Celebrating 85 years in Mayfield
Davies Shoes celebrates 85 years in Mayfield
When Emlyn Davies first opened his shoe store in Kurri Kurri in 1927, he never dreamed it would endure to become the longest established, family owned business in Mayfield. After functioning successfully in Kurri for 12 years, Emlyn opened a 2nd shop, under the banner Emlyn Davies Shoe Store, at 175 Maitland Road Mayfield on Friday 13th December 1939. Far from being an unlucky omen, this marked the beginning of the respected place Davies Shoes has long held in the Mayfield community.
During the war years, stock was scarce but customers remained loyal, keen to buy what was available. In 1946, Emlyn tragically passed away but the business continued under the guidance of his widow, Edna. In 1955, the business was re-named Davies Shoes and in 1968, after acquiring further premises at 183 Maitland Road, it was divided to sell women’s and children’s shoes from its family store at 175 Maitland Road and men’s footwear from its ‘Mr Shop’ at 183. This plan suffered a temporary set back in February 1969 when an electrical fault triggered a fire which unfortunately destroyed the men’s store. This was re-built then re-opened in May 1969. The subsequent relocation of the ‘Mr Shop’ to 185 Maitland Road saw a third shop at 185a Maitland Road added in February 1972 and this operated as a clearance store for the other two.
In March 1975, the three stores were amalgamated and moved into the Abercrombie building at 272 Maitland Road where it has been operating ever since. During this time, the Davies family were witness to the downturn in Australian footwear manufacturing and the greater reliance on imports to fill the shelves. Always keen to provide their customers with the best options available, stock was and continues to be sourced from quality brands including many European manufacturers who maintain the high standards expected by Davies Shoes customers.
During its many years of operation, Davies Shoes has borne witness to many events, both good and bad, and proven itself a survivor. During the infamous Pasha Bulka storm in June 2007, the roof from the old shop at 183 Maitland Road was dislodged and blew across Maitland Road. It cleared the 3 storey high Hunter Building to land intact on the roof of Davies Shoes current location at 272. This provoked amusing comments from the Davies family about the past always catching up with you.
The current owner/operator, Ivor Davies, has worked in the business since the mid 1960’s, purchasing it outright in 1978. He, with the support of his family and loyal staff, has been the worthy caretaker of his father Emlyn’s legacy, successfully building the business into the iconic shoe store it is today.
School Shoes & Orthoses
Image of Ivor Davies and Branxton . Image provided by Linda Finney
Written by Ivor Davies
Children spend at least 30 hours a week wearing school shoes and, in order to achieve maximum benefit from their orthoses, they need to be properly fitted with footwear that possesses the following attributes:
Durable shock absorbing soles that flex from the ball of the foot and are resistant to twist;
Strong heel cups that firmly hold the heels and are deep enough to accommodate orthoses;
Sufficient length to allow for growth but not so long as to compromise fit;
Correct width to support the foot - not too tight or too loose!
Feet come in many different shapes and sizes, yet Clarks Premium range is the only range available that recognise this fact (note this does not include ALL Clarks). The Premium range comes in 6 different widths, a most important aspect of shoe fitting that is often overlooked. It is also available in half sizes, allowing ‘fine tuning’ for the best possible fit. Some brands try to meet the need for width adjustment by supplying additional innersoles which can be added or removed to accommodate a broad or narrow foot. Unfortunately, such an approach fails to recognise the difference in heel shape between various width feet; a factor that greatly affects the ability of the shoe to hold an orthosis in place.
Style is often a consideration, with Velcro fastening and Mary Janes proving popular choices, but these options do not combine with an orthosis as successfully as a lace-up. The finer adjustment afforded by lace-ups allow for much better support over the full length of the instep and maximises the effectiveness of the orthotic.
Davies Shoes, Mayfield, offers expert advice and fitting from people who understand the importance of foot health. We also stock Clarks Premium school shoes all year round.
Wool Slippers for Women: 7 Reasons Why We Love Wool Slippers
As the temperatures start to drop, there is nothing more cozy than to curl up with your coffee and a pair of warm wool slippers by the fire. An elevated form of bedroom slippers, wool clogs are the epitome of comfort and ease while still retaining style. While a normal pair of slippers can only be expected to last for a year before becoming misshapen. Taos® high-quality wool slippers are designed to last.
