What Sets G.H.BASS Apart From The Rest?
For years, G.H.BASS has remained the footwear of choice among business professionals, fashion enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a refined look.
With such a rich history and fascinating origin story, today’s blog takes you on a journey through history to uncover what truly sets G.H.BASS apart.
The History of Loafers
The loafer, as we know it today, first gained popularity in the 1930s as a slip-on shoe that was both comfortable and casual.
However, the origins of the loafer are still a debated topic—much like many popular trends in society. The more popular something becomes, the more its origins seem to blur, with various claims about its invention emerging over time.
And who wouldn’t want to take credit for a design that is both comfortable and stylish? But to properly trace its origins, we must go back to a time when shoes were still a fairly new concept.
Many people have noted that loafers share similarities with footwear sewn by Native Americans, called moccasins. Both moccasins and loafers are laceless designs, featuring low and flexible heels.
However, Norwegian shoemaker Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger is often credited with developing the Aurland shoe, a precursor to the modern loafer. His design combined elements of Native American moccasins and European slip-ons, and it became popular among Norwegian fishermen, who helped spread its appeal.
In Steps G.H. BASS
In 1936, G.H. BASS introduced its own version of the loafer, the Weejuns. Inspired by Norwegian slip-on shoes, this design featured a distinctive slot in the strap across the vamp—an addition that later led to the nickname "penny loafer" when wearers began placing coins in the slot.
The name "Weejuns" was a playful take on "Norwegian," acknowledging the Scandinavian roots of the design. This version of the loafer gained widespread popularity and became a staple in both casual and formal fashion.
Why G.H.BASS Is Beloved Today
There are many things that set G.H.BASS apart.
- The leather: Our footwear is crafted from soft leather, a material best suited for hand-sewing and known for its exceptional comfort.
- The craftsmanship: Every detail in our designs is crafted by the most skilled shoemakers. Signature hand-sewn features include the ‘beefroll’ as well as our branded leather outsole.
- Timeless quality: The quality of our Weejuns dates back to 1936, proving their enduring appeal.
While we believe these three qualities set our brand apart, we asked our social media community for their thoughts—and here’s what they had to say:
"I grew up with my grandfather wearing them, then my dad, and now me. It’s a family tradition."
We absolutely loved this response—it beautifully illustrates how G.H.BASS is a heritage brand, passed down through generations.
"The level of confidence is unmatched wearing these. Formal or not."
This response highlights how our loafers can be styled both casually and formally, showcasing their versatility.
"Because it’s second to none. What’s another option other than G.H.BASS?"
That says it all!
"Timeless."
Yes, fashion is always evolving, but as this response suggests, our footwear will always stand the test of time.
A Timeless Legacy
At G.H.BASS, we don’t merely craft footwear—we create timeless legacies.
As seen in the responses above, G.H.BASS is a brand that has been cherished for generations. Revered for their quality and attention to detail, our Weejuns embody a timeless elegance that outlasts fleeting trends.
Choose a brand that values comfort and quality—choose the legacy of G.H.BASS.
