From a young age, I was captivated by the boots my grandfather wore. These were no ordinary boots; they told a story through the way the leather aged and acquired character over time. Each crease, each scratch from rocks and branches in the field, and even the toasted tips from winter nights by the fireplace added to their unique personality.
These were the boots of the working class—sturdy, reliable, and built for hard work. Farmers, shepherds, masons, and carpenters alike relied on these boots, which were as authentic and enduring as the people who wore them.
As years passed, traditional leather boots like my grandfather's fell out of fashion, replaced by mass-produced footwear that valued trend over quality. The craftsmanship and skill that once thrived in small workshops were nearly lost. I’ve never believed in disposable products or fleeting trends. Instead, I’m driven by authenticity, craftsmanship, and lasting quality.
This passion led me to a vision: to create boots that honor history and traditional craftsmanship while embodying timeless style. Inspired by my grandfather’s boots, I set out on a journey to bring this vision to life. Step by step, Urban Shepherd Boots was born.
- Tiago Máximo, Founder & CEO
HANDCRAFTED ARTISAN BOOTS FROM PORTUGAL
Urban Shepherd Boots are meticulously handcrafted at a small, family-owned workshop in Benedita, Portugal — the heart of Portuguese shoemaking. With a legacy spanning five generations, our skilled artisans use traditional construction techniques to create boots that stand the test of time.
Why Choose Urban Shepherd Boots?
• Genuine Leather Craftsmanship: Each pair features a genuine leather midsole and heel counter, ensuring durability and comfort.
• Hand-Layed Cork Footbed: Provides natural cushioning and support.
• Goodyear Welt Construction: A robust, time-tested method that allows our boots to be re-soled multiple times, extending their life.
• Locally Sourced Materials: We use only natural, locally sourced leather from Alcanena, Portugal — the birthplace of Portugal’s leather industry, where tanneries have honed their craft for over 100 years.
We pride ourselves on using the highest quality materials in every pair of Urban Shepherd Boots. Unlike other brands, we never use engineered or reconstituted leather. Our commitment to quality ensures that you receive boots made from premium leather, crafted to last a lifetime.
At Urban Shepherd, we don’t just make boots; we create heirlooms. Discover the lasting value of handcrafted leather boots that blend historical craftsmanship with contemporary design.
