Sign of the times: England’s historic shoemaker Church’s elevates the sneaker scene

Church's, one of the world's finest shoemakers, is joining fashion's designer sneaker spate with a fittingly elegant incarnation for its sporting debut. Made from English calfskin, suede or gabardine cotton, the 'Mirfield' style, with its uniquely raised rubber sole, walks in store today as a testament to the British heritage brand's modernity.
Founded in 1873 by Thomas Church, the house drew upon a century's worth of shoemaking know-how, passed down through the Englishman's family, dating back to 1675. 'The new Church's sneaker represents the completion of our men's footwear collection,' explains Stefano Cantino, group marketing, communication and commercial development director. 'They are manufactured with premium materials and the same craftsman attention that have always characterised the heart of the brand's identity.'
Despite being bought by Prada in 1999, Church's has maintained its historic headquarters in Northampton - a town renowned from medieval times for its handmade shoe industry - safeguarding its traditions and integrity. 'The Church's sneaker responds to the development of Church's future collections,' continues Cantino, 'and is dedicated to the expectations of our clientele, who are constantly in search of excellence and elegance.' A mission close to our heart too.
This sportif trainer has a uniquely raised rubber sole and is a testament to the Northampton heritage brand's modernity
'The new Church's sneaker represents the completion of our men's footwear collection,' explains Stefano Cantino, group marketing, communication and commercial development director. 'They are manufactured with premium materials and the same craftsman attention that have always characterised the heart of the brand's identity'
Cantino continues: 'The Church's sneaker responds to the development of Church's future collections and is dedicated to the expectations of our clientele, who are constantly in search of excellence and elegance'
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox.
-
Cult classics: Nars’ radiant foundation and concealer speak to a vision of ‘real beauty’
As Nars presents a pop-up in London, coinciding with Fashion Week A/W 2025, Wallpaper* beauty editor Hannah Tindle traces François Nars’ vision for ‘real’ beauty
By Hannah Tindle Published
-
Talia Byre’s contemporary heirlooms celebrate the ‘quiet power of dressing on one’s own terms’
Talia Lipkin-Connor – the designer behind London label Talia Byre – finds inspiration in the personal wardrobes of her friends and family. As part of our Uprising series, Wallpaper* meets the designer as she prepares to show her A/W 2025 collection at London Fashion Week
By Orla Brennan Published
-
Wim Wenders’s photographs of moody Americana capture the themes in the director’s iconic films
'Driving without a destination is my greatest passion,' says Wenders. whose new exhibition has opened in New York’s Howard Greenberg Gallery.
By Osman Can Yerebakan Published