Since 1977
About Us
Meet Our Founder — Ms. Angél Fiorito
Angél has made leather footwear and clothing since 1977. Apprenticing in the art of custom fitted moccasins with master shoemaker Scott Taylor, she began the journey in Eugene, Oregon. During this time she also studied tailoring and patternmaking in college. Following her initial apprenticeship, Angél decided to become a teacher, taking on several apprentices—Mike Cabral, Paul Opperman, Laila Abdul, and most recently Sara LaCount.
Completing the line of sheepskin slippers and boots in 1980, WindWalkers was born. Along the way, new styles have been added, including the WaveWalkers orthotic sport sandal line in 1985.
Angél's niece, Sara LaCount joined WindWalkers in 2009 as Angél's fourth apprentice. Sara, who also works in medical manufacturing, carries on the WindWalkers tradition of making fine handcrafted footwear and brings fresh energy to our designs.
It's in the Family -
Regarding her interest in shoemaking, Angél states, "I was influenced by my father's Italian family. My Grandfather told me that he had worked in a shoe repair shop in Italy as a boy, before coming to America.
Many members of my family are involved in aspects of the footwear industry, from shoe repairs to design and orthotics. My Uncle Don Fiorito was certified in Orthopedic footwear while serving in the Military. He has been a major influence in my learning about orthopedic materials. One of my cousins is a patternmaker for Nike and another makes Prosthetics... And now, my niece Sara LaCount is taking up the torch and working with me in shoemaking! And so it continues."
The New Owner — Ms. Sara LaCount
Sara has been working with Angél for 15+ years now. During this time, she has learned the trade, and has worked to ensure the quality is maintained.
"It is truly something to learn from a master tradeswoman. She is an outstanding person and teacher, who is also my aunt.
In addition to taking over WindWalkers, I also work in medical manufacturing. With a background in care-providing, I have found my niche. I have designed custom seating systems for those in need, and I have helped folks with feet in need!"
After graduating, and while attending college, Sara began an apprenticeship and progressed through the journeyman phase. After some years, a branch of WindWalkers was opened in Sacramento.
This is the main hub for production, although the future of WindWalkers is gearing up for more in-person sales. We will see what happens!
Learn more about our leather shoes and custom footwear by contacting us.
Angél's Vision
"In my years as a shoemaker, I've seen many people with painful foot problems, often caused by their shoes! Most products today are designed with planned obsolescence and are being produced faster and less expensive than ever before. Shoes made this way don't always take care of our feet or fit as well as we need.
Realizing how difficult it can be to find comfortable shoes that last, I formed a company dedicated to making the finest and most comfortable American footwear possible. Made right here in America by people who care.
WindWalkers are made with washable American leathers and because of my interest in orthopedics, I decided that custom options would also be offered for people with special needs."
Custom fitted, orthopedic shoes and other leather projects are available. Please contact us for individual design and pricing information for these types of special orders. WindWalkers products are designed to be the ultimate in COMFORT and DURABILITY. Enjoy browsing our site for more information and for secure ordering. If you have questions, please contact us and we'll get back to you soon.
By Appointment ONLY
WindWalkers - Attn: Sara LaCount