THE DIFFERENT MODELS OF CASUAL SHOES
LOW SHOES:
THE DERBY
Often confused with the Richelieu, it is distinguished by its “open” lacing: the laces are attached to additional pieces of leather, and not to a shoe constructed in one piece. They are available in a wide range of casual-looking materials, including canvas and suede leathers.
MOCCASINS ( LOAFERS IN ENGLISH )
They are distinguished by the absence of a closing system . We find some with tassels, fringes or with a penny (with a plastron at the level of the instep). Their varieties make them a good ally in summer!
BOAT SHOES
Cousins of moccasins, plus laces . These are really very casual designs which can quickly give a “good chic, good style” side that is not necessarily sought after.
HIGH-TOP SHOES:
DESERT BOOTS (AND CHUKKAS)
These are mid-height shoes, usually made of suede leather, with leather or rubber soles. It's an easy choice, because they are very versatile and adapt to many styles (but not when wearing a suit!).
HIKING BOOTS
They come from the world of walking and the mountains, and certain models can be made in very luxurious materials. To be reserved for those who are sure of their style, it is a choice which can be dangerous for a beginner, you can quickly fall into the first degree outdoor of these shoes.
COMBAT BOOTS
Ranger-type shoes, often with a massive military design, made from leathers that are generally quite sturdy. You need the look that goes with it.
WORKBOOTS
Cousins of combat boots, but coming from working-class professions (peasants, foresters, miners). Very massive designs that go very well with raw jeans or chinos, but difficult with anything else!
LEATHER AND ASSEMBLY
Low-end shoes are most of the time assembled by simple gluing . We strongly advise against this type of assembly which is destroyed very quickly and prohibits any repair operation on your shoes. Except for summer shoes that you will not be destined for mistreatment in advance (not nice anyway).
THERE ARE THREE MAIN TYPES OF MOUNTING:
THE BLAKE COUSU
Without a welt, Blake stitching is more discreet and more flexible. However, its single internal seam prevents resoling. It is the least durable of the three .
THE GOODYEAR SEWN
With its clearly visible welt, the Goodyear is a construction of great strength and durability . It can be resoled.
NORWEGIAN SEWN
Rarer on dress shoes, this assembly is the strongest and the only truly waterproof . Just like Goodyear, it can be resoled. We recognize it with its double stitching around the shoe.
WHAT’S GOOD TO KNOW
Whatever leather you choose (box-calf, cordovan, grained leather, etc.), you must check that it has no nerves or scars: it must be supple and of a regular grain (see our file on types of leather ).
And remember that the longevity of your pair is in your hands ! A regular use of moisturizer and shoe polish, and the systematic use of shoe trees, doubles or triples the lifespan of your shoes!
A SHORT HISTORY OF THE SHOE
The ancestor
Since then, footwear has evolved enormously, emphasizing comfort and responding to specific needs such as those of social distinction, which are increasingly present.
OUR BEST ADVICE ARTICLES
OUR BEST ADVICE ARTICLES
CASUAL SHOES
- Your Shoe Buying Guide (Part 1): Why is Leather Expensive?
- Guide to buying your shoes (Part 2): the method to know if they will last
- Guide to buying your shoes (Part 3): the method for choosing the right size and shape
- Shoe Buying Guide (Part 4): How to Find Your Shoe Style
- How to choose and wear men's boots? (brogue, chelsea, hiker, combat, desert)
- The desert boots guide
- The combat boots guide
- The best casual shoe brands according to our tests
