Ross Oliver is a British footwear brand founded by Ross Oliver Saunders in Bristol in December 2020, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. The brand’s story begins with Ross’ final year at university in 2017, when his experiences with leading designer footwear brands inspired him to create his own pair of shoes. While completing his BSc degree, Ross dedicated his spare time to learning about footwear, with the goal of designing and wearing his own shoes at his graduation ceremony. After successfully graduating and crafting his own pair, Ross developed a deep passion for the shoe making and design process, which ultimately led to the creation of Ross Oliver Footwear.
The brand’s first design, the ‘Bridge-bit Loafer’, was publicly displayed as a concept in 2019. This loafer showcased a blend of craft, originality, and a unique design language, quickly attracting local and national press attention as well as industry recognition. Following this early success, the Bridge-bit Loafer underwent further development before its official launch in July 2021.
Ross Oliver’s philosophy centres on creating footwear for both the current and future consumer, merging traditional British craftsmanship with the innovation of sustainable high-end leather alternatives such as cactus leather. All Ross Oliver products are made using traditional hand crafted footwear techniques, combining luxurious materials with a focus on quality and sustainability. The brand’s design ethos draws inspiration from some of history’s greatest footwear creations, blending classic elements with a hint of modernism to offer exclusive products that stand out in today’s market.
Each Ross Oliver product is crafted to rival the quality of leading UK footwear brands, but with a modern, sustainable approach. The brand’s commitment to originality and craftsmanship ensures that every pair reflects a unique blend of heritage and innovation, making Ross Oliver a distinctive presence in the British footwear landscape.