Websters
The Cobbler’s Craft
The cobbler has been an important part of communities throughout the world as long as there has been footwear. Cobblers repair the shoes that shoemakers or cordwainers make. Until recently, shoes were a highly valued purchase that the wearers would protect and keep in good condition. The alternative was often to go without shoes which was often a dangerous prospect when work still needed to be accomplished and an unprotected foot was likely to suffer damage.
The cobbler was responsible for re-stitching the fabric of the shoe (most often leather). He also replaced soles as they were the most likely part of the shoe to wear out. Because shoes were historically an expensive purchase, having them repaired by the skilled cobbler was cost far less than throwing them out and buying new ones.
After the Second World War, industrialism ramped up in many parts of the world, especially in England and the United States. Goods that had been traditionally produced by hand by skilled craftsmen were now being mechanically mass-produced in factories by the ton. Shoes were no exception. Instead of being the serviceable footwear they had always been, shoes were now being billed as fashion statements. Consumers were enticed to have a dozen or more pair in all different colors and styles. Mechanizing the process had brought the cost down to the point where people could afford to own many pairs of shoes- and to throw them out and buy new when they became worn or even just unfashionable.
Today, the tide is turning once again and having shoes repaired by experienced cobblers is becoming a popular choice for three main reasons: the economy, the environment and health concerns.
With the economic meltdown that has occurred in the past year and continues even now, many people are surviving on less, either because one or both spouses has lost a job or because the mortgage rates have been reset or because new consumer credit is practically impossible to find. While the frugality of having shoes repaired versus replaced is not as pronounced as it once was, it is still less expensive and many are choosing this option to save some money.
The environmental impact of our waste stream is also causing people to have shoes repaired as part of the three R’s: reduce, reuse, recycle. Shoes that are thrown out end up in landfills and take up space in this limited resource. Fixing existing shoes not only save that space at the dump but also slow down the factory production of new shoes- another source of environmental concern.
Perhaps the most personal and important reason to have old shoes repaired rather than tossed is the shoe itself. It can be a challenge to find a shoe that fits properly and supports the foot to alleviate pressure points. A good shoe can prevent back and leg pain and a host of foot conditions that can affect walking. Once a person finds a comfortable shoe, it makes sense to keep it in good condition and have it repaired as it ages.
Cobblers are once again in style and shoes once again represent more than just the latest fashion.
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