When it comes to investing in a pair of classic men’s shoes, quality and craftsmanship are paramount. With so many brands available, finding the perfect pair that matches your style and budget can be daunting. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the top 50 ready-to-wear men’s classic shoe brands. Presented in alphabetical order, these brands are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, timeless style, and high quality. With a broad price range, there’s something for everyone, ensuring that you can find a pair of high-quality shoes regardless of your budget.
Alden
Country: USA
Founded: 1884
Price range: €600 – €700
Website: https://www.aldenshop.com/
Based in Middleborough, Massachusetts, Alden Shoe Company is best known for its top-quality cordovan shoes and the iconic Indy boot, famously worn by Harrison Ford in the Indiana Jones movies. The company, established in 1884 by Charles H. Alden, emphasizes traditional shoemaking techniques and premium materials like Horween leather. Their designs are often compared to those of Allen Edmonds and feature a distinct American aesthetic with rounded lasts.
Allen Edmonds
Country: USA
Founded: 1922
Price range: €300 – €500
Website: https://www.allenedmonds.com/
Established in 1922, Allen Edmonds is a well-known American brand synonymous with classic men’s shoes. Over the years, it has provided footwear for celebrities and even presidents like Ronald Reagan and George Bush. Iconic styles like the Park Avenue, a cap-toe Oxford introduced in 1982, have stood the test of time and continue to be produced today. However, while once all made in America, the company has since expanded production offshore, resulting in a decline in quality.
Altan Bottier
Country: France
Founded: 1973
Price range: €400 – €1000
Website: https://www.altan-bottier.com/
Altan Bottier, with decades of shoemaking experience, offers a range of high-quality footwear options. Founded in 1973 by Sukru Sensozlu after training with Bespoke specialists in Paris, the brand transitioned to ready-to-wear collections in 1998. Named after Sukru’s son, Altan, the brand has gained popularity for its unique style and craftsmanship. Offering a range of shoes crafted using workshops across Europe, their specialty lies in in-house custom patina work, highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Antonio Meccariello
Country: Italy
Founded: 2012
Price range: €500 – €1500
Website: https://www.meccarielloshoes.it/
Antonio Meccariello, a master shoemaker hailing from Napoli, Italy, creates shoes known for their distinctive Italian flair. Crafted entirely in Napoli, each pair embodies a daring yet elegant aesthetic unique to the brand. Their ready-to-wear collection has either Goodyear or handwelted construction, include sartorial touches like beveled waists and are available in an extensive range of captivating colors and patinas. While their price point starts at around 600 EUR and climbs higher, the unquestionable quality they deliver justifies the investment.
Aubercy
Country: France
Founded: 1935
Price range: €1300 – €1500
Website: https://aubercy.com/
Aubercy, a renowned French shoemaker since 1935, specializes in crafting top-quality ready-to-wear and custom men’s shoes. Founded by André and Renée Aubercy, their dedication to traditional shoemaking blends English sturdiness, Italian craftsmanship, and French artistic flair. Each pair is handmade in their family workshop, ensuring exquisite leatherwork and unmatched quality. With fewer than 1000 shoes made yearly, expect the finest craftsmanship and attention to detail in every pair.
Bally
Country: Switzerland
Founded: 1851
Price range: €650 – €1000
Website: https://www.bally.com/
Established in Switzerland in 1851, Bally is a luxury brand with a rich history. From a small family ribbon factory, it grew into a global presence, expanding its stores worldwide. While some of their shoes nowadays may lack durability and craftsmanship and are not worth the price tag, the Bally Scribe line stands out for its quality. Made with Goodyear welt construction and crafted in Switzerland, the Scribe line exemplifies Bally’s commitment to superior footwear.
Barker
Country: England
Founded: 1880
Price range: €250 – €550
Website: https://www.barkershoes.com/
Barker, established in the village of Earls Barton in 1880 by Arthur Barker, began its journey in the renowned shoemaking hub of Northampton, England, where it continues to thrive today. Crafting approximately 200,000 pairs of handcrafted shoes annually, Barker sets itself apart with a diverse range of over 600 models and styles. This extensive selection ensures that even the most discerning gentleman can discover a pair of shoes that perfectly suits his taste and style.
