Developed by W. L. Gore & Associates, Gore-Tex revolutionized the outdoor industry with its innovative approach to creating durable, waterproof, and breathable materials. At its core, Gore-Tex is a membrane that is sandwiched between outer and inner layers of fabric. This membrane is composed of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), a synthetic material known for its exceptional waterproof properties. However, what sets Gore-Tex apart is its ability to allow moisture vapor to escape while preventing water droplets from entering.
The ePTFE membrane consists of countless tiny pores that are around 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet but large enough to allow water vapor molecules to pass through. These pores create a microclimate within the fabric, where the heat and moisture generated by the body can escape as water vapor, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable.
When the wearer engages in physical activities or experiences changes in temperature, the body produces moisture in the form of sweat. The breathable nature of Gore-Tex allows this moisture vapor to pass through the fabric, preventing the accumulation of sweat on the skin. This characteristic is crucial for maintaining comfort during intense physical exertion or in various weather conditions.
Simultaneously, the ePTFE membrane is hydrophobic, meaning it repels liquid water, including rain and snow. As a result, the outer fabric layer of a Gore-Tex garment remains waterproof, preventing external moisture from penetrating and wetting the wearer's clothing or skin.
Gore-Tex is renowned for its durability and longevity. The ePTFE membrane is highly resistant to abrasion, ensuring the fabric retains its waterproof and breathable properties even after prolonged use in rugged outdoor environments. Additionally, Gore-Tex is engineered to withstand the demands of various outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and cycling.
In summary, Gore-Tex utilizes a microporous membrane made of ePTFE that allows water vapor to escape while preventing liquid water from entering. This combination of waterproofness and breathability makes Gore-Tex a leading choice for outdoor enthusiasts, providing reliable protection against the elements while maintaining comfort and dryness.
Click here to see our selection of waterproof shoes and boots.
]]>You love your pair of Glerups or any other felted wool slippers and clogs, but you don't know how to keep them fresh and clean... this post is for you.
Haflinger and Glerups uppers are made from 100% pure new wool. Wool is a natural material and the felted wool may present slight colour differences between batches and even between pairs.
! This advice is taken from the official Glerups and Haflinger websites.
Do you want to know more about cleaning leather shoes or wool slippers? Read our other blog posts:
Lots of people think that waterproof shoes are ugly or too casual or too outdoorsy. Well, think again.
Legero offers a great selection of waterproof shoes and boots for men and women and yes, they look amazing. They have GORE TEX lining all around which guarantees them 100% waterproof.
The range includes several styles of trainers, Chelsea boots, high top shoes, lace up boots and long boots. All with a stylish, modern, urban look.
We know some of you may be concerned by the suede uppers of most of these styles, but do not worry. The suede leather used by Legero is actually a very tough and it can be easily brushed and cleaned like any other leather shoe. (Browse our shoe care selection.)
The GORE TEX lining, as mentioned, will keep your feet completely dry but to keep the leather uppers looking good for longer we always recommend to spray a protector spray at the beginning of the season, and repeat now and again depending how often you wear them.
This way it will be easier to brush away dirt and mud and keep the colours vibrant.
So, if you need a new pair of shoes or boots that you can use to go to the office, walk your dog or cycle to work without any worry about the weather, don’t look any further and browse our Legero range.
We have more wintery options with warm linings or casual trainers to wear all year around and beautifully stylish women’s ankle boots. Plus, this year we are introducing new Legero men’s boots.
What are you waiting for… buy a fabulous new pair now!
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/legero
Crafted from premium materials, the Arche Drick boasts a supple leather upper that moulds to your foot, providing a glove-like fit and exceptional durability. The elegant silhouette is enhanced by subtle stitching details and a sophisticated colour palette, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions.
Step inside, and you'll discover a world of unparalleled comfort. The Arche Drick features a cushioned insole that offers exceptional comfort and absorbs shock, ensuring a blissful walking experience from morning to night.
Designed with practicality in mind, the Arche Drick features a lightweight and flexible outsole that delivers good grip on various surfaces. Its zip-up style allows for easy on-and-off.
