Ireland’s Oldest Leather Shoe Brands: Discovering Iconic Makers and Their Lasting Craft

Ireland is a nation built for walking—its ancient green lanes, buzzing city pavements, and moody Atlantic promenades all demand footwear that can keep up. And if you’ve ever strolled through Dublin’s Grafton Street, browsed the boutiques of Galway, or braved the soggy trails of the Wicklow Mountains, you’ll know the Irish don’t settle for flimsy shoes. There’s a subtle pride here: when you pull on a pair from one of Ireland’s oldest leather shoe brands, you’re not just stepping into comfort, you’re stepping into a story that’s lasted centuries. Whether you’re a lifelong Dub, a fresh arrival, or a visitor eager to pack your suitcase with something authentically Irish, the world of Irish leather shoemaking is ripe with character, practicality, and tradition.

A Walk Through Ireland’s Leather Shoe History

The story of leather shoes in Ireland stretches way back—further than most would guess. Archaeologists uncovered a pair of bog-preserved shoes at Ballinderry Crannóg, dating from the 10th century, with intricate lacing and tough stitching still visible. They’re a world away from today’s brogues, but they prove the Irish have been at this game for longer than most. And look, shoes have always done more than just cover feet here. In ancient Irish law, a warrior’s shoes even signified their status, and “throwing in the shoe” at gatherings was a way to mark out territory or make a statement. That sense of pride and personality? Still part of the DNA of Irish shoe brands today.

But let’s talk about the pioneers who brought artisan shoemaking into the modern era. One name sits at the very top for the Irish market: Dubarry of Ireland. Founded in Ballinasloe, Galway in 1937, Dubarry made its name with tough, waterproof leather boots inspired by Galway’s trad fishermen. The original idea was simple: make a shoe that’ll hold up against Irish weather (read: rain, wind, more rain). These days, their iconic “Galway Boots” are everywhere from horse fairs to city festivals, embraced by walkers, sailors, and anyone with damp socks. And the best part? Every stitch speaks of Irish know-how—a blend of old skills and new ideas.

But Dubarry wasn’t Ireland’s first foray into leather shoes. The family-run business of Shane Barrett Footwear in the Westport region built a reputation for sturdy, elegant men’s and women’s leather footwear in the 19th century. You’ll still find their descendants shaping uppers and soles with craftsmanship passed down through the generations. And then there’s O’Keeffe, a relative newcomer by world standards but with roots planted firmly in Irish soil and a commitment to hand-welted, bench-made shoes every bit as hard-wearing as those from England’s Northampton or Italy’s Montebelluna.

At the same time, local Irish cobblers—countless and often unnamed—were keeping villages shod for centuries. Many are long gone, but some have evolved. Think of John Lobb Shoes, which, though better known in England, traces its earliest days to a Devon-born apprentice who learned some of his craft in Dublin before setting up his now-legendary shop in London. Even Clarks, the global brand, used factories in Ireland as part of their mid-century expansion, bringing jobs and skills that still echo today in Ballyfermot and beyond.

Shoes in Ireland aren’t just about surviving the elements—they tell tales. If you dig through the Museum of Country Life in Mayo, you’ll find “pampooties”—rough-cut cowhide moccasins from Inishmaan in the Aran Islands. No luxury, but pure ingenuity; islanders stitched them by hand using twine, salt-cured for toughness, worn by fishermen ankle-deep in the Atlantic. There’s a design for every way of Irish life, from rugged boots for farming and hillwalking to fine brogues for the dancefloor at a wedding or a day at Punchestown races.

Legacy Brands, Craftsmanship, and Modern Irish Shoemaking

So, what makes an Irish shoe brand last? It’s more than just tough hides and waxed laces. These brands survive by keeping close to tradition while knowing when to move with the times. The techniques—Goodyear welting for strength, hand-burnishing for patina, waterproofing for those infamous downpours—are all part of the deal. But Irish makers know heritage isn’t a museum piece. Many now work with Italian tanneries and eco-friendly processes, but the heart of the operation is often still a small team in a workshop, poring over each stitch.

Let’s look at some familiar labels in the Irish market. Dubarry’s signature boots are exported worldwide, but still have that homespun touch: their workshop in Ballinasloe isn’t some faceless factory—it’s the kind of place where you can smell the leather and see the workers finishing a pair by hand. They favour “DryFast–DrySoft” leathers and always keep an eye on what Irish farmers, sailors, and horse riders need—slip-resistant soles, waterproofing, and comfort you can trust from Cork to Sligo and back. A top tip: regular customers swear by Dubarry’s leather balm, saying it brings even the rain-battered boots back to life, so you’ll get more years out of your pair.