Berluti
Country: France
Founded: 1895
Price range: €1000 – €2300
Website: https://www.berluti.com/
Established by the Italian shoemaker Alessandro Berluti, the French brand Berluti has profound expertise in crafting exquisite footwear for men since its inception in 1895. The brand is known for the perfection of the patina on leather – a technique where the shoes are painted by hand, giving them lighter and darker color shades, resembling a patina that develops over time with wear. The iconic example of this technique and Berluti craftsmanship is the Andy loafer – a pair of shoes crafted for Andy Warhol in 1962.
Berwick 1707
Country: Spain
Founded: 1954
Price range: €180 – €300
Website: https://berwickshoes.com/
Berwick’s 1707 journey began in Spain in 1954 with a focus on craftsmanship where it started as a small family workshop, creating handmade shoes for men. Today, their shoes are still made in Almansa, Spain where the in-house production is controlled, handling every step of shoemaking, including heel construction and sole production. With one of the best price-to-quality ratios on the market, Berwick 1707 shoes should definitely be on your radar if you’re looking for a decent pair of classic shoes.
Bontoni
Country: Italy
Founded: 2004
Price range: €1000 – €1300
Website: https://bontoni.com/
Although the Bontoni brand was established in 2004, its roots trace back to the late 1940s when Guido Gazzani began his journey as a shoe apprentice, laying the foundation for the brand’s tradition of craftsmanship. Still owned by the same family, Bontoni shoes are made entirely by hand using the finest materials and display classic details such as beveled waists and fully stacked leather heels. What also sets them apart is their method of coloring shoes. Bontoni starts with raw, untreated leather and hand-paints every pair, focusing on even the smallest details to deliver genuinely unique shoes.
Carlos Santos
Country: Portugal
Founded: 2010
Price range: €300 – €450
Website: https://www.santosshoes.com/
Founded in 2010, Carlos Santos is one of the most renowned classic men’s shoe brands from Portugal, whose founder, Mr. Carlos Santos, began his journey into the world of shoes as early as the 1960s. Still a family business, Carlos Santos stands out most for its hand-painted models, which boldly rival even the most luxurious brands. If you’re looking to purchase stylish and quality classic shoes without breaking the bank, then Carlos Santos shoes will be the ideal choice.
Carmina
Country: Spain
Founded: 1997
Price range: €350 – €800
Website: https://www.carminashoemaker.com/
Established in 1997 on the island of Mallorca, a renowned shoemaking hub in Spain, Carmina has been crafting high-quality men’s shoes using Goodyear welt construction for over two decades. Striking a balance between the fashion-forward approach of Italian and French shoemakers and the conservative style of US and British brands, Carmina embodies its distinct Spanish flair, appealing to the modern man who doesn’t want a pair of shoes that his father wears. If you’re looking for hoes made with premium leathers and Goodyear welted construction, Carmina is the brand for you.
Caulaincourt
Country: France
Founded: 2008
Price range: €350 – €600
Website: https://www.caulaincourt.paris/
Founded in 2008 by Alexis Lafont, Caulaincourt stands as a prominent French shoemaker, presenting a comprehensive range of men’s footwear options. From oxfords to Jodhpur and button boots, Caulaincourt uses a variety of construction methods – all stitched or welted – and manufactures shoes in Spain, France, England, and Italy. With prices typically falling between €350 and €600, Caulaincourt offers exceptional value, complemented by an extensive made-to-order program, catering to discerning clientele seeking quality and customization.
Cheaney
Country: England
Founded: 1886
Price range: €500 – €700
Website: https://www.cheaney.co.uk/
Established in 1886, Cheaney crafts premium men’s shoes entirely in Northamptonshire, England, from the initial leather cutting to the final polish. Acquired by members of the Church family in 2009, the Joseph Cheaney brand was rejuvenated, restoring its heritage. Cheaney shoes epitomize English elegance, having Goodyear welt construction and refined, classic lasts. Cheaney caters to both urban and rural lifestyles with distinct collections like their City line, offering formal oxfords, and their Country line, featuring boots and derbies.
Church’s
Country: England
Founded: 1873
Price range: €800 – €1000
Website: https://www.church-footwear.com/
Founded in 1873, Church’s, has a rich history spanning over 150 years. Acquired by the Prada Group in 1999, their prices have elevated significantly, with even basic cap toe oxfords costing nearly €1000. While still maintaining their classic English shoe range, Prada’s influence is evident in their more trend-focused options, diverging from traditional styling. Despite using high-quality materials and Goodyear welted construction, the pricing aligns more with luxury fashion brands than artisanal craftsmanship, which is somewhat disproportionate to the quality offered.
Corthay
Country: France
Founded: 1873
Price range: €600 – €2000
Website: https://www.corthay.com/
Corthay, established in 1990, stands out as a pinnacle of French shoemaking, crafting their shoes exclusively in France. Renowned for their iconic Arca model, a two-eyelet derby, they also offer a range of styles including oxfords, monkstraps, boots, and loafers. Each design features their distinctive elongated lasts and finely chiseled toes. Their impressive color palette spans from classic black and brown to bold choices like green, blue, and even purple for the most adventurous.
Crockett & Jones
Country: England
Founded: 1879
Price range: €500 – €700
Website: https://crockettandjones.com/
Founded in 1879 in Northampton, the epicenter of England’s shoemaking industry, Crockett & Jones has been making Goodyear welted men’s shoes for well over a century. Priced around €600, their main line showcases a diverse range of lasts, predominantly embodying the traditional English aesthetic. With a heritage spanning over 140 years, Crockett & Jones ensures attention to detail, comfort, and durability, reflecting the vision of its founders, Sir James Crockett and Charles Jones.
Edward Green
Country: England
Founded: 1890
Price range: €1000 – €1800
Website: https://www.edwardgreen.com/
Since 1890, Edward Green has been handcrafting men’s shoes in Northamptonshire, England, cutting them by hand from top-quality leather and using the Goodyear welt construction method. Their collection features timeless classics like loafers and oxfords, as well as popular boots like the stylish Galway model. Today, they’re still based in Northampton, with a dedicated team of artisans producing around 350 pairs of shoes each week that are sold in leading stores worldwide and in their own shops in London and Paris.
Ferragamo
Country: Italy
Founded: 1927
Price range: €600 – €1500
Website: https://www.ferragamo.com/
Established in 1927 by Salvatore Ferragamo in Florence, Italy, the eponymous fashion house is known for its avant-garde men’s shoes alongside classics like horsebit loafers and oxfords. However, with an average price of €1000, some question the value compared to other brands. While their shoes may not suit everyone’s taste with their square lasts, Ferragamo’s name commands luxury prices. Today, the brand has 4000 employees, 300 shops worldwide, and a turnover of hundreds of millions of euros, exclusively producing in Italy and exporting 95% of its products.
Gaziano & Girling
Country: England
Founded: 2006
Price range: €1000 – €1800
Website: https://www.gazianogirling.com/
Founded in 2006, Gaziano & Girling has quickly become a top shoemaker in England. They blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, making shoes that stand out in both bespoke and ready-to-wear industries. The shoes start at around €800 and come with premium features like pitched heels and Goodyear welted construction. While they’re made in England and show some English influence, Gaziano & Girling isn’t afraid to try new things with their designs, setting them apart from other English shoemakers.
George Cleverley
Country: England
Founded: 1958
Price range: €700 – €900
Website: https://www.georgecleverley.com/
George Cleverley is a well-known British shoemaker since 1958, making top-notch handmade shoes. They offer bespoke and ready-to-wear collections, plus small leather goods in unique hides. George Cleverley shoes stand out from regular English footwear with their unique touches like sloped heels and sleek waists, adding style and sophistication. Despite their exceptional quality, most models are reasonably priced around €800, offering excellent value. With a long list of famous customers, both past and present, George Cleverley remains a symbol of classic style and luxury in shoemaking.
Grenson
Country: England
Founded: 1866
Price range: €300 – €700
Website: https://www.grenson.com/
Grenson, established in 1866, prides itself on its rich heritage of shoemaking, maintaining only its third factory since inception. With a commitment to quality, most of their shoes are Goodyear welted, ensuring durability and craftsmanship. The brand offers a diverse range, including sneakers and sandals, alongside their renowned Triple Welt collection, characterized by a distinctive double welt for a robust aesthetic. However, recent customer feedback suggests potential concerns regarding quality control, indicating a shift in the brand’s traditional standards.
Heinrich Dinkelacker
Country: Germany/Hungary
Founded: 1879
Price range: €450 – €900
Website: https://www.heinrich-dinkelacker.com/
Heinrich Dinkelacker, established in 1879, stands as one of Germany’s most prestigious and time-honored men’s shoe brands. Named after its founder, Heinrich Dinkelacker, the company specializes in men’s footwear and offers a range of handcrafted shoes, including their signature Buda Brogue. Embracing an Austro-Hungarian aesthetic, their shoes feature distinctive short round lasts and robust soles. The craftsmanship is unparalleled – every shoe is crafted and welted entirely by hand, using only the finest, supple leathers.