7 Essential Reasons Why We Love Indoor/Outdoor Clogs
There are endless reasons to slip into a pair of cozy wool slippers, whether you’re at home or heading to work. They’re like the equivalent of a big hug after a long day and provide maximum comfort. If you’re curious about the benefits of our wool shoes, take a look at some of the pro’s we’ve listed below.
Flexible
A pair of soft wool clogs is the ideal shoe if you suffer from common foot problems like bunions, and corns. While many shoes can be restrictive, the softness and flexibility of the wool allows a certain amount of stretch so that no part of your foot feels too restricted. The wool creates an almost custom fit as it cocoons around the shape of your foot.
Supportive
As with all of our shoes, we put expert care into creating a design that is not only beautiful, but 100% foot-friendly. All of our wool features orthotic-level support with footbeds that mold to your arches to relieve pressure and cushion your every step. These slippers with arch support are so comfortable that you can wear them all day long!
Wear Inside and Outside
You’ve probably considered wearing your bedroom slippers outside before, but thought better of it. Delicate slippers don’t stand a chance against the elements, but Taos® wool clogs for women do. The thick rubber soles on all of our wool clogs are made to traverse city sidewalks and country lanes, so you really can wear these versatile slippers anywhere you go.
Breathable
Wool is a naturally breathable fibre that is layered to allow maximum air flow while still keeping your feet warm and toasty. Don’t subject your feet to synthetic shoe materials that make them hot and sweaty. It’s not only uncomfortable, but also provides a breeding ground for bacteria inside your shoes which damages their durability.
Temperature Regulating
As a material, wool immediately comes to mind when the weather gets colder, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t also wear your Taos® wool slippers in the spring and summer. They are naturally temperature regulating, meaning that unlike synthetic materials, the wool does not trap heat. You won’t end up with clammy feet in Taos® wool clogs or slipper booties no matter which season you wear them in.
Easy On and Off
When you are rushing out of the house on the way to work, school, or another engagement, it helps to have a pair of shoes that can be slipped on quickly without hassle. Taos® wool clogs might be as comfortable as bedroom slippers, but they are designed with European craftsmanship and style in mind so you can style them with anything in your closet, from jeans to dresses. Clogs like Woolderness 2 feature beautiful intricate hand embroidery to elevate your wardrobe while providing a durable, lasting wear.
Eco-Friendly
Taos® wool clogs are more than just cozy, they are also eco-friendluy. Natural wool, which comes from sheep, is sustainable, meaning that it doesn’t require the use of toxic chemicals to produce and is a renewable resource. Taos® ethically sources all of the wool for their clogs from Italy and no sheep are harmed in the shearing of their fleece.
Types of Wool Slippers
When deciding on which wool slippers you would like, there are several distinctions that set apart the silhouettes of Taos® clogs.
Clogs
Classic wool clogs like My Sweet Wool and Woolderness 2, are timeless slip-on shoes that make getting dressed simple. They feature an open back as well as a thick cork midsole that is both stylish and practical for walking. Cork also has the benefit of being shock-absorbent and lightweight, so you can walk with a pep in your step without feeling weighed down by your shoes. Clogs will never go out of style, so this is a great style to add to your shoe collection.
Slipper Boots
If you desire a bit more warmth, then wool slipper boots like Woolabee are your best bets. They cover your ankle, providing a toasty home for your cold feet during the winter. A pair of wool slipper boots looks fab with flannel pajamas for staying in, but you can also style them with a pair of jeans or a wintry skirt when going out.
Clogs with a Back
Looking for something in between the above two options? Taos® clogs are made in the style of a clog with the option to add on a back for even more support. The collapsible back on this convertible clog is a unique feature that is camouflaged by a decorative seam that gives the clog old-world charm. This versatile design makes these wool clogs perfect for lounging around and for when you’re on the go.
