Quantai
Time-Honored BrandQuantai · Shanghai · Founded
A time-honored Shanghai shoemaker and hatter, Quantai carries forward meticulous craftsmanship and witnesses the evolution of Shanghai-style fashion.
Brand Story
Founded in Shanghai, with its origins tracing back to a shoemaking workshop in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China (circa 1900-1920), Quantai was renowned for handmade cloth shoes and hats. The founder, a craftsman from Subei, earned a reputation for his exquisite sole-stitching skills and honest business practices, eventually establishing a foothold near the City God Temple. The name 'Quantai' symbolizes 'completeness and peace,' embodying good wishes for customers. In the 1930s, Quantai moved to Nanjing Road, becoming a leading name in Shanghai's footwear and hat industry, with products exported to Southeast Asia. During the War of Resistance, Quantai continued production to support the rear. After the founding of New China, Quantai underwent public-private partnership, preserving traditional techniques while incorporating modern designs. Quantai's cloth shoes, featuring thousand-layer soles and hand-stitched uppers, are comfortable and durable, beloved by locals. Its hats, ranging from skullcaps to fedoras, showcase the inclusiveness and innovation of Shanghai culture. Quantai is not just a brand but a memory of Shanghai life, carrying the warmth of generations.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Hand-stitched thousand-layer soles, breathable and moisture-wicking, comfortable and durable, in classic Shanghai styles. (100-300 RMB)
Traditional six-panel skullcap made of high-quality satin, hand-sewn, exuding elegance. (50-150 RMB)
Made of imported wool felt, with a crisp shape, suitable for formal occasions, showcasing gentlemanly charm. (200-500 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
Quantai's shoemaking techniques inherit the traditions of southern Jiangsu, emphasizing meticulous needlework. Each thousand-layer sole requires over ten steps, including pasting, cutting, edging, and stitching, with a density of 81 stitches per square inch to ensure durability. The hat-making process blends Chinese and Western styles, preserving the elegance of Chinese designs while embracing the simplicity of Western ones, reflecting the eclectic nature of Shanghai culture. Quantai's craftsmanship is not only practical but also a fusion of Jiangnan folk customs and urban aesthetics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Quantai founded?
Quantai was founded in null, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Footwear & Headwear field.
What is the signature product of Quantai?
Its signature product is Thousand-layer Cloth Shoes. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: