Van Velze & Smith

At Van Velze & Smith, purpose sits at the heart of everything we make. A purposeful product isn’t meant to stay perfect, it is meant to weather, adapt, and carry the marks of your journey. Each...

From Pitch to Startup: Lessons Rugby Taught Me About Business

I never grew up dreaming of owning a business , I dreamt of playing rugby. After 17 years on the pitch, I found the same lessons shaping Van Velze & Smith: consistency beats intensity, teamwork...

How to Travel Well: Boots, Bags, and the Miles Between

Travel tests everything. The wrong boots or bags make the miles heavier; the right ones make the journey lighter. Strong leather that adapts to your stride. Simple bags that carry more than weight ...

Slow Fashion, Fast World: Why We Choose the Harder Road

The world rewards speed — fast food, fast fashion, fast wins. But at Van Velze & Smith, we’ve chosen the slower road. It isn’t easier, and it certainly isn’t faster, but it’s the only way to cr...

Boots That Tell Stories: Why Every Mark Matters

At Van Velze & Smith, we believe the perfect boot isn’t meant to stay flawless. Every scuff, crease, and mark tells a story — from rain-soaked streets in Bath to dusty roads in the Karoo. Our h...

Some boots are made to be worn. Ours are made to be lived in.

Discover Van Velze & Smith — a luxury footwear brand creating handcrafted leather boots that blend British craftsmanship with South African style. Designed for men and women who value quality, ...

A Heartfelt Look Back at 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what an incredible year it’s been for Van Velze & Smith. There’s so much to celebrate, and I wanted to share some highlights with you personall...

Meet Our Co-Founder: Gerrit-Jan van Velze (GJ)

Hi, I’m Gerrit-Jan van Velze, but most people just call me GJ. The nickname started on my very first day in Northamptonshire when I was told, quite bluntly, that “Gerrit-Jan” was a terrible name. ...

How to Choose the Perfect Leather Bag

Investing in a leather bag is about more than style—it’s about finding a luxurious, durable piece that complements your lifestyle. At Van Velze & Smith, we specialise in handmade bags that com...

The Art of Leather Craftsmanship at Van Velze & Smith

At Van Velze & Smith, leather craftsmanship is not just a skill—it’s an art form. Every piece that comes out of our workshop is a testament to meticulous handiwork, an unwavering commitment to...