On a wooden form, previously drawn and then sculpted by a model maker (which can be modified according to the desired shapes of the booties), the leather is placed and nailed directly onto the form to block the assembly. To allow the leather to perfectly mold to the shape, Mexicana perpetuates the Mexican traditions of leatherworking through the soaking of the skins. This is followed by numerous steps, some of which we will discover through the cross-section of the boot shown on the left page.
1) EARS OR TABS
These leather pull tabs are called "ears" — you slip your fingers into them to help pull on the boot.
2) VIBO or STRIP IN COWHIDE LEATHER
This refers to the open interior stitching running along the profile of the boot, showcasing the quality and traditional techniques unique to the Mexicana brand. This operation is performed using a Landis machine.
3) THE SHAFT
Here made from cowhide leather, the shafts are first embroidered and decorated flat using sewing machines and colored thread combinations. Thanks to the skill of the embroiderer, Mexicana shafts have a raised relief highly prized by connoisseurs.
4) THE BALL
This is the widest part of the shoe, the place where the foot bends.
5) THE LINING
Made from full-grain leather, it will improve over time and will bear the detailed imprint of your foot’s anatomy for life.
6) THE INSOLE OR INNER SOLE
This is the first sole around which the different construction elements of the boot are assembled. This leather sole takes the shape of the sole of your foot and ensures maximum comfort. It is assembled by a vertical stitch, the "WELT Stitch" (not visible in the photo), together with the lining, and a small leather strap called the "RIP," which will allow the outer sole to be stitched onto it.
7) THE CORK
A shock absorber and moisture barrier, cork is inserted between the inner and outer soles. It is essential for your comfort and gives your walk much more flexibility.
8) THE OUTSOLE OR WALKING SOLE
It covers the entire previous assembly and slightly overflows the sides. We recommend waiting about fifteen days before resoling your boots with plastic to avoid suffocating the soles and to let them mold perfectly to the shape of your feet.
9) THE DOUBLE BACK COUNTER
This piece of hard leather, selected from superior quality hides, is doubly reinforced with a plastic material called CELASTIC. It helps keep the heel in place and prevents the shaft from collapsing. A boot that ages well owes it to a high-quality back counter. This unique process is specific to the MEXICANA brand.
10) THE HEEL
It is made of layers of leather glued together. A craftsman is responsible for calibrating the leather layers, estimating the thickness of each by clamping them between his teeth (!!) to check the quality. This ensures the correct height of each heel.
We have deliberately summarized what amounts to at least 175 distinct operations necessary for crafting a pair of Mexicana-decorated boots, making them truly exceptional. Much more than conventional shoes, western boots belong to the world of valuable, unique, and original creations designed by artistic and imaginative men over time. They enhance colorful and nonconformist profiles, convey a free spirit and mindset, and are a passionate invitation to express one's character and individuality. Wearing Mexicana boots guarantees strong, extraordinary boots whose reputation has elevated the brand to the ranks of the world's greatest western bootmakers.