3 Season (S/S/F) shoes that are acceptable in Business Casual situations
Looking for summer appropriate leather shoes that hold up well in mildly wet conditions.
Further considerations:
(1) In terms of formality - something a step above White Leather Sneakers - but not as dressy as Brown Derby Brogue Wingtips
(2) A good example is how I've been using Blundstones - work well in Spring/ Fall/ Winter - and are okay in snowy downtown conditions
(3) Should have good grip
Few options that I've come across are:
* LL Bean Blucher Mocs
* Paraboot Michaels (way over the amount I'd like to spend)
* Boat Shoes (not for Fall)
Thanks.
18 Replies
Loafers
Thanks. I guess I missed the obvious option.
One more thing to add - I do need to walk a lot
Any lace up equivalent that occupies the same place as loafers
I think walking a lot in well fitting loafers is extremely doable (and I have done it). The closest thing is derbies I guess, but they aren't great in the summer. No leather shoe is gonna be more comfortable than sneakers for walking a lot.
Thank you - will give it a try then.
CDBs
This makes me wonder if there are good options for loafers with a thicker, softer sole.
Maybe Rancourts with the Lactae Hevea soles? https://www.rancourtandcompany.com/blogs/blog/why-we-love-lactae-hevea-soles
Rancourt & Co.
Why We Love Lactae Hevea Soles
Our favorite footwear to wear is almost always equipped with Reltex Lactae Hevea outsoles. Despite LH footwear being a bit more expensive than some of our others we feel it is well worth the extra money. Lactae Hevea soles are made from all-natural rubber, and extremely comfortable, and offer a great balance of comfort and durability.
For example: https://www.rancourtandcompany.com/collections/penny-loafers/products/baxter-beefroll-lh-wheat-chamois
Rancourt & Co.
Baxter Beefroll LH - Wheat Chamois
These Baxter Beefroll LH Penny Loafers offer the perfect blend of style and comfort. Crafted with Horween Wheat Chamois leather that is soft and supple, these loafer are unlined for breathability and comfort. The ultra comfortable and durable Reltex Lactae Hevea outsoles will keep your feet supported and comfortable fo
I agree with loafers, specifically with a lug sole
Both of these look good, slightly chunky but worth the improved function. Will see if I can find these here in Toronto.
https://www.simons.ca/en/men-footwear/dress/larson-lug-weejuns-loafers-men--20198-24101?catId=8355-brands-34415&colourId=61
Something like this? For some reason the soles draw too much attention for me to ignore.
https://bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca/browse/product.do?pid=759651003#pdp-page-content
This is other option I could find
Amir Leather Lug-Sole Loafer | Banana Republic
Shop Banana Republic's Amir Leather Lug-Sole Loafer: A modern take on the classic loafer, this pair is made from special Italian leather, expertly hand finished to deliver rich tonal highlights., Leather uppers and lining., Lug rubber outsoles., Made in Portugal., #759651
Any views on BR footwear quality compared to GH Bass?
Yeah exactly. I like those a lot but the chunky thing isn’t for everyone. I have regular Bass Weejuns with a leather sole and they’re comfortable but not particularly great for walking a lot in
Yes - I
I've experienced that with dainite soles on derby wingtips - not particularly "walking friendly"
can imagine leather soles are going to be worse
this is what led me to look for alternatives in the first place
I don’t know anything about BR shoes, I don’t assume anything great since they’re not really known for them but maybe someone else could chime in. My Weejuns are kinda my beaters. Bought used for cheap but I love them.
Sounds like a loafer with a lower profile lug might be the way to go then?
Yes - BR is not known for footwear for sure.
Yes - will be on lookout and check some in-store - both for aesthetics and comfort
Thanks!
one thing you can look for is crepe sole (which is what CDB) has. I have the leather sole version of this loafer, and wish I'd gotten the crepe: https://huckberry.com/store/astorflex/category/p/52797-patnoflex
Thanks - will check.