How We Got Started | Founded in 2014 in San Francisco
In 2014, our founder, Carlos Roberto, stumbled upon a huarache-making directory featuring dozens of artisanal makers. Some embraced modern techniques, while others upheld generations-old traditions. They say magic happens when you least expect it, and this was true for Carlos.
While attending fashion school, Carlos drafted a footwear concept inspired by the huarache's technical weave. Growing up in a Latin household, he was always surrounded by huaraches, which retained their aesthetic and durability over the years. Focusing on craftsmanship, Carlos developed an apparel line and sought to design a shoe that matched this ethos. The huarache was the perfect fit.
After making some calls, Carlos met El Señor Ochoa, a master huarache maker dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship and traditional methods. Carlos sent over his sketch, and the synergy was immediate when El Señor Ochoa responded with a similar concept. The collaboration felt special—pure, raw, and perfect.
Believing in its potential, Carlos posted a photo of the shoe on Twitter. Hours later, he was contacted for a collaboration with UK designer Tom Lipop for Vogue Italy's "Who's Up Next" competition. Although the brand hadn't officially launched, Carlos invested everything into this opportunity, even spending his last $250 to ship the shoes express to Europe.
A few weeks later, Tom won the competition, bringing immense exposure and validation to Vintage Artisan. Orders began pouring in from Twitter, even before the website was launched. Carlos used this time to create the website while production started.
One week later, the site officially launched, with orders coming in from around the world—Australia, Dubai, Germany, Spain, France, and the United States. The collaboration's press coverage helped Vintage Artisan gain traction quickly.
(Photo above taken in Sahuayo on Oct.2014 after Carlos added these 4 color-ways in Suede. This was the first time colors like these were seen on Huaraches and set the trend for years to come.)
(The first time the "Stacked Sole" was photographed and seen on a Huarache. This sole was designed by Carlos on his first trip to the "taller" which later became a standard style of sole on a huarache. This sole is a combination of crepe and eva foam)
In the following months, Carlos secured features in Esquire Latin America and caught the attention of influencers. He introduced new colorways and materials like suede and developed the well-known double-stacked sole, now an industry standard. This fortunate and successful start set the foundation for Vintage Artisan's commitment to artisanal luxury and innovation.
