Genuine Leather Loafers – A Timeless Investment for Your Wardrobe
A well-made leather or suede loafer can stay with you for years. However, this requires a last that fits your foot and proper care, as leather and suede are natural materials that need maintenance to remain beautiful. At Docksta Sko, we have been manufacturing shoes since 1923. We know exactly what distinguishes a well-constructed loafer from one that simply looks good on the shelf. Here, we guide you through the most important factors for making a conscious choice.
What should you consider when choosing your next loafers?
The answer lies in three decisive factors: the material you choose, how the fit feels from the start, and how the shoe is constructed
Which material is best for loafers?
Loafers in genuine leather or suede are the obvious choice for those seeking a comfortable shoe that molds to the foot over time. But be careful – "genuine leather" isn't always a guarantee of quality. Inexpensive shoes often use inferior materials in both the upper and the sole.
For us at Docksta, the material is crucial for creating a durable shoe. We source most of our leather directly from prominent European tanneries. Calfskin is preferred for softer loafers as its fiber structure is finer and more even, allowing the leather to adapt more easily to the foot. This makes for a perfect summer shoe or an indoor shoe in winter, as the fine leather breathes well and wicks away moisture.
If you need a more durable shoe for spring and autumn, bovine leather (cowhide) with its coarser structure and robust fibers may be a better choice. Our Docksta Metallic Loafers feature a thicker sole to protect against wet surfaces and a sturdy leather that withstands most weather conditions. This leather can be polished to a high shine and develops a deep, beautiful patina over time, making every pair unique.
Unlike synthetic materials, leather and suede breathe naturally. This ensures a balanced climate for your feet throughout the day. The result is not only better comfort but also a shoe that retains its shape and ages gracefully.
How should loafers fit?
Since loafers lack laces, the fit must be right from the start. A loafer should feel slightly more snug than a lace-up shoe, as leather is a living material that softens and shapes itself to your foot.
The fit is determined by the last (the foot mold) we use. Docksta’s sleeker loafers, available in black calfskin and brown suede, feature a narrower last. The Docksta Metallic Loafers are built on a different last with a more standard/normal width.
Pro tips for fitting:
- Always try the shoes with the socks you intend to wear, or barefoot if that's your preference.
- Notice where the upper creases when you take a step; the crease should be in front of the toe joints to avoid pressure points.
- A slight heel slip during the first few steps is common with new leather loafers, but it should never feel unstable.
- Avoid choosing a shoe that is too tight in hopes that it will "stretch out" significantly. Choose a last that fits your foot shape from day one.
You are always welcome to contact us for advice.
Which construction offers the most comfort?
There are several different construction methods for manufacturing shoes. The way the upper and the sole are joined together affects both the feel and the lifespan, and different methods yield different results. A traditionally sewn construction often provides good shape stability and a durability that becomes apparent over time. However, a common problem with many loafers is that they can feel stiff and "hard" the first few times you wear them before the materials have softened.
To minimize this "break-in" period, we have chosen a construction method called Strobel. This is a craftsmanship method where the upper is sewn together with a soft inner sole before the outsole is mounted. This makes the shoe naturally flexible and responsive in every step directly from the factory—quite simply, you get a softer experience without compromising on the design.
Styling Tips: Loafers Through the Seasons
- The Bold Look: Pair Docksta Metallic Loafers with ribbed socks, a short skirt, and an oversized blazer for a trendy, contemporary silhouette. For a relaxed vibe, go for wide ankle-length jeans and a crisp white T-shirt.
- The Feminine Touch: Match our sleeker loafers with straight-leg dress pants that end at the ankle. Add a light knit sweater or a classic shirt for a sophisticated look.
- Color Matters: Black loafers provide sharp contours for formal settings, while brown tones offer a warmer, softer feel against lighter summer outfits.
Craftsmanship from the High Coast since 1923
We have been manufacturing shoes in Docksta, Sweden, for over a hundred years. Today, our shoes are produced both in our original factory in Northern Sweden and by carefully selected partners in Portugal.
Regardless of where they are made, every pair is hand-inspected in our factory in Docksta before reaching you. By combining traditional techniques with modern demands for comfort, we create shoes that are made to be worn.