Whether you're strolling through the city streets, attending a business meeting, or enjoying a night out, the Arche Drick is the ideal companion. Elevate your style, and experience unmatched comfort with this exceptional shoe that effortlessly combines fashion and function.
Choose the Arche Drick, and step into a world where style, comfort, and quality merge to create the perfect footwear companion for your everyday adventures.
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As far as possible Think! use vegetable-tanned leather, using natural materials to tan the leather hides. Tanning using chemicals is very damaging to the environment and tonnes of water are required for the tanning process. Sadly, when the waste water is released into the surrounding environment, many chemicals go with it, including heavy metals such as chromium.
Think! avoid this by using chrome-free vegetable tanning methods.
Their original styles, together with the soft, colourful leathers and supportive footbeds ensure comfort for your feet while not sacrificing individuality.
At Shoegarden we stock the classic Julia sandals, ever popular for their comfort and eye-catching style. This season we also have the Julia 247 sandal, made on the same footbed but a slider style, so perfect for those who don’t like to wear a toe-post. And we also have the beautiful Julia leather clogs in 2 colours, a gorgeous green suede and a stunning flower-patterned leather.
All these styles feature the supportive and comfortable cork footbeds, durable rubber outsoles and of course the heart-shaped shock-absorber under the heel.
If you're thinking that you'd like to have a look at the Think! footwear, you can see our collection of Think! women’s sandals and clogs here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=think
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Their range of shoes and sandals is made in factories in France and Portugal by master shoemakers and using the highest quality materials.
Here at Shoegarden we stock a selection of Mephisto sandals for women. Our bestseller is Helen, their iconic toe-post sandal. Helen is a standard width fitting, suitable for regular width feet, but we do have some customers with narrow feet who also find Helen fits them well. If you don’t like toe-post sandals we also have the classic 2-strap style Harmony.
New for this season are the sandals on a wider footbed, suitable for wider feet. These styles are Melaine and Madeline and are well worth a try if you love Helen but find them too narrow.
All the Mephisto sandals we stock use their Soft-Air technology; inside the cork footbed, a flexible and soft midsole reduces the shock from walking to a minimum, protecting your joints and keeping you walking comfortably for hours. The uppers are premium leather and the insoles are covered with suede.
Available in a variety of colours in sizes 36-42, have a look at our range of Mephisto ladies’ sandals here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/mephisto
]]>Thanks to the adjustability of the straps, a perfect fit can be achieved for many different foot shapes and widths. The uppers are premium leather and come in a variety of colours, from classic black to on-trend colours; they are soft to the touch yet durable.
Another benefit of the adjustable straps will be discovered during spells of hot weather – if your feet tend to swell you can simply let the straps out a little, avoiding them becoming too tight and uncomfortable and also preventing the leather strap from stretching.
The excellent fit provided by the straps and the supportive footbeds mean that your feet feel securely held, allowing you to walk in comfort all summer.
Jewel have removable and replaceable footbeds and this is unusual for sandals. They have a leather top cover thus ensuring an excellent environment for your feet. If you find your Jewel sandals have plenty of wear left in them but the footbeds are a bit the worse for wear, you can buy replacement footbeds and keep your pair going even longer.
A brief note about sizing! We have found that although wide fitting, Jewel is not generous in length. So if you are a half size you are likely to have to go up a size, not down. When standing, your heels & toes should be on the footbed, not touching the rim of the sole.
Available in women’s sizes in a variety of colours, please have a look at our range here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=jewel
]]>women's slippers women's clogs men's slippers men's clogs
Here at Shoegarden we pride ourselves on being a sustainable company and this is why, few years ago, we started the Second Quality page on our website.
We don’t like to waste materials and resources so instead of throwing away the imperfect pairs we find during packing inspection, we try to give them a second chance.
It’s normal to discover, every now and then, certain items that are not as perfect as they should be.
Glue marks, stains or uneven stitching are some examples of imperfections we come across. These defects are not structural and don't compromise the intended use of these items in any way.
