Choosing your design

Before you come to see us, take some time to review the Fosters Archive, the shoes you already have and other models that appeal to you, and think about the basic questions. Do I want a casual slip on shoe, a lace-up, is it for work, formal wear or the week-end? Am I looking primarily for foot comfort and practicality or a fashion statement? Are textures and colours important to the effect I am looking for?And very importantly, what kind of toe shape will suit my foot and my personality?

For a first meeting you should allow an hour for us to measure and assess your feet, discuss the models, toe shapes, leathers and other features that appeal to you such as the height and shape of the heel, the thickness of the sole, the shape of the instep or "Waist"  and decorative elements such as broguing patterns.

We then record this information, make your last, (Read more) and, if this is your first pair, we contact you for an appointment about 5 months later to ask you to try on the shoe to ensure that the fit is correct.

As the first pair takes shape you may be inspired to start thinking about the design for your next pair, as the making process cannot be hurried and you need to think ahead!