Buffalo, the spirit of the 90s

Cult Platform Cowboy Boots

Buffalo was founded in 1979 in Frankfurt, Germany, as a cowboy boot shop, before expanding its range to sneakers and boots in the 1980s. In 1995, the brand launched a sports shoe mounted on an unprecedented platform sole thickness. The Spice Girls adopted it after their stylist spotted it in the Buffalo store at Oxford Circus, London: the ten-centimetre platform became one of the visual symbols of '90s pop. After a quieter period, the brand reissued its cult models in 2017 under the Buffalo London label for a new generation.

Walking on a Platform: Comfort and Stability

A platform sole raises the whole foot, heel and forefoot, instead of arching it like a heel: the arch remains almost flat, making walking more comfortable than you might think. The thickness also absorbs shocks on the pavement and insulates from the cold ground in winter. On the other hand, the sole is stiffer and taller than a classic shoe: the ankle feels less of the terrain, and stairs or curbs require a bit of attention in the first few days. It’s best to start with short trips before a full day. A sole with marked treads grips better on wet ground than a smooth underside, a detail worth considering for daily use.

Shoe Sizes and Care for Buffalo Shoes

Shoe size is determined by the length of the foot, measured at the end of the day, allowing half a centimetre of space in front of the toes. A shaft in leather or thick synthetic tends to stretch little: between two sizes, the larger one avoids rubbing, and a thin insole compensates for a slight excess. In terms of care, smooth leather can be cleaned with a damp cloth and then treated with a colourless cream, while synthetic materials just need a sponge and soapy water. The large white sole, which gets dirty quickly, regains its shine with a soft brush and a bit of bicarbonate. Always dry them in the open air, away from a radiator that would warp the sole.

Other lifestyle Brands

Other brands, New Era, Urban Classics, Saucony, New Balance, Asics, adidas, Puma, Veja, Le Coq Sportif, Eastpak and others, are gathered on the brands page.

New Arrivals and Good Deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest releases, special offers feature discounted items, and 24-hour dispatched items are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The good deals, clearance, and sales complete the offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What height of platform should I choose for my first pair?

A sole of four to five centimetres allows you to gradually get used to the height and stiffness. The most spectacular platforms are then reserved for already accustomed feet, for shorter outings.

Are Buffalo shoes suitable for rain?

Treated leather or synthetic materials handle a shower well, as long as you wipe them down when you get home. Suede models are more sensitive to water: a waterproofing spray applied before the first outing protects them from stains.

How can I avoid blisters with new Buffalo shoes?

Wear them for an hour or two at home first to soften the shaft and identify rubbing points. Thicker socks and a preventive heel patch help during the first outings.

Can you drive in platform shoes?

The highway code doesn’t prohibit a specific type of shoe, but requires the driver to maintain control of their vehicle. A very thick sole reduces the sensation of the pedals: it’s better to keep a flat pair in the car.

How should I store thick-soled boots?

Store them clean and dry, upright, with a shoe tree or paper in the shaft to prevent it from bending. Avoid stacking them: the weight of another pair can mark the leather and distort the toe.