






LEGACIES ARE MADE ONE AT A TIME







LEGACIES ARE MADE ONE AT A TIME
100 YEARS. Committed to Our Life's Work. Shoes.
100 YEARS. The stories. The people. The pride that comes from the passion for making.
100 YEARS. Made in America.
Made in Port Washington, Wisconsin.
100 YEARS. Generations of craftspeople teaching the next generation their craft.
100 YEARS. Making shoes for your life's work.
Our history has always been about the future.
To craft something that lasts. That lives on.
None of us build a legacy by standing still.
You know that. So do we.
100 years is nothing we take for granted.
To value how it's always been done and do it better.
To constantly perfect our craft and the shoes we put our name on.
That's the legacy we choose to carry forward in every shoe we make for you.
With sincere gratitude. We celebrate a century. LEGACY
IS ONLY THE BEGINNING.
Allen Edmonds
Style is a personal journey. In celebration of our 100th anniversary we commissioned iconic photographer Billy Kidd to capture a group of inspiring people each on their journey, each interpreting our iconic boot through their authentic style. Culture is defined by those who make it. An essential made in Port Washington, Wisconsin by 48 pairs of hands. A field-tested classic, that defines the freedom and promise of American style.
Share your life’s work with us on Instagram to become part of our historic celebration.
@AllenEdmonds #LegacyIsOnlyTheBeginning #AE100 #Hi!insMill100 #MyLifesWork
A CLASSIC DOESN'T SET OUT TO BE ONE. IT BECOMES ONE.
What does work mean to you?
The true definition of work is always building yourself up from within. It’s the time you take to learn or build a skill to improve your life. Some people do it for money. Some people work to kill time, but for me I work to become my greatest self.
What makes something a classic?
Something classic might get old over time but it still feels nostalgic. Like magic, it brings you back to a time in your life where you can feel that moment again. You can have an emotional connection to this thing and remember who you were at that moment in time but can also share it with others who feel the same way. For me that’s what makes it even more classic.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Boots always feel like protection to me. Ready for combat. If I’m wearing boots it's because I’m ready to work hard!
“ I AM AN ARTIST. I LIVE THROUGH ART, SELL ART AND PERFORM ART. THIS TYPE OF WORK COMES FROM MY PASSION FOR BUILDING MY SOUL.”
— Bones the Machine
What does work mean to you?
The word “work” is possibly used more in a musician's language than in most other fields. Like all freelancers, “I got some work,” means you got a gig and are doing what you love and desire to do, completely as yourself. There’s no drudgery, and I hope everyone could define work this way. But musicians like to say, "The band was really working," like a precise machine or tool. We also "work the room,” or "work the crowd." In this sense, work means to excite, to provoke and to influence.
What makes something a classic?
To paraphrase Francis Ford Coppola, “Something is a classic when it withstands the test of time, but more importantly when it moves a genre forward.” He was talking about The Godfather. When you listen to Chuck Berry, his song lyrics still enthrall, and his rhythms still make people want to dance. That led to The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and so many other greats. Something is classic when it never fails to satisfy. That’s why there can be new classics.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
I was born in Brooklyn to a blue-collar family. Putting on your boots meant that you were serious about getting the work done. The boots I choose for hitting the stage literally help me become larger than life. Boots change your posture, the way you move, and boost your confidence!
“ I’D SIMPLY LIKE TO BE INVOLVED IN A SONG OR MUSICAL EVENT THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME AND BECOMES CLASSIC. AS A NEW DAD HOWEVER, THINGS ARE CHANGING AND MY LIFE'S WORK IS BEING A FANTASTIC FATHER TO MY SON.”
— Daniel B Green
“No matter what it’s for, the work should end up being fulf illing once the goal is reached.”
— Brian Wong
What does work mean to you?
Work for me is defined by the process required to reach a goal. It’s not always enjoyable and at times it’s defeating. It will almost always be both physically and mentally challenging.
What makes something a classic?
A classic is something people can immediately reference. Not everyone has to know about it, but a large number of people should. It should bring up specific emotions.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style? It shows a rawness to their personality that shoes cannot bring out. It adds depth to their character.
“My career is dedicated to hospitality and the art of service.”
— Ashwin Balani
What does work mean to you?
Work is a dharma, a duty, a gift to be grateful for. To serve. To be kind. To be humble. To smile. To inspire. To dream. To advise. To love. To be in the moment. To do your best. To do better. To uplift. To laugh. To live.
