The ‘Goodyear’ leather welts are the core business of Soprefa‘s welting department. Within the range of natural leather welts, there is a very particular type of welts that are called ‘Goodyear’. The ‘Goodyear’ designation comes from the shoe construction itself as it is a traditional handmade method with more than 200 years. In fact, this type of manufacturing – with a leather welt sewn to both the upper and the sole – seems to have begun in the 19th century and was later mechanized by ‘Mr. Charles Goodyear’ and hence the designation ‘Goodyear’ manufacturing. Currently, due to the undeniable qualities of this manufacturing method (durability, comfort, shape retention, flexibility, insulation and easy repair) it is still by many considered the “work of art” of the shoe making. Being a manufacturing method so valued, Soprefa always paid special attention to its ‘Goodyear Welts’. The meticulous choice of leather, the facilities available (including a partnership with a specialized tannery), and our skilled technicians are the reason for the success of Soprefa‘s ‘Goodyear’ welts. Our range of ‘Goodyear’ welts also include the PVC extruded welts which are produced according to the needs and requirements of our customers.