There are three things we are not willing to sacrifice when buying a pair of shoes: comfort, durability and style. We wonder whether a new pair will be short-lived, clash with the rest of our wardrobe, if we’ll struggle to find occasions to wear them or spend too much on a subpar product. If we consider our favourite pair of shoes or boots, we find that we would be hard pressed to replace them due to one or more of these factors.

When discussing the lifespan of footwear, itld be hard pressed t that harsh weather conditions can permanently damage it. Some of the raw materials most commonly used in production will crack, lose their sheen or even colour without proper maintenance. The joint of the upper and the sole can frequently give out and wreck a favourite pair. In anticipation of the wet part of the year it is a good idea to look for quality footwear that can not only make it through the fall, but remain just as attractive and streetworthy for years to come.

Unfortunately, factory manufactured footwear has certain features that, while simplifying production, contribute to its faster deterioration. For example, the most widespread method of attaching the sole does not include a welt which prevents resoling, making shoes unsalvageable in the event the upper starts to separate. For comparison, the sole on a bespoke shoe can be replaced with very little fuss for as many as nine or ten times.

The material is another point of difference: leather, the primary raw material in handmade shoes, provides an ideal combination of durability, firmness and malleability, while allowing the foot to breathe at the same time. These qualities guarantee reliable support, comfort and quick adaptation of the inlay to the shape of the foot.

Style should also be addressed. Examining the autumn – winter collections of popular designers and high street brands, a few women’s footwear trends can be observed. Cowboy-style boots are definitely a huge hit – either knee- or ankle-high and look great with most dress combinations. Strappy sandals have remained a part of the scene this fall, not unlike shoes and sandals with a kitten or square heel. If you decide to follow this season’s fashion, choosing the more subdued variants might be advisable.

A visit to Zagreb’s Korman shoes workshop reveals how solid and durable footwear comes about, along with the individuality and quality bestowed by an artisan shoemaker. The owner, Damir, is a second generation craftsman with three decades of experience and his workshop provides a tremendous insight into shoe making, starting with a sketch and ending with a finished product. In an abundance of shoes and flats, it’s the new models with hand-made details that draw the eye. It’s also noticeable how the models feature a welt connecting the upper and the sole, for ease of repair – a sure sign of quality. Top-quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction speak volumes when it comes to shoes.

In neighbouring Zaprešić, Ivan Rubčić’s Shoemaker RIM workshop bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. Along with performing even the most demanding repairs that require first-rate skill and an eye for style, it is the right place for shoes with elements of classic design. Devotion to comfort and using only the finest materials contributes to their longevity because the structure of well-fitted shoes does not need to strain and suffers less wear, even ignoring the fact that poorly fitted footwear will quickly be returned or discarded.

Footwear should be kept in cabinets and stands, as opposed to a box, for better protection. Maintain the leather parts by applying shoe cream that absorbs water and dirt particles and rubbing it in with a brush. Regular polishing is a very effective way of taking care of your shoes. Finally, footwear deteriorates considerably faster with non-stop wear. If we put it in rotation and let shoes and boots rest for a day or two between uses, this will allow accumulated moisture to evaporate (cedar is ideal for drying the inlay) we will not only get to enjoy our favourite pair much longer, but also prevent odours from developing.