Martin Trautmann

Shoemaker

©Tobi Hartl

Seventh-generation shoemaker

Martin has inherited his craft from both sides of his family
He wears shoes made by his grandfather
His ambition is to bring back respect for handmade work

Martin Trautmann's ancestors have been making shoes and orthopedic footwear for generations. Now, after training and apprenticeships in France, Austria, and Australia, Martin is carrying on in the workshop of his parents and grandparents. He speaks about his craft with great passion. While striving for the greatest possible professional excellence, Martin does not lose sight of his fundamental values. "Shoes are not just about footwear. If there is something wrong with our bodies, it often begins in our feet," says the shoemaker. For him, handmade shoes embody both long-lasting handwork and sustainability: a good shoe is made to last and be worn for at least ten years. "It can take 12 to 16 months to make a pair of shoes. Many people think of a cobbler as someone who quickly puts on a patch, and you're good to go. But that is not our craft. It's about longevity and sustainability."

Interview

©Tobi Hartl

©Tobi Hartl

How did you get into this craft?: I am the fifth generation of shoemakers on my father's side and the seventh generation on my mother's side. Once, I saw my father help an old lady with orthopedic shoes to get off the rollator. She was able to walk again, and she was so happy that she burst into tears. That touched me very deeply and, I think, subconsciously pushed me to continue in this craft.
What is important to you in your work?: Local – where I get my materials from. The furthest countries where I source my materials are Holland and Italy. Then quality, definitely. If I repair a shoe that lasts for a year, I get a customer who will be loyal to me for life. Good shoes are one of the best investments you can make in terms of the environment. Our craft is about longevity and sustainability.
What is your relationship with innovation and tradition?: There is a quote by Gustav Mahler on my website: "Tradition is not about honoring the ashes but about passing on the fire." It is important not to lose the fire. My craft is very intimate as I have to touch bare feet. Not everybody wants to do that. But feet are the base, the foundation of our body. I always try to compare the body to a house: a good house needs a solid foundation.
What would you say to a young person wanting to take up your craft?: It is physically demanding because you need a lot of strength. There is a high chance of injury when working with sharp knives. You have to stand a lot. On the positive side, however, we have an extensive range of materials in our trade. It is also a profession that is very close to people so you have to know how to deal with people.

Martin Trautmann is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2006 and he started teaching in 2019