O’Keeffe, meanwhile, has made a splash by introducing Italian craftsmanship into Irish design tradition. Their shop in Ennistymon brings in luxury details—think calfskin, hand-painted finishes, and barely-there stitching—while letting clients order made-to-measure pairs, perfect if you’ve wider feet or just like shoes that feel like slippers from day one. They’re becoming a favourite for grooms looking for a bit of Irish elegance on a big day, but also for business folk in Dublin wanting to stand out in the boardroom.

Of course, the modern world means competition from global giants is fierce, but Irish brands have an edge. There’s a deep connection to the land—most use hides from Irish cattle, tanned using local water, and even the wooden lasts sometimes come from Galway sycamore. For traditionalists, it’s worth seeking out small workshops, like Brogue Maker in Killarney or Timpson Cobblers in Cork, where shoes are still refashioned, repaired, and resoled the way your grandfather’s were. They might not have flashy websites, but they’re beloved on local forums and word-of-mouth. Handy tip: when in doubt about quality, check if the sole is stitched (not just glued). That’s the mark of proper Irish craftsmanship—and usually means you can get them resoled locally when the time comes.

Ever wondered how much goes into making a classic Irish shoe? Here’s a quick breakdown, based on a standard pair of men’s brogues produced by Dubarry:

Step	Details
Leather selection	Handpicked, rain-resistant hide from Irish cattle
Cutting	Precision cutters use traditional wooden patterns for lasting fit
Stitching	Hand and machine finish for flexibility and strength
Welting	Goodyear method for waterproofing and durability
Sole attachment	Rubber or leather options, stitched not glued
Finishing	Buffing, waxing, and lacing—all by hand onsite

It’s a proper ritual. And you feel it every time you step out on a wet Galway day and realise your socks are still dry.

Other brands worth a mention? Roisin Shoes got their start in Monaghan as a women’s leather shoe specialist and are now seen as a cult favourite in Dublin, with their classic Mary Janes and contemporary loafers showing up at events like Body & Soul and Electric Picnic. Handmade in small batches, these are shoes to show off, but also to last. The Irish Footwear Council hosts an annual heritage week, bringing together local makers from Cork, Mayo, and Donegal, letting buyers chat directly with the shoemakers, try custom designs, and pick up care tips. If you’re shoe shopping, try to line your visit up with this event—it’s like a hidden festival for feet.

Choosing, Buying, and Caring for Quality Irish Leather Shoes

With so many options, picking the right pair isn’t just about style—it’s about understanding what matters for your needs, and knowing how to make them last. Firstly, don’t get caught out by “faux” leather or budget imitations; in Ireland, you’ll notice the difference as soon as the rain comes down or you spend a day crossing the city. Always check for the Irish brand stamp and, if possible, ask in-store where the shoes are made. Local shops like Clery’s in Cork or Arnotts in Dublin usually feature heritage brands and will let you try before committing, which is crucial for fit and comfort.

If you’re after serious long-term value, go for Goodyear-welted soles (most classic Irish brands use these), and look for full-grain leather. Brogues, boots, and loafers are the main shapes, but don’t overlook the Aran-inspired slippers and moccasins for indoor wear—especially if you’re after a cosy winter in a Galway cottage or just want to feel at home wherever you are. Try shoes on in the late afternoon; that’s when feet are at their largest after a day walking, meaning you’ll buy the right size.

Caring for your Irish leather shoes is just as important as picking the right ones. Always use a shoehorn—keeps the back from crumpling (we learnt that one the hard way). Clean off mud and grit as soon as possible, as Irish rainwater can carry enough minerals to leave stains if left overnight. Use leather conditioner regularly and keep your shoes in a cool, dry place—never near the radiator, or you’ll risk cracking those finely-crafted uppers. And don’t be afraid to visit a local cobbler for a resole, heel, or even a polish—Irish cobblers are famed for getting another five years out of a “done” pair of boots. If you’re in Dublin, pop into Fitzpatrick’s Cobblers off Camden Street for life-saving repairs—they’ve been known to save shoes that looked beyond hope.

An added bonus for the Irish market is the growth in sustainable and vegan-friendly options. While leather is the classic, a few newer Irish brands like Fair Soles and Celtic Walk are experimenting with eco leathers, plant-based soles, and recycled materials. They haven’t replaced the old guard yet, but it’s a lively new trend to watch, especially for city dwellers or anyone with an eye on the environment.

When shopping, trust your senses: real Irish leather has a dense, earthy scent, a subtle shine, and a slight give when pressed. Fake leathers, meanwhile, smell synthetic and can crack after a wet Limerick morning or a wild night in Temple Bar. If you’re struggling between brands, chat to locals—because Irish people will always have an opinion about what’s best for the weather, the style, and your next session at the pub. These are shoes you’ll remember, through ceilidhs, days by the coast, or just running for the Luas. So go on—treat your feet, honour the tradition, and become part of Ireland’s well-shod history.