The Secret Behind the Longevity of Russian Leather Shoes
Russian leather shoes are known for their distinctive fragrance, vibrant shades and softness. The hides are treated using a unique mixture of oils from nature in order to maintain the leather’s strength, flexibility and longevity.
In contrast to European consumers who choose bright demi-season shoes, Russians value quality products that will withstand the local climate.
Craftsmanship
Simplest footwear consisted of cowhide leather that was heavy and dense, without any decoration. It was the footwear of everyday use of artisans and peasants, while the lighter and softer leather was used for more expensive shoes for higher classes. The leather that was thick on the soles was sewn to the heel and upper quarters by a variety of techniques, such as an inner seam, and sewing with a needle (Illustration 4, items 2v-4). The Lining [Rus. The podnariad, also known as podnarjad is sewn onto the heel and upper with a special stitch.
The archaeological material also shows that shoemakers in medieval Novgorod utilized a variety methods for embellishing their shoes, including stamping, embroidery and carving on leather. In addition, they made their names into leather or on the soles of the shoes to mark the shoes.
In the 14th century, a different style of footwear was introduced: openwork boots. These were similar to soft shoes because they featured only a single cut forward and standing or lightly bent sides. Rawhide laces were utilized to tie these boots at the instep.
Schuh-Bertl found ways to use the leather, despite its rarity. They use it to create their Russia leather boots, which have become menswear legend because they’re so durable and virtually indestructible.
Durability
In addition to being beautiful, Russian leather shoes are also very durable. This is because of their unique tanning process, that results in a more durable and more flexible leather. They’re also highly repellent to insects and water. They are ideal for long walks. The quality of these footwear is such that they are utilized by professional hunters as well as hikers.
In the wreckage from the Metta Catharina, one of the most famous Russian leathers was found. When divers recovered bundles of Russian reindeer hides, they instantly became a historical legend. The skins were of a crimson-colored hue with an distinctive smell. After the divers washed them, they were approached by custom shoemakers from Cleverly. Cleverly’s shoemakers believed they could bring justice to the famous leather.
The tanning process was done using oak bark and then oiled with birch-tar oil in order to give it the properties of waterproofing and durability that made it famous. The popularity of the leather spread across the world until the Russian Revolution, when the recipe and tanning techniques were lost.
Hermes recreated the appearance and feel of the giay the thao nam by using a technique called “Russian Calf”. The initial step is to choose the highest quality calfskins (only ones from animals that are less than the age of a year, instead of the minimum of six months required for normal calfskin). The leather then put into the tanning pot, which is made from oak, willow and birch bark, all indigenous trees to the area in which it was made. They are then dyed and printed with the characteristic cross-hatch pattern that is characteristic of Russian leather.
Quality control
A lot of shoemakers still use their old methods but are now using the latest technology. For example the Yachting factory has ceased using foreign-made blanks and is now producing all footwear in Russia. It allows greater flexibility to meet demands of the customer and also reduces production times. It also enhances the overall quality of shoes by eliminating flaws.
Manufacturing processes and materials are key factors that determine the quality of the footwear. Shoesmakers must make use of the highest quality materials and their factories should be well-maintained and clean. To ensure the high-quality of their products, companies must follow a strict audit schedule. A skilled inspector will know which tests to run and will help you reach the highest levels of quality.
Footwear must comply with certain standards to be sold in Russia and this includes testing for harmful substances. Hohenstein can test your shoes’ leather for harmful chemicals based on the LEATHER STANDARD of RSL and issue an appropriate certificate.
The quality of Russian shoes is a key element in the economics of Russia. Good quality shoes are a fantastic way to attract customers and boost the country’s economy. Despite the challenges, the Russian shoe industry remains positive. The Egorievsk Shoemaker Company, for example continues to make investments in the city and supports the renovation of historical monuments. The company also sponsors children’s sport and aids war and labor veterans.
Manufacturing processes
The standards for Russian manufacturing of leather shoes are quite strict, since the products must meet GOST and the advanced Roskachestvo standard. These standards have stricter requirements for tailoring and toxicology. The products are also subject to a mandatory test to determine if they meet environmental standards. The products must be constructed from local materials.
The shoemaker must also follow an array of rules and specifications for the manufacturing and design process. For instance the soles have to be durable and waterproof. Furthermore the uppers need to be flexible enough to allow movement in any direction, and also support the foot’s natural shape. The manufacturing process of footwear is based on a complete process, starting from cutting the skin all the way to the packaging of the final product.
The footwear should be soft and comfortable. They must also be resistant to abrasion, corrosion and. This is the reason why a lot of Russian manufacturers produce footwear with textile uppers. By 2022, this style of footwear is expected to be sold over 34 million pairs.
According to the Ukrainian sanctions monitoring project Trap Aggressor, Russian military shoemakers import raw materials and equipment from Europe. Imported directly products worth 4.1 million dollars from European companies comprise glue, leather, and components for shoes-making equipment. Inna Khramtsova has been designing shoes for Unichel for more than 20 years. She knows which shoes Russian women buy currently and which are expected to be the most popular in the near future.