~About LIGHTBULB~
◯Brand Introduction
LIGHTBULB is a bespoke shoe brand produced by orthopedic prosthetist Tatsuya Noguchi and Bespoke shoe maker Hirokazu Sotobayashi. With the slogan "Change," the brand actively incorporates medical knowledge and the latest technologies, such as remote foot diagnostics, into the design of shoe lasts. It seeks to redefine the concept of "Leather shoes" and is an up-and-coming brand that challenges the value of leather shoes in not only the Japanese but also the global shoe market.
In order to express the brand's philosophy, which emphasizes that "Shoes are not just objects, but rather something that customers complete by wearing, and it's only when worn that shoes become beautiful,"
The brand follows a fundamental and traditional style of "Understanding the feet to make shoes," pursuing the essence of footwear. We focus on the reassuring fit when the shoes are worn and emphasize the beauty of well-crafted shoe lasts. We use high-quality leather materials that stand the test of time, based on traditional patterns. Furthermore, our meticulous attention to detail, a hallmark of their full-hand craftsmanship, has captivated shoe enthusiasts both domestically and internationally.
Starting from July 2023, LIGHTBULB has commenced accepting pattern orders utilizing the new construction method known as the Direct GoodYear.
Feature 1: "Total Contact Last" Based on Medical Expertise
Since the shape and functionality of the feet change as we walk, designing a better shoe last requires more than just experience. It necessitates medical knowledge, including foot anatomy and biomechanics, in addition to foot shape and measurements.
LIGHTBULB achieves the development of "Total Contact Last" by having experienced orthopedic prosthetists with clinical expertise take charge of shoe last and shoe design. This approach not only ensures a perfect fit for the feet but also supports the functionality of the feet by shaping the shoes according to the foot's anatomy and movement. It helps reduce stress on the feet, resulting in more comfortable leather shoes.
Feature 2: Remote Foot Diagnostics
Traditionally, when ordering bespoke shoes, the process involved observing and measuring the feet through a dialogue, which is also the origin of the word "bespoke." However, the conventional in-person approach had its drawbacks, such as the need for technical expertise and experience for accurate measurements, the potential for errors depending on the measurer, and the time-consuming nature of the process.
At LIGHTBULB, we have made it possible for customers worldwide to objectively and accurately assess the condition of their feet remotely. By combining a remote measuring system that customers can use themselves with footstep videos and interviews, all accessible with a smartphone, the need for in-person measurements has been eliminated.
Feature 3: High-Quality and Attractive Dress Shoes
Leather shoes' three-dimensional details, construction, and materials have a significant impact on both their comfort and functionality. To address this, LIGHTBULB uses sufficiently thick insoles in all their shoes, incorporates notches into the insoles, and performs hand-sewn welt stitching and lasting, ensuring meticulous craftsmanship.
In the new Direct GoodYear construction method, even though the production is factory-based, they have eliminated the need for rib tape that was traditionally required in the GoodYear Welt construction. Instead, they directly machine-stitch the leather insole, which allows for a quality close to the fine craftsmanship of hand-sewn welts, achieving a high-quality finish.
Furthermore, the "Total Contact Last" reduces stress on the feet, allowing wearers to enjoy comfort for many years.
◯The types of orders and their features:
At LIGHTBULB, there are three order options: MTO (Made to Order), MTM (Made to Measure), and FULL-HAND BESPOKE. You can also choose from two different shoe construction methods: Direct GoodYear and Fully-Handmade.
In MTO and MTM orders, LIGHTBULB uses Weinheimer's Box Calf leather as the standard leather choice and offers the following five standard pattern samples:
Please note that the FULL-HAND BESPOKE is exclusively offered in fully-handmade.
・Plain Derby(Gibson)
・Punched Cap Toe Oxford
・Long vamp Oxford
・Adelaide Oxford
・Full Brogue Oxford
1. MTO（Made to Order）
LIGHTBULB offers pattern orders based on their distinctive "Total Contact Last" feature. You can check the fitting with gauge shoes.
include lasted shoe trees
Direct GoodYear or Fully-Handmade
2. MTM（Made to Measure）
Based on the "Total Contact Last" and the results of remote foot diagnostics, we modify the last to the customer's personal fit and needs. The entire order process, from measurements to fitting and delivery, also can be completed remotely, offering a convenient and customized experience.
include lasted shoe trees
Direct GoodYear or Fully-Handmade
3. FULL-HAND BESPOKE
Based on the "Total Contact Last" and the results of remote foot diagnostics, we sculpts the last from scratch to create customized shoes tailored to the customer's preferences.
We will use your preferred leather and make shoes according to your desired design, striving to fulfill your wishes as closely as possible.
The entire order process, from measurements to fitting and delivery, can be completed remotely, providing a fully remote ordering experience.
offered in fully-handmade
include lasted shoe trees
◯For more Inquiry
For interviews or inquiries, please contact us at the following address:
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