Getting My Feet Measured by American Custom Shoemaker Francis Waplinger | Bespoke Process

After meeting Francis Waplinger, a bespoke shoemaker in NY, I had to get my own pair of dress shoes! The first step is getting my feet measured, so let's see how he does it!
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Getting My Feet Measured by American Custom Shoemaker Francis Waplinger
00:00 Introduction
00:36 Let's Get Started
12:11 Measurements Done
12:25 Kirby's Problems with Fit
14:14 Ink Impressions
20:51 Next Steps
22:04 Get In Touch with Francis
WHAT IS KIRBY WEARING
Tie: bit.ly/3DI15Vs
Pocket Square: bit.ly/3DHm4ay
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[@pheonixjil]

These would go excellently with my navy suit for war

[@arianakalamaras9806]

👀

[@eladio562]

Lmfao!😂

[@JohnDoe-xp3rv]

It was your face

[@brimster-valorantaggressiv3419]

Yes I see you too are a man of culture

[@Daytonian17]

Never forget the classics !!!

[@KatlamosQuickdraw]

Thank you KZbin Algorithm, I DO in fact want to jealously watch someone get bespoke shoes made. Absolutely fascinating process, great video!

[@markhardycreative]

Welcome to the channel, there’s lots of great similar content here, Kirbys live streams were a bright spot in the first lockdown

[@pineapplepete6710]

@@markhardycreativeeryye😮

[@ebl36]

anyone else reminded of having their feet measured in clarks as a child?

[@appalachiangunman9589]

I was unaware of the difference standing makes on a foot measurement. I went to a Red Wing store and had my feet measured, and I measured 9 1/2, but when the salesman told me to stand up my foot spread out to a 10 which is what I usually always buy.

[@popenieafantome9527]

My foot is similar. When sitting, i can see my foot looks very arched when relaxed with no pressure on it. But, the moment i stand, not a single hint of arch is left.

[@jarrenleow]

I wonder why they don't have some kind of elevated platform so that the client can climb up a few steps of stairs before sitting down, so the shoemaker can take measurements in a comfortable position.

[@kirbyallison]

Difficult to travel with! Lee Miller of Texas Traditions has one, though, you can see in our video with him.

[@ardentdfender4116]

I learn quite a bit about feet, shoes and proper fit while watching this. It wasn’t something specific, as it was all around info and it made a difference.

[@kratni]

Surprised they don't ask the client to stand on a table or something to make it more comfortable to the shoe maker to measure.

[@kirbyallison]

You should see my cowboy boot fitting with Lee Miller! He had me sit on a custom table when he did my measurements. Every shoemaker has their own ways of measuring. Pretty neat!

[@cjeam9199]

This one? kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3qwdX2dZtOCepo

[@kirbyallison]

@@cjeam9199 Yes, that one!

[@praddzzz]

That Lee Miller video is a gem.

[@matthewputnam7486]

While the surroundings were different, this is the exact process I experienced when measured for a pair of Nick's Handmade Boots in Spokane, Washington. Well, except for the ink impression. Handmade shoes or in my case boots, are worth every penny. It's impossible to explain how much better they fit.

[@tonyknopp2844]

The editing and tone of this video feels like it is one turn away from a Tim and Eric skit

[@Wawalsh1234]

I must admit, with the technology today with laser measurements and 3D printing, you could get a perfect measurement and a perfect last. The shoes would still be handmade and bespoke but fit perfectly. My dentist replaced a crown which was laser measured and 3D printed, 2 hours out the door with my permanent crown that fit perfectly. No molds, no temporary just perfection.

[@Mr-Garibaldi]

Teeth sure, whatever. But clothing… “When you create a machine to do the work of a man, you take away a part of The Man” Having any Persian Flaw in a bespoke sculpture makes it real. And to work with a bespoke craftsperson over time builds character that a cold computer can’t touch.

[@jlozano2014]

Who's paying for that though? Paper and pen is pretty cheap, almost free.