What makes something a classic?
Classics transcend time. They’re elemental. A classic is a silhouette, a pair of pajamas, a pair of boots. Classic is Allen Edmonds.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
A boot reflects one’s personal interests, a lifestyle, an identity. The boot comes in so many forms. It shows both utility and versatility. Have fun with your boots to express your style.
“ You’re always working in boxing, inside and outside the gym. It’s a lifestyle.”
— Frank Monoco Jr.
What does work mean to you?
“Time to go to work,” we always say before we spar or fight. It means throwing punches even if they’re not landing. Staying focused, locked into what you have to do and what the other fighter is doing. Picking up on his tendencies and rhythm. Forcing him to make adjustments while you implement what you want to do in the ring and break him down.
Dictating the flow of the fight. If he’s throwing punches, it’s because I want him to. If he’s moving to the left, it’s because I want him to. Controlling the fight and the exchange rate.
My life’s work is always changing. I’m always setting new goals for myself. That’s how you evolve. My goal is to remain undefeated as a pro and become World Champion. I want to inspire people to believe they can do anything if they dedicate themselves, be disciplined, train smart and put in the hard work when it’s time.
What makes something a classic?
Putting on a boxing clinic with the jab and beating a guy up like that for 12 rounds and not getting hit is classic.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
It says a lot. Are they classy? Are they ru!ed? Are they about to kick someone’s butt with them? Are they about to work? Are they going hunting? Are they going out for dinner and a night on the town or are they just going for a hike to see some beautiful sights? Whatever the style, I’m going to look great doing it.
“My life’s work is helping others with disabilities. Being the son of two visually impaired parents and now being an amputee has placed me in a unique position.”
— Billy Davis
What does work mean to you?
To me, work means getting things done. When I think about dressing to get things done, I want my dress to match my attitude. I want to get it done as soon as possible while looking good. So, I want my clothes and shoes to be functional and stylish.
What makes something a classic?
I’ve always thought of a classic as something that looks good even as times change. A well-tailored tux, a nice watch, a great pair of shoes. Through the 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond, if you’re in a well-tailored suit with a nice pair of shoes and a nice watch, you look good!
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Boots can tell you a lot about someone’s style. But the most important thing boots can tell you is, whether or not they have style! And that’s all that really matters!
“I’ve got over 30 years of experience as a hair and makeup artist. It’s something I’ve put my heart into and have worked very hard at. Having a strong work ethic played a huge part in that.”
— Craig Honeycutt
What does work mean to you?
My parents instilled a strong work ethic in me. I may not have been thrilled about it as a teenager, but greatly appreciate having that as an adult. I like to work, I’m good at, it’s rewarding and it works for me.
What makes something a classic?
The perfect pair of boots that can be dressed up or down, a beautiful leather jacket, a great pair of worn-in jeans. These are classics to me. They never go out of style.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
I think boots say you’re ready. Ready to walk through. Ready to handle and be prepared for the day or night.
Recrafting extends the life of your favorite footwear.
We’ve rebuilt more than 500,000 shoes over the last 10 years, keeping styles in your closet and out of landfills. Since 1922, our Goodyear bench welt has allowed us to restore your footwear using the same materials and last used in their original construction. By sending them back to the source in Port Washington, Wisconsin, you’re putting your shoes and boots in the hands of craftspeople who are committed to restoring your footwear so that they can continue being part of your journey. Learn more at AllenEdmonds.com/Recrafting
Building a great pair of boots starts with the finest materials.
Our commitment to quality means partnering with storied tanneries that share our dedication to craft. Rich full-grain leathers, refined suedes and ultra-rare shell cordovan, all produced using the best traditional techniques and modern technology. From the smooth, rounded form of its toe to the classic, eight-eyelet height of its quarters, our essential boot is the ultimate canvas for these exceptional materials.
Chromexcel leather from Horween tannery. This proprietary material was first developed by Horween tannery nearly 100 years ago and perfectly represents their commitment to time-tested craftsmanship and quality. Infused with natural oils and grease, it’s famous for its depth of color that highlights every curve and line of our footwear. You can also count on it developing a beautiful patina that’s unique to you the more you wear it.
