G.H. Bass & Co., founded in 1876, established itself with durable leather shoes and the 1936 Weejun penny loafer. Historical notes link Bass to Charles Lindbergh's 1927 flight and celebrate its centennial in 1976. Classic models such as the Trinnette, Bergen Sandal, and tassel loafers are described in older catalogs; buyers should verify current specs and availability through authorized retailers.

A short history: founded for durability

George Henry Bass founded G.H. Bass & Co. in 1876 to make durable, well-crafted footwear. The company built a reputation for leather quality and sturdy construction through the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Milestones and heritage styles

Bass became widely known for two enduring stories. The company celebrates the Weejun loafers, introduced in 1936, which popularized the penny loafer silhouette in the United States. Bass also links its early 20th-century work to aviation: contemporary accounts often note that Charles Lindbergh wore Bass aviation boots during his 1927 transatlantic flight, a detail frequently cited in brand histories.

Bass marked its centennial in 1976 and has remained associated with classic American footwear design since then.

Signature models mentioned historically

Below are short, factual descriptions based on older Bass product copy. Availability and exact specifications vary by season and retailer.

Bass Trinnette

Historically described as a women's leather heeled shoe, the Trinnette featured a leather upper, padded footbed for comfort, a polyurethane sole, and a modest stacked heel (often listed at about 1¼ inches). Check current product listings for updated materials and sizing. 1

Bass Bergen Sandal

Presented as a women's sandal with smooth leather straps, an elastic side panel for fit, and a cushioned sueded insole, the Bergen was offered with a low "kitten" heel (historically noted around 2¼ inches). Verify current design details before purchase. 2

Bass Donald (tassel loafer)

The Donald appeared as a menswear tassel loafer built from smooth leather with a stitched moc toe, instep strap, metal accents, and a cushioned insole. Many Bass loafers pair leather outsoles with flexible comfort panels. Model names and construction can change over time; consult the latest descriptions. 3

Today: what to expect

G.H. Bass remains identified with heritage loafers and classic casual footwear. The brand's inventory and ownership arrangements have evolved; product lines may appear under the Bass name or via licensing partners and regional retailers. Confirm current availability, materials, and country of manufacture with the retailer or brand site. 4

Buying advice

Buy from authorized retailers to ensure authenticity. Vintage or archival Bass styles remain popular; replicas and counterfeits exist, so check return policies and product codes when in doubt.
  1. Confirm primary-source evidence that Charles Lindbergh wore Bass aviation boots on his 1927 transatlantic flight.
  2. Verify current ownership/licensing status of G.H. Bass & Co. as of August 2025.
  3. Check contemporary product catalogs or the official Bass website for current availability and exact specifications of Trinnette, Bergen Sandal, and Donald models.

FAQs about Bass Shoe

When was G.H. Bass founded?
G.H. Bass & Co. was founded in 1876 by George Henry Bass.
What is the Weejun?
The Weejun is Bass's signature penny loafer, first introduced in 1936 and credited with popularizing the penny loafer silhouette in the U.S.
Did Charles Lindbergh wear Bass boots on his transatlantic flight?
Many brand accounts state that Charles Lindbergh wore Bass aviation boots during his 1927 flight; this detail appears in historical summaries but should be verified against primary sources.
Are the Trinnette, Bergen Sandal, and Donald still sold?
Those model names appear in older Bass catalogs. Current availability, materials, and measurements can change seasonally - check the Bass website or authorized retailers for up-to-date listings.
How can I avoid counterfeit Bass shoes?
Purchase from authorized retailers, inspect product codes and packaging, and review return policies. If a deal seems too good to be true, it may be a replica.

News about Bass Shoe

Do Bass Weejuns Loafers Still Hit? - GQ [Visit Site | Read More]

G.H. Bass and Corridor Update the Boat Shoe for Fall in Latest Collaboration - WWD [Visit Site | Read More]

This Editor-Tested Loafer Is an Easy Way to Look Stylish This Summer - Men's Health [Visit Site | Read More]

The HUF x G.H. Bass Penny Loafer Gets Greener With Age - hypebeast.com [Visit Site | Read More]