Heschung
Country: France
Founded: 1934
Price range: €400 – €800
Website: https://www.heschung.com/
Heschung is a family-run shoemaker with deep roots. Started by Eugène Heschung in 1934, his son Robert carried on the tradition, and now Pierre, the grandson, continues the craft while updating the styles for today. They carefully choose which trends to follow, sticking to their authentic values. Their shoes blend tradition and modernity, focusing on timeless elegance rather than fleeting fashion. Known for comfort and durability, Heschung offers a simple yet luxurious experience.
J.FitzPatrick
Country: USA
Founded: 2013
Price range: €300 – €600
Website: https://www.jfitzpatrickfootwear.com/
The J.FitzPatrick brand has an inspiring story. Its founder, Justin Fitzpatrick, started his journey by shining shoes on Savile Row in England and building connections with shoemakers worldwide. Alongside, he ran The Shoe Snob blog, sharing his love for classic men’s shoes through reviews. In 2013, with support from Gieves & Hawkes and Tony Gaziano of Gaziano & Girling, Justin’s dream came true with the launch of his own brand, J.FitzPatrick. The brand offers a wide range of classic men’s shoes in popular and unique styles, all Goodyear welted with handlasted waists and stacked leather heels.
J.M. Weston
Country: France
Founded: 1891
Price range: €400 – €1000
Website: https://eu.jmweston.com/
J.M. Weston, a French shoemaker since 1891, brings together craftsmanship and classic French style. They’re known for their timeless designs like the 180 penny loafer and the sturdy Demi-Chasse split-toe derby. While they might not push boundaries like some other brands, their shoes are all about elegance, with simple yet refined shapes. Alongside their famous styles, they offer a range of well-made oxfords, Chelseas, and monkstraps, all crafted in France using high-quality materials and Goodyear welt construction.
John Lobb
Country: England
Founded: 1866
Price range: €1000 – €1800
Website: https://www.johnlobb.com/
John Lobb, established in 1866 and still crafting shoes in Northampton, England, was acquired by the Hermes group in the late 1970s. While their shoes have Goodyear welt construction, premium leather, and fine craftsmanship, they lack standout features like beveled or fiddleback waists or sloped heel blocks, which are found in some lower-priced brands. Despite being a better value than luxury fashion brands, John Lobb struggles to stand out in the competitive market of high-end men’s footwear.
Loake
Country: England
Founded: 1880
Price range: €250 – €400
Website: https://www.loake.com/
Loake is a traditional English shoemaker with roots in Northampton dating back to 1880. They offer a wide range of men’s shoes, from formal oxfords to casual leather sneakers. Depending on the line, they make their shoes either in England – the 1880 and Export Grade lines – or in India for the rest. While the Indian-made shoes may not match the quality of those made in England, they still offer better quality than many mall brands at similar prices. Loake is a great choice if you’re looking to start exploring classic footwear without breaking the bank.
28. Lottusse
Country: Spain
Founded: 1877
Price range: €250 – €450
Website: https://lottusse.com/
Lottusse, a Spanish footwear brand, has a rich legacy in shoemaking dating back to its establishment in 1877. It is known for its men’s shoes handmade in Mallorca, Spain, using the Goodyear welt construction method. Lottusse stands out by also offering a comprehensive selection of women’s shoes. Though they may compromise on leather quality to maintain affordability, Lottusse exceeds typical mall brands in durability and value, upholding a tradition of craftsmanship in an increasingly mass-produced industry.
Ludwig Reiter
Country: Austria
Founded: 1885
Price range: €400 – €800
Website: https://www.ludwig-reiter.com/
Established in 1885 in Vienna, Austria, Ludwig Reiter offers a wide range of classic men’s shoes, known for their traditional Austro-Hungarian style with distinctive heavy broguing and sturdy soles. One of their notable models is the Husarenstiefel, famously worn by Brad Pitt in the movie “Inglorious Basterds”. Crafted with Goodyear welt construction and using high-quality leather and materials, they come with a price tag of €600 or more. Still family-owned and managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Ludwig Reiter family, the brand continues to thrive.
