When it comes to shoes, the material used for the soles makes a big difference in how they feel, how long they last, and how they look. Leather soles aren’t as common these days, but they’re still a favourite among people who value quality and craftsmanship. At Memery, we use leather soles in most of our shoes and boots—and here’s why we think they’re worth it.
The Benefits of Leather Soles
Leather soles have been around for centuries, and for good reason. Here’s what makes them special:
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They Get More Comfortable Over Time
Leather soles naturally shape to your feet the more you wear them, which makes them more comfortable and can even help improve posture. -
They Let Your Feet Breathe
Leather is a breathable material, which helps keep your feet cool and dry, and cuts down on odours. -
They Can Be Repaired
Unlike rubber soles, leather soles can be replaced when they wear out. That means you can keep your favourite shoes for much longer. -
They’re Eco-Friendly
Leather lasts a long time and can be repaired, which means less waste compared to plastic or rubber soles that often get thrown out. -
They Stay True to History
If you love vintage fashion, leather soles are the real deal. They were the standard in shoes for hundreds of years. -
They’re Great for Dancing
Dancers love leather soles because they let you glide and spin easily while still giving enough grip to protect your joints.
Our Eleanor derby shoes, for example, feature high-quality leather soles with a stamped leather detail at the centre.
Why Did Leather Soles Go Out of Style?
Leather soles were the norm for hundreds of years, but rubber changed everything. First used in military and sports shoes in the late 1800s, rubber became more popular in everyday shoes during the 1920's and 1930's.
By the 1980s, rubber-soled trainers were everywhere. Rubber is low-maintenance, water-resistant, and flexible—but it also can’t be repaired, which has led to more shoes being thrown away instead of fixed.
Are Leather-Soled Shoes Still a Good Choice?
Absolutely! At Memery, we believe leather soles are still one of the best choices for both shoes and boots. They offer a great mix of comfort, long life, and timeless style. They’re also flexible and breathable, making them a great option for everyday wear.
When leather soles wear down, they can be replaced—so your shoes last for years. Plus, they give a classic, elegant look that works with all kinds of outfits. That’s why we use leather soles in most of our designs.
Peter is our menswear sports shoe inspired by the 1920s and 1930s leisure wear with a leather sole.
How to Take Care of Leather Soles
Leather soles are made from natural materials, so they need a bit of care. Here’s how to keep them in good shape:
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Break Them In
When new, leather soles can be a little slippery. Walking on rough surfaces or lightly scuffing the bottom with a brush can help. -
Use Leather Conditioner
Apply a thin layer of conditioner or balm to keep the leather soft, water-resistant, and protected from dust. Our Memery leather care is made just for this. -
Keep It Up
Reapply conditioner regularly to keep soles flexible and moisture-resistant, which helps them last longer.
You can read much more about care of leather shoes on our blogpost: How to clean leather shoes and boots.
Our memery leather care with mink oil, just like back in the day.
Are Leather Soles Slippery?
They can be a bit slick at first, especially on smooth floors. But as you wear them in, they’ll start to grip better and match your walking style. Proper care helps reduce this early slipperiness.
Leather vs. Rubber Soles: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between leather and rubber depends on what you need:
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Leather Soles
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Best for daily or formal wear
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Breathable and comfortable
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Mould to your feet over time
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Great for dancing
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Rubber Soles
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Best for wet, icy, or rough conditions
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More slip-resistant and weatherproof
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Easy to maintain
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Ideal for winter boots
For instance, our Rita winter boots from the 1940s collection have patterned rubber soles for better grip in cold weather.
The Bottom Line: Why Choose Leather Soles?
Leather soles offer a level of comfort, elegance, and quality that modern synthetic materials often can’t match. Yes, they take a bit more care—but they’re built to last, and they just get better with age.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your shoes, don’t overlook leather soles. They’re stylish, sustainable, and incredibly comfortable once broken in. With the right care, they’ll last you for years—and look great every step of the way.