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since 2016

What isYemyem?

Yemyem Craftsmanship
01
Meet our Sabaters

Firat Dikilitas

Being only 20 years old, Firat wanted to learn the craft to prolong the history of the yemeni.

Comfort isn't just a feeling; it's a state of being at home, no matter where your steps take you.

Yemyem comes from the word Yemeni — a tribute to a centuries-old craft. Yemeni is a traditional handmade leather shoe dating back to the Ottoman era. Over time, it became deeply rooted in Anatolia, with Gaziantep in southern Turkey emerging as one of its most important craft centers — known for precision, durability, and respect for tradition.

Process of crafting

captured around 1880-1885 in a local Gaziantep workshop

Heritage & Craft

Our
Story

Yemyem is a leather and PVC footwear brand based in San Francisco, CA. While our vision is shaped in California, our production is rooted in Gaziantep, Turkey — a city long associated with master shoemaking. Each pair is created with careful attention to detail, combining heritage techniques with modern comfort and design.

«Authenticity is felt in every step.»

Process of crafting
Leather detail
NATURAL & RESPONSIBLE

Leather
Collection

At Yemyem, materials matter.
We choose what feels right on the skin and right for the environment.

Our leather collection is crafted from natural, breathable components — carefully selected for comfort, durability, and long-term wear.

  • Responsibly sourced leather
  • Chemical-free dyes & natural pigments
  • Hypoallergenic components
  • 100% natural cotton thread, sealed with beeswax
Process of crafting
Recycled & Conscious

PVC
Collection

Our PVC slippers are crafted from high-quality recycled PVC (rPVC), reprocessed from post-consumer and industrial plastic waste. We transform existing materials into something refined, durable, and made to last.

The result is a flexible, lightweight material designed for daily wear and long-term comfort.

  • Recycled & responsibly sourced
  • Lightweight, flexible & durable
  • Water-resistant & easy to maintain
  • Skin-safe, free from harsh chemical odor
Process of crafting
Leather detail
Crafted to Last

The
Anatomy

Every pair of Leather Yemyem is shaped with patience and precision.
Fully hand-stitched, structured with care, and balanced to follow the natural movement of the foot.

We honor centuries-old shoemaking traditions — not as a trend, but as a standard.

Refined in detail. Effortless in feel.

  • Outer layer: Supple premium goatskin
  • Lining: Naturally soft sheepskin
  • Sole: Durable buffalo or cowhide leather
  • Hand-stitched throughout for lasting integrity
Orhan Ustabaşı
Meet Our Sabater

Orhan Ustabaşı

Having learned the Yemeni craft from his father, Orhan dreams of sharing this tradition with others and teaching those who wish to learn it.

Ayhan Berktaş
Meet Our Sabater

Ayhan Berktaş

Ayhan has been making shoes for over 22 years. He loves this craft and is dedicated to keeping this tradition alive for future generations.

Erol İçyer
Meet Our Sabater

Erol İçyer

Passionate about his craft, Erol is dedicated to preserving the Yemeni tradition and sharing it with the next generation.

Cafer Demirel
Meet Our Sabater

Cafer Demirel

Cafer started making Yemeni shoes at the age of 18. Now, at 61, he can’t imagine doing anything else. Shoemaking isn’t just his work - it’s his passion.