RETHINKING LEATHER : CRAFTSMANSHIP AND COMMITMENTS

Behind every JONAK creation lies a material at the heart of our collections. More than an aesthetic choice, leather reflects how it is sourced, shaped and crafted over time.
On the occasion of Earth Day, this craftsmanship comes into focus, highlighting a process built on deliberate choices, from leather sourcing to manufacturing conditions. These decisions shape the quality, comfort and longevity of each pair.

Soft yet durable, leather is designed to develop a patina over time. It moves with the foot, giving the shoe its structure. Depending on the finish, whether smooth, grained, patent or suede, it reveals textures and nuances that make each design feel unique.

Working with leather calls for precision. Each hide is carefully selected, then entrusted to tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group. This independent organisation assesses the environmental performance of tanning facilities, particularly in terms of water, energy and chemical management. Today, 97% of the leather used across our collections meets these standards.

From the selection of hides to their transformation, each step is carefully controlled within a framework defined by European standards. It reflects a balance between product quality, manufacturing precision and attention to production conditions.

Part of JONAK’s footwear is crafted in the north of Portugal, in the São João da Madeira region, an area long recognised for its shoemaking expertise. Here, craftsmanship is passed down and refined over time. Each pair follows a precise process, from cutting and assembling to stitching, lasting and finishing. These techniques, combined with skilled handwork, ensure consistency and attention to detail, both essential to the quality of the final product.

Working closely with these workshops helps preserve their standards while ensuring continuity in production. These long-standing partnerships are built over time, with ateliers that have supported the brand for many years and have developed a deep understanding of its requirements.

At JONAK, working with leather also means taking a long-term approach. It is guided by three core pillars: craftsmanship, durability and collective responsibility. These principles shape the way each pair is made, without altering the nature of the process itself.

This mindset reflects a broader ambition. We aim to better understand and oversee every stage, from development through to production. Footwear manufacturing involves many stakeholders, and particular attention is paid to traceability, making it possible to identify everyone involved in bringing each pair to life. Today, the vast majority of our pairs meet these standards, often going beyond them. Traceability extends as far as possible, reaching back to the origin of materials and components.

In 2024, this approach was recognised with B Corp certification, with a score of 87.84 points, reflecting an ongoing commitment to a more responsible and transparent way of working.

In line with this craftsmanship, the selection brings together pieces where leather truly comes into its own. Textural contrasts, refined finishes and precise lines define each pair, reflecting a lasting attention to the material and the way it evolves over time.