Weatherproof suede from C.F. Stead tannery. The finely napped texture and supple structure of the suede from Britain’s Stead tannery have made it to the go-to source for the material for over 100 years. It uses best-quality hides with a denser, tighter grain that’s brushed for a plush, velvety feel. This weatherproof style is then treated with a protective coating to keep the surface soft, and you dry.
LEGACIES DON'T LIVE IN THE PAST. THEY LIVE RIGHT NOW.
What does work mean to you?
The word “work” to me means taking actions aligned with your truest self and purpose. Work has to be self-liberating and bring positivity to yourself and the world at large. I believe work is a huge part of humanity since the beginning of time. Then fast forwarding to 100 years ago, work is what has built legacy brands like Allen Edmonds. Work when aligned and purposeful is a truly beautiful thing and is more rewarding than anything.
What makes something a classic?
How well that particular thing ages over time. A true classic must stand the test of time. I’m a huge fan of classic silhouettes of shoes and clothing cuts.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Everyone needs a solid boot in their closet. Boots say you’re confident, appreciate quality and are ready for anything!
“ MY LIFE’S WORK IS SHARING IDEAS, PROBLEM -SOLVING, EDUCATION AND INSPIRING ALL THROUGH VARIOUS MEDIUM OF CONCEPTUAL, CONTEMPORARY ART.”
— Dapo Davinci
What does work mean to you?
It’s about balance, and focus. In artmaking l try to walk a path between expressing myself and realizing an idea or project that’s separate from me and will stand on its own.
What makes something a classic?
I think a classic is something that can change and age well with you. Something that feels like home even as you become different versions of yourself.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Boots are a foundational piece of anyone’s style. They can tell you a lot about how someone sees themselves. One’s footwear can be a sneak peek into a person's values. What they’re prepared for or where they might prefer to be.
“
MY WORK HIGHLIGHTS MOVEMENT AND MATERIALITY AND JOINS TRADITIONAL MEDIUMS LIKE SCULPTURE AND PAPERMAKING WITH NEWER TECHNOLOGIES SUCH AS PHYSICAL COMPUTING AND 3D MODELING AND ANIMATION.”
— Dylan Reitz
What does work mean to you?
For me it’s hard to describe because it’s easily interchangeable with other words like “fun”, “purpose”, “legacy”. I realize that my definition of work comes from a very fortunate point of view, since it’s something that goes well beyond simply a way of making a living. I’m very lucky that my work gives me tremendous joy and a sense of purpose and meaning. To me work means the endless quest for self-betterment. They say that the journey is the destination. I agree with that statement completely.
What makes something a classic?
“Classic” is an attribute that has to be earned. It means standing the test of time. It isn’t superficial or attention-seeking. Classic items are of the highest quality, and they don’t follow short-term trends. It’s this kind of timelessness that earns something the right to be called “a classic.”
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Boots convey a sense of freedom and not following the beaten path. There’s a certain ru!edness to them, which makes people wonder about the story of the person wearing them.
“ THERE IS NO FINAL GOAL AND THERE IS NO RETIRING EITHER. TO ME WORK MEANS BEING STUCK IN THIS BLISSFUL LOOP OF ENDLESS SELF- IMPROVEMENT.”
— Filip Pogády
What does work mean to you?
Work is a never-ending process of self-alignment. Finding what you love and building a life around that center.
What makes something a classic?
A classic piece remains through different chapters in your life. Something you identify with regardless of your growth and inevitable change.
What does a pair of boots say about a person’s style?
Boots represent work. They represent doing. A life of action. Boots are versatility.
“AS A PRODUCER AND STORYTELLER OF MOSTLY OTHER PEOPLE'S STORIES, I AM TRUSTED WITH THE TELLING OF SOMETHING INTENSELY PERSONAL. PRIDE HELPS HOLD ME ACCOUNTABLE TO DOING THAT STORY JUSTICE.”
— Phineas Ellis
A partnership between two storied makers. In 1894 John Barbour founded his company with a focus on sturdy, functional “wet weather wear.” In the decades since, everyone from submarine crews and motorcycle racers to the British royal family have relied on the English brand’s famously dependable gear to protect them from the elements. We’re proud to team up with them to introduce an exclusive version of our Hi ins Mill boot and one of their signature jackets, each built with a commitment to incredibly durable materials and exceptional craftsmanship that both our brands share.
LEGACY IS ONLY THE BEGINNING.
100 years is nothing we take for granted. It's a moment we reach with great passion and commitment to our life's work and crafting shoes for yours. To craft something meaningful. In Life. In Work.