Choosing The Best Wool Clogs for Women
Ready to start enjoying your comfy wool clogs? Finding the best supportive slippers will come down to what particular needs you have and where you plan on wearing your shoes. Full coverage booties will keep you the most insulated and warm, but if you want complete ease in terms of taking your shoes on and off, then a classic clog is ideal. Whichever warm wool clogs or wool slippers you choose, your feet will be in heaven in the coziest shoes around!
Look stylish and be comfortable in Taos wool clogs. They are a cozy and comfy option that gives you lasting comfort all day and all night. Go from day to evening without discomfort with our arch support clogs. Our range of women's clogs are created with durability and longevity in mind. Each pair of our comfortable clogs is made in Spain and come with distinctive color patterns and solids, ranging from ethically sourced wool felt imported from Italy, to hand-woven textiles and recycled plastics.
Taos wool clogs provide the comfort of slippers but are suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear thanks to a durable rubber outsole. Perfect for lounging as well as wearing on-the-go, our wool slippers with arch support are sure to keep you warm and cozy in all elements. These breathable wool shoes provide maximum comfort without letting your feet overheat, making them the optimal wool clogs for women in any season.
Why are the Taos Wool Clogs so great? The secret lies within our Curves & Pods® removable footbed which has provided arch support and metatarsal support to our customers for years on end. Especially suitable for those dealing with foot discomfort, the impeccable support and cushioning of these Curves & Pods® removable footbeds makes our arch support clogs comfortable enough to wear all night.
Our selection of women's clogs with arch support are designed with comfort in mind without ever sacrificing style. Look no further for wool shoes that are as appealing to the eye as they are to the feet. Crafted with high quality materials, the Taos range of wool clogs for women ensure support and durability while retaining an attractive design. If you’re looking for flexibility, durability, comfort, and style, then the Taos collection of wool clogs are perfect for you.
When The Shoe Fits
Reprint from article in Intouch Magazine December 2022
Ivor Davies fitting school shoes. Photo by Linda Finney
WORDS PAM DAVIES
Too often, good foot health is overlooked as an integral part of our well-being, so healthy, well-supported feet in childhood are the basis of meeting the life-long demands ahead of them.
Ivor Davies, owner and manager of Davies Shoes Mayfield, understands the importance of good quality, well-fitted shoes and ensures precise measurement and fitting are central to every footwear purchase for your child.
Ivor recommends having your children’s feet accurately measured at the start of each school year.
“Children spend over 30 hours a week in their school shoes, so expert fitting is vital,” Ivor said.
“As stockists of Clarks Premium school shoe range, Davies Shoes takes care to match each child’s feet to the most suitable style, ensuring correct length, width and maximum growth room without compromising fit and support.”
With quality leather uppers and durable soles, Clarks Premium school shoes are hard-wearing whilst allowing feet to breathe. They also come in six different widths as well as half sizes, allowing the expert fitters at Davies Shoes to ‘fine tune’ for the best fit possible.
The staff at Davies Shoes is also highly experienced in fitting ‘challenging feet’ and are well known for stocking back-to-school footwear that can accommodate the very narrow to the extra wide foot. “Shoes that pinch or slip are not providing the support essential for good foot health,” Ivor said.
Clarks Premium school shoes are also well designed to fit orthotics and arch supports where needed.
“Shoes need to be supportive and deep enough at the heel to maximise the efficiency of orthoses,” said Ivor, whose years of experience working closely with podiatrists and physiotherapists have further added to the wonderful reputation of Davies Shoes.
Word-of-mouth recommendations see a constant stream of customers, both familiar and new, visiting the store. Appreciative of the knowledge and understanding of their footwear needs, successive generations of families continue to shop at Davies Shoes where customers’ needs are always the priority
How Is It Made? Alegria.
Take a little walk through the Alegria factory and marvel at just how much work goes into creating these wonderful shoes.
How To Clean Your Woolloomooloo Shoes
Washable Merino Wool Shoes
Wool sneakers are a thing of wonder, we know. Asides from being incredibly good looking, Woolloomooloo wool sneakers are completely washable.
Woolloomooloo's are 100% machine washable.
It’s actually a myth that wool can’t be washed…. And when it’s spun into a superfine thread and digitally knitted, washing is a breeze!
How to wash wool sneakers:
1.If your shoes have laces, remove them and the comfort insoles
Squirt a little wool cleaner on the shoe upper.
