Investing in a pair of Goodyear-welted shoes is a decision that guarantees longevity, comfort and the ability to repair in years to come but which style to choose is a difficult choice. To achieve a prolonged lifespan of your handmade men’s shoes it’s highly recommended to alternative wearing them to give your shoes or boots ample time to dry and maintain their shape. As rotating wearing your shoes is recommended there is several shoe styles by Barker that we’d recommend any gentleman owning as they’re timeless wardrobe staples.
Arnold Winsford Burford
The formal dress shoe is a must for every man as although occasions to wear them maybe limited opting for a men’s classic black leather Oxford shoe with be a wise investment. Several Barker men’s oxford shoes featured in the Professional collection are popular including the Arnold and Winsford toe cap Oxford plus the Albert and Alfred Oxford brogue styles made from polished leather. If you plan to wear your Oxfords in outdoor terrain the Barker Burford is a classic toe cap Oxford made from premium calf leather with a British Dainite rubber sole.
Westfield Kelmarsh McClean
Another classic English shoe is the Country brogue which is often made from calf or grained leather with a Goodyear Storm Welt construction to offer a sturdy men's shoe that will last the test of time. The Barker Charles and Westfield brogues are exemplar brogue styles that feature in the Country collection. Kelmarsh is another brogue option by Barker that is made from grain leather with a Dainite rubber sole. For a contemporary take on the classic brogue the Barker McClean style is a popular mens oxford dress shoe made from calf leather with either suede or lasered paisley inserts.
Mansfield Bedale Mansfield
For a timeless men's handmade boot the Chelsea boot is a great choice that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a formal dress Chelsea boot the Bedale is recommended as it’s made on the 469 last from calf leather with a hi-shine finish. A smart casual Chelsea boot would be the Mansfield, a F fitting boot made on the 486 last and made from a choice of leather or burnished suede with either a full leather or Dainite sole.
A slip on style that is ideal in the Summer months but is effortlessly cool all year round is the loafer for men. Available in several variations the Barker Caruso is the first to highlight as its the oldest style included on the Barker collection and subsequently is made on the number 10 last shape which is the oldest last used in the Barker factory located in Earls Barton, Northampton.
Clive Caruso Studland
A loafer style had is easy to wear and can be worn smart and casual is the Penny Loafer, an iconic slip on style thanks to the American Ivy League. The Barker Portsmouth Penny Loafer is a great version which is made from calf leather and suede in several colourways. Another loafer that can we worn formal and looks great is the mens tassel loafer especially with a tailored suit or chino trouser. The Barker Clive in Hi-Shine and Studland tassel loafer in grained leather come highly recommended in the Barker collection.
For more timeless Barker men's shoe styles explore the Barker Icon series online.