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10 Best Loafers for Men
When it comes to picking out the perfect pair of shoes that can be dressed either up or down, there’s nothing more suitable than a classic loafer. Loafers have been one of the most stylish choices of footwear for quite some time now, and although they were originally worn as casual shoes, brands have been designing loafers that can be worn to more formal events, and are nothing like your dad’s old around-the-house loafers he wore while you were growing up.
Loafers are actually quite easy to style and are the perfect way to add an air of sophistication and class to any outfit. From Gucci’s iconic slip-on loafers and Dr. Martens’ edgy spin on the shoe to snazzy suede tassel loafers and classic penny slot detailing, there’s something for everyone on our list of 10 best loafers for men in 2021.
Best Buy
1. G.H. Bass & Co. Larson Weejuns
When it comes to footwear, there’s nothing more classic than a penny loafer, and every man should have at least one pair in his closet. If you’re on the lookout for a pair of leather loafers that’ll not only up your style game but will also last for a long time, then the G.H. Bass & Co. Larson Weejuns – which have been a wardrobe staple since 1936 – is the perfect pair of loafers to have on hand for pretty much any occasion.
Made from genuine leather, these loafers feature intricate beefroll detailing, which “refers to the way the penny keeper is stitched to the sides of the shoe and resembles the cut of beef tied up with a cooking string,” are available in both a regular-fit and wide-fit and even come in three different colors (black, tan, and Burgandy), so you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit and color for your unique style.
2. Gucci Jordaan Horsebit Leather Loafers
You didn’t think we’d pass on including a pair of Gucci loafers on this list, now, did you? Of course not, considering the Gucci Jordaan Horsebit Leather Loafers are one of the most iconic styles of footwear you can own.
Made from “Italian-crafted leather that’s hand-stained to achieve its color depth,” these Gucci loafers are adorned with the brand’s signature Horsebit hardware, feature an almond toe for a classic shape, and also come in two colors: black and tan.
Pair ‘em with some fitted chinos and a crisp, white button down for a dressy summertime look. You can even swap your button down with a plain t-shirt made of high-quality fabric for a more laid-back vibe.
3. ALDO Demetriflex W Loafer
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of basic loafers that won’t completely break the bank, the ALDO Demetriflex W Loafer is one of your best bets. These loafers are made from “finely textured sheepskin leather” for a comfortable, worn-in look and feel, feature an almond toe, and can easily be slipped on without any fuss.
These classy kicks are available in sizes 7.5-13 and come in two colors, black and cognac, and pair well with anything from fitted woven shorts that hit above the knee to slim-fit denim and skinny jeans.
4. Tod’s Amalfi Suede Penny Loafers
While leather is often the go-to choice of material when it comes to loafers, you’re not limited to only one type of finish when it comes to the footwear staple. In fact, many brands offer options like velvet or suede, so if you’re looking for a loafer that’ll make you stand out from the rest of the leather-loving crowd, opt for Tod’s Amalfi Suede Penny Loafers.
These loafers are Italian-crafted and boast a stitched round-toe, a penny slot strap, and subtle logo detailing on the tongue of the shoe. Pair them with plaid or houndstooth trousers for a funky play on textures and patterns, and add a solid shirt to polish off the look.
5. Clarks Citistride Tassel Loafer
If you’re looking for a pair of loafers that’ll take your classy outfit to the next level, then look no further than Clarks Citistride Tassel Loafer, which is made from finely textured leather and even has an ultra-supportive, built-in foam inlay, so you can wear these babies all day and still feel like you’re walking on a cloud at the end of the night.
Of course, these loafers feature tassel detailing on the upper part of the shoe and adds an element of elegance to the shoes. One of the best parts about these loafers is that they come in four different colors and two different finishes – black leather, tan leather, olive suede, and taupe suede – so you’ll surely be able to find something that fits your personal style, no problem.
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6. Birkenstock Leather Boston Loafers
Birkenstock isn’t just the go-to sandal brand for hippies everywhere; the company also carries a wide variety of casual shoes and dress shoes, so believe us when we say that you shouldn’t be sleeping on the Birkenstock Leather Boston Loafers.
These leather slip-on loafers feature a round toe, adjustable strap so you can customize the shoe’s fit and Birkenstock’s signature cork midsole. And while many of the loafers featured on this list are on the dressy side, if you’re looking for a pair of casual, beachy, summertime loafers that you can throw on while running out the door, these are definitely your best bet.
