WE MAKE THE BOOTS, YOU MAKE THE MEMORIES!
our story
A Story of Craftsmanship, Confidence, and Faith
Graham Smith and Gerrit-Jan van Velze first met in a local pub in the picturesque village of Harlestone, Northamptonshire—a meeting that sparked a partnership built on shared values, contrasting experiences, and a passion for high-quality craftsmanship.
Graham, hailing from a long lineage of British artisans, grew up surrounded by the legacy of his family’s renowned coach-building heritage. The Smiths were known for their meticulous detailing and master craftsmanship—a standard that Graham now brings to every pair of boots crafted at Van Velze & Smith. His eye for detail and commitment to excellence ensure that each piece embodies a tradition of skill and precision that has been passed down through generations.
Gerrit-Jan (GJ) van Velze, of Dutch heritage but South African born, took a different path. As a professional rugby player, his life has been defined by resilience, dedication, and a desire to push boundaries. Einstein once said, “The only source of knowledge is experience.” With that in mind, GJ made the decision to relocate to Northamptonshire—the historic heart of British shoemaking—in pursuit of a new dream. The connection between sport and craftsmanship may not be obvious at first, but for GJ, it’s about building something that stands the test of time and inspires confidence, whether on the field or in the workshop.
Their paths crossed unexpectedly on 12 October 2012, in Northamptonshire’s famed shoe capital. Despite GJ’s questionable sartorial choices that day, Graham couldn’t help but admire his footwear—a mutual appreciation that led to a conversation which would soon become the foundation of Van Velze & Smith.
The rest, as they say, is history.
our philosophy
We believe a well-crafted pair of boots is more than just footwear; it's a statement of individuality and empowerment. Guided by our faith, we strive for excellence in every aspect of our business.
We understand our customers seek unique, handcrafted pieces that reflect their personal style and values. Each pair is meticulously designed and crafted to ensure unparalleled quality and purpose.
We don't just sell boots; we offer a personalised experience. When you choose Van Velze & Smith, you're investing in confidence, adventure, and self-expression.
Rejecting the Ordinary
Today's customers are tired of settling for mass-produced, soulless products that don't reflect their personality or boost their confidence. They want something that not only stands out in quality and craftsmanship but also resonates on a personal and emotional level. When they opt for the typical high street offering, they end up with footwear that feels generic and lacks the power to inspire.
Van Velze & Smith offers a solution. Each pair of our boots is crafted with precision and dedication, addressing the frustrations of ill-fitting, poor-quality alternatives. Built to last, our boots offer a product that feels bespoke and looks refined.
More than just an item of clothing, our boots solve the problem of self-expression. When our customers wear Van Velze & Smith, they don't just put on a pair of boots—they step into a mindset of adventure, authenticity, and assurance.
Crafted with an understanding that true success is measured by the positive impact we make on others, our boots are designed to not only elevate how people look and feel but also reflect the values of integrity and respect.
STEP INTO CONFIDENCE
At Van Velze & Smith, you're investing in more than just boots; you're investing in confidence and self-expression. Our handcrafted footwear empowers you to embrace your uniqueness and step boldly into your next adventure.
We solve more than just the problem of mediocre footwear. Each pair is a testament to the artistry of British shoemaking, crafted with care and integrity. With Van Velze & Smith, you're not just wearing boots; you're stepping into a new version of yourself.