Mark Albert Boots

Mark Albert Boots was founded by Mark Barbera in 2016. Barbera grew up in Somerset, Pennsylvania. While attending LaSalle University in Philadelphia, he designed a Chelsea boot. Barbera could not find a similar boot within his budget, leading him to work with a local factory to create his own design. He funded initial production through a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $22,000, which exceeded the original goal of $11,000.

The Somerset factory that produced Mark Albert Boots began operations in 1948. This facility made Goodyear-welted shoes and had previously filled contracts for the military. Mark Barbera’s great-grandfather, who was known as an Italian master shoemaker, worked at the factory during its early years.

Mark Albert Boots ceased operations in 2022.

Mark Albert Boots were manufactured in Somerset, Pennsylvania. The factory used shoemaking machinery in operation since 1948. Production involved more than 100 steps and relied on craftspeople with many years of experience.

Mark Albert Boots used Goodyear welt construction for all products. The company sourced full-grain leather mainly from tanneries in Maine and Wisconsin, including Tasman and Seidel. Some leathers underwent a hot-stuffing process with oils and waxes.

Mark Albert Boots released several models, including Chelsea boots, derby shoes, Outrider boots, Appalachian boots, and Pursue boots. Some models, such as the derby shoe, used patterns developed for Navy officers. The Pursue boot resulted from a collaboration with retailer James Dant. The Appalachian model drew inspiration from boots made for the Marines Mountain School.