Why a cobbler blog?

Hello to all lovers of shoes that last and shine!

I am Philippe Moreau Latreille, shoemaker and owner of Chez Gerry, an artisanal shoe repair shop founded in 1958 in Gatineau, Quebec, at 4 Rue Demontigny. With over 10,000 hours of experience, I am a specialist in welted shoes and an expert in the restoration of prestigious brands such as Red Wing Shoes, Christian Louboutin, Allen Edmonds, Cole Haan, Chanel, Prada, Valentino, Johnston & Murphy, Tony Lama, Louis Vuitton, Lucchese Bootmaker, Frye, Magnanni, Salvatore Ferragamo, Hermès Paris, Birkenstock, Fendi Roma, Dolce & Gabbana, Tecovas, Chloé, Ariat, Saute Mouton Québec, and Martino. My motivation? To surpass myself every day as a shoemaker. I aspire to become one of the best shoemakers in Quebec, and even Canada, by putting my know-how at the service of your favorite shoes. This blog is a new way to share this passion with you – and I also invite you to follow me on social media to discover my daily life in the workshop!

A connected craftsman

At my shop, we love tradition, but we live with the times. On social media, I show you what goes on behind the scenes: resoling a Red Wing, restoring a Louboutin, or even tips for your Frye. Subscribe to my Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok and X accounts to not miss anything, and don't hesitate to leave me your comments - your ideas inspire me! This blog will go further: detailed advice, shoemaking stories, and answers to your questions.

What to expect?

• Tips and tricks: How to protect your Paraboot or make your Birkenstock last season after season.
• Welts decoded: The magic of hand sewing, from Saute Mouton Québec to Tecovas.
• Everyday luxury: The secrets of Chanel or Hermès Paris leathers, and how to preserve them.
• Shop News: Our mail-in services and certified repairs for all of Canada.

Join me!

Tell me here or on my networks – Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, X – which pair accompanies you every day or what you would like to learn about its maintenance. This blog and my videos are there for you – so subscribe and let’s keep this passion alive together!

See you soon,
Philippe Moreau Latreille
Chez Gerry 1958 – Where your shoes come to life, again and again.