Who gives a TUK? - I DO! (TUK Shoes)

Member Name: famouslastwords

Product:	TUK Shoes
Date:	29/12/08 (441 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lovely funky and unusual shoes

Disadvantages: Not everyones cup of tea

About two years ago, I was browsing around Camden Locks market and I saw a stall offering discount shoes. These beauties shone out to me from across the marketplace. Red leopard print Doc Martin style boots, with a lovely chunky heel. Reduced to a bargain price of £15. And for once, these lovely shoes fit my mansized feet! I was over the moon, and a match was made.

Since then, I have quite literally worn these shoes to death. They have split along the heel. I still wear them when the sun shines, but they are honestly well on their way out. However, I wouldn't hesitate to get another pair of these funky, well made shoes. In fact, im on the lookout for another bargain pair right now. Never know, lighting might strike twice!

The company
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T.U.K is an amazing shoe company, 'born in England, raised in California'. Having been established as a company for over 20 years, TUK specialise in alternative style shoes, boots, creepers, platforms, hi-heels and sneakers. By alternative, I mean shoes which will typically appeal to those from various sub-cultures; such as punk, metal, goth and industrial. In other words, if your staple shoe label is Clarks, these probably won't appeal to you! ;)

TUK describe themselves as supplying; 'Rock n Roll inspired footwear for men, women and children. We strive to produce original and creative styles to suit the eclectic tastes of people whose lives revolve around music, art and fashion.'

TUK are primarily an online store, but you will see them out and about too, if you look in the right places. You generally won't find TUK on the high-street, but alternative markets and stores will often stock TUK, as do some Schuh stores.

Recently, TUK have started working alongside Emily the Strange to product a range of fantastic shoes, clothes and accessories. Ideal for all goths!

The TUK Website
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The website divides into Mens, Womens and infants shoes, then sub-divides into different styles of shoes. As far as it seems from the site, Womens sizes run from 3-9, Mens between 3-12 and childrens from 4-12. Styles vary from Creepers, low, mid and hi-heels, sneakers, platforms, Mary Janes, Winklepickers and boots. Generally, the shoes are prices between £20-£50. Personally, id recommend the hi-heels for women; with the fluffy materials and star patterns. And the multi-coloured Creepers for the boys.

The website is fairly easy to use, with good, clear pictures and prices. Good for a browse, but be careful not to be tempted into shoes you cannot afford!

Delivery is only £3.99 for orders under £45.00, which is pretty good for shoes. Orders over this amount are free delivery. Shoes are sent between 9am and 3pm, recorded delivery signed for. I have ordered from them before and found the customer services very good. Payment is through thawte, which is secure.

My favourite TUK shoes
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Some people will hear this description, others will and see immediately why i feel in love with these sexy, funky superboots. Imagine the scene - Maroon, leopard print Doc Martin style boots, with black laces. To save the endless monotony of laces, the boots have zips up the inside.

The bottom of the shoes is a chunky black rubber sole, with the trademark skull and crossbones TUK logo and bones down the foot. Honestly, this is my favourite bit. Alongside the free mini replica keyring which comes with them. As i mentioned, mine have now split, but this was after almost daily rough usage for quite a while. They have survived travelling, drumming and more than a few festivals.

Where to buy?
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Schuh - Online and in stores. See the website for a store finder at http://mule.schuhstore.co.uk/home_normal.asp
TUK home - http://www.tukshoes.co.uk/default.aspx
Ebay! - www.ebay.co.uk
Camden locks and stables markets, London
Carnaby Street, London

Basically, if you have a local alterative market or store, they will more than likely stock TUK. If they don't, you don't pay extra on the website, and they often have clearance lines and special offers so are well worth a look.

Overall
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As you might be able to tell, I am a huge fan of TUK shoes. When I am rich, I will have several different pairs. In fact, I might just have a TUK dedicated cupboard. :D The shoes are hardwearing, funky, unusual and a real conversion starter. Having said that, I am well aware these won't be everyone's cup of tea. They are loud, in your face and statement making. If that sounds like your deal... check out TUK. Amazing shoes, without the expensive of similar alternative ranges such as New Rock.

TUK details
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Website = www.tukshoes.co.uk
Phone = 08700 853 785
Fax = 08700 853 787 (if needed)
Email = enquiries@jackal.co.uk
Address =
T.U.K Shoes
c/o Jackal
Unit 4 Rivermead Industrial Estate
Rivermead Drive
Swindon
Wiltshire
SN5 7EX

Summary: If you like your alternative styles, you will LOVE TUK