Magnanni
Country: Spain
Founded: 1954
Price range: €350 – €450
Website: https://magnanni.com/
Magnanni, established in 1954 by Pascual Blanco Martinez in Almansa, Spain, is known for its elegant shoes. Crafted in one of Spain’s shoemaking hubs, Magnanni shoes have sleek designs with hand-painted finishes, giving them a unique and beautiful appearance. A notable feature is Magnanni “Artesano sole“, where the sole is double-needle threaded to the upper, creating a distinctive and secure bond. This technique is done by hand along the sole’s edge, enhancing the shoe’s aesthetics and creating a look that is iconic to Magnanni.
Meermin
Country: Spain
Founded: 2001
Price range: €180 – €250
Website: https://meermin.com/
Established in 2001 in Mallorca, Spain, Meermin makes classic men’s shoes known for their great value. By selling directly to consumers with lower margins and producing a large part of their shoes in China, they maintain affordability without compromising on quality materials. Their collection offers a wide variety of Goodyear welted shoes in different styles, all priced at only €200. Additionally, they offer the Linea Maestro line, which features fully handwelted shoes, something you usually see in shoes double or triple this price.
Moreschi
Country: Italy
Founded: 1946
Price range: €350 – €600
Website: https://www.moreschi.it/
Established by Mario Moreschi and currently managed by Gianbeppe Moreschi, Moreschi is a family-operated footwear brand with roots tracing back to 1946. Based in Vigevano, Italy, they’ve maintained their tradition of crafting every shoe entirely in-house, employing various construction techniques. Their leathers are generally very good, but extremely soft and supple and require almost no break in period. Their collection of dress shoes serves as the quintessential complement to any wardrobe, blending with both formal attire and smart casual ensembles.
Morjas
Country: Spain
Price range: €250 – €350
Website: https://www.morjas.com/
Another shoe brand from Almansa, Spain, is Morjas. They offer nice shoes and boots following the Spanish shoemaking tradition. Priced between €250 and €350, their footwear is considered one of the best values available, having refined lasts and meticulous attention to detail that competes with brands twice the price. While they don’t have a huge selection, everything is made with care, from the neat stitching on the uppers to the brass nails on the outsole. Among their signature offerings are over 30 styles of loafers, available with both rubber and leather soles.
Norman Vilalta
Country: Spain
Founded: 2004
Price range: €1000 – €1400
Website: https://shop.normanvilalta.com/
Founded in 2004 by corporate lawyer Norman Vilalta, the brand offers bespoke and ready-to-wear shoes, all crafted in Barcelona. The ready-to-wear line has many features of the more expensive custom options, like sloped heels and beveled edges. The shoes also have an Asymmetric Pattern, a unique technique in shoe design, created by Norman Vilalta himself. While they provide classic styles, their standout model is the Decon, blending elements of a Chelsea boot and a two-eyelet derby. Every pair undergoes hand-finishing, including the outsoles receiving a painted touch. However, quality comes at a price as the shoes start at over €1100.
Paolo Scafora
Country: Italy
Founded: 1956
Price range: €1100 – €2000
Website: https://www.paoloscaforanapoli.com/
The artisanal story of Paolo Scafora starts in the industrious alleys of Naples in 1956. Since then they have been designing and manufacturing high-end shoes, either ready-to-wear or bespoke. Their signature Norwegian stitched models stand out for their exceptional durability, representing the pinnacle of construction techniques. Starting at approximately €1100, Paolo Scafora shoes are handcrafted using only the finest materials, such as French calf, American alligator and cordovan. Each pair of shoes is hand-painted and embellished with unique nuances and sophisticated antique colour effects.
Paraboot
Country: France
Founded: 1908
Price range: €300 – €600
Website: https://www.paraboot.com/
Paraboot, a prestigious shoemaker from France catering to both men and women, has a storied legacy dating back to 1908. Initially known for their unique rubber-soled dress shoes, they later transitioned to producing durable walking footwear tailored for farmers, hunters, and craftsmen. In the 1940s, they introduced the famous Michael model and ventured into crafting sturdy mountaineering boots. Despite going bankrupt in the 1980s due to a decline, Paraboot made a remarkable comeback with a more fashion-forward approach. Today, priced at around €450, their shoes feature unique styling, premium materials, and exceptional comfort, making them a compelling choice for quality footwear enthusiasts.
Rancourt
Country: USA
Founded: 1967
Price range: €250 – €450
Website: https://www.rancourtandcompany.com/
Rancourt & Co. is a family-owned shoemaker located in Lewiston, Maine, with a legacy dating back to 1967. Specializing in handcrafted leather footwear for both men and women, they began their journey by producing hand-sewn moccasins, a tradition that remains central to their contemporary collection. Despite changes in ownership, since 2009, the company has been back under the guidance of its founding family, committed to crafting shoes and boots in the Northeastern United States. Offering a diverse selection including boots, loafers, and oxfords, Rancourt provides quality footwear that stands the test of time.
