Men's shoes: types and styles
The collection features three broad categories of men's footwear, each with distinctive features and specific uses. Sneakers represent the broadest category, with styles ranging from contemporary sporty silhouettes to vintage running sneakers, crafted from full-grain leather, suede, technical nylon, and innovative vegan materials. Loafers embody casual elegance and traditional craftsmanship, with hand-stitched constructions, leather or natural rubber soles, and finishes that enhance the quality of the leather. Boots and ankle boots include both American workwear heritage models with moc toes and Vibram soles, as well as more refined European Chelsea boots and ankle boots.
Handcrafted materials and constructions
The footwear selection uses high-quality leathers that undergo specific processes: brushed full-grain leather that improves with wear, oil-tanned leather that is water-resistant and develops a natural patina, soft-touch greased suede, and certified vegan leather for cruelty-free options. The construction emphasizes traditional methods that guarantee durability: Goodyear welt, a technique that allows for multiple resoling and maximum strength, traditional French Norwegian stitching, hand-sewn soles according to Italian tradition, and hand-sewn construction with tubular stitching for moccasins. Soles range from treated natural leather to natural crepe rubber, from technical Vibram for traction and durability to ultralight EVA for athletic performance.
Fit and comfort
The collection offers a variety of fits to meet different needs. The handcrafted Italian moccasins feature a regular fit with an unlined upper for maximum summer breathability, while the French models have a generous shape with a rounded toe, suitable for even the smallest feet. The sneakers offer versatile regular fits, and some models feature a raised insole up to 2.5 cm for added comfort. The American workwear boots follow the standard US D (medium) width, with constructions that adapt to the foot over time thanks to the leather's natural stretch.
Occasions of use and versatility
Sneakers in leather and premium materials are perfect for urban everyday wear, casual weekend wear, and smart-casual outfits when paired with quality chinos or denim. Merrell's technical trail models are designed for hiking and the outdoors, with waterproof Gore-Tex membranes and high-traction outsoles. Moccasins are the ideal choice for business-casual settings, travel, and situations requiring informal elegance, with unlined styles perfect for warmer weather. Workwear boots are suitable for both practical use and fall-winter layering when paired with raw denim and sturdy outerwear, while Chelsea boots and European ankle boots offer versatility between casual and semi-formal.
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The selection highlights brands with distinctive identities: Red Wing Shoes brings American workwear heritage to Minnesota since 1905, Paraboot represents French excellence with Norwegian stitching and natural rubber, Marotta embodies Italian craftsmanship with hand-sewn moccasins, Premiata and DATE interpret the Made in Italy sneaker with premium materials, Lemargo offers handcrafted sneakers in washed leather, Puraai stands out for its sustainable approach with recycled and vegan materials, Sebago offers American heritage moccasins and boots, Astorflex 1820 creates handcrafted footwear with natural crepe soles, Merrell provides technical solutions for trail and outdoor use. Fall Winter 25/26, Spring Summer 25, and Carry Over collections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Goodyear and hand-sewn construction?
The Goodyear construction uses a welt that joins the upper, insole, and outsole, allowing for multiple resolings and maximum durability, typical of workwear boots. The Italian hand-stitching joins the sole and upper directly with artisanal techniques, offering immediate flexibility and lightness, ideal for moccasins.
How do you care for oil-tanned leather shoes?
Oil-tanned leather requires cleaning with a soft brush to remove dust, periodic application of boot oil or natural conditioner to nourish the leather, and avoiding products with pigments that alter the natural patina. Dry away from direct heat sources if wet.
Are unlined loafers only suitable for summer?
Unlined moccasins are ideal for warm weather thanks to their maximum breathability, but they can also be worn in between seasons with quality socks. For fall and winter, leather-lined models are preferable, offering greater thermal insulation.
What does width D mean in American shoes?
Width D represents the medium (regular) fit in the US sizing system, fitting most feet. It roughly corresponds to the standard European fit. American heritage shoes tend to conform to the foot with use.
Are vegan leather sneakers as durable as animal leather ones?
Quality vegan leathers offer good strength and durability, with the advantage of being cruelty-free and often made from recycled materials. They require different care: clean with a damp cloth, avoid oily products. Animal leather tends to develop a patina and improve aesthetically with use.
How to choose between leather soles and rubber soles?
The leather sole offers elegance, breathability, and the ability to resole, making it ideal for urban use on dry surfaces. The rubber sole provides greater grip on wet surfaces, wear resistance, and waterproofing, making it more versatile for intensive daily use and variable conditions.
