The Great Merits of Bespoke Shoes

What are the great merits of bespoke shoes? Given that they cost in the region of five times as much as good readymade shoes, there must be something, beyond mere vanity. And there is. But there is vanity too. Having just broken two rules of grammar and used 'but' and 'and' to begin sentences, I owe you something. This is it. First of all, bespoke shoes are made from much better materials than their readymade cousins. Secondly, they fit better; not necessarily all round but, certainly, the the back quarters, around the heel; where there should be snugness, without pinching and a complete absence of gaps, between socks and shoes. The heels will be evidently much stronger and a better shape. The shanks (the backs between heel and sole) will be rounded or 'fiddle-backed' and there will be an overall lightness about them, in the hand and on the feet, which makes you feel as though you are walking on a cloud. With all the publicity surrounding reflexology, it does not take a genius to work out that, if your feet are happy, the rest of you stands a better chance, in every respect. Moreover, although the initial outlay is large, just think that, if you use them sensibly (and in rotation), each pair might well last a lifetime. Do the maths yourself. In the picture is a pair of Gaziano & Girling half brogues.