Hersey Custom Shoe Company was founded in 1982 when Bart and Jan Hersey began making custom running shoes in a converted Maine sheep barn. Bart had been director of manufacturing for some of the major shoe companies and was yearning to slow down. He loved making shoes himself and figuring out ways to blend new technologies with the forgotten wisdom and techniques of the old-timers. Jan, his wife, was great at managing details, so together they launched a tiny cottage industry that was to make a surprising impact on the shoe world.

Hershy Custom Competition Racewalking Shoe

Theses are the custom shoes that US Olympic walkers Curt Clausen and Michelle Rohl wear several years ago. The way to go if you can afford it.

We developed this one in the late ‘90s for some members of U.S. Olympic Racewalking Team. It’s extremely lightweight and flexible, and we achieved those characteristics by reducing the amount of Clarino® synthetic leather in the upper, shortening the heel counter, and using a blown rubber outersole with a bare minimum of midsole. Please understand that this shoe is intended to provide just enough protection to serious competitors who would just as soon race barefoot if they could. Also, in many cases, the components of the Competition Racewalker will not have enough bulk to permit resoling. But if you’re going for the gold, this is your shoe.