Bidwell 2.0

Launched by Parkhurst Brand, which was founded in Buffalo, New York in Fall 2018, the Bidwell 2.0 represents the company's approach to creating footwear that balances dress and work styling. The shoe incorporates traditional construction methods while utilizing materials sourced from established tanneries and suppliers.

The Bidwell 2.0 utilizes Goodyear welt construction, a method that has been used to manufacture high-quality footwear since the mid-1800s. This construction approach allows the shoe to be resoled repeatedly throughout its lifespan. The build focuses on enhanced breathability and shock absorption through the use of natural leather components rather than synthetic materials.

Manufacturing involves a combination of international and domestic production. Primary manufacturing takes place in Spain and Portugal, while final assembly and finishing are completed at Parkhurst's Buffalo, New York facility. The construction includes a split reverse welt, which provides water resistance while maintaining structural integrity.

The sole system features Dainite studded rubber soles and heel toppers, which are sourced from British manufacturers through United States supply chain vendors. These components are both glued and stitched to the leather midsole for secure attachment. The interior incorporates a half lining from the arch forward using thick vegetable-tanned leather, and the tongue is partially gusseted for improved fit and comfort.

The Bidwell 2.0 is offered in three primary leather configurations, each providing different aesthetic and aging characteristics.

The Dune Rough-out version features full grain, full vegetable-tanned rough-out upper leather. This leather is tanned using natural waxes and oils, which allows it to develop a distinctive patina over time while maintaining resistance to environmental elements.

The Natural Veg Re-tan option uses the same upper leather specifications as Parkhurst's Niagara model, featuring full grain vegetable re-tan leather. This version includes a rubber studded sole and heel configuration designed for durability and traction.

The Horsebutt variant incorporates upper leather from the Maryam tannery in Italy. Horsebutt leather is characterized by a tight fiber structure that contributes to both durability and distinctive aging patterns. This leather type develops unique characteristics as it wears, making each pair develop individual appearance traits over time.

All leather options are tanned with natural waxes and oils, resulting in materials that change appearance and feel through regular use. The lining leather used across all versions measures 1.8 to 2.0 ounces in thickness.

The Bidwell 2.0 is constructed on Parkhurst's 602M last, which features specific characteristics designed to provide a comfortable fit while preventing heel slip. The last incorporates a slightly lower volume profile compared to some alternatives, contributing to a more snug overall fit while maintaining a rounded forefoot shape.

The 602M last specifications include a single E width toebox as measured on the Brannock device, combined with a tapered arch and snug heel area. Compared to Parkhurst's standard 602 last, the 602M provides approximately one to two millimeters of additional depth in the toebox area and width in the pinky toe region, creating slightly more accommodation for foot variations while preserving the overall shape profile.

Sizing recommendations typically suggest going down one full size from standard sneaker measurements. For individuals using Brannock device measurements, the general guidance is to size down half a size for D/regular width and volume feet, or a full size down for narrower or lower volume feet. The sizing approach accounts for the last's snug heel and waist design while accommodating the roomier forefoot area.

The 602M last is primarily used for Allen and Richmond production in addition to the Bidwell 2.0, with some moc-toe styles also utilizing this last shape. The design maintains a natural contour over the instep while providing the fit characteristics that distinguish it from other lasts in Parkhurst's lineup.