All our Second Quality slippers, clogs or shoes are new and completely unworn, they just managed to sneak past the manufacturer's quality inspection.
So, if you don’t mind having a “unique” pair of slippers or clogs, the second quality pairs have an exceptional price and the same return policy as the full price ones.
We always provide clear photos of the defects you can find in each particular style and/or colour, to help you make the best decision for your new pair of slippers or clogs.
Check out our Second Quality page regularly, as you never know which styles, sizes or colour are added.
Browse our Second Quality page:https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/second-quality
*Please be aware that we can’t select the pairs we send to you based on your defect preference.
]]>Special prices also on previous collection of Arche and Legero shoes, boots and sandals.
Click here to see the Haflinger clearance: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/clearance
Click here to see our Sale: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/sale
]]>Haflinger Sweetheart Cuoricini clogs are the cutest clogs of the brand.
The felt upper is decorated with stitched little hearts in a contrasting or complementary colour.
Sweetheart Cuoricini is part of the Grizzly family, our customers' favourite style thanks to the comfortable contoured cork footbeds and felt uppers.
These romantic clogs have become a best seller over the years, with new colour combinations added every season.
In addition to the classic navy and anthracite colours, this year we have lavender and port added to the collection.
These women clogs are true to size and they are available from size 36 (UK 3) to size 42 (UK 8).
Haflinger Sweetheart Cuoricini make the perfect present for yourself or for a loved one.
See all the Sweetheart Cuoricini colours here: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=SWEET
]]>Amazingly comfortable woollen slippers, warm and simple. The classic design and plaid pattern upper will suit everyone, men and women.
They have the Haflinger contoured footbed with a low arch support and latex impregnated felted soles.
The flair slippers are true continental size with a cosy snug fit.
Made of 100% pure new wool, they can be washed by hand or in the washing machine with cold water and low spin, so that they are always fresh and clean.
Available in 2 colours from size 36 (UK3) to size 46 (UK12). Now on sale with a special discounted price!
For more information please read the product description:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=plaid
As every year the Winter Sale is finally here!
Incredible prices for winter boots, shoes and Haflinger slippers.
Our sale include special prices for Arche, Legero, Haflinger, Gabor, Pikolinos and Josef Seibel.
We have up to 50% off on selected styles. Enjoy the discounts on your winter boots, stylish shoes and comfortable slippers and clogs.
Browse now:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/sale
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Who doesn't love the snow? Especially when it's white, fluffy and crunchy under your feet....
Legero snow boots are perfect to enjoy snow days keeping your feet toasty warm and completely dry.
You will be able to enjoy epic snowball battles and make huge snow men without any worries.
Novara is THE snow boot. Faux fur lining, chunky sole with a good grip and a padded waterproof fabric upper. They are ideal for walking around in snowy fields and enjoying the winter landscapes.
Monta is a stylish and yet warm line of winter boots and shoes. Choose your favourite between the sleek Chelsea boots or the more casual lace-up ankle boots. This style combines the city look with all the features of a trekking boot. Warm faux sheepskin lining and waterproof leather or nubuck upper.
Still not convinced to try a pair? These 2 reviews left recently by satisfied customers might change your mind:
" I bought my first pair of Legero years ago and they are still like new and 100% waterproof. Can't wait to wear my new Monta moon boots! "
" I only recently discovered the brand Legero and I am completely in love already. I had my pair of boots on during a sudden downpour and my feet were still completely dry - unlike the rest of me. 100% recommended! "
Check out our Legero shoes and boots collection here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/legero
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Struggling to find Christmas presents for a bird-lover? We have some gorgeous new bird slippers in Haflinger's range; the lovely slipper style Songbird and the felt clog Winterbird.
The Songbird Flair slippers are made from 100% pure new wool, so they are really soft & cosy. The wool soles are latex-dipped so they have grip but remain flexible. The bird design is a felt appliqué and if you look closely, you can see the little birdy footprints continue across the insole. So sweet!
