If you’re a man who loves shoes, then you’ve probably heard of penny loafers.
These timeless classics have been a part of men’s fashion for decades and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. But where did penny loafers come from? What purpose do they serve? And how can you make sure your first pair is up to scratch?
In today’s article, I’m breaking out everything you need to know about finding, buying and caring for your first pair of penny loafers for men.
Let’s get to it.
Penny Loafer History
Penny loafers originated in Norway in the 1800s, when farmers would wear them as practical footwear. They had one piece of leather across the front with a strap that went underneath it and was tied on top with string or ribbon. This was so that the shoe could fit properly even if the wearer had wide feet.
The name “penny loafer” comes from an American tradition of putting one US Cent in each shoe to make a donation to charity.
In the 1920s, American shoe designer Alden created its own version of penny loafers, which started appearing in college campuses all over America during this time period.
Soon after, these shoes became popular with men everywhere as they were seen as fashionable yet classic pieces of footwear.
By the 1950s, penny loafers had become a staple item in any man’s wardrobe and have stayed that way ever since.
What Makes A Penny Loafer Different From Other Styles Of Loafer Shoes?
Penny loafers are different to other styles of loafer – they’re kind of a subcategory. But how are they different, and is their departure from other styles of loafers a good or a bad thing?
To answer this question, we first need to assess what those differences are. For starters, Penny Loafers usually have a low vamp, which means that the sides of the shoe don’t come up very high. This gives your feet more room to breathe and can be great for comfort in hot weather.
Penny loafers are also usually made from leather rather than suede. This makes them sturdier and more long-lasting compared with other styles of loafer, making them an excellent investment piece that should last you a lifetime if cared for correctly.
Finally, Penny Loafers are typically far chunkier than the more slimline designs of other loafers. This means that they’re often considered less formal than other styles of dress shoes – particularly if the Penny Loafers you decide to wear have a thick sole and wide upper.
Can you wear them in a suit? Absolutely – but observe caution as to where you wear them, as they can potentially look a bit too casual for some occasions.
How To Choose The Right Penny Loafer For You
So now you know what the differences are between penny loafers and other types of loafers, let’s take a look at how you can choose the right pair for you.
When shopping for your first pair, there are a few things that you should consider.
Firstly, think about which colour would suit your style best – black is always classic, but brown or navy can be great if you want something with more character.
Secondly, make sure they fit correctly by trying them on in-store – penny loafers should hug your feet without being too tight. Trust me, given how thick and tough these shoes can be, your feet won’t thank you if you end up buying a size that’s too big/small for your feet!
Finally, take a look at the soles. Penny loafers should have thick, hardy soles that can handle walking on all sorts of surfaces – whether you’re headed to work or out for drinks with friends. These will ensure your feet stay comfortable and supported, no matter where you go.
How To Buy The Perfect Pair Of Penny Loafers
When it comes to buying the perfect pair of penny loafers, you’ve got to consider both style and comfort. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Choose leather: As I mentioned above, leather is the best option for longevity and will wear well over time. Choose good quality leather so your shoes last longer.
- Look for quality stitching: Good stitching is essential for keeping your toes comfortable. Make sure all seams are even and check for any loose threads.
- Pick the right design: Make sure you find a pair that looks good with your wardrobe. There are many different designs, so take the time to find one that fits your style.
- Think about the sole: The sole should be thick and supportive and preferably made from either rubber or leather. This will help your feet stay comfortable while walking on different surfaces.
- Buy a size that fits: Penny loafers should fit snugly without being too tight – so make sure to try them on before you buy!
All this adds up to an understated yet stylish classic that will never go out of fashion no matter how much trends change! Get it right, and your pair of Penny Loafers could see you through many years of regular wear and tear.
How To Care For Leather Penny Loafers
Caring for any style of leather shoe can be tricky. If you don’t know how to appropriately care for quality leather products, they won’t remain quality for very long!
However, when speaking specifically about Penny Loafers, there are some extra steps you need to take in order to keep those bad boys looking their best!
As such, I’m breaking this section into two different guide:
- How To Care For Leather
- Penny Loafer Specific Care
After all – some of this information is transferable can be used to help you care for any leather product you own.
How To Care For Leather
Leather is skin, didn’t you know?
Just like the skin on your face, leather needs to be carefully cared for an maintained in order to look good for longer. To do this, you need to make sure you:
- Clean your shoes regularly with a dry cloth.
- Use leather conditioner every month or so – this will protect the leather and keep it soft.
- Store them in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Make sure you don’t wear them in wet weather without drying them afterwards.
I know, that seems like pretty generic advice. For more specifics, I’ve gone into far more detail in my guide to caring for leather. It’s a whole article dedicated to this very topic!
Penny Loafer Specific Care
Leather Penny Loafers have an interesting construction. There’s a lot of stitching, layered material, and small spaces you’ll have to contend with when cleaning, polishing, and conditioning.
As such, here are some tips for keeping your Penny Loafers in tip-top condition while ensuring you clean every element of their construction evenly:
- Use a stitching moisturizer on the stitches that connect the sole to the upper and the upper to the vamp.
- Use a small, soft brush to clean the small spaces of the shoe. Get that brush in the folds of the shoe and layers of leather – these are the sorts of places where dirt can get trapped and do some real damage. A soft-bristled toothbrush will do the job nicely!
- When you’re not wearing your Penny Loafers, use shoe trees to keep the shape of the shoes.
- Finally, use a wax-based polish and buff them with a soft cloth as often as you can. This will keep them looking shiny and new!
By following these tips, your Penny Loafers should stay in top condition for many years to come!