For machine washing, put the sneakers in a linen bag and turn the dial to machine cold, gentle cycle!
For those insoles throw them in your sink or wherever and hand wash them with cold water and a dash of wool cleaner.
Lastly, air dry both the sneakers and insoles! Sneakers and insoles should be air dried out of direct hot sun! For your sake and ours, please do not use your dryer. We know, it's tempting because the idea of wearing your shoes sooner is one that's hard to wait on, but we know you have the strength and will to do so. Once dry, reinsert insoles and slip those bad boys on!
HOW TO : Remove Mold from Leather Shoes
All of this rainy weather lately may be wonderful for the garden, but it has created some issues when it comes to the care and storage of our lovely leather shoes and boots. With the ground refusing to dry, the humidity levels have been rising in our wardrobe and storage boxes, leaving not just our shoes but handbags, belts and jackets vulnerable.
Have you just taken your favourite pair of winter boots out of storage only to discover that they have become the home to a thriving colony of mold? Don’t let this tempt you into throwing them away without first trying to save them. Here are a few tricks and tips that can help resurrect our beloved footwear and hopefully help prevent future mold breakouts.
What Causes Mold On Footwear?
Wherever there's excessive moisture, such as leaks, damp corners or wet insoles, mold can accumulate. Shoes are especially susceptible to mold growth. The dark, warm, moist environment of footwear creates the perfect lair for fungus to thrive.
Although they're quite luxurious, leather clothes, shoes, and accessories are prone to mildew and mold growth if they're stored in an area where moisture and heat levels are too high. It only takes one spore to start a colony, so it's important to remove mold from your belongings as soon as you spot it.
Mold on leather shoes is a common problem especially when humidity is high.
How To Remove Mold From Leather Shoes
There is more than one way to treat problem of mold and mildew on your shoes, but basically it comes down to four simple steps.
1: Clean
2: Sanitize
3: Restore
4: Prevent it from happening again.
Step 1: Clean
The very first step to removing mold is to take the shoes outside, since you don’t wont the mold spores to spread indoors, and wipe away all surface mold with a cotton cloth made damp with hot water. Do it carefully. Then let the shoes air dry, preferably outside. Please wear a face mask as you do this to prevent breathing in the spores.
Step 2: Sanitize
There are a number of different cleaning products you can use, but the cheapest and best is regular white vinegar. This is harsh on skin, use gloves to protect your hands. If you want to make the smell less harsh, you can mix the vinegar with lemon juice. The liquid should contain about 12% vinegar, so if it’s stronger, mix it with water to achieve a similar concentration. Again, do this outside. Dampen a cloth or a sponge with vinegar solution and wipe thoroughly over the entire shoe. Don’t miss the inside if there’s any trace of mold there as well. It’s important that you wipe the whole shoe so it will all become damp, to avoid water marks when the shoes dry again. Let air dry out of direct sunlight.
Another method is by using rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol). In a clean container, mix equal parts cool water and rubbing alcohol. Use a clean white cloth dipped in the mixture to wipe down the leather, using a cotton swab to clean crevices. Finish by wiping the leather with a clean cloth dipped in water.
Baking soda is a mold and mildew killer, and can be used to clean leather without damaging it. It's also a great option for white leather because it won't stain it. Sprinkle baking soda on any leather surface and vacuum it after about 20 minutes, or until the baking soda is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Restore
Once all the mold has been removed and the shoes are completely dry, the leather may be quite stained and dried out, and in serious need of conditioning. First apply one or two layers of a good conditioner, preferably a conditioning leather lotion. Next apply at least two thin layers of a good quality shoe cream, and if you wish you can go on with a shoe wax as well. If possible use a coloured polish to even out the colour of the leather. All this will help to restore the shoes even further.
Because it only takes a single mold spore to begin the molding process all over again, if necessary replace shoe laces and give your storage area good clean and sanitize.
If all this is done properly the shoes should be back in a good condition again within a few hours. Should you not be able to solve the problem yourself, take the shoes to a good cobbler or leather restorer.