[@Mr-Garibaldi]

@@jlozano2014 Labor. Duh. Art. Pen, Pencil, Paint, and Canvas. It’s cheap, why pay for it?

[@glendersondaly4327]

I've done this many times before. Making western boots & custom shoes. I can cave a last from scratch. I do have a last turning [duplicator]. machine. I did pullovers and prototype for over 30 years for a few shoe company in America The human judgment is needed when the share factor come into play when measuring for custom Footwear for the various type of leather. I've been through all of it ,some things are best done by hand. Sorry these modern-age digitizing machine is good to know. They do have the limitation, simply these new machines the new tools The human element is needed for anything that is geared towards a human. Why do you think they pay foot doctor so much money I make the last custom, I make the pattern, a cut the leather out, I do every operation in the factory to give you a finish Footwear in your hand. Not many people can say that today. This guy's on the right track

[@MuiKaHo]

@@Mr-Garibaldi really you think its cheaper to hire a guy to do tedious measurement with pencil, pen paint and canvas than for a guy to punch in some buttons? lol

[@Dro-PS5]

The weight distribution on your left big toe was just because you placed your foot on the ink first and then placed your right foot. The second time you stepped onto it with your other foot first and then onto the ink. Less weight being transferred

[@stuartfury3390]

I liked that there was talking about the trade instead of trying to make it into some kind of ASMR experience like everyone else. Thank you.

[@manolokonosko2868]

A bespoke pair will cost $3000 + $200 for the initial last. There will be a couple of more fittings until they perfect the shoe for delivery. There are extra costs for additional features. When I looked at the shoes on the website I thought this guy was going to rip my head off, but for the work and quality they are reasonably priced. The Brits really ream you at $10,00+ for their offerings.

[@StinkyTeal]

F all that. Thanks for cost insight

[@jacobjohnnyramirezcadena5998]

I’m not gonna to lie this is very calming

[@tonysoprano4883]

Knowing myself, I'd get a pair of ill-fitting shoes despite having them measured by professionals for 20 minutes.

[@59jaguar]

Good gig having all of these custom made shoes from all these different makers.

[@es2056]

I can see how this can make a real difference. In my situation I am flat-footed, my right foot is a 10 1/2 D while my left foot is 11 E. As a compromise I settle with 11 E shoes which prevents my shoes feeling tight, but at the same time one foot (my right) always feels like the shoe is too big.

[@kirbyallison]

We spend too much time in our shoes for them to not be exceptionally comfortable!!

[@es2056]

@@kirbyallison Absolutely Kirby. And as I get older my feet are more and more sensitive to bad fitting shoes and prolonged time on my feet.

[@Enclave.]

When things like this get into my recommended feed it just makes me all the more certain my phone is listening to me. Talk a couple times about how it's hard to find shoes that fit properly because my feet are a bit on the wide side and BAM I get a video about custom fitted shoes :P That said, I got to say, it'd be really nice to have shoes that actually fit properly and don't either squeeze the sides of my feet uncomfortably and eventually burst at their sides.

[@TheDreamtimezzz]

Another pair of bespoke shoes? You need to do a video of how you display or store all these shoes. A bespoke closet maker perhaps!? (Teasing. 🤔) Very interesting to compare the different makers.

[@trailerparksupervisor7046]

This morning I took a bespoke crap in the toilet.

[@SupcrFail]

Meanwhile Kirby's thinking, 'It's actually from IKEA'

[@aeptacon]

@trailerparksupervisor7046 🤣

[@ianwallace9740]

Thanks Kirb and Francis. Quite insightful.

