Binley
Binley and Binley Chukka.
Binley is something rather special. Available as both a lightweight chukka and shoe, each version is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials throughout and features distinctive engineering and craftsmanship unlike any previous shoes we have made.
The idea:
We set out to design a lightweight shoe suitable for everyday wear—not just special occasions. The core requirements were clear: it needed to be light, feature a sole that performs equally well in wet or dry conditions, and carry the unmistakable style and feel of Meanforme. Binley isn’t meant as a hiking boot or an outdoor shoe; instead, it's a lightweight, unlined shoe / chukka made from premium leathers and materials intended for daily use. Essentially, we've adapted the Risedale and Piper designs, pairing them with an exceptional sole. Binley maintains all the qualities that define our brand, representing a natural progression and meeting every standard of what makes a great Meanforme shoe.
The Engineering:
Binley uses our new 47197/25 last, adapted from the Walkerville boot for lightweight Strobel construction. This change enables us to use a very unique cup sole combining modern blown rubber with traditional crepe rubber. To reduce weight and improve breathability, both styles are unlined from the collar forward, while support comes from a suede padded collar, lined heel, and tongue for comfort and stability. With Binley being unlined, we've been able to add a small level toe ventilation with perforations at the base of the facing. This improves comfort and helps prevent the foot overheating.
The sole:
For the first time, we've collaborated with an outsole supplier to enhance one of our handcrafted shoes. That partner is the renowned Italian sole company Vibram. The team at Vibram recommended their lightweight Moreflex EVA sole as an ideal choice for Binley. Our goal was straightforward: we wanted a light sole that could be wrapped in solid crepe while offering flexibility and everyday support.
The advantages of the Vibram Moreflex sole include:
• Lightweight, flexible design
• Excellent grip and durability
• Superior shock absorption
• Reliable performance in wet or dry
Our Vibram outsole is expertly integrated with a 6mm solid crepe rubber sidewall by our specialist sole prefabricator located near our factory in Northern Portugal. This complex assembly requires a high degree of skill and precision to produce a handcrafted cupsole, which is then securely attached to the upper and meticulously stitched around its perimeter to ensure a durable, long-lasting bond.
The Leather:
Like all Meanforme shoes, the focus is on handcrafted leather uppers. Both Binley options use premium full-grain cow rump reverse suede at 2.00 mm thickness, supplied from the Tuscan tannery Sciarada as Castoro. The main parts of the upper features the smooth leather side, while the mudguard, lower tongue and heel showcase the reversed suede side. Due to the distinctive qualities of Castoro leather, we recommend applying a high-grade leather or suede protection spray, such as Renapur Suede/Nubuck Protector, to help preserve its appearance and condition over time.
And the rest:
Binley is primarily an unlined boot and shoe, featuring a premium suede collar and tongue lining for comfort. The thick, high-quality leather upper provides most of the support.
Binley and Binley chukka shoes come with a recycled PU removable footbed, topped with the same premium suede as the collar and tongue lining. Each pair includes an extra contrast lace.
