, Goodyear Welted Trainers. Women’s Footwear: Brogue Boots, Loafers, Chelsea Boots, Monk Shoes. Accessories: Cashmere Scarves, English Leather Belts, Shoe Horns, Shoe Trees, Leather Gloves, Luggage & Bags (by Croots). Services: Full Refurbishment & Repair Service.