[@1986rpham]

Great video! Definitely thinking about a bespoke pair. Awesome points about dress socks! You should do a video wearing different types, how to pair them, what shoes are best, and how they feel. Patterns, otc, cotton, no show’s?, and sheer even. When you see the socks unworn it’s hard to imagine what it looks like all together imo. I’ve been to parties when a well dressed man has to take off their shoes and I feel it’s just as important what’s going on inside cause sometimes people will see it haha

[@BuffaloNickel9]

Great point... a gentleman should always be dressed well socks boxers Etc whether you see it or not

[@1986rpham]

@@BuffaloNickel9 totally agree! Nothing ruins an outfit than when you see shitty details haha.

[@oskipuh7045]

Agreed about the comfyness but i'm an awkward patterns in socks kind of guy, life is too short to wear boring socks

[@lebarondeparis1410]

I dont know why i watch this but i like it

[@ST-actual]

Asmr is why

[@seanmcguire7974]

The left toe imprint may have been darker cause you stepped on the 1st when doing that foot. Where the right, you lead with the left n then put it down

[@mescekchoppers1]

I was looking just for such comment! I think the same :)

[@MelinaPaez]

Thank you for creating such smart content. It’s well-produced, relaxing and enjoyable to learn something new. ❤

[@sarahwhite8698]

As I listen while I work . . . I occasionally have to look up and make sure I am not hearing Gary Sinise . . . and then off and on . . .you LOOK like Gary Sinise AND sound like him! This was very interesting to watch, thank you.

[@stuartward1755]

I just spent 22 minutes watching a guy get his feet measured. What am I doing with my life?

[@mcnuggs4684]

Tryna sleep? 😂

[@alessandro3540]

This video is so relaxing to watch

[@gamersunite7968]

I have a lisfranc injury so it'd be interesting to see how my foot would come out on the petograph. Gonna have to have lots of arch support.

[@nacekozo]

My high instep is a problem for me as well - I recently bought some Trickers Stow boots, but they had to go back as it was far too low on them. Length and width-wise they were fine, but I could hardly stand up in them, let alone do up the laces, because of the pain.

[@GorillaRadio88]

Buy some insoles with a high arch that you can put in all of your shoes

[@nacekozo]

@@GorillaRadio88 that would have made it even worse as I have a high instep to start with :)

[@qazydude]

I love your work!

[@suicidalcoffee4399]

As a person who just found this video I got this weird feeling in my head watching this like it was satisfying but yet it gave me another feeling I can't explain but how would I even start to find a place to get some made

[@rochakchitrakar7635]

Francis is the man ❤

[@TheRockinGinger]

I find this so interesting.

[@Nangoncrazy]

Business model self portrayal, but in a suit. Terrific.

[@jeneclark7724]

This is awesome. Do they do this with women's shoes as well? I would enjoy watching that as well.

[@leo.girardi]

Glad he is using the same tech that my boot maker used in the 90's. He later ditched it and moved on. As long as you enjoy them, that's all that matters.

[@kerryvarner76]

Was there ever a follow-up/fitting video for these? I couldn’t find one if there was.

[@joshdean4358]

This was a interesting video to watch ❤

[@ZachShock13]

Kirby my guy, I know this sounds possibly not like your thing, but you should check out O’Farrell Hat Company in Santa Fe for a solid Cowboy hat. I feel it may work well with your Texas Traditions Boots

[@bl5050]

He visited a cowboy hat maker in a video already

[@Saundaz666]

Great vid. I’d love a bespoke pair of shoes after watching this. I’d most fall asleep standing up!

[@carlosayala8171]

I'd love to get this done

[@NeilNatic]

Really random thought, but I was thinking about the shoes the shoemaker wears to a fitting. Initially I found the style a bit wild for my taste but now it makes sense. In this case Francis has a suede toe cap which really makes sense given how much his shoes would be on a carpet or floor as he moves around to capture measurements.

[@dustinbowen8010]

Anyone know where I can purchase a Harris May foot imprinter? All sites online will not let me purchase of I am not part of Government, Education, a Public Company, Clinic, Hospital, a Doctor, Non Profit or a Research Facility.

