The Arch Support Project is an extremely high-level footwear brand, designed and produced in collaboration between MotivMFG and master shoemaker Rock Yeh. Each pair is handmade at a small artisanal factory in the Southern Chinese countryside, by just a handful of expert shoe & bootmakers. While the silhouettes are recognizable, the construction is anything but - featuring architectural ergonomic midsoles that have been carefully engineered to provide maximal support and comfort, hence the name "Arch Support Project." Our first delivery from the brand is entirely exclusive to us here at S&S, made out of mahogany cowhide roughout leather from the renowned C.F. Stead Tannery. The Charles F. Stead tannery is based out of Leeds, England, with a company history stretching over 130 years - they specialize in producing some of the highest quality suede, roughout, and sheepskin leathers in the world, making them the obvious choice for sourcing the uppers. The mahogany roughout is a highly unique and hardy leather, with a thicker grain than traditional suede boots, the nap (aka the "hairiness" of the suede) is surprisingly soft and handsomely textured. The color itself also merits mentioning, a deep reddish-purple brown, with subtle highlights across the surface that will only become more visible as other areas darken from wear. It's initially quite supple, requiring minimal break-in through the uppers, but still continuing to soften over time as the whole thing molds to the shape of your foot. With details that call back to vintage sportswear proto-sneakers and military monkey boots, the Cestus Boot wears quite a bit of history on its sleeve, so to speak. Even the name, Cestus, refers to ancient Roman leather boxing gloves, worn by gladiators - a clever nod to both handmade leather garments and athletic gear of antiquity. All that said, these are not sneakers, they're a good bit more substantial, and thanks to their hand-sewn 360 degree goodyear flat welt, they can be rebuilt or repaired by any trusted cobbler when the soles wear down. Featuring a handsome and "lightweight" lace-to-toe design, these are as secure and comfortable as leather boots can get, with a moulded leather instep for, you guessed it, arch support, and a leather outsole that will break in quickly and move with your feet, helping to eliminate fatigue even after hours of wear. If pure leather soles aren't your thing, don't stress, because every pair also comes with rubber topys which can be quickly and cheaply attached by a cobbler or at a shoe repair store, adding some durability and traction to the outsole without increasing bulk or stiffness. Featuring a hand-stitched backstay with a helpful pull tab, the leather tongue is inset and gusseted for comfort and protection from the elements. They close up with tonal waxed cotton laces that loop through a respectable nine gunmetal eyelets, and the uppers feature contrasting stitching details that really elevate the design. Additionally, every pair features an additional pair of natural cork insoles - these can be inserted to achieve the most secure and comfortable fit possible, as everyone's feet are different. Built on a custom ASP Last. These are true to your Brannock size. If you are between sizes, take the next size up, as the fit can be modified by adding or removing the cork and leather insoles. S&S-Exclusive style Mahogany cowhide roughout leather from C.F. Stead in England 360 degree goodyear flat welt Hand welted Leather outsole Rubber topy included Leather & cork insoles Lace to toe Single midsole 9 gunmetal eyelets Waxed cotton laces Leather-reinforced arch support patch Braided stitching Custom last True to brannock size Handmade in Southern China
