So, you’ve bought yourself a new pair of white sneakers for the warmer months. You’ve also got some sweet slides and sandals. Great! Now, what are you going to wear for those dressy summer parties where absolutely none of those are an option? A moccasin, that’s what.
It’s said that no shoe rotation is fully complete without a solid pair of moccasins. That problem is, with so many different designs, styles, and silhouettes to choose from, how do you know which one to go for? If this is something that’s got you scratching your head this season, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this comprehensive guide by Opumo, we’ll be checking out some of our favourite moccasin collections out there. From small, independent imprints like Oliver Cabell, to luxury fashion houses such as The Row, there’s bound to be one here that suits your personal aesthetic, and more importantly, your bank account. So, let’s get to it!
What is a moccasin?
What exactly is a moccasin? Well, while their history isn’t totally clear, according to the myths and legends, the popular men's shoe style was introduced in the 1800s and it was worn by Native Americans. Originally, they were decked out in deerskin and had extremely hard soles that were specifically designed to withstand rocks and cacti, making them the perfect footwear option when going on long treks along different terrains.
Eventually, the moccasin made its way to the West. The uppers were replaced with soft leather or buttery suede, and it was slightly redesigned so that the sides were stitched together at the top. The midsole was also revamped to be a lot comfier, and while they were initially used primarily for outdoor use, new pairs like driving moccasins were suitable for the indoors, too. This silhouette would become very popular with A-list celebrities. From A$AP Rocky to Harry Styles, anyone who was anyone had a pair in their rotation, and now you can too.
Where can you buy the best moccasin?
Aurélien Driving Shoes
To kick things off, we have to talk about the Aurélien Driving Shoes. The ultimate symbol of Mediterranean getaways, even though these were designed for leisure, they most certainly look the business. Made with luxurious Softey suede, they’re detailed with exposed hand stitching, a hot-stamped emblem, and a rubber pebble sole. And the best part? They’re available in over 20 different colourways, so you’ll definitely be able to find a pair that works for you.
Velasca Spesiè
When you think about Velasca, you probably think about the Milanese brand’s Oxfords and Derbies, but its Spesiè moccasin should definitely be your radar as well. Released as part of its Spring Summer 2024 collection, this model boasts a tumbled calfskin leather construction that will look better the more you wear them. They’re finished off with a classic studded rubber sole, so you can get from Point A to Point B with no dramas whatsoever.
Oliver Cabell Driver
We just can’t talk about the greatest moccasin that any guy can own without giving the Oliver Cabell Driver a special shoutout. While the British-born, American-bred label is probably most famous for its simple white sneakers, they’ve applied their masterful minimalism to this pair as well, and the results are kind of breathtaking. We’re talking about three ounce suede leather from Marche, Italy and intricate stitching that’s been done completely by hand in Portugal.
Tod's Gommino Driving Shoes
There’s no hiding the fact that Tod’s Gommino Driving Shoes are definitely on the pricier side, but that hasn’t stopped sizes from selling out. Decked out with silky nubuck and exposed handmade stitching, this is the moccasin that you get if you already have it all. What’s more, it comes with maintenance cards included in the box so you can keep your pair looking fresh no matter what, and it’s packed with an exclusive travel dust bag, which is always nice to have.
Brunello Cucinelli Driving Shoes
If you’re looking for the best moccasin that money can buy, Brunello Cucinelli should probably be the first place that you look. Boasting a beautiful chocolate brown calfskin leather construction, it’s set on pebbled rubber soles and finished with tonal laces that are threaded through a series of metal eyelets. It’s worth noting that these come in European sizes, so make sure that you look at the brand’s size chart to avoid any disappointment.
The Row Lucca Driving Shoes
While Mary-Kate and Ashley’s The Row originally made womenswear only, over the years, the quiet luxury label has proved that it can do guy’s clothes just as well, and the Lucca is rock solid proof of this. A masterclass in quality craftsmanship, they're made in Italy from buttery soft suede and feature pebbled rubber soles for traction. This moccasin comes in a bunch of different colourways, but the black will always be our favourite.
Ralph Lauren Anders Tasselled Driver
And last but not least, there’s no way we can write a guide about the best moccasins without mentioning Ralph Lauren’s Anders. A classic driver silhouette, it’s fitted with a premium suede build and decorated with tassels along the vamp. The leather insole is extra plush for added comfort, and it’s finished off with the all-American label’s “Polo” tag across the lateral sidewall.
Up next, the best men's loafers.
