Let’s state things plainly from the off, because if the shoe was on the other foot, we’d hope you’d do the same; no gentleman’s wardrobe is truly complete without a pair of Oxfords.
However, with so many shoe brands out there, it can be hard to know which to choose. It’s all about striking that balance – comfortable, but stylish; elegant but bold; unique but fashionable.
Nothing beats the intricacies of a pair of handcrafted Oxfords, and the craft involved has been passed down through generations of footwear institutions, to arrive at the prestigious product we have today; handmade, hefty yet delicate (the best versions, that is).
So, if you’re looking to add a little luxury and sophistication to your wardrobe, then look no further; there are 5 of the best brands of Oxford shoe every many should own.
TRICKER’S
Tricker’s is one of the world’s (and England’s) oldest family-owned shoe makers. Founded in Northampton in 1827, they’ve been producing high quality footwear for almost two hundred years.
A cornerstone of British style and elegance, in 1989 Tricker’s was awarded the Royal Warrant as shoemaker to the Prince of Wales. When you purchase a pair of Tricker’s Oxfords, you’ll be walking in footwear fit for a (future) king.
GRENSON
If you’re after reliability as well as style, then look no further than Grenson. One of the shoe manufacturers enlisted to create footwear for the British army in the First World War, this historic institution is known for its trusted durability.
Whether you visit one of their stores (Grenson have four in London; in Bloomsbury, in Soho, on Jermyn Street and a factory outlet on Hanbury Street) or purchase your pair through an online stockist such as Pediwear, you’ll receive the perfect set of Oxfords to smarten up any outfit.
BARKER
As with only the best British shoe brands, Barker has its origins in Northamptonshire, the home of high quality, hand crafted footwear known as the shoemaking capital of the world.
What began in a small cottage in the 1880s quickly branched out to become one of the most sought-after footwear producers anywhere on the planet. Last year alone, Brackets produced 200’000 pairs of hand lasted sewn shoes, showing their commitment to quality even when doing remarkable numbers. If you’re after a pair of Oxfords to fancy-up your formalwear, then look no further than Barker for quality, style, and comfort.
CHEANEY
Cheaney, established in 1886 before moving in 1896 to the factory they still use today, is an award-winning shoe brand that won the Queen’s Award to Industry in 1966 and the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2016. This recognition demonstrates the craftsmanship, determination, and care that goes into every single pair of shoes that Cheaney produces.
Their Oxfords are available in a range of colours and styles, with the traditional shape sitting (or should that be ‘standing’?) alongside the more modern Oxford brogue for the gentleman who’s seeking a contemporary look.
CARLOS SANTOS
Carlos Santos is a family run enterprise based in Portugal. And despite being lesser known, this brand by no means lacks luxury. They specialise in only the best high quality craftsmanship and stock a wide range of men’s shoe styles.
But it’s their Oxfords that really stand out, combining centuries-old shoemaking tradition with contemporary designs to ensure you have a unique look, whatever you choose to pair them with. Right now, they have just two pairs in their collection – goodyear welted classics in black and brown – but with this revered shoemaker, quality very much trumps quantity.
THE BOTTOM LINE
When shopping for Oxfords, always choose handcrafted. It’s worth paying a little more to ensure that you have a pair of shoes that fits you well and lasts you longer. Handcrafted shoes are made to be repaired not replaced, making them a much more sustainable option in the long run, too.
And if you’re looking to bolster your shoe collection even further, then put a spring in your step with these 4 men’s shoes must-haves for the spring/summer season.