Clinch Boots
MakerAbout
Clinch Boots is a footwear brand based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2012. The brand produces handcrafted boots that take inspiration from vintage styles, particularly those characteristic of the early to mid-20th century.
About
Clinch Boots is a footwear brand based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2012. The brand produces handcrafted boots that take inspiration from vintage styles, particularly those characteristic of the early to mid-20th century.
History
Clinch Boots was founded by Minoru Matsuura, who began his career in shoe repair. In 2007, Matsuura opened BRASS, a shoe repair shop in the Setagaya district of Tokyo. Over time, BRASS expanded to include re-lasting and original bootmaking. This shift led to the launch of Clinch in 2012, focusing on the production of classic workwear boots rooted in vintage design.
Manufacturing
Clinch Boots manufactures between 800 and 1,000 pairs of boots annually. Production is divided among several locations: the main site handles bottom making and finishing, upper assembly is done on the top floors, and nearby spaces are used for cutting and preparation. The staff consists of 10 to 11 people, with a portion assigned to office tasks while others focus on production and repairs.
Construction and materials
Clinch Boots are made using hand-lasting techniques, with most pairs welted by hand and completed with a sole stitching machine. The brand sources hides from tanneries in Italy, France, and Japan. Each pair is made using selected materials that meet the company’s specifications for their products.
Products
Clinch Boots produces models such as the Engineer Boot, Yeager Boot, Jodhpur Boot, and Mast Trainer. Materials used in these models include European horsebutt leather, French calfskin, and canvas. Construction features consist of hand-sewn welting, reproduction soles, and custom hardware. The brand distributes its boots through a Tokyo store and a select group of international retailers.
