Quoddy
Quoddy is an American footwear brand from Maine that makes handsewn moccasins, boots and shoes. It was founded in Portland, Maine, in 1947 and today produces its footwear in Lewiston, Maine.
| Founded | 1947, Portland, Maine |
|---|---|
| Revived | 1998 by Kevin and Kirsten Shorey |
| Production | Lewiston, Maine |
| Construction | Handsewn moccasin |
| Website | quoddy.com |
What is Quoddy?
Quoddy is a family run American shoemaker that makes handsewn footwear for men and women in Lewiston, Maine. Its shoes, boots and slippers are built on moccasin construction, with a turned up sole sewn directly to the upper and no separate heel.
History
The company was founded in 1947 in Portland, Maine, by Jack and Anne Spiegel under the name Quoddy Moccasins. The original business ceased trading by 1995, and in 1998 Kevin and Kirsten Shorey revived it as Quoddy Footwear LLC. The Shoreys, both Maine natives, continue to lead the business, which is housed in a former 1876 textile mill on the Androscoggin River.
Products and positioning
The range covers boots, loafers, chukkas, oxfords, bluchers, boat shoes and slippers, alongside some apparel and accessories. Named styles include the LoBoy and the Ring Boot. Leather is cut and stitched by hand around a foot shaped last, and most pairs are made to order, which means the company holds no warehouse stock. Quoddy also offers resoling and repairs.
Distribution
Customers order online from more than 80 countries, and the brand has worked on partnerships with names such as Ugg and Basil Hayden.
Why it matters
Quoddy is one of the few remaining shoemakers in Maine and a clear example of a made to order model that avoids building up inventory.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Quoddy shoes made?
Quoddy shoes are handmade in Lewiston, Maine, in a former textile mill.
Who founded Quoddy?
Quoddy was founded in 1947 by Jack and Anne Spiegel and revived in 1998 by Kevin and Kirsten Shorey.