[@gregsenkiw393]

J up j in nn a b was

[@carolea8375]

@@dustinbowen8010 Sorrell Notions and Findings usually has them (Lisa Sorrell cowboy bootmaker's shop)

[@danpaulin6859]

So many things to say but overall I’m here for it

[@MrNumber1ukfan]

Did Kirby ever get his Texas boots?

[@ryanmcquitty5604]

Kirby, when is your next video with the Sahakian’s in Davidoff London?

[@benheller7068]

Waiting for it too

[@kirbyallison]

We are filming with them extensively at the end of September!

[@ryanmcquitty5604]

@@kirbyallison this brings joy to my soul. Thank you for the great content as always 😃

[@mttswllw]

@@kirbyallison I’m going to keep an eye out for you - was thinking of your channel when I first returned to the office in Soho last week. Let me know if you want to grab a beer!

[@aaronjarvenpa1743]

Looking for your episode that you get your custom made cowboy boots ?

[@mlinecomposites1]

At 19:45 he said, you still could have problems with fitment. I think you should just make a mold of the feet

[@otto_jk]

That is basically what a last is

[@Mrch33ky]

Whaaat? And ruin the Bespokeness?? You Sir, may see yourself out. (hat tip).

[@mlinecomposites1]

@@Mrch33ky what are u talking about? See myself out? Can you make shoes? Can you make different types of shoes? Can you make composite cycling shoes or speed skates? It takes more than just a wooden last mold that won’t last to make all those different types of footwear, which sir, I can make all of those, just sayin.

[@Tubeite]

Did he follow the Alexander technique for standing up though?

[@nicolasmarrugo6427]

How much would this cost? Thank you!

[@karlkey5326]

Anyone just here for the ASMR? Lol

[@ClayBo21879]

Would have liked to see the final footwear and how that was used to accent your wardrobe.

[@noel888]

What ever happened to those measurment gadgets that shoe stores used years ago? It was made of wood and had a clamp. it gave length and width.

[@bretonkyle]

Who would have thought that Lieutenant Dan was so interested in custom shoes. Hope they were good while they lasted.

[@Dweezy.]

This just showed up in my recommended and i don’t mind at all

[@Travelling_wm]

Watching him lay on the ground in a suit, couldn't help but think of Frank and Kramer playing pool.... "You know this is remarkable, I'm lounging, and yet my pants remain perfectly creased"

[@Ricky_Bobby2314]

Impressive!

[@jahanas22]

That’s something I would love to do. My feet cause me hassles with shoe buying.

[@kowanmcgarry]

Good shoe fitting.

[@schmourt]

bruh he totally took the heel measurements in two totally different places on the heel and it explains why one is way smaller 😭

[@Nick-rt2np]

I might have missed it, but did you go with your usual first order (black cap toe oxford) again here?

[@retri_bution]

This makes me anxious

[@DarkFilmDirector]

Francis is the example of someone whose voice didn't match up with his first impression upon seeing him. But still very clearly talented.

[@bl5050]

No follow up fitting video with Francis?

[@aeptacon]

Do we have to wear the socks we would wear with the shoes for the fitting?

[@forestelder]

This is the ultimate asmr experience!

[@victortocatlian5745]

I was searching asmr, i find a new unintentional one :)

[@danielhilburn7881]

Did you ever get your boots from Texas tradition?

[@Ajadams93]

Waplinger what a name

[@astepabovestyle1266]

This is sure to be a interesting video!

[@wjackter]

I wear T-shirt and jeans with sneakers but i find this fascinating

[@Rachel-oo1ng]

He really sounds like Kieran Culkin lol great vid but couldn’t get that out of my head 😂

[@LuisMartinez-kg3nq]

With someone who has type 1 diabetes where their feet swell up during the day how does someone get there measurements done?

[@georgebulbakwa9017]

Find someone with an orthopedic background. They're unfortunately rare but if you are fortunate enough to find one, they do know how to deal with health and accident related challenges with shoes.

