I can’t say I know how you go about staking your claim on real estate at Pitti Uomo, but I would think that “smack dab in front of the Cucinelli space” seems like a good spot to be, trafficwise. Nonetheless, Yoichi Maeda, the guy behind Chausser shoes, seemed a little bored as buyers and other visitors considered his boots, shoes, and sneakers before completing their Pitti pilgrimage to Brunello’s kingdom. Those who didn’t give Chausser a second look were missing out on another brand that balances an artisanal focus with an aesthetic one.
Chausser’s Yoichi Maeda in the neon jungle of Pitti.
Founded in 2001, Chausser attracted attention a few years back when its Japan-designed-and-made shoes, many in unusual, domestically sourced shell cordovan, found stockists in the United States. Chausser’s lasts are a little more exaggerated than your average maker–narrow at the waist of the shoe, with slightly bulbed, upturned toes. Not that they’re at all extreme, particularly when worn, but they stood out in Pitti’s tailored pavilion where traditional English makers held court. Some are soled in leather, and some finished with a Vibram sole guard.
Yoichi seemed particularly proud of Chausser’s natural-toned cordovan shoes, which age with wear to a patinated tan. For fans of the concept of wabi-sabi in clothing, these models give the option of pleasant age-ability with distinctive design–sort of N.D.C. via Tokyo. The workboot styled models were most appealing to me, although Chausser also offers loafers and oxfords. On the other hand of the material spectrum is a range of sneakers in canvas and soft suede made up in on-trend shapes (the sneakers are not necessarily made in Japan). Chausser makes pretty women’s shoes as well, although the focus at Pitti was obviously on their men’s lines.
The evolution of a Chausser natural cordovan shoe–new on the left, worn on the right.
Chausser boots in textured leather.
Chausser sneakers.
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As much as I want a pair of their sneakers, I can’t find the updated stock list for Chausser shoes. the only lead was to Blackbird and that was back in 2010.
These look great. More info?
There’s not a lot out there on the brand–Blackbird had stocked them in the U.S. but doesn’t seem to anymore. I’ll see what else I can find.
Do these run small large or tts?
Love those top ones! Where are they available?
I read they run small but on a japanese site it said size down so I’m confused
Where can you buy these, online or otherwise?
I was lucky enough to grab a pair of the cordovan boots when they were on sale in Blackbird. They surpass my Alden in every way. Fit is TTS. Too bad they seems to be only available in Japan these days.
Word from the Chausser reps is that they have no American stockists at the moment. Will have to proxy from Japan for now.