How To Wear Driving Shoes In 6 Modern Ways
The driving shoe is an incredibly useful addition to your summer wardrobe. It is an elegant combination of the penny loafer’s dressiness and the traditional moccasin’s comfort. More urbane than the boat shoe and not as precious as the Belgian loafer, it sits perfectly within the sometimes dreaded smart-casual clothing category and is the only shoe you really need on a relaxed vacation to warmer climes.
Yes, it was intended as a tool to aid motoring, but the driving shoe’s classic design ensures it’s so much more than that, and as a result it can be worn in a variety of contexts. Whether you’re jetting off to a beach holiday or you’re after a dapper yet relaxed slip-on for the weekend, a pair of driving shoes may be what’s been missing from your footwear arsenal.
What Are Driving Shoes?
A driving loafer is essentially a moccasin-construction slip-on with a snug but comfortable fit. The defining feature are the small rubber pebbles that cover the sole and extend to the back of the heel – they are very flexible and provide added grip on the pedals. Designed to afford the wearer greater control while behind the wheel and to prevent heel-wear to regular shoes, they were easy to change into before driving due to the lack of laces.
Most serious, professional driving shoes are now closer in style to sneakers and have a combination of laces and Velcro but the classic style (like classic cars) has enduring appeal. They were traditionally constructed from suede or reverse-calf but now all manner of leathers and materials are selected.
6 Key Looks
The Road Trip
This is what they were actually designed for in the first place, but like the biker jacket and morning coat, the original use is sometimes forgotten today. However, for the classic motoring enthusiast who wishes to be comfortable and elegant, a well-made driving loafer is a useful piece of kit. Wear with jeans, a tee and a quietly cool jacket. Add some aviator shades and a vintage timepiece and you are all set for the Mille Miglia. Or a trip to the local supermarket.
