Study in Shell cinnabar sealSTUDY IN SHELLSHOES. CRAFT. PLACES.Subscribe

A collector’s ongoing study

Good shoes.
Long stories.

The pleasure of a well-made pair. The character that comes with wear. Notes on shoes, shell cordovan, and caring for what we keep.

Read Study in Shell

Independent writing · Considered objects · Archive drops

Alden whiskey shell cordovan chukka boots from the Study in Shell collection
From the collectionAlden · Whiskey shell cordovan

02 / From the archive

Shop
the Archive

Selected pairs, ready for their next chapter. Explore each shoe’s fit, history, and signs of wear.

Most currently listed pairs: US 10–10.5, UK 9–10 and EU 43–44. Maker-labelled sizes, not conversions; check each listing for its exact size, width and last. One pair per listing.

Explore the current selection in the shop.

One pair, one next chapter. Current prices and final availability are shown in the shop.

Explore all Archive Drops ↗

03 / Study in Shell objects

The daily ritual
of care.

Slicker · In development

A leather-care tool taking shape around polished stone, a considered grip, and the satisfaction of looking after a favorite pair.

The Study in Shell slicker is still being developed. Final materials, photographs, pricing, and release details will be shared when it is ready.

Follow its progress

04 / Field guide · 上海

Shanghai,
one pair
at a time.

Down a lane. Up a staircase.
A collector’s route through the city.

Explore the Shanghai Shoe Atlas: specialist shops, shoemakers, care services, and the city’s footwear history, with a map and Chinese address cards to take along.

31
Shops & services
04
Suggested routes
Explore the Shanghai Shoe Atlas

Explore the New York Shoe Atlas — 41 destinations ↗

New: explore the Seattle Shoe Atlas ↗

About Study in Shell

For people
who notice shoes.

An independent study of footwear, craftsmanship, and the care of well-made things, rooted in Shanghai.

Start with an essay, follow a route through Shanghai, or return for the next archive release.

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