Choosing a quality shoe isn't just a matter of looks. It means choosing to take care of your feet, your posture, your very way of moving — to the benefit of your overall wellbeing. It also means investing over time: being more durable, the shoe will last longer, and its lived-in look will come to be part of its beauty. An absolute guarantee of quality is the Goodyear welt — a shoe construction process invented by the Englishman Charles Goodyear back in 1832.
A traditional technique that endures, carried forward by companies that invest in the quality of their products. Over the years it has been refined with innovative machinery and materials, always paired with the experience and craftsmanship of specialised artisans. That's why Zamberlan® — which in almost 90 years of history has studied and adopted the finest techniques for trekking and mountaineering footwear — has deep expertise in Goodyear construction, to the point of also creating shoes for everyday use, in urban settings or for travellers.
An artisanal approach that, using the finest Tuscan leathers, gives life to a premium line of products — urban in look, technically advanced — for everyone who feels like a citizen of the world. Those who live in full Handmade Philosophy style.
What is the process behind Goodyear welt construction?
This particular construction method demands more time and greater care throughout the process. To meet that standard and guarantee customers maximum quality and durability, Zamberlan® relies on the hands of expert artisans who have known the craft for years, creating handcrafted shoes of great value.
In Goodyear construction, the upper part of the shoe is stitched — together with a soft strip of leather running around the entire perimeter of the shoe, known as the "welt" — to the insole. This also secures the upper and the lining. The midsole is then glued and fixed with a second stitch, typical of the Goodyear process. In the cavity created by the assembly of these elements — the space between insole and outsole — a filler core is placed, usually EVA, with a high-strength adhesive to perfect the construction. This allows the shoe to breathe well, hold its anatomical shape and, at the same time, adapt to the foot.
What are the advantages of Goodyear-welted shoes?
- Softness, flexibility and comfort. Footwear produced with this particular process guarantees these qualities, above all thanks to the midsole positioned between insole and outsole, which gives the foot a comfortable, cushioned platform — free to move and flex.
- Solidity. The Goodyear welt ensures the perfect bond of every component — insole, outsole, welt and upper — giving the shoe outstanding sturdiness.
- Longevity. One of the main advantages of Goodyear-welted footwear is that it can be resoled. When the sole wears out, it can be replaced without any damage to the rest of the structure, giving the shoe a new life.
- Design. The distinctive stitching technique gives Goodyear-welted shoes a truly unique design: at the stitch line, the upper sits recessed from the edge of the sole. A peculiarity that makes these shoes not only high quality but instantly recognisable.
- Innovation. As mentioned, since 1832 — the year Charles Goodyear registered his patent — the process has been continually enhanced with the latest technological machinery, always alongside the artisan knowledge of skilled, specialised workers.
The Zamberlan® models built with the Goodyear welt
A classic Made-in-Italy style with a contemporary look that suits every occasion, from work to free time. Clean, balanced lines with distinctive touches: for those who never stand still in daily life, and for curious, tireless travellers.
The 1133 VERBIER GW leather shoes are handcrafted with the Goodyear method and fully leather-lined for maximum comfort. Metal eyelet lacing gives them a modern look, while the upper guarantees top quality thanks to its Tuscan leather. These handcrafted Goodyear shoes are also designed for nature lovers: the leather insole is made without the use of chrome. Fitted with a Vibram® Roccia sole for maximum comfort, they are available in black or brown, with a second pair of laces included in the box.
Essential lines and superb build quality thanks to Goodyear construction, for a model that is 100% Made in Italy. The 1136 GARMISCH GW handcrafted leather shoes have a classic look, perfect for city use, business trips and unmistakable free-time style.
They feature an upper in prestigious Tuscan leather and a Vibram® Gumlite sole, a guarantee of excellent grip on flat, smooth surfaces. This model is dedicated to those who love elegance and high quality in everyday life, in the city or around the world. Here too, Zamberlan® pays special attention to nature: the leather insole is made without the use of chrome. A second pair of laces is included in the box.
Low-cut leather lace-ups: a timeless classic. Essential style and design with unmatched quality, entirely Made in Italy.
The 1134 SOLDEN GW handcrafted leather shoes are produced entirely in Italy using the Goodyear construction method — a process demanding great manual skill and experience. They boast an upper in prestigious Tuscan leather and a Vibram® Gumlite sole, synonymous with excellent grip on flat, smooth surfaces. A model developed for those who love elegance, quality and comfort in daily life, in the city or around the world. And once again, Zamberlan® keeps an eye on nature: the leather insole of the 1134 SOLDEN GW is made without the use of chrome.