It’s always exciting when a promising new brand comes about and starts doing things a little bit differently, yet still maintains a bit of classical elegance. Barker Black, for me, was just that and still very much is to this day. The only problem is that I don’t feel that they are making much headway in the industry, as I never really hear anything about them. I have only seen them stocked at Neiman Marcus (but have read of others) and have really only seen them in person twice in my entire life. I have always admired them in picture, not only for their beautifully shaped lasts, but more so for their amazing design. I had hoped that with their fresh ideas of design and detail that they would exceptionally set themselves apart from the masses that at the time (they launched in 2005) were full of drab and monotony and thus become major players in the industry. But I guess that today is a new day, full of companies trying to do just that: set themselves apart. And at a price-point of around �500-�600, one limits his client base, which makes it harder to compete. Nevertheless, I hope that I continue to see more of them as I do truly appreciate the unique models that they come out with!
How does Barker Black rate in terms of construction and material quality? I have always admired their work design-wise but, because of the anonymity you discuss here, have never seen much about the “nuts and bolts” (leathers and welts?) of their products. Do they produce shoes in-house does someone else manufacture for the label? Thanks for everything and keep up the good work.
they are made by Barker but to a level that Barker themselves do not provide for their own shoes. I rate quite well to be honest. They are a handgrade shoe, with good leather and beautiful details. they are not as refined as an EG or G&G, but I don’t believe that they would be as expensive either….a good shoe that’s for sure!
The leather and construction were similar to C&J’s handgrade shoes – or a superior version of Jeffery West shoes. But £450 to £600 at launch of 2005 was very ambitious. Soles were channelled and finishing top notch, but there were better options around (JL; EG and Vass)
thanks for sharing
I really like their leather and suede brogues and their skull medallion. I think they need more attention!
likewise!
I have about 8 pairs , lavenums, archdales, haraboro, moxham, blenhiem – a couple of styles twice over. They are sleek, brilliantly constructed – use the archdales as my every day pair – 2weekly roration and they are going strong 3 years on – in British weather and with me stomping around the hospital where I work. But JFP has nailed it, they came and yet they seem to have went and I can’t work out why…. Edgy, but conservative but maybe proved too edgy for the … Uh, em… shoe snob’s.. (sorry)
i would presume that you are right…did too many unique things and are at a difficult pricepoint and those with the capabilities to afford that pricepoint, must not have been too keen…oh well, maybe they can make a comeback!