Herring Shoes Journal

As we take a closer look at autumn/winter styles for men, we would like to introduce you to the Cambridge. This is a bona-fide English-made boot from Northamptonshire that is rugged enough for tramping along the trails but is smart enough for lunch or dinner at the pub.

Part of our Premier collection, the Cambridge is a mighty fine boot. For our A/W edit, we selected the mahogany grain calf version, but we do have a black grain style too.

The Cambridge is made by the wonderful shoe and bootmakers at Paul Sargent. Based in Rushden, the business was founded in 1899 by Alfred Sargent along with his sons Frank and Harry. 

Alfred Sargent and Sons moved to their current site in Portland Road in 1915 ahead of the shoemaking boom in the county in the 1940s with Frank’s son Derrick joining the firm. The fourth generation of Sergents, Paul and Andrew, joined the business in the 1960s.

In 2021, the business was renamed as Paul Sargent, but still works from the same premises making excellent quality shoes and boots.

The Cambridge is an example of this deep-seated Northamptonshire craftsmanship. It features a split reverse welt that cleverly repels water, plus a thick, Goodyear-welted Dainite rubber sole and heel that gives superb grip and durability for days beset with inclement weather. 

The toe-cap design too gives it a traditional look along with the five lace eyelets and three pairs of hooks. In short, the Cambridge is one of those classic designs that is timeless and can be teamed with jeans and chinos with ease.