Universal Works X Sanders

Sanders & Sanders was established in 1873 by Brothers William and Thomas Sanders in Rushden, Northamptonshire. Sanders’ manufacturing skill took them from a five-man production line to producing boots for the British Army in the first world war. After a devastating fire in 1924, Sanders rebuilt their factory which still houses the production today. The company is now in its fourth generation of Sanders and produces around 2000 pairs of the finest quality shoes and boots every week.

Working with Sanders was a personal project for UW designer David Keyte and an opportunity for the self-confessed ‘sneaker wearer’ to make his perfect smart shoe with one of the best makers in the world. Universal Works reworked the Gibson shoe and Penny Loafer, two of Sanders classic styles, updating the sole units with half-thickness black crepe sole. “As I pretty much only wears sneakers, I wanted the shoes to be both low-profile and comfortable from the first time they’re worn. This type of half-thickness crepe is perfect, as it looks like an understated leather sole but is soft and pliable. We’ve gone for a matt finish leather upper but we didn’t want to mess with anything else, they’re already perfect.” - David Keyte.

The Shoes are available exclusively online and in stores now.

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