The Winterbird Grizzly clogs have uppers of 100% pure new wool that has been felted, so they're robust and keep their shape. Plenty of comfortable support is provided by the cork footbeds and the rubber outsoles allow you to nip outside should you need to.
These styles are unisex, available in sizes 36-42 and make really lovely presents for bird-lovers of all ages.
Would you like a closer look at these bird styles? Do some bird watching here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=bird
]]>Here at Shoegarden we stock beautiful sheepskin slippers for men by Shepherd of Sweden. Whether you want a style with an open back, a closed heel style or a bootie, we have a variety of styles and colours.
The fluffy sheepskin keeps your feet comfortably warm and cosy. All the men styles have light microcellular rubber soles, perfect if you have to quickly nip outside in them.
Available in a variety of colours and from sizes 40 – 47, Shepherd slippers make luxurious yet practical Christmas presents for your friends and family.
Have a look at our range of Shepherd men's slippers here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/mens-slippers?pf_v_brand=Shepherd
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Extremely fluffy and warm!
]]>Here at Shoegarden we stock beautiful sheepskin slippers for women by Shepherd of Sweden.
Whether you want a mule style with an open back, a closed heel style or a bootie, we have a variety of styles and colours.
The fluffy sheepskin keeps your feet comfortably warm and cosy. We have styles with soft suede soles and with hard soles, if you want to be able to nip outside in them. Some styles are for men or women and other styles are unisex.
Available in a variety of styles from sizes 36 – 47, Shepherd slippers make luxurious yet practical Christmas presents for your friends and family.
Have a look at our range of Shepherd women's slippers here:
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/shepherd
]]>Fiocco is a new feminine and cosy pump style slipper for women. They are the ideal solution for women looking for an enclosed back slipper. They have an elasticated topline to keep them secure on your feet and a classy velvet bow.
Available in navy and green in sizes 36-42, Fiocco are perfect for Christmas entertaining in comfort and style.
https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/search?q=fiocco
]]>The 3 adjustable straps allow for a perfect fit. Earlier in the day you can fasten the straps more tightly, then if your feet tend to swell a little throughout the day, or on really hot days, you can loosen the straps. This avoids stretching the straps and ensures your sandals will fit you whatever the weather and whatever the time of day.
The low wedge sole is cushioned and adds a touch of style. It’s also perfect for those who find very flat shoes uncomfortable.
Marigold uses Gabor’s “Best Fitting” technology for even more comfort. The concept behind Best Fitting is the shape of the front of the shoe. Gabor have broadened the insole at the ball of the foot, so that you step onto a wider area, ensuring increased comfort.
Another great feature of the Marigold sandal are the removable insoles, this is a rare find in sandals. Marigold’s insoles are also washable, which is even more unusual! You can remove the insoles to allow them to air or to wash them. Just wash at 30˚ on a gentle setting and allow to dry naturally.
Marigold are available in classic navy and versatile metallic, in sizes 37 to 42.
Ready to have a look at these amazing sandals? You can see them here:
]]>Here at Shoegarden we stock the widest range of Haflinger sandals in the UK, available for men and women in sizes 36-46 in a variety of styles and colours.
Haflinger’s classic 2-strap sandal Andrea has been given an update with new branded buckles. Available this year in velvety-soft nubuck leather, the classic brown, black and navy colours are now joined by an eye-catching black nubuck with holographic print and a gorgeous multi-coloured pattern printed onto cork straps.
The elegant new style Alina is an evolution of the Andrea sandal. The luxurious suede uppers are combined with suede-covered buttons concealing the strap fastenings, allowing you to wear a comfortable footbed sandal whilst looking stylish and modern.
Another new style is the T-bar sandal Mika. Incredibly comfortable and practical yet sophisticated with the feature buckle which stands out against the beautiful black grain leather. Mika is also available in a chic snakeskin-print suede with a covered button replacing the buckle.
The popular multi-strap style Jack is available in a new colour, a very useful neutral grey which will co-ordinate with whatever you’re wearing. Don’t worry, we still have the classic black, brown and navy nubucks too.
