Saphir Shines at the London Super Trunk Show 2025

A Celebration of Artisanal Excellence
On Saturday 10 May 2025, the seventh edition of the London Super Trunk Show brought life and craftsmanship to 12 Regent Street, transforming this prestigious address into a temple of classic men’s footwear, tailoring, and artisanal savoir-faire. Co-organised by Jesper Ingevaldsson (Shoegazing), Justin FitzPatrick (The Shoe Snob), and Kirby Allison, the event welcomed over 1,300 visitors from across the globe—shoemaking professionals, collectors, and curious newcomers alike.

Saphir in the Spotlight
As a Platinum Sponsor, Saphir Médaille d'Or proudly held a prominent position among the 14 carefully curated international exhibitors. Throughout the day, Saphir’s stand attracted steady attention, showcasing the full range of its world-renowned leather care products—symbols of French tradition, refinement, and technical mastery. Saphir's presence extended far beyond the exhibition space: our products were integral to the official competitions, especially in the World Championships in Shoe Patina, where artists transformed raw crust leather into wearable masterpieces using Teinture Française and other premium care products from the Saphir range.

This year’s event gathered 14 high-end exhibitors from around the world, offering visitors the rare opportunity to try on, order, and purchase exceptional products from brands rarely seen together under one roof. The list included:

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Celebrating Excellence: The Competitions
Three headline competitions honoured the skills and dedication of the global shoemaking community:

World Championships in Shoe Patina

First Place
Rodolphe Baudry (France)
Representing Corthay, impressed the judges with his colour mastery and technique

Second Place
Toan Junie (France)
An independent patina artist who works for example for Septieme Largeur

Third Place
Albert Gjukaj (Switzerland)
Founder of Mr. Dapper in Lucerne

World Champion in Shoe Patina Rod Baudr 

World Championships in Shoe Shining

First Place
Riu Niita (Japan)
With a dazzling mirror shine execution

Second Place
Atsuhiro Yoshidomi (Japan)

Third Place
Matthew (United Kingdom)
Also known as Mr. Bull & Shine

World Champion in Shoe Shining Riu Niita

World Championships in Shoemaking

First Place
Louis Lampertsdörfer (Germany)
Of Mogada Munich

Second Place
Ken Kataoka (Japan)
Of Siroeno Yosui

Third Place
Ken Hishinuma (Japan)
Of Khish the Works.

The winning shoes will be featured in international exhibitions, including a showcase at Isetan Men’s in Tokyo, as part of a £6,000 prize package.

World Champion in shoemaking Louis Lampertsdörfer

Highlights: Masterclass and Exclusive Services
Saphir also proudly supported the mirror shine masterclass led by Yuya Hasegawa, the first-ever world champion in shoe shining. His demonstration of advanced polishing techniques drew a large and engaged audience.

Throughout the day, Saphir’s complimentary shoe shining service offered visitors quick, high quality shines, quickly becoming one of the most sought-after features of the show.

During the shoe shining competition.

New for 2025: The Super Trunk Sweepstakes
This year introduced the Super Trunk Sweepstakes, giving attendees the chance to win over £3,000 worth of prizes from participating brands. Those present in person were eligible for a bonus entry, and the prize draw added an exciting and generous touch to the closing ceremony.

Tom Beecroft of the Valet and Katia Moura of Saphir during the judging of the polished shoes

A Global Gathering of Craft and Community
The London Super Trunk Show once again proved itself to be more than just an exhibition— it was a celebration of passion, skill, and connection. From bespoke creations and expert competitions to warm conversations over refreshments, the event offered something meaningful for every visitor.

For Saphir Médaille d'Or, this 2025 edition reaffirmed its leading role in the global world of fine leather care and shoemaking. With craftsmanship, elegance, and innovation at its core, Saphir remains committed to preserving and enhancing the beauty of the finest leathers. We look forward to returning in 2026, ready to continue celebrating the art of shoes, the mastery of care, and the spirit of excellence.