Men's loafers: penny loafers, boat shoes, and lace-ups

The penny loafer Sebago

The Classic Dan from Sebago is a penny loafer, easily identified by the leather band across its upper. Hand-stitched, it remains one of the standout models of the brand.

It pairs well with chinos, wool trousers, or raw jeans, and suits both a smart-casual outfit as well as a weekend look.

Other loafers Sebago

The brand offers other styles: the more casual Askook and the soft, lightweight Ryan in suede. Its Docksides and Portland boat shoes share the same craftsmanship in stitched leather.

Clarks, the casual loafer

At Clarks, the Torhill comes in both low and high styles on a grippy sole, while the Wallabee EVO features a softer construction on a lighter sole. Two options for a relaxed style, with jeans or cargo trousers.

The Birkenstock Utti Lace

The Utti Lace combines the style of a loafer with the support of lacing. Available in suede or leather, and even in a narrow version for slim feet, it maintains the comfort of the Birkenstock sole.

Which loafer for which outfit?

• Suit or wool trousers: a smooth leather penny loafer, well-polished.
• Chinos and shirt: a suede or oiled leather loafer.
• Jeans and sweater: a Torhill or Wallabee, which are sturdier.
• Bermuda shorts in summer: a soft loafer, barefoot.

The loafer and the suit

A black or burgundy penny loafer pairs well with a modern-cut suit, especially without a tie. It lightens the look compared to dress shoes, while still being stylish.

Choose trousers that fall just above the shoe, to show off the line of the loafer.

Loafers and socks

In a suit, wear thin socks in a similar tone to the trousers. With rolled-up chinos or bermuda shorts, an invisible sock keeps the ankle bare without rubbing. Check out the men's socks.

Leather or suede?

Smooth leather can be polished, shines, and goes well with formal outfits. Suede, softer in appearance, is suited for casual looks and nice weather, but requires protection from rain.

Choosing your size

Without laces to adjust, the loafer needs to fit properly from the start. Leather stretches slightly with wearing: if you're between sizes, often opt for the smaller one. For a slim foot, a laced model like the Utti Lace, or its narrow version, fits better.

The Docksides boat shoe

Cousin to the loafer, the Docksides boat shoe from Sebago takes on the same construction, with a leather lace wrapping around the foot and a sole designed not to slip on a wet deck. The Portland version, in greasy leather, ages quickly and gains character.

In the city, it adds a nautical touch to chinos, canvas shorts, or linen trousers.

Choosing the colour

A black loafer matches dark outfits and suits. Brown, ranging from chocolate to cognac, pairs well with navy, beige, and grey. Burgundy, rarer, enhances grey trousers or raw jeans.

If you can only have one, opt for dark brown: it's the shade that goes with everything.

The loafer in summer

In warm weather, a suede loafer or boat shoe can be worn barefoot, with an invisible sock, under rolled-up trousers or bermuda shorts. It's an elegant alternative to sneakers for a lunch or a country wedding.

Breaking in a loafer

New leather needs a few wears to adapt to your feet. Start with short outings, wearing thin socks, before a whole day.

Leather care

A brush, nourishing cream, and occasional polishing keep a leather loafer looking good for years. A wooden shoe tree maintains its shape and absorbs moisture.

Suede care

Suede should be brushed dry, in the direction of the nap, and protected with a waterproof spray. A special rubber can remove small marks.

Loafer or derby?

The loafer slips on quicker and lightens an outfit, while the derby provides better support for long walks. Check out the men's derbies for comparison.

All styles can be found in the men's shoes by type.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the penny loafer called that?

Because people used to slide a coin into the slot of its leather strap.

Can a loafer be worn with a suit?

Yes, a smooth leather penny loafer with a modern suit, preferably without a tie.

What size should I choose for loafers?

It should fit snugly, as leather stretches: take the smaller size if you’re between two sizes.

How do you care for a suede loafer?

With a suede brush, a rubber for stains, and a waterproof spray before the first wear.

Boat shoe or loafer?

The boat shoe, laced all around the foot, is more casual; the loafer is better suited for dressy outfits.

Do you need socks with loafers?

Thin and matching in formal wear, invisible with rolled chinos or bermuda shorts.