Create the sneaker of your dreams in Florence

If you’ve ever dreamt of wearing a pair of shoes that truly speak to your style, this Florence-based custom sneaker experience might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve come across a highly-rated tour offered by MyMancini that allows you to craft your own pair of sneakers, with a full artisan process, in the heart of Italy’s fashion capital.

From detailed design options to watching master craftsmen bring your ideas to life, this experience blends creativity with authentic Italian craftsmanship. It’s especially appealing if you love personalized products, enjoy hands-on experiences, or want a meaningful souvenir that’s more than just a typical shopping trip.

What really caught our eye are how personalized the process is — with the chance to customize almost everything — and the live creation aspect, which makes it unique compared to standard shoe shopping. On the flip side, the price tag of around $638 may seem steep for some, so it’s worth considering whether you’ll get the full value out of a one-of-a-kind pair.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate craftsmanship, want a memorable activity during their Florence stay, or are looking for a genuinely unique gift or keepsake. If you love being involved in creative projects or are a sneaker enthusiast, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Highly personalized: From materials to colors, your shoes are tailored to your taste.
• Live craftsmanship: Watch your sneakers come to life in front of you, guided by skilled Italian artisans.
• Elegant environment: The showroom in Via Calzaiuoli offers a chic setting complemented by wine tastings and Tuscan specialties.
• Expert guidance: Friendly staff help you navigate the design process and answer all your questions.
• Positive reviews: Consistently praised for friendliness, creativity, and quality.
• Price reflects craft and experience: At around $638, you’re paying for a bespoke product and a memorable activity.

Exploring the Florence Sneaker Creation Experience

If you’re someone who values craftsmanship and wants a tangible memory from your trip, this sneaker-making experience could be a perfect fit. Located in the bustling Via Calzaiuoli, the 250 m2 showroom isn’t just a display space but a workshop where your ideas turn into real, wearable art.

The Setup and What to Expect

When you arrive, you’re welcomed into a stylish, inviting environment. Here, the MyMancini team combines traditional artisan techniques with modern customization tools. The experience begins with a detailed consultation and the use of an innovative virtual configurator called Willy, which showcases endless combinations of models, materials, and colors.

This virtual tool makes it easy to visualize your design—whether you prefer a classic look or something more eye-catching—without any pressure. The team’s friendly approach means you can explore options comfortably, knowing you’re in expert hands.

Live Creation and Craftsmanship

The highlight? Watching your sneakers being crafted live. You’ll see traditional tools like brushes, sewing machines, and presses in action. Each shoe is handmade, blending old-world techniques with innovative touches, assuring you of quality that only Italy can deliver.

Multiple reviews highlight how engaging this process is. One reviewer described it as “super exciting” and appreciated the energy of Mateo and his team, emphasizing how friendly and passionate they are. Watching every stitch and detail come to life is an experience that makes your custom shoes feel even more special.

Collaboration and Personalization

Beyond just choosing colors and materials, you’ll work side-by-side with your dedicated sneaker maker. This collaboration allows you to translate your ideas into reality, whether it’s a specific pattern, a logo, or unique embellishments. Several reviews mention how fun and inviting the staff are, making the design process feel like a creative partnership rather than just an order.

The Experience Continues with Tasting

To elevate this activity beyond just shoe crafting, you can enjoy a wine tasting paired with Tuscan specialties. The elegant setting, complemented by Italian wines and local delicacies, creates a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind and reflect on your design. This added touch makes the experience feel truly indulgent and immersive.

How the Experience Works from Start to Finish

The process begins at the meeting point at My Mancini on Via dei Calzaiuoli, right in the center of Florence. The tour runs for approximately four hours, giving you plenty of time to explore different design options, watch the construction, and enjoy the tasting.

Your group is private, so it’s tailored to your preferences without outside interruptions, and the mobile ticket makes it easy to access. You can expect to participate in a hands-on process, or if you prefer, simply observe as your sneakers are created.

The Cost and Value

At $638.59 per person, this experience isn’t cheap. But, considering you’re getting a fully personalized, handmade pair of sneakers crafted by skilled artisans, it’s a fair price for those who value uniqueness and quality. Many reviewers praised the quality of craftsmanship and the fun, memorable process.