7. Santoni Woven-Effect Leather Loafers
A little detail on a shoe can go a long way, and the Santoni Woven-Effect Leather Loafers prove just that. Crafted in Italy and made from 90% recyclable materials, these leather loafers will make you stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons, thanks to their subtle woven-effect detailing, which will add a seriously luxurious element to your outfit.
Since these babies are on the dressier side of the loafer scale, your best bet is to wear the Santoni Woven-Effect Leather Loafers to a formal event, like a wedding, a business-professional event, the opera or ballet, or any other live performance/show that requires a formal dress code.
8. Johnston & Murphy Cort Bit Loafer
One of the best things about loafers is that they can be incredibly comfortable, and the Johnston & Murphy Cort Bit Loafer is one of the comfiest on the market, thanks to the shoe’s contoured memory foam insole. Featuring a thin strap on the upper with brass detailing on the buckle and moc-toe detailing throughout, the Johnston & Murphy Cort Bit Loafer is perfect to wear with casual and dressy outfits alike.
And thanks to the loafer’s neutral tan color and pebble grain leather upper, you’ll certainly be able to find something in your closet that goes with these loafers, whether it’s a pair of light or dark-colored chinos or your comfiest summer shorts.
9. Dr. Martens Tassel Loafers
Dr. Martens is one of the most iconic footwear brands to ever exist, and their Tassel Loafers are without a doubt one of their most unique and elegant designs to date. Featuring a leather upper, almond moc toe, and stunning tassel detailing across the top of the shoe, these polished leather loafers will definitely add an edge to an otherwise formal outfit or can be worn with black skinny jeans and a destroyed denim jacket to pull together an otherwise casual outfit.
Bonus: these loafers also have a small stacked heel, which gives you a slight boost and subtly lengthen your lower half.
10. Cole Hann Cloudfeel Penny Loafer
If you’re looking for a loafer that’s not only comfortable but also breathable, then you need a pair of Cole Hann Cloudfeel Penny Loafers ASAP. These loafers come in British tan and feature a white rubber sole, fit true to size, and have intricate white stitching around the almond toe, upper, and penny slot.
These loafers are the perfect footwear choice if you’re going to spend the day out and about with your significant other, going to lunch in a casual setting, or even going to meet up with your friends at a bar to catch the big game. Swap them out for your old pair of boat shoes and pair them with anything white, off-white, or neutral, and add a printed short sleeve shirt to play up the look.
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Loafers FAQs
Loafers are slip-on shoes that are typically made of leather or suede and don’t feature laces, buckles, or other fastenings you’d find on a typical pair of shoes. Loafers are notoriously stylish and are more of a minimalist shoe design, and are usually shaped like a moccasin.
There are a few different styles of loafers, including slipper loafers, penny loafers, and tassel loafers, among others. Slipper loafers are basically slip-on shoes with no other features on them, while penny loafers feature a penny/coin slot across the upper, and tassel loafers boast intricate tassel details across the upper.
It all depends on the style you’re going for, how casual or formal the event you’re attending is, or what you plan on wearing them with. One of the main things you should look for in a loafer, however, is how comfortable the shoes are. After all, nothing is worse than having to wear a pair of uncomfortable shoes all day, so why would you do that to yourself when there are so many options out there for stylish, yet comfortable loafers?
Typically, loafers are made from leather or suede, although some brands carry loafers made from other materials. If you’re going to invest in just one pair of loafers, look for a pair in a neutral color like brown, so you can wear them with a few different outfits.
You should avoid wearing loafers with anything too casual, like athletic shorts, joggers, sweatpants, and baggy pants. Loafers are a great choice when it comes to finishing off your “smart casual” look during the day, and can even be worn to formal events if they’re on the dressier side – it all depends on the structure, material, and details of the loafer.
Most people agree that loafers can be worn without socks; however, if you’re going to a formal event, it’s best to sport a pair with your loafers so you don’t look like you accidentally skipped laundry day and ran out of socks. Obviously, you should never wear white socks or athletic socks with loafers, but anything from a contrasting neutral color or a busy pattern can work, depending on what the rest of the outfit looks like.
If you’re wearing shorts, you should never wear socks with your loafers. Instead of going completely sockless, though, try finding a pair of no-show socks so you can keep your loafers as fresh as possible.