[@kazama850]

There's a guy on KZbin who does orthopedic bespoke shoes.

[@courtneybutler6161]

Go to a specialty medical shoe store or podiatrist. Used to work at one. They cater to diabetic patients.

[@martin6123]

Watching this at 1am 😂

[@Account-kv3jc]

The boots from Lee Miller?

[@kirbyallison]

Headed down next month to film!!

[@BDAShadow1]

Q: What's the hardest part? A: Making it fit. Well, ok then.

[@st0krotka]

Goooood ASMR!

[@rallbot6090]

I’ve never had another man invite me into his room then proceed to make me stand on his book as he gets on his hands and knees

[@Garry-qf3jy]

I want to learn this traits

[@jwilliams5466]

The right heel was mis-measured, the measuring tape slipped up but he didn’t notice.

[@Gravel1331]

The loose/hanging threads (or Irish Pennants) when your pants legs are rolled up sort of drive the military in me crazy. LOL Although I do realize that most civilians aren't really cognizant of them.

[@Russell-1]

Paul - I agree they are untidy. I suspect most ‘civilians’ are too busy worrying about other thinks to care - such as worrying about holding down non-government paid jobs.

[@jaybeck4591]

Horrible stitching job

[@trend7763]

Personally I like that part of a measurement they touch your feets and talk about what they feel from your bones and muscles.

[@SimonTBam]

An American shoemaker??? My God.

[@kirbyallison]

I know…

[@SimonTBam]

@@kirbyallison Never trust an American that uses the metric system.... 🤣😂🤣

[@matthewchastain136]

@@SimonTBam you couldn’t be any more correct sir

[@traviscarlson6718]

@@SimonTBam Absolutely Agree👌

[@inconspicuoussalad7730]

@@SimonTBam your foot is 3 burgers long and probably at least 3 twinkies wide and for height we'll go with 1/7 the height of a floridian alligator

[@shawn3476]

what kind of socks are those? look almost semi sheer nylon

[@BevinEG]

I agree

[@3433ch]

The guy measuring sounds slightly similar to Ethan crankgameplays to me 😲

[@Ottawajames]

I have never heard someone say 'bespoke' so many times in so little time.

[@adaminfinity1733]

Sir, how tall are you? You seem kind of tall in these videos.

[@inconspicuoussalad7730]

Atleast 2

[@rebase]

About three fiddy

[@aoifag6716]

unintentional asmr

[@jonahblock]

So many rings

[@knshobhin560]

How much does it cost to make a bespoke shoes ?

[@TheRockerxx69]

My grand parents and my parents, had brogues ( kinda) and not, hand made by ltalian artisan in my town.

[@kirbyhurst]

My name is Kirby too.. We are a rare breed

[@supremesfan2]

#kirbyallison : How do you feel about sheer socks?

[@shawn3476]

im not him but curios to know lol....i pretty much only wear sheers

[@supremesfan2]

@@shawn3476 Hi Shawn: do sheers tear easy?

[@jamesberggren9029]

Whoever told Kirby his hair and suit look good, played a great joke.

[@LauraGoober]

Ok KZbin I’ll watch

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you!!

[@Masson1903]

its kinda interesting to me that theres a level of naivety towards making a 3d model last. It seems completely practice if the technology exists to make a template of the foot using a 3d model and scale it up a few % bigger than the foot and then work off that to make a final last. It would simplify the last making substantially. The snobbery towards it is quite hilarious

[@robertcox8994]

There is Facebook I believe he made a foot book

[@shaunigothictv1003]

Bespoke shoes start from $2500 dollars for a standard pair and take months to prepare so people must be really enthusiastic. They spend over two thousand dollars and wait almost 6 months for the final product. It does not matter which shoemaker you go to. The process is the same. .

[@juniorrantan4559]

What is the "last"?

[@Mikerille]

Why does Kirby sound so annoyed? 🤣 also can someone edit out his voice? For the ASMR