For the past three generations, Kyle Rancourt’s family has changed very little about the way they make their American-made shoes. All of their styles are still hand-sewn with the same passion for quality that first inspired Kyle’s grandfather to become a shoemaker. Today Kyle stands by his idea that “people want to buy products from people they know and trust” and makes sure that the Rancourts continue to provide the same high-quality men’s footwear their fans have come to love.
Mainebiz reports that the company ships around the globe, to places like Hong Kong, India and even the United Arab Emirates, though its biggest market is still the United States. About 75% of its business is private label, meaning the shoes are made and labeled for eight other companies including Ralph Lauren and Timberland. Recently, the company secured a wholesale account with Brooks Brothers, and the shoes are stamped with the Rancourt & Co. name. That business has grown from an initial order of 125 pairs to orders now of 2,500 pairs. A Japanese retailer this summer also began carrying Rancourt & Co. shoes.
And while the business of selling shoes may be drastically different from it was 60 years ago, the product’s appeal has remained largely the same. “[Shoemaking] is intrinsic to Maine,” says Kyle. “It’s part of what we’ve been doing from the beginning. You don’t have to develop it, you just have to nurture it.”
Rancourt Suede Chukka Boot $345.00 Club Monaco Exclusive Made In The USA
Rancourt Suede 3-Eyelet Chukka $250.00 Club Monaco Exclusive Made In The USA
Rancourt Olive Ranger Moc $250.00 Club Monaco Exclusive Made In The USA
Rancourt Beefroll Penny Loafer $275.00 Club Monaco Exclusive Made In The USA
Rancourt Venetian Slip-On $225.00 Club Monaco Exclusive Made In The USA
Rancourt 5-Eyelet Mid Boot $275.00 Available At Club Monaco Made In The USA
Mainebiz Interview Kyle Rancourt
All images courtesy of Club Monaco
Text courtesy of Club Monaco & Mainebiz