All of the Haflinger sandals are lined with premium leather and have the addition of a memory foam layer through the footbeds, so they're really cushioning whilst being supportive. We told you - stylish and comfortable!
Tempted to browse through the new Haflinger sandal collection?
Click here: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/haflinger-sandals
]]>If your shoes are muddy, allow the mud to dry then brush off. A damp cloth can be used to wipe off dirt but it should only be slightly damp, not wet. Once the shoes are dry, use a soft-lint free cloth to apply some leather cream in a matching colour.
Using lint-free cloths prevents leaving traces of fluff on the shoes – a piece of an old t-shirt will work fine, there's no need to buy a special cloth. Allow the leather cream to dry; you can buff the shoes with a soft brush or clean cloth if you want to achieve more shine.
On softer leather shoes, a cream tends to penetrate and nourish the leather better than a harder wax polish, like those that come in a tin. Wax polishes can give a very high shine finish but don’t nourish the leather as effectively. However they can be very good at covering scuffs and are therefore handy for children’s shoes.
If you can’t find a matching colour shoe cream, just use neutral. This will still hydrate the shoes and improve their appearance.
Nubuck is the same as leather but the uppermost surface of the hide has been buffed away, leaving a soft velvety finish leather. It can be very useful to use protector spray on nubuck shoes to help to keep them clean and water resistant.
Apply the protector spray when the shoes are new and then periodically, depending on how often you wear them. The spray will initially darken the colour of the nubuck, but this will fade as it dries.
To clean dust & light dirt from the shoes, use a nubuck/suede sponge and lightly brush over the surface. These sponges are used dry. The edge of the sponge can be used to remove more stubborn marks.
You can use a foaming cleaner for suede & nubuck to remove stains, but it’s worth testing on an inconspicuous area first. Apply the foam in a gentle circular motion, then when it's dry, brush the nap back up with your sponge. Alternatively try a harder cleaning block, also called a nubuck eraser, for stubborn marks and small stains. Gently rub the block over the stained area to remove it.
- You can also use rubber brushes on nubuck, however beware using these on oiled nubuck – the spines of the brush can leave marks in the surface.
Instead use a sponge to clean, then apply a thin layer of oiled leather cream. This neutral cream will maintain the matt, waxy finish of the shoe and maintain its water-repellency.
- If your nubuck shoes have faded in colour, try a nubuck & suede liquid renovator. This product comes in a variety of colours, so obtain the best match you can. After cleaning the shoes with your sponge, apply the renovator to refresh the colour and rejuvenate the nubuck. Once dry, brush over lightly again with the sponge.
! Note that this product doesn’t clean the shoes, it refreshes the colour. It is also available in neutral, which is handy if you can’t match the colour – it will still rejuvenate the appearance of your shoes.
Suede is the underside of the animal hide and has a longer nap than nubuck. It is made by splitting a hide and is therefore not as thick as full grain leather, so it tends to be more delicate. However, it is beautifully soft and lighter than full grain leather.
Care for suede is the same as for nubuck – use protector spray and brush with a nubuck/suede sponge. You can also use a wire or rubber suede brush on this type of leather. Like nubuck, liquid renovators can be used to rejuvenate the colour if it has faded and you can use foaming cleaners if they are formulated for suede.
]]>Haflinger’s range of slippers are made from 100% pure new wool. Some of the styles are made from soft knitted wool while others are felted wool, which is slightly stiffer and more robust.
Cleaning your slippers depends on which style you have; if it is Flair, Alaska or Everest/Dakota then the slippers can be handwashed, or machine washed on a wool cycle at 30⁰.
Use a gentle detergent formulated for wool and do not use fabric softener. Allow the slippers to dry naturally afterwards, don’t tumble dry them or put them on a hot radiator.
The Cashmere slippers may be handwashed gently and must air dry.
!!! In the Everest/Dakota styles, the removable insoles need to be removed before washing the slippers. These removable insoles can be replaced if they are damaged or worn out.
Please note that you should not wash the slippers frequently, but the occasional wash is fine.