Step 4: Prevention
When you’ve been out in heavy rain and your shoes are soaking wet, extra care needs to be taken to reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Start by wiping the shoes with a damp dish cloth or similar to remove any dirt and residues.
Leave them dry in an airy place, ideally outside if weather permits, or by an open door. Don’t be tempted to try and dry them faster by using direct heat, such as a heater or beside the fireplace or similar. The heat will stress and dry the leather massively and may even cause the leather to crack.
Make sure that air can circulate around the shoes, leave them laying on the side, standing on a non-even surface which lets air through, or by hanging them up.
Silica gel packs can also be used inside your shoes or spread around your shoe cupboard or even inside your shoebox. The use of silica gel is widespread and diverse mainly because it is a nearly harmless, cheap, and easy mold prevention method. It is recommended to use silica gel bags in an enclosed environment.
Humidity is one crucial factor that promotes mold growth. Thus, getting a dehumidifier can prevent shoes from molding. This device reduces humidity from the surrounding air. In other words, it is one way to reduce excessive moisture in the air.
How Is It Made? NAOT.
Watch a pair of NAOT sandals being made from design to happy customer.
Caring For Your Birkenstocks
CARING FOR CORK FOOTBEDS AND SOLES
Please note that both the footbed and soles of Birkenstock shoes can be damaged by exposure to extreme heat and water. Australia’s extreme summer temperatures can be harsher than cooler European climates. Do not leave them in direct sunlight, even inside under a window, right beside a fire or in a hot car in summer, and if they become wet, dry them out slowly, away from direct heat, never directly in front of a heater.
To extend the life of your cork footbed we suggest you maintain the light covering of cork sealant around the edge, which protects the cork from the elements and prevents it from drying out.
Over time, through use and environment the cork can dry, crack or crumble.
A cork reseal or cork repair is one of the simplest ways to revive and strengthen your favourite pair of Birkenstocks and add to their longevity.
SMOOTH LEATHER
Apply a good quality clear or colour active cream polish regularly to remove scuff marks and keep the leather supple. Please note: Any dyed leather may transfer some colour.
NATURAL LEATHER/OILED LEATHER
Use a suede brush or to remove stains, apply a nubuck eraser block. To restore/maintain the colour, apply a colourless leather conditioner.
METALLIC LEATHER
The metallic finish is a thin foil and is very prone to scuff marks. Avoid staining them with corrosive liquids such as perfume, nail polish remover (acetone), sunscreen and aerosols. You can protect the leather using a neutral shoe polish.
PATENT LEATHER
To clean, wipe with a damp soft cloth.
SUEDE LEATHER
To protect, apply a silicone-based waterproofing spray. Use a wire suede brush to clean.
NUBUCK LEATHER
To clean, apply a nubuck eraser block or a suede brush. To protect, apply a silicone-based waterproofing spray.
WOOL FELT
Gently brush with a plastic bristle suede brush or an old toothbrush.
BIRKO-FLOR
Wipe with a clean, damp cloth.
BIRKO-FLOR NUBUCK
To clean, brush lightly with a plastic bristle suede brush or an old toothbrush.
BIRKO-FELT
Gently brush with a plastic bristle suede brush or an old toothbrush.
MICROFIBRE
Brush lightly with a plastic bristle suede brush or an old toothbrush.
POLYURETHANE
Wash with mild soap and water.
EVA
Wash with mild soap and water.
! EVA can shrink at high temperatures!
Do not leave Birkenstocks in a hot car or similar hot conditions.
How Is It Made? Cork Footbed.
Ever wondered how the cork foodbeds for your Birkenstock were made?
Putting Your Best Foot Forward With DAVIES SHOES
Part 2
Image : Joan Fairclough, first Mayfield sales assistant and Edna and Emlyn Davies (founders) Mayfield 1939
Written by Pam Davies 2020
Growing feet are specially catered for at Davies Shoes, with precise measurement and fitting central to every footwear purchase for your child. as stockists of the Clarks Premium school shoe range, Davies Shoes takes care to match each child’s feet to the most suitable style, ensuring correct length, width and maximum growth room without compromising fit.
Clarks Premium school shoes come in six different widths as well as half sizes, allowing the expert fitters at Davies Shoes to ‘fine-tune’ for the best fit possible.
