The Middle English from Aurora Shoe Co. is now available at Nepenthes Los Angeles.
Handmade in a small workshop on the edge of Cayuga Lake, the Middle English has been in steady production since the early ’90s. The name is a quiet nod to the shape and simplicity of monastic footwear. Somewhere between a shoe and a clog, materials are limited to thick leather, cut and stitched by hand, and nailed to a Vibram outsole. The Middle English is unlined, with coverage at the forefoot, an open instep, and a strap.
Each pair uses Horween Chromexcel, a dense, high-oil leather that’s hot-stuffed, drum-dyed, and hand-finished. The surface has real depth and softens over time without losing structure. It’s strong but not stiff. When brushed, the oils rise to the surface, and the leather develops a rich, buttery sheen. With wear, it molds to the foot and takes on a patina.
Aurora’s shoes are built to be repaired. The stitching is visible and accessible. The soles are nailed in place, not cemented. Materials are chosen because they last, not because they’re cheap.
Aurora’s inclusion aligns with Nepenthes’ philosophy, revealing the beauty of the personal uniform—clothes and objects that earn their keep through repetition. The Middle English fits into that framework seamlessly. Worn hard or easy, they’ll hold up.
Available now at Nepenthes Los Angeles.
