Size Conversion Chart

Please note that this is just a sizing reference. Every single person has different shape of foot. Thus, to determine the most accurate size for your foot, we suggest visiting a Yuketen stockist if there is one near you for fitting advice and the opportunity to try on an actual pair. If you are unsure about the sizing, please contact us for advice before purchasing.

Our Director Yuki Matsuda’s design inspiration with the Yuketen Made in Italy collection was to take classic American footwear styles and meticulously craft them in a historic, artisanal Italian factory nestled in Mount Sibillini, Italy, part of the stunning Apennine Mountain Range.

Classic American Styling + Italian Craftsmanship + Yuki’s Japanese Sensibility and Attention to Detail = Yuketen Made in Italy!

Yuki’s idea for the Salvia Boots began when his best friend in Italy introduced him to the artisanal factory in Mount Sibillini. Walking through the small villages on the cobblestone roads, Yuki thought of his old favorite American Work Boots from the 90’s, they would be perfect for this kind of cobblestone terrain. Yuki always wanted to make an Italian made boot inspired by an early 90’s American Work Boots that he owned and loved. When his best friend in Italy introduced him to the Italian factory Yuki thought this was his perfect opportunity to make his dream of a classic 90’s American Work Boot made in an artisanal, small Italian factory come true. He loved the result and is excited to present the Made in Italy Salvia Boots.

The uppers are crafted from silky full-grain flesh-out leather. Opera Leather have been specialized in making flesh-out leather and suede since the 70s. The leather is described as ‘flesh-out’ as it is full-grain leather that is flipped so that the flesh side of the leather faces outwards. The advantages of using full grain, flesh-out leather rather than split suede leathers are two fold; full grain leathers retain their structure, thickness and durability for long-lasting strength and the smooth grain side of the leather wears pleasantly against the skin, negating the need for additional liners. This way, the wearer enjoys the benefits of full grain leather and the pleasant aesthetic of the nappy, suede-like flesh side of the leather.

Inspired by Yuki's old American Work Boots, we utilized Goodyear Storm Leather Welt Construction. In this technique, our 360° hand-channeled, 5mm thick leather insoles are sewn to the upper using a strip of leather (the "welt"). A "storm leather welt" incorporates a welt with a built-in side wall, providing a more moisture-resistant, tight seal. Although labor-intensive and time consuming, our Goodyear Storm Leather Welt Construction ensures superior artisanal construction, enhanced comfort, increased durability, additional water-resistance, easy resoling, and a beautiful, finished look.

The Yuketen insole is made with 5mm thick full vegetable-tanned leather. Under the insole we have a shank and cork filling and then the midsole. The shank lessens foot fatigue by forming a stable bridge between the heel and ball of the foot which causes weight to be distributed more evenly across the foot. This design promotes even weight distribution across the foot for all day support. The cork filling provides a layer of cushioning that molds to the shape of your feet over time, insulation from extreme temperatures, and is both breathable and moisture absorbing. As you wear the boots, the insole, shank, and cork filling will all gradually mold to the unique contours of your feet, providing the perfect, custom fit.

This all rests atop a foundation comprised of a thick veg-tan leather midsole, rubber midsole, and the Cortina Lug sole. The Cortina Lug sole is known for its grip and durability but also looks great. Originally designed for the 1956 Winter Olympic Games in Cortina, Italy it is Yuki’s favorite sole for Yuketen. Every pair is meticulously handcrafted in Italy using the finest components and materials, ensuring that these boots can be easily resoled, making them a testament to quality and longevity in footwear.

Experience the Art of Footwear

Embrace the harmony of American style, Italian craftsmanship, and Japanese attention to detail with the Made in Italy Yuketen Salvia Boot. Each pair tells a story of world-class collaboration, unparalleled construction, and timeless design. Experience unmatched quality earned from years of collaboration with many footwear industry masters and make a statement with every step.

Step into a world where every detail matters. Order your pair of Made in Italy Yuketen today and walk the path of exquisite craftsmanship and unparalleled style.