Old Buster

The Old Buster is our interpretation of the classic moc-toe derby, defined by its unique lines. The term “moc-toe” originates from the “moccasin toe,” a footwear style with deep roots in early Native American craftsmanship. Most modern moc-toe shoes closely resemble these original construction methods, utilizing a puckered U-stitch seam—a technique where the leather is gathered and stitched together to create a raised ridge around the top of the foot.

Our Old Buster, however, takes a different structural approach. Its flattened moc-toe cut draws inspiration from early 20th-century children’s footwear tied to the classic character, Buster Brown.

Rather than using the traditional raised and gathered seam, we use a flat leather cut that is sewn directly onto the upper. This is finished with double-stitching along the moc-toe line. The result is a construction detail that provides a solid, deliberate shape while remaining clean and subtle.

Image 2 - North Country Public Radio (northcountrypublicradio.org)
Image 5 - eBay, vintage Buster Brown shoes