Some even mentioned how quickly their shoes were completed—within a few hours—making it a surprisingly efficient activity. The fact that you can watch your sneakers come to life, and even participate in the making, adds an emotional layer beyond simple shopping.

Authentic Customer Experiences

The overwhelmingly positive reviews paint a clear picture of what you can expect. Many travelers highlight the friendly staff, describing them as “super inviting,” “kind,” and “energetic.” One reviewer said: “The staff were so nice and kind and I had the best time!” This personal touch is a big part of why this experience stands out.

Others talk about how creative and personalized their shoes turned out, especially appreciating the option to incorporate logos, illustrations, or specific design wishes. One customer noted, “They personalized perfectly and so professionally,” emphasizing the high standards.

Many also mention how their shoes became treasured souvenirs, with some documenting their design journey as part of their trip memories. One reviewer even said, “It’s like creating a piece of modern art,” which speaks to the artistic potential of this activity.

What Sets It Apart

What truly distinguishes this tour is the combination of craftsmanship, customization, and immersive experience. Watching artisans at work, actively participating in the design, and enjoying Tuscan wines makes it more than just a shoe purchase—it’s a memorable cultural activity.

The fact that all shoes are made entirely by hand guarantees a level of quality and uniqueness that mass-produced sneakers can’t match. Plus, the opportunity to personalize every aspect of your shoes—from materials to design embellishments—means each pair is one of a kind.

Potential Downsides to Keep in Mind

While this experience is highly praised, there are some considerations. The price point might be a deterrent for budget travelers, as it’s a premium activity. If you’re simply looking for a casual souvenir, this might feel a bit steep.

Also, since the process takes about four hours, it’s a good idea to plan your day around it—especially if you have other sightseeing commitments. And if you’re not particularly interested in customizing shoes or don’t want to invest in a handcrafted pair, this might not be the best fit.

Lastly, one review mentions that no refunds or returns are provided, emphasizing the importance of being sure about your design choices beforehand. It’s worth noting that the experience is designed to be personal and final—so make sure you’re happy with your choices before confirming.

Is This Experience for You?

If you love hands-on activities, appreciate artisanal craftsmanship, and want a truly personalized souvenir, this Florence sneaker experience could be a highlight of your trip. It’s also ideal for design enthusiasts or anyone wanting a unique, stylish pair that captures their personality.

Travelers with an eye for quality and detail will enjoy collaborating with skilled Italian craftsmen, watching their ideas come to life, and walking away with a pair of shoes that are both functional and meaningful.

However, if your priority is budget-friendly shopping or quick souvenirs, this might not be the best option. It’s a luxury experience, but one that delivers on personalization, quality, and memorable moments.

FAQ

How long does the experience take?
It lasts about four hours, giving plenty of time for design, watching the craftsmanship, and enjoying the tasting.

Can I participate actively in making my shoes?
Yes, you can work side-by-side with your dedicated sneaker maker if you choose to, turning your ideas into the final product.

Is this experience private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized.

What’s included in the price?
You get to design and create a custom pair of sneakers, watch them being handmade, and enjoy a wine tasting with Tuscan specialties.

Is it suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not explicitly designed as a family activity. It’s best for those interested in design and craftsmanship.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Come with ideas or inspiration for your shoes, and be ready to collaborate with the artisans. No special prep is needed, but reviewing options beforehand can help.

Are shoes shipped after creation?
The tour description doesn’t specify shipping, so it’s likely you take your shoes with you after the experience.

Final thoughts

Creating your own sneaker in Florence at MyMancini offers a rare blend of artisan craftsmanship, creative collaboration, and culture. For those who value personalized design and want an authentic, handcrafted product, this is a memorable way to connect with Italy’s fashion heritage.

While the price might be a consideration, the quality, uniqueness, and experience make it worthwhile for enthusiasts and those seeking meaningful souvenirs. Whether you’re a sneaker lover or simply looking for a special activity, this hands-on tour could turn out to be one of your favorite moments in Florence.

If you love the idea of turning your personal style into a crafted masterpiece, this is definitely worth considering for your trip.