Penny Loafer question

[Monsieur de Givenchy]

I have a high instep/arch. Not crazy high. I can wear Derbies/Bluchers with no problem. But on Oxfords, there is always a big triangle from bottom to top, because they don't close in a flush way.

Now, I really like penny loafers. But the few I have tried press down on the top of my foot like a torture instrument.

Is there any company that offers stylish penny loafers for people with high arches? Sizing up or going wide just makes for such a clumsy fit.

Or is bespoke the only way to go?

Thanks for your advice.

 

[krudsma]

I have a high instep/arch. Not crazy high. I can wear Derbies/Bluchers with no problem. But on Oxfords, there is always a big triangle from bottom to top, because they don't close in a flush way.

Now, I really like penny loafers. But the few I have tried press down on the top of my foot like a torture instrument.

Is there any company that offers stylish penny loafers for people with high arches? Sizing up or going wide just makes for such a clumsy fit.

Or is bespoke the only way to go?

Thanks for your advice.

Which ones have you tried? Would one with a lower vamp help? I don't have a high instep but I imagine the Alden LHS would be comfortable on pretty much anyone.

 

[JJ Katz]

A brand called "Mocassinis" ("loafers" in Italian) makes a loafer where the vamp is relatively short and the rise low; I guess they might impinge on the base of the neck of the foot less? Just speculating. I have a pair and they seem nice for the price. They are a rather narrow, FYI.

 

[ppk]

I have a high instep and narrow heels. Unfortunately, the Alden LHS is one of the worst fitting shoes for me. I would not buy online, especially if you can't return it easily. If possible, I would go to a store and try them out.

My best fitting penny loafers are Clarks, suede penny loafers and Cole Haan Pinch Penny Loafers. I got both for less than $50 off eBay. Both seem to have stitched welts.

 

[Monsieur de Givenchy]

I have a high instep and narrow heels. Unfortunately, the Alden LHS is one of the worst fitting shoes for me. I would not buy online, especially if you can't return it easily. If possible, I would go to a store and try them out.

My best fitting penny loafers are Clarks, suede penny loafers and Cole Haan Pinch Penny Loafers. I got both for less than $50 off eBay. Both seem to have stitched welts.

Thanks for this, Walter. Now, Clarks I wasn't able to find any penny loafers in their current collection. And the vintage ones don't have leather soles, which is a must for me. The Cole Haan look good. Will check those out. Appreciate your feedback.

 

[Monsieur de Givenchy]

A brand called "Mocassinis" ("loafers" in Italian) makes a loafer where the vamp is relatively short and the rise low; I guess they might impinge on the base of the neck of the foot less? Just speculating. I have a pair and they seem nice for the price. They are a rather narrow, FYI.

Just checked their site. They look very nice indeed. Thank you.

 

[Monsieur de Givenchy]

Which ones have you tried? Would one with a lower vamp help? I don't have a high instep but I imagine the Alden LHS would be comfortable on pretty much anyone.

Will try this specific model. Thanks.

 

[brax]

All Alden LHS are not the same as they can be made on a variety of lasts. I’m an easy fit and the Van last does the job. But a buddy is not an easy fit because of his instep and he swears by the modified last. Yep, that’s the name: the modified last.

 

[Monsieur de Givenchy]

di

All Alden LHS are not the same as they can be made on a variety of lasts. I’m an easy fit and the Van last does the job. But a buddy is not an easy fit because of his instep and he swears by the modified last. Yep, that’s the name: the modified last.

Didn't know they were that flexible. Thanks.

 

[krudsma]

I actually didn't realize that either, whenever I refer to the LHS I'm imagining the 986 or the unlined Brooks Brothers model. Both of those are on the Van last I believe.