Dornford shoes are crafted on traditional English-derived lasts and run true to size. We recommend ordering
your standard US size. If you are between sizes or have a wider foot, sizing up by half is generally advised.

Our Icons collection is built on a standard (D) width last. We are developing extended width options and
invite you to contact us directly if you require a broader fit — our Agra workshop can accommodate bespoke
requests.

We maintain a waitlist for sold-out sizes and restock seasonally. You may also enquire about a made-to-order
pair through our bespoke service.

We source full-grain calf leathers from tanneries in Europe and India, chosen for their density, temper, and
ability to develop a rich patina over time. Each hide is selected by hand at our Agra atelier.

Each Icon carries an original patina — a hand-applied layering of dyes and burnishing that gives the shoe its
characteristic depth and tone. No two pairs are identical. The patina deepens with wear and polish, making
each shoe uniquely yours.

Dornford shoes are made from genuine full-grain leather and natural materials. We do not currently offer
synthetic or vegan alternatives, as our craft is fundamentally rooted in traditional leather working.

Goodyear welting is a traditional method of shoe construction in which the upper, insole, and welt are
stitched together with a strip of leather, creating a cavity filled with cork. The outsole is then stitched to the

welt. This method produces a shoe of exceptional durability that can be resoled multiple times, extending the
life of the shoe by decades.

Yes — this is one of the defining advantages of Goodyear welt construction. When the outsole wears, a
competent cobbler can remove and replace it without disturbing the upper. With proper care, a Dornford
shoe will outlast many lesser pairs.

Each pair of Dornford shoes passes through over 200 steps and takes approximately four to six weeks to
complete from cutting to finishing. The patina process alone requires multiple sessions of hand-application
and burnishing.

We recommend wiping off dust after each wear with a soft cloth, applying a quality cream polish matched to
your shoe's tone every few wears, and using cedar shoe trees when not in use. Avoid excess moisture and
allow shoes to rest between wears — at least 24 hours.

While leather is naturally water-resistant, prolonged exposure to wet conditions can cause damage. If your
shoes are caught in rain, allow them to dry naturally at room temperature with shoe trees inserted. Avoid
direct heat sources. Once dry, re-condition with a leather cream.

Yes — and intentionally so. The patinas on Dornford shoes are designed to evolve with wear. Creases, polish,
and exposure to light will deepen the tones and add character. This ageing is a mark of quality, not
imperfection.

Yes. Dornford ships to all 50 US states via tracked international courier. Orders typically arrive within 2–6
business days of dispatch.

Orders shipped to other countries may be subject to import duties, depending on the order value and
applicable trade regulations. Any such duties are the responsibility of the customer. We recommend checking
with your country’s Customs & Border Protection authority if you have any questions before placing an
order.

Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a tracking number via email. You can use it to track
your shipment through our courier partner’s portal or via the order tracking section on our website.

We accept returns on unworn shoes in their original condition and packaging within 10 days of delivery.
Please contact us at support@dornford.com and refer to the Returns & Exchange section for further details.
We are unable to accept returns on shoes that show any signs of wear.

Yes. If your size does not fit, we will do our best to exchange for the correct size, subject to availability.
Please reach out within 10 days of receipt.

Each pair is inspected before dispatch. In the unlikely event that your shoes arrive in a condition that does
not meet our standards, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photographs and we will resolve it
promptly.