Ivor recommends having your children’s feet accurately measured at the start of each year to ensure they go back to school properly supported. “Children spend over 30 hours a week in their school shoes, so expert fitting is essential,” Ivor said.
“Clarks Premium school shoes offer all the other features needed to ensure healthy, growing feet.”
Davies Shoes are also experienced in fitting ‘problem feet’ and are well known for stocking footwear that can accommodate the very narrow to the extra wide foot. “Some of our customers have found a favourite brand and comfortable style that they love so much, they simply update to a different colour each season,” senior fitting expert, Linda, said.
Many people today wear orthotics, and Davies Shoes recognises the importance of maximising their effectiveness by ensuring they are housed in properly fitted footwear.
“Shoes need to be supportive, flexible enough not to twist, and deep enough at the heel to accommodate the orthotics,” Ivor said, whose years of experience working closely with podiatrists and physiotherapists have further added to the wonderful reputation enjoyed by Davies Shoes.
2020 has presented many new challenges for everyone, and Davies Shoes is no exception. Whilst it has always focused on its role as a bricks and mortar store, during the lock-down earlier in the year, it continued to serve its customers, taking orders via Facebook and phone and providing contactless delivery.
“Our customers will always be our priority. we are grateful for their continued support and look forward to serving them well into the future,” Ivor said.
Putting Your Best Foot Forward with DAVIES SHOES
Part 1
Image: Kurri Kurri store 1936. Emlyn Davies (founder) and Phylis Williams (sales assistant)
Written by Pam Davies 2022
DAVIES SHOES MAYFIELD IS A NAME SYNONYMOUS WITH QUALITY FOOTWEAR
Established 94 years ago, and a landmark in Mayfield for the past 82 years, this family-owned and operated business offers expert fitting and advice from people who genuinely understand the importance of foot health for all the family,
Situated in the heart of Mayfield, Davies Shoes is well-positioned with convenient parking for its customers, some of whom travel extraordinary distances to find that ‘perfect pair’ of shoes. Store owner/manager, Ivor Davies, understands that the product is only half the story. “Even the best quality shoe is a waste of money if not correctly fitted,” he said.
Experience and expertise have seen Davies Shoes develop into a unique business within the Hunter Region, and its reputation is second to none.
“We are passionate about what we do and constantly strive for excellence,” Ivor said.
Word of mouth recommendations sees a constant stream of customers, both familiar and new, visiting the store. Appreciative of the knowledge and understanding of their footwear needs, successive generations of families continue to shop at Davies Shoes and close bonds are inevitable.
“There is something magical about the friendships forged with our customers over the years,” Ivor said.
Catering to the footwear needs of the whole family, the store is a one-stop-shop for adults and children’s shoes alike, whether for business, casual or school wear. Customers at Davies Shoes are treated to an extensive range of European brands including Birkenstock, Naot, Pikolinos, Alegria, Rockport, Florsheim and Jacoform to name a few. For casual and sporting wear, the store offers New Balance in a variety of width fittings, and a unique and comfy range of slippers from Spanish company De Valverde ensures that all footwear needs are met.
Naot “I make your shoes”
Noat video “I make your shoes”
At Naot, we are passionate about creating a better world by making people feel comfortable.
In 1942 when the members of a small collective farming community in Israel’s Hula Valley began making shoes in a one-room workshop on Kibbutz Naot Mordechai, the idea that years later their shoes would be worn around the world was unimaginable. What started as the simple notion that one is most beautiful when one is comfortable, has not only evolved Naot into a worldwide brand, but a way of life.
We call them shoes of peace, each pair is a product of collaboration. Crafted by hand through the combined efforts of people from different cultures and backgrounds, Naot shoes are ethically made using sustainable methods with materials of the highest quality. Fine Italian leathers and our signature insoles combined with advanced designs, make for an unparalleled combination of quality, fashion and comfort.
Naot’s uniquely engineered insoles are made of natural cork and latex and lined with a supple suede lining, creating a flexible and shock absorbing base of superior support that is designed to replicate the shape of one’s foot, much like a footprint left behind in the sand. Your feet work too hard… Allow them to soak in the oasis that is a pair of Naots!