Bio

Who are we?
Started in 2020 by Jean-Laurent Teplitsky, a classically trained bespoke shoemaker. Bertier is a culmination of two decades of shoemaking. He traveled to ateliers and factories in France, Spain, Japan and England to hone his craft. After several apprenticeship’s at Corthay in Paris he decided to come home and begin his own brand.
What we do?
Having serviced mostly international clientele Jean decided to try his hand at modern customizing. A sneakerhead at heart he decided to start on the Air Jordan 1. Each pair has only been touched by one pair of hands.
How we do it?
We start with an authentic pair of donors. Then we completely deconstruct them. Materials, colour way and spec are locked in. All patterns, plotting, cutting, skiving, gluing and assembling are done by hand. The only machine used is a 1960’s Pfaff sewing machine for the upper construction. One donor, one pair.
Why the AJ1?
As a kid these were they were the holygrail. A cult classic, we have focused on the 1985 OG version. We have created our own interpretation using our favorite elements.
What materials do we use?
A large part of the process goes toward sourcing quality materials. All the Nile Crocodile is local. We use as many South African products as possible.
Where to find us?
Cape Town – Yawa @EGG
Joburg – Soul Gallery