December 2022

The New Shoes
on Our Radar

Knickerbocker x Fracap KF101 hiker shoe

December 2022

The New Shoes on Our Radar

From an Italian hiking shoe to an adjustable strapped mule

Is it time to re-evaluate the shoes in your closet? Maybe this list will help get you going in the right direction. There is so much great footwear dropping these days, we thought we would pull a few of our current favorites to showcase. From a technical training shoe that can be worn away from the gym and a pair of suede sneakers to a strapped mule, these are the shoes our team can’t stop talking about.

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Clifton L
Suede Sneaker

Technical trainers have been enjoying their moment in the sun recently, and it doesn't seem to be slowing down. Hoka has been one of the brands at the forefront, and it's easy to see why—their Clifton sneakers are designed to take on trails, but they're cool enough for everyday. This casual take features a suede upper with a 3M reflective stripe, lightweight no-sew SpeedFrame construction and an EVA footbed, intended for all-day wear. Throw these on with an oatmeal-toned sweatsuit or your regular beat-up denim.

$170 by Hoka

KF101 Hiker Shoe

Knickerbocker has teamed up with century-old Italian boot maker, Fracap, to produce this hiking shoe for the winter season. Yes, they're rugged, but they're also handsome and comfortable thanks to the chunky Vibram sole. The insole and lining are made from Italian calf leather for breathability and the Goodyear welt construction ensures a sturdy and durable shoe that can survive inclement weather. Let these be your daily drivers—take them to your next skiing trip over the holidays or just down to your local bookshop—either way, your feet will stay dry and stylish.

$325 by Knickerbocker x Fracap

Suede Tennis Shoe

An elevated unbranded sneaker looks great with anything from dark denim and chinos to a wool-flannel suit. Sneakers with a suit is not just for breezy summer weddings—a sharp suede pair like these from Sunspel will turn those naysayers into believers. Made in Portugal from a rich moss green suede, the brand has updated the tennis shoe for better comfort. Finished with a lightweight sole, cushioned insole and extra padding around the upper, it makes for a versatile shoe that's great for boardroom meetings or traveling.

$295 by Sunspel

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VLT LX Chukka

Pilgrim and Vans Vault have collaborated again and the standout is this chukka style cut from a hefty suede and grounded with the usual Vans vulcanized rubber outsole. The collection is inspired by the color gradients found in altering ocean temperatures, and the shop says the “subtle shifts in hue and tone reflect the seasonal changes.” These would pair perfectly with an all-black outfit or all-white—the two-toned shoe is subtly eye-catching, so your outfit should let the sneaker shine.

$105 by Pilgrim x Vans Vault

Strapped Mule

I fully endorse that a mule has now become part of our regular footwear rotation. This pair can be worn year-round, especially with the right socks (preferably wool). Vinny's strapped mules will get more comfortable over time as the tumbled leather forms to the shape of your foot, and a cushioned footbed with an adjustable strap will give you the feeling of a well-secured sneaker. The outsole is a solid crepe sole, so they're as comfy and grippy as your favorite desert boots.

$241 by Vinny’s

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