Made-to-Order FAQ
Your Questions, Answered
Every pair of George C. Kirk's footwear is handcrafted to order in Canada. We believe in transparency — here's everything you need to know before, during, and after your order.
Production & Lead Times
How long does it take to make my order?
Please allow 4–6 weeks from the date of your order for your custom pair to be crafted. Each piece is made by hand, one at a time — this is not a process we rush. Your patience is part of what makes the result worth wearing for decades.
Can I get my order faster?
We do not offer expedited production at this time. Our commitment to quality means every pair receives the same careful attention, regardless of when it was ordered.
Will I receive updates during production?
Yes. You'll receive an order confirmation immediately after purchase, and a shipping notification with tracking details once your pair is complete and on its way.
Custom Sizing & Fit
How does custom sizing work?
Because our footwear is made to order, we encourage you to follow the measuring instructions provided on each product page carefully. A proper fit starts with accurate measurements — length, width, and instep — taken while standing.
What measurements do I need to provide?
For most styles, you will need:
- Foot length — measured from heel to longest toe (in centimetres)
- Foot width — measured at the widest point of the foot
- Instep circumference — measured around the highest point of the foot
Detailed instructions with diagrams are included on each product page. If you have any questions before ordering, please reach out — we're happy to guide you.
What if I'm between sizes?
We recommend sizing up and noting any fit preferences in the order notes at checkout. Our craftspeople review every order before production begins.
Can I request specific fit adjustments?
Yes. Use the order notes field at checkout to share any relevant details — wider toe box, higher instep, previous fit issues with other brands, etc. We'll do our best to accommodate.
Materials
What materials are used?
We source premium full-grain leathers and natural materials chosen for durability, comfort, and beauty that improves with age. Specific materials for each style are listed on the product page. If you have questions about a particular material or have an allergy concern, please contact us before ordering.
Are your materials ethically sourced?
Yes. We work with suppliers who share our values around quality and responsible sourcing. Our footwear is proudly crafted in Canada.
Shipping
Where do you ship?
We ship across Canada and internationally, including the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union. Shipping options and rates are calculated at checkout based on your location.
How long does shipping take after my order is complete?
Once your pair is finished and handed to our shipping partner, typical transit times are:
- Canada: 3–7 business days
- United States: 5–10 business days
- United Kingdom & EU: 7–14 business days
- Rest of World: 10–21 business days
Please note these are estimates and may vary based on customs processing and carrier delays outside our control.
Will my order be subject to customs or import duties?
International orders may be subject to customs duties, taxes, or import fees levied by your country. These charges are the responsibility of the recipient and are not included in our pricing or shipping fees.
Do you provide tracking?
Yes. A tracking number will be included in your shipping confirmation email.
Returns & Exchanges
Can I return or exchange my order?
Because every pair is made specifically for you, we are unable to accept returns or offer refunds on custom orders. This is stated in our refund policy and is a natural consequence of the made-to-order process — your pair cannot be resold to another customer.
What if there is a defect or craftsmanship issue?
We stand behind our work. If you receive a pair with a genuine defect in materials or craftsmanship, please contact us within 14 days of delivery with photos and a description of the issue. We will work with you to make it right.
What if my measurements were incorrect?
We strongly encourage you to double-check your measurements before placing your order. If you have any uncertainty, reach out to us first — we'd rather take a few extra minutes to get it right than have you receive a pair that doesn't fit. Because orders are custom-made, we cannot accept returns due to sizing errors on the customer's part.
Care & Longevity
How do I care for my footwear?
With proper care, your George C. Kirk's footwear will last for many years — and often improve with age. General care guidelines:
- Clean with a soft, damp cloth after each wear
- Condition full-grain leather every 4–6 weeks with a quality leather conditioner
- Use cedar shoe trees to maintain shape and absorb moisture
- Allow footwear to dry naturally — never near direct heat
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Resole when needed — quality construction means your uppers can outlast multiple soles
Can my footwear be resoled?
Yes. Our construction methods are designed with longevity in mind. We recommend finding a skilled local cobbler for resoling, or contact us for guidance.
Still Have Questions?
We're a family business and we love hearing from our customers. If something isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to reach out — we'll get back to you as soon as we can.