Draper of Glastonbury

Draper of Glastonbury: maker of shearling slippers since 1937

R. J. Draper & Co Ltd, trading as Draper of Glastonbury, is a British family business established in 1937 that manufactures shearling and sheepskin slippers, boots, gloves and accessories for men and women. The company is still owned by the same family, and four generations of the Draper family have worked for it. Its Glastonbury factory is considered the oldest sheepskin footwear manufacturer in the United Kingdom.

The company makes its products by hand from start to finish in its Somerset workshop in England. It uses the so-called 'turned' construction, a highly skilled technique that requires strong hands and years of experience in leatherwork. There is evidence of leathermaking at the factory site dating back to 1886, and the Glastonbury area has been the heart of the British sheepskin industry for over a thousand years, since the monks of Glastonbury Abbey began tanning skins.

Range of shearling footwear and accessories

Draper of Glastonbury's range covers a wide variety of shearling and sheepskin products, from footwear to gloves, rugs and accessories. The company sells traditional and contemporary styles for men and women, with models such as men's and women's shearling slippers, women's and men's shearling boots, bootie-style slippers, backless mule slippers, shearling moccasin slippers, men's shoes, men's and women's shearling gloves, shearling rugs, shearling insoles and a shearling care kit. It also offers knitwear, gloves and hats within its clothing section.

Featured models on the website include the ANTON men's shearling slippers, the JANE women's shearling slippers, the MAINE men's shearling moccasin slippers and the LUCY women's shearling mule slippers. The company states that its shearling footwear is designed to keep you warm and comfortable during the cold winter months and also to keep you cool in summer, as sheepskin is a natural material that regulates temperature. The company maintains that its products are made to last for years and that its sustainable approach, contrary to throwaway culture, is one of the reasons for its popularity.

Natural materials and sustainable production

The company uses genuine sheepskin and leather in the manufacture of its products. Its approach is based on the use of natural materials and sustainable production, with the stated aim of extending the life of its products in contrast to disposable fashion. Manufacturing has been carried out entirely by hand in England since 1937.

Sales and customer service

Draper of Glastonbury's online store offers free shipping on orders over $175, tax, duty and tariff inclusive prices, and free returns within 90 days. The website has help and advice sections on delivery and returns, sizing, online orders, slipper and boot care, and sheepskin rug care. It also has a wholesale section.

The site displays a notice for US visitors accessing from the United Kingdom, offering the option to stay on the US version or switch to the British one.

Location and contact

Email: info@drapershearlingslippers.com