If you are tired of shoes that wear out in six months and end up in a landfill, you need to know about Dartmoor Shoemakers. Formerly known as Green Shoes, this small workshop in Devon has been quietly making some of the most durable, comfortable, and repairable footwear in the UK for over 40 years. But is a handmade shoe really better than a big-brand boot? Let’s find out.
What is Dartmoor Shoemakers?
Dartmoor Shoemakers is an independent British footwear brand that handcrafts high-quality leather shoes, boots, and sandals to order. Based in the heart of Dartmoor, they use traditional techniques to create “slow fashion” footwear that is designed to be resoled and repaired, lasting for decades rather than seasons.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Name | Dartmoor Shoemakers (formerly Green Shoes) |
| Founded Year | 1981 |
| Founders / Owners | Founded by Alison Hastie; Now run by Glenn and Nina |
| Headquarters | Moretonhampstead, Devon, UK |
| Industry | Footwear & Leatherwork |
| Product Categories | Shoes, Boots, Sandals, Accessories, and Workshops |
| Official Website | greenshoes.co.uk |
The Story: 40 Years of Foot-Shaped Success
The story of Dartmoor Shoemakers began in 1981. For nearly four decades, the brand operated as Green Shoes, a famous women-led collective known for making shoes that actually follow the shape of a human foot.
Nestled in an old chapel in the village of Moretonhampstead, the workshop has always stayed small and local. When the original founder retired recently, the shop was taken over by Glenn and Nina (who also run the Dartmoor Wool Loft upstairs). They’ve kept the traditional skills alive while rebranding to Dartmoor Shoemakers.
What makes them special is their refusal to do “mass production.” They don’t have a warehouse full of dusty boxes. When you place an order, they pick the leather, cut the patterns, and build your shoes specifically for you. It’s a bit of Devon history you can wear on your feet.
Top-Selling Products
Dartmoor Shoemakers has a very loyal following, and there are a few classic designs that people buy over and over again:
The Voyager Sandal: A classic fisherman-style leather sandal. It is incredibly sturdy and famous for being comfortable from the very first day.
Desert Boots: Simple, timeless, and tough. These are built for long walks on the moor but look smart enough for a pub lunch.
The Mary Jane: A fan favorite for those who want a feminine shoe that doesn’t pinch the toes. It’s practical, cute, and built to last.
The High-Top Boot: A rugged, lace-up boot that offers great ankle support. It’s the kind of boot that gets more comfortable as the leather “memorizes” your foot shape.
Product Categories Offered
They offer a wide variety of styles for both men and women, including:
- Boots: From lightweight desert boots to heavy-duty lace-ups.
- Shoes: Classic lace-ups, T-bars, and slip-ons.
- Sandals: Sturdy leather sandals for summer hiking or casual wear.
- Workshops: They even offer one-day courses where you can go to Devon and make your own shoes!
Real User Reviews: The Pros and Cons
People who buy these shoes tend to be customers for life. Here is the honest breakdown:
The Good:
- Ultimate Comfort: Because they follow the natural shape of the foot, people with wide feet or bunions swear by them.
- Made to Last: It is common to hear of customers wearing the same pair for 15 or 20 years.
- The Repair Service: When the soles wear out, you don’t throw the shoes away. You send them back to the workshop to be resoled for a fraction of the cost of a new pair.
- Ethical & Local: Zero waste and low carbon footprint.
The Bad:
- The Wait: Your shoes aren’t sitting on a shelf. It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks for them to be made and shipped.
- No “Barefoot” Feel: While they are wide and flat, they aren’t “barefoot” shoes; they have a sturdy sole and a slight toe-lift.
- Premium Price: You are paying for hours of manual labor and high-quality leather, so they are an investment.
Read more Cotton London
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you are tired of “disposable” fashion and want a pair of shoes that feels like an old friend, Dartmoor Shoemakers is 100% worth it. It’s not about the logo; it’s about the craftsmanship.
Who should buy this? People who walk a lot, anyone who struggles to find comfortable shoes on the high street, and those who want to support independent British workshops.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get my shoes?
Since every pair is made to order, the current wait time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
2. Can they make shoes for very wide feet?
Yes! They offer standard and wide fittings at no extra cost. They can also do “custom fittings” for an additional fee if you have specific foot issues like bunions.
3. Do they make vegan shoes?
They have paused their vegan range for now due to material supply issues, but they can still resole and repair older vegan pairs you might already own.
4. Can I choose my own colors?
Absolutely. One of the best parts of the “Custom Service” is picking your leather color and sole type to create a one-of-a-kind pair.
5. Where can I try them on?
Their only physical location is their workshop in Moretonhampstead, Devon. It’s a beautiful place to visit if you are in the West Country!
6. Do they ship outside the UK?
Yes, they ship internationally, though you’ll be responsible for any local customs charges.