How long do Goodyear-welted shoes last?

Goodyear-welted shoes can last many years, even decades, with proper care.


The exact lifespan of a Goodyear-welted shoe can vary based on factors such as usage, climate, and maintenance.

On average, heavily worn but well-maintained Goodyear-welted shoes can last between 5-10 years.

A pair that is rotated out among a collection of shoes should last between 10 to 20 years. Here at Norman Vilalta, we have customers who have walked into our men's shoe boutique in Barcelona wearing a pair of Goodyear-welted shoes that they've had for 30 years.

To help Goodyear-welted shoes last, we recommended to:

  1. Rotate shoes regularly to evenly distribute wear
  2. Clean and polish leather regularly
  3. Condition the leather to keep it hydrated using shoe creams
  4. Have the soles and heels replaced as needed
  5. Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

Want to know more? Read more about the benefits of Goodyear-welted shoes

Want a pair of Goodyear-welted shoes? View our Goodyear-welted and hand-finished Condal Collection today.