EXPERT - HISTORY & FACTORY - Vol. 1

This time, we will introduce the origins of clogs and EXPERT.

Clogs are made by hollowing out waterproof hardwoods such as thoroughly dried willow, beech, walnut, and alder,

and are said to be the origin of modern shoes.

Originating in Scandinavia, particularly Sweden, clogs are traditional footwear that has been adopted as national costumes in countries across Europe, including

the Netherlands, France, and Belgium.

They are called clogs in Sweden, sabots in France, and klomps (wooden shoes) in the Netherlands.

Today, the French term "sabot" probably resonates more with many people.

They were beloved by farmers working in wet fields and factory workers back then,

and are still worn today not only as fashion but also as work shoes.

The brand that has been making such clogs for over 60 years

is EXPERT, a clog factory founded in 1959.

With its factory located in Alstermo, a rural town in southern Sweden,

this family-run business continually researches and develops a wide variety of styles, from classic to modern, easy-to-wear designs.

Currently, in addition to their home country Sweden,

they exhibit in Germany, Denmark, Italy, and in recent years, Los Angeles, USA.

Even with an increasing number of models, our traditional handmade manufacturing methods remain unchanged,

a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship.

Even today, with wooden soles, skilled craftsmen over 80 years old

energetically produce each sabot carefully by hand.