Customised For The Perfect Fit
Libby Faulkner caught up with Liz Holgate from Whalley Warm and Dry to find out what makes their boot fitting service a cut above the rest. Photography: Robin Lyndon
It’s so important to us that customers come away with the perfect fit and the best experience possible. We often fit people who are walking two to three times a week or more, so having something that’s comfortable and long lasting is really key. The first step is the fitting, which is done using 10 measurements of the foot including width and depth. Then after carefully selecting the right boot we can customise it to meet customers’ requirements,” explains Liz Holgate of Whalley Warm and Dry.
How is a boot customised?
“Our fully trained team can identify straight away if your boots may be in need of customisation and will mark up where tight spots may be, once you are happy with the style and fit of your chosen boot. Then using specialist machinery in store, the boot is gently steamed and stretched. This process is done while you wait and only takes about 10 minutes.”
What machine is used?
“We have two machines in store that can be used to alter the fit of a boot and make it fully form fitting for an individual’s foot. First, we can use a stretching bar, this pushes the steamed leather into a small pocket, which gives a pressure point more room. The stretching bar gives very focused stretch and is used for about 90 per cent of our specially customised boots.
“If change in the boot’s shape needs to be more significant for example with very prominent bunions or heel spurs, then our Italian stretching machine is the next step. Our metal last is adjusted to suit the required stretch and the boots are steamed as usual. The machine is then ‘wound up’ holding the last in place and left to cool, leaving a much more targeted, increased stretch.”
Is custom fit right for me?
“Improving the fit of the boots using our custom techniques is not necessary for everyone. It is incredibly helpful for those suffering from bunions, heel spurs, squeezed little toes or hammer toes. This is because the stretching creates more space for the affected area meaning it is not pressing against the side or top of the boot. Whalley Warm and Dry are very proud to be one of only a handful of walking shops who offer this specialist service, which is only available on boots bought and fitted by them.”
SPECIALIST FOOTWEAR EVENT
In partnership with Alt-berg
20th-30th September 2018
Whalley Warm & Dry
82 King Street, Whalley BB7 9SN
01254 822220
www.whalleyoutdoor.co.uk
