Designed in brooklyn, handmade in italy

• Full-grain Italian calfskin leather
• Leather soles
• Leather lining
• Blake construction
• Padded leather lining
• Painted by hand
• Pocket inside tongue to comfortably hide tied laces

Rafters have leather soles with blake construction and a heel - a key differentiating factor from the trend of rubber-soled, high-end sneakers. Rafters are not sneakers, they are dress shoes with design features that break away from the standard oxford, penny loafer or wingtip styles that have been around for over 100 years. Yet, Rafters still are crafted with traditional materials that keep them appropriate for any formal occasion.

Rafter's association with basketball culture also adds a layer of personal connection to the consumer rarely seen in formalwear. Ultimately, we plan for our shoes to be released with a similar level of excitement and anticipation as new basketball sneakers.