Elements & Evolution

Like most footwear, Base London shoes are formed on a 'last'. The last is the block around which materials for the 'upper' (the top part of the shoe) are moulded prior to the attachment of the insole, sole and heel of the shoe. It is the last which dictates the basic shape and size of the shoe and a single last will support the evolution of many different styles of upper.

The last is the heart of the shoemaker's art and shoemakers will classify their ranges in terms of lasts. Traditionally, lasts were made from hard woods. These days, however, strong plastics are also used.

Any shoemaker hopes that a last will survive for several seasons before it becomes obsolete. Equally, however, leading shoemakers - including Base London - will continually introduce new lasts, to keep up with developing fashion trends.

Base London's shoes are divided into ranges which are determined by their last.