Welcome to Thistle Shoes

Manufactures & Purveyors of Quality Footwear

Thistle shoes are a division of AE Struthers which is a family owned business that was founded in 1984. If it’s looking your best on your wedding day, marching with the massed pipes and drums or just dancing away, we have you covered. We have always been in shoes, successfully manufacturing and selling Highland Dance pumps, Gents shoes, Ghillie Brogues and most recently, Irish Dance shoes under our brand Ryan & O’Donnell. Our products are widely available from retailers throughout Great Britain, around the world or by contacting us directly.

Pipers brogues

Piper Brogues

Our piper collection has been developed in conjunction with world class pipers for lasting comfort and maximum durability.
Piper Brogues

Ghillie brogues

Ghillie Brogues

Thistle makes ghillie brogues today as they have always been made. Tough as nails but with a heart of gold.
Ghillie Brogues

Highland dance shoes

Highland Dance

Our dancing range is 100% hand crafted in Scotland and our manufacturing division has over 30 years experience.
Highland Dance

Scottish country dance shoes

Country Dance

Every pair of our dance shoes includes a Noene shock absorber to help prevent injuries.
Country Dance

Download the 2014 Brochure

Simply click on the link below to download our latest catalog:
Brochure download

Thistle Shoes - Brochure 2014

Time-tested shoemaking craftsman

Thistle shoes are made with the skills and crafts of old. We use the finest leathers that we can find for durability, flexibility and, of course, smartness. We stitch the soles to the uppers and use brass nails on the heels. There are faster and easier ways to make shoes but this is the way we find the best.

Shoemaker info

With a wee nod to modern technology

We use old crafts, indeed, but never let it be said that we’re shy of using modern technology. Not a bit. Tucked away in the sole of most of our shoes is a shock-absorber insole to provide maximum confort. You may not see it but, most pleasantly we think, you will notice it.

Shoemaker info

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