The Spring Shoe: Meet the Naples Trail Oxford

Legend has it that the oxford shoe originated (where else?) on Oxford University’s campus in England around 1825. In the previous century the de rigeur (aka the hottest trend) in men’s footwear was tall boots outfitted with high heels and secured with buttons, a style popularized by King Louis XIV of France. Needless to say, a new style was much needed - a high heeled tall boot isn’t necessarily for everyone. Enter the heavenly oxford. First promoted as a walking shoe, the oxford was born because it offered a lightweight, comfortable solution compared to the old-fashioned tall boot with a lower heel. We’re pretty sure it was welcomed with very open arms.

These days, it’s a thoroughly modern choice for the stylish guy on the go.

Our Naples Trail oxford is offered in three style choices – full-grain leather, textured leather  and a suede version. All three are excellent picks for when temps start to rise and you need a lighter weight, breathable pair of kicks.

You’ll want to pay close attention to the details on these—the cap-toe, embossed leather upper and white outsole on the textured leather pair are our version of a triple threat. Our full-grain leather pair features an application of the antique milled brunido tannage, which is a technical way of telling you they have a waxed top coat that enhances the leather’s natural grain and gives them that polished look. The suede style offers a nod to the oxford tailoring while kicking it down a notch to the casual side – plus, haven’t you always wanted a pair of blue suede shoes?!

As with all of our quality kicks, authenticity, durability and comfort are tantamount. Our Naples Trail oxford is no exception – it’s a shoe wrapped in style and comfort. Most notably, our SensorFlex™ comfort system offers a three-layer system for maximum shock absorption and stability.

Plus, our OrthoLite® footbed means these oxfords have cushioning and support, and the insole is leather-lined for a touch of luxury. (That means you’ll be able to walk all day in these from breakfast meeting to the bar for after-work drinks.)

These wardrobe workhorses are ideal with a pair of slim chinos or shorts and a button-up; cuffed denim, a T-shirt and blazer; or even a gray or navy suit and slim tie. So if you’ve never tried a pair of oxfords before, we recommend picking a pair up – they’re a worthy investment in good style.

See the Naples Trail oxford in action on our latest MarkMaker, chef Chris Fischer in our online Guide to the Modern Trail.