I’ve received some positive feedback on my interviews with footwear designers, Charlotte Olympia Dellal and Nicholas Kirkwood. As a result, I’m continuing my footwear focused interviews by adding more interesting designers to my list, using questions I’ve adapted from the Proust questionnaire.

You know the term, “It’s all in the family?” Well, no truer does the phrase applies to Karl Kowalewski, Director of Leather Product Development and Design at Roots.

I chose Karl as my subject for this interview for three reasons; the first, he comes from approximately three generations of shoemakers – I felt this alone makes for a different story to tell than my previous subjects. Secondly, Roots originally started out as a business producing the negative heel shoe and lastly, it’s a successful a Canadian company fiercely dedicated quality and comfort which is paramount.

I didn’t have the opportunity to meet Karl for this interview – I’m sure our paths will cross soon enough – but the timing seems fitting as the company approaches its one year mark after reintroducing shoes into its product line and to its customers last fall.

What inspires you as a footwear designer?

My travels to Italy is what inspires me. Each season I meet with the tanneries where we hand-pick our leathers for the bags and shoes. I attended a technical school for shoe design back in the 70’s so Italy holds a special place in my heart. I’m inspired by the Italian people and their culture.

What are your criteria for a well constructed and well designed shoe?

It’s simple really. Using the finest materials, which means designing a good last (the form the shoe is built around), using the best leathers and having a durable sole.

Do you have a shoe motto?

It's cliché, but if the shoe fits, wear it!

Can you tell me about a shoe you will never forget?

I will never forget the first boot I designed when I was 18. I saw the movie Woodstock and Joe Cocker was wearing his purple boots with the white star on the toe and I was determined to craft myself a pair. I quickly went to my dad's workshop and made my version of a tall purple suede boot with a white star on the toe and high leather stacked heel. I thought it looked cool with my denim bell bottoms. I wish I still had them today.

Roots’ spring/summer 2011 collection

I like classic all-leather shoes. At Roots, our shoes are designed to withstand the test of time. We have styles that we've tweaked from the 70’s, when we first began making shoes, as well as new styles being regularly introduced. They are fashionable now and will be years from now.

What styles of shoes do you dislike?

I've never been a fan of canvas sneakers.

What footwear projects do you have planned for the future?

I want to introduce Roots footwear for kids. My grandchildren have inspired me!

What is your present state of mind?

That's a good question. Frantic at the moment (laughs). We have several projects on the go, including putting the finishing touches on the new Fall line of leather bags and footwear. Fortunately, it’s a good frantic. This is an exciting time at Roots.

Images courtesy of Roots