It has been a couple of months since we last connected with you. Longer delays and uncertainties made us ready to sell our souls at one point, but the waiting is behind us. And, for the first time, we have most of the difficulties solved all at once. In this present edition, we are telling you what “boiled” for so long with a special note from our shoemaker and CEO, Olie Marchal. Read on!
DRUMROLL PLEASE
We’ve been whispering in our past newsletters about changes on the horizon for SOM Footwear. After listening to our customers, doing a lot of testing and brainstorming, it is exciting to officially unveil our new SOM soles.
We’ve been waiting for a pre-made sole to be included in our manufacturing process since our beginning. For those of you who have had a chance to tour the factory, you know how arduous the two-step process of the Vibram sole was. On top of the fact that the new SOM sole is entirely made in USA, we are thrilled to announce that the tests show more durability in the wear, and more flexibility that increases the comfort of our SOMs.
Here is a little note from our shoemaker:
So I made myself a pair of shoes with the first prototype of sole on the left foot and the second prototype on the right foot. I wore those shoes for 6 months every single day and for every activity. These were my only pair of shoes for 6 months. I wore them at work, to run, to crossfit, to hike volcanoes in Guatemala, to do some remodeling at my house (new siding), to do some welding (I still enjoy building stuff with metal), and to go out - which was a bit embarrassing towards the end because they started to look abused (but you have to do what you have to do, right?).
Please note that the SOM sole isn’t yet available in the following sizes: Men 4 (5.5 Women), Men 15 and 16. We hope to get there in a year.
* The process of resoling our older models will not change--the VIBRAM sole will still be used. Due to the design of the old soles, we are unable to use the new SOM sole for resoling.
AND WITH THE SOM SOLE COMES…
Along with the new soles, our creative shoemaker and seamstresses have new design changes to present to you. We now offer a new look for the Norwood Black and Sage. A nice edge finish makes them look sharper and trendier. We also reduced the rubber band around the foot for a lighter look. The Flare has given some troubles with the new add-on, and we haven’t found a solution yet. Until that is resolved, we are offering the Flare in 100% cotton black canvas.
NAVY BLUE CLASSIC & BRIQUETTE
With creativity and excitement in the air, we also have two new models to introduce. Navy Blue Classic and Briquette feature a 100% cotton canvas perfect for the warmer months. Great looking shoes offering that very nice edge finish paired with our new SOM soles! Navy Blue Classic’s design is detailed with grey stitching and laces. Briquette is a grey canvas model accented with more color--your choice of Red, Purple or Blue stitching and grey laces. For an even brighter look, you can order extra sets of lively colorful laces to mix or match with the stitching color.
And maybe there is something else we are about to tell you...sooner than later we promise.
SNAPLACES
SnapLaces made in USA are always a great addition to any shoe! No-tie shoelaces transform any shoes into your easy on, easy off pair. Check out the different colors we carry!
BLOGGING FROM THE HEART
Whether we are blogging about our interests or discussing our shoes, our blogs come from the heart. Read our most recent blogs with topics from recycling to versatile minimalist shoes. (Click here to get to our blog page)
AU REVOIR TO BRETT
Brett, your favorite customer service representative since January just announced her coming departure. She is following her heart to be closer to her life companion. She assured us that SOM will stay lively in her heart. We will be keeping an eye open for any opportunities where she may be able to contribute to SOM remotely. We will be introducing to you a new person in the coming weeks.
STAYING IN TOUCH
Do you have questions about making shoes or manufacturing in the US in general? Reach out to us on Facebook or Twitter (@somfootwear) to ask SOM. We’ll be happy to answer all of your burning manufacturing questions—unless you are a spy from another shoe company, in which case we know nothing.
Hello Donald,
Great question about resoling!
The process of resoling our older models will not change—the VIBRAM sole will still be used. Due to the design of the old soles, we are unable to use the new SOM sole for resoling.
Please let us know if you have additional questions.
Sincerely,
SOM Team
Will the new soles affect resoling the old style?