Clog style with a cork footbed cannot be washed.
You can spot clean the uppers with a gentle detergent solution; use a damp cloth and avoid the cork.
If you're unsure which slippers you have, just email us a photo and we'll identify them for you!
]]>Once synonymous with lentils and hippies, now Birkenstock sandals are beloved by people all over the world. In recent years their alliances with fashion designers has even seen them on the front row at shows in Paris, New York & London.
What makes Birkenstock sandals so special? Their trademark footbed must be responsible in large part. With its deep heel cup and supports for both the longitudinal arches and the metatarsals, the footbeds are extremely comfortable and supportive, allowing your feet to move naturally and freely. The footbeds are formed from layers of cork, naturally shock-absorbing and flexible, with layers of jute for strength. In more recent years Birkenstock added their Soft Footbed to the range, similar to the classic but with an added layer of foam to give more cushioning.
This year we have 5 different women's Birkenstock styles available at Shoegarden:
Whilst we've kept Arizona in timeless black and brown, we have chosen some beautiful colours and prints for the other styles. The uppers are made from Birko-Flor, Birkenstock's own synthetic material which is skin-friendly, durable and easy to clean - just wipe over with a damp cloth.
Combining the Birko-Flor uppers with microfibre insoles has resulted in their most recent addition to the range, vegan sandals - perfect for those who don't want to wear leather.
Have a browse through our Birkenstock range here: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/birkenstock
The descriptions on each product page will give you specific information about the materials and type of footbed used.
]]>Here at Shoegarden we have just taken delivery of a range that's new to us...
We know how much you love the Glerups slippers with the suede soles. Well, we now have their rubber-soled slippers. Just the same comfort and feel but with a sole you can nip outside in - very useful!
We have the classic charcoal with black sole and the popular jeans with honey-coloured sole in sizes 36-46. Take a look at them here: https://www.shoegarden.co.uk/collections/glerups
]]>Soft - Cashmere is known for its softness, creating a luxury feel
The Cashmere fibres are 3 times finer than a human hair making them feel so soft.
Insulating- Cashmere is 8 times more insulating than sheep's wool due to the high loft properties. There is a larger volume of air within each fibre, creating better heat retaining properties.
Lightweight- Cashmere is the lightest wool used for slippers.
Check our cashmere slipper is available in 3 colours- berry red, anthracite and jeans. Here!
]]>Legero Tanaro is an extremely versatile trainer.
At first glance they look like a classically styled suede trainer perfect for popping out to the park or a spot of shopping. On further inspection you spot a little logo that betrays an amazing secret- Gore-Tex technology! This makes them waterproof and breathable as well as good looking.
A classic all round shoe for every occasion.
]]>Fundus is the classic slipper from the Everest range, with its clean minimal design. Fundus is unisex and available in sizes from 36 to 46 in a wide range of colours. The felted wool uppers give a structured shape and the removable footbeds offer a low arch support. You can remove the footbeds and replace with your own full-length orthotics if you wear them and you can buy replacement footbeds should you manage to wear them out, while the uppers are still looking good.
If Fundus is a little too quiet for you, have a look at Noblesse and Butterflies; the same fit as Fundus but with same colour and contrast colour stitched designs on the uppers, they are fun and will brighten your mornings!
The style Everest Classic is exactly that. With its soft knitted woollen upper, it is a snug and cosy slipper and the unisex style comes in sizes 36-46. We stock timeless colours and some brighter ones for those of you who prefer to make a statement! Again the removable footbeds offer a low arch support and if you remove the footbeds you can wash the slippers should you need to. Either handwash or use a 30˚ wool/gentle cycle on your machine, but don’t use fabric softener.
Want a slipper with the back closed in? If you like the soft woollen uppers but find your ankles get a little cold, you should definitely try Karlo. This bootie style will pull on and stay on, keeping your feet and ankles cosy all day. Alternatively, you can try Focus; with its adjustable strap over the instep Focus can accommodate a high instep and will stay secure on your feet.
Have a closer look at the Everest range and choose your favourite style here:
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