Top 10 Best Footwear Brands in Rossendale

The Valley of Slippers

The Rossendale Valley holds a special place in British footwear history. In the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries, the valley became renowned for slipper and footwear manufacturing, with towns such as Waterfoot, Bacup, Rawtenstall and Haslingden home to numerous factories. The stretch of mills along the valley was sometimes nicknamed the "Slipper Mile". Firms such as Sir H W Trickett Ltd and Lambert Howarth were once major employers, and the industry shaped the valley's economy and identity.

Although much large-scale manufacturing has moved overseas, Rossendale's footwear tradition continues. Several companies still design, manufacture or distribute footwear from the valley, combining heritage skills with modern design and comfort technology.

The Top 10 Footwear Brands Connected to Rossendale

1. R and M Heys

R and M Heys in Haslingden produces fabric-constructed and semi-orthopaedic footwear. Its comfortable, supportive designs are particularly valued by people who need extra room, adjustable fastenings or gentle materials for sensitive feet.

2. Kenyons Footwear

Kenyons Footwear, based at Myrtle Grove Mill in Waterfoot, manages a portfolio of footwear brands. The company carries forward the valley's tradition of footwear supply, offering comfortable and affordable designs for retailers across the UK.

3. Dr Lightfoot

Dr Lightfoot is one of the brands managed by Kenyons Footwear. It focuses on comfort-driven footwear, designed for everyday wear and supportive fit.

4. Cosies

Cosies, also part of the Kenyons portfolio, is a slipper brand that reflects Rossendale's slipper-making heritage. Warm, comfortable slippers remain a staple purchase and a popular gift.

5. Chix

Chix is another Kenyons-managed brand, offering footwear styles designed for comfort and value, suitable for a wide range of customers.

6. Helena

Helena is part of the Kenyons brand family, contributing to a range that covers different styles and occasions while maintaining the company's focus on comfort.

7. Redfoot Shoes

Redfoot Shoes, linked to Waterfoot, is known for practical and stylish footwear designed with modern lifestyles in mind. It shows how Rossendale businesses continue to innovate in footwear design.

8. Goodwin Smith

Goodwin Smith, associated with Waterfoot, is a footwear brand recognised for contemporary styling. Its designs appeal to shoppers who want fashionable footwear with quality craftsmanship.

9. Bacup Shoe Company

Bacup Shoe Company carries the name of one of the valley's historic footwear towns. It represents the ongoing link between Bacup and the footwear industry that once defined it.

10. Hotter Shoes

Hotter Shoes is a Lancashire-based comfort footwear brand with a long history of British shoemaking. While based elsewhere in the county, it shares Rossendale's focus on comfort and quality, and is popular with shoppers across the North West.

Footwear Trends

Comfort has become the dominant priority for many shoppers. Cushioned soles, wider fittings, lightweight materials and supportive designs are increasingly sought after, especially as people spend more time on their feet or working from home. Rossendale's long expertise in slippers and comfort footwear aligns perfectly with this trend.

Sustainability is also influencing the industry. Consumers are interested in durable footwear, responsibly sourced materials and brands that reduce waste. Repairable shoes and recycled materials are gaining attention.

Specialist footwear for health needs, such as diabetic-friendly and orthopaedic designs, continues to grow, driven by an ageing population and greater awareness of foot health. Manufacturers like R and M Heys play an important role in meeting these needs.

Preserving Footwear Heritage

Rossendale's footwear history is preserved through local heritage groups, museums and community projects. Volunteer historians and community archives collect stories, photographs and artefacts from the industry's golden age. Many former factories have been converted for new uses, but their architecture remains a visible reminder of the valley's industrial past.

Visitors interested in heritage can explore Rawtenstall, Waterfoot and Bacup, enjoying the stone mills, valley scenery and local shops. The East Lancashire Railway and nearby walking routes add to the appeal of a day out.

Choosing Quality Footwear

When choosing footwear, prioritise fit and comfort. Have your feet measured, consider width as well as length, and choose shoes that support your daily activities. Quality materials such as leather and breathable fabrics improve comfort and durability. For specific foot conditions, consult a podiatrist and look for specialist brands designed for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Rossendale called the slipper capital? Felt production in the valley provided ideal material for slippers, and by the early twentieth century local factories were producing vast quantities for British and overseas markets. The concentration of factories along the valley led to its famous nickname.

What should I look for in comfort footwear? Look for generous toe space, cushioned and supportive soles, adjustable fastenings and breathable materials. Shoes should feel comfortable from the first wear rather than requiring a long breaking-in period. Specialist ranges with wider fittings are ideal for people with swelling or sensitive feet.

Conclusion

Rossendale's footwear story is one of craftsmanship, resilience and adaptation. From comfort specialists like R and M Heys and Kenyons Footwear to modern brands such as Redfoot and Goodwin Smith, the valley continues to contribute to British footwear. Choosing these brands supports a proud local tradition that has kept people comfortable for generations.