R.M.Williams
Country: Australia
Founded: 1932
Price range: €450 – €600
Website: https://www.rmwilliams.com/
R.M. Williams has been making top-notch boots and leather goods since 1932, becoming a symbol of Aussie style worldwide. They’re famous for their tough Chelsea Boots, perfect for any adventure, and their high-quality leather products that last a lifetime. Based in Australia, they offer a wide range of Chelsea boots in different styles, along with derby boots. All their stuff is made in Australia with fine leather and solid construction techniques, priced from €450, depending on what type of leather you fancy.
Saint Crispin’s
Country: Romania
Founded: 1992
Price range: €1500 – €2300
Website: https://saintcrispins.com/
Established in 1992 in Austria, Saint Crispin’s is a family-owned business dedicated to crafting some of the world’s finest handmade shoes for gentlemen, free from foreign investor influence. Despite producing only around 1,500 pairs annually in Romania, each shoe is crafted by hand, reflecting unparalleled craftsmanship and design. Named after the patron saint of shoemaking, Saint Crispin’s offers a diverse range of handwelted models in unique colors and patterns, priced between €1500 – €2300 per pair. Each purchase includes their renowned hollow shoe trees, valued as works of art.
Santoni
Country: Italy
Founded: 1975
Price range: €500 – €1500
Website: https://www.santonishoes.com/
Santoni, established in 1975 and headquartered in Corridonia, Italy, is renowned for its luxury shoes and leather accessories, with manufacturing based in Milan. While they pioneered “shoe engineering” and prioritize technical innovation in construction, their recent expansion into high-end department stores has led to inflated prices and more daring designs, sometimes at the expense of quality. Although many of their shoes feature blake stitching or Goodyear welting, their lasts lack the refinement seen in some Italian competitors.
Scarosso
Country: Italy
Founded: 2010
Price range: €250 – €350
Website: https://www.scarosso.com/
Scarosso, founded in 2010 by Marco Reiter and Moritz Offeney, is an Italian luxury footwear brand based in Milan. Their shoes are meticulously handcrafted in Montegranaro, Marche, offering a contemporary take on timeless classics. Scarosso’s collection includes a wide variety of shoes and accessories for men and women, priced between €250 and €350. Known for their attractive lasts, their shoes feature blake or blake rapid stitching and stacked leather heel blocks, distinguishing them from competitors.
Septième Largeur
Country: Italy
Founded: 2010
Price range: €200 – €400
Website: https://www.septiemelargeur.fr/
Founded in 2009 by Mathieu Preiss and his uncle Marcos Fernandez, the company is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and traditional know-how. The French brand offers a range of classic styles, including oxfords, derbies, monkstraps, loafers, and boots, all featuring Goodyear welt construction. Their unique “Patina Studio” program allows customers to choose a hand-painted finish in various colors. With prices around €325 for classic styles and €395 for patina options, Septième Largeur provides unmatched quality at its price point.
T. Shirakashi
Country: Japan
Price range: €200 – €400
Website: https://shirakashi.jp/
Tetsuya Shirakashi, a Japanese bespoke shoemaker based in Kanagawa, Japan, transitioned from a design career to shoemaking after being captivated by the bespoke shoe creation process. Trained by renowned shoemaker Yohei Fukuda and through a shoemaking school, Shirakashi crafts high-quality, hand-welted shoes using traditional techniques. His offerings include bespoke and made-to-order models, blending classic British-inspired designs with Japanese craftsmanship. Known for their elegance and durability, his shoes feature beveled waists and sloped heels, with ready-to-wear models priced over €1600.
TLB Mallorca
Country: Spain
Founded: 2010
Price range: €300 – €600
Website: https://www.tlbmallorca.com/
TLB Mallorca, founded in 2018 by Toni Llobera Barceló, is based in Mallorca, Spain, and produces high-quality men’s shoes. With a tradition of craftsmanship passed down through generations, the brand is known for its refined Spanish lasts and Goodyear welted construction. They offer a wide range of styles, including loafers, derbies, and oxfords, using top-quality leathers. Each pair features closed channel stitching, and their Artista collection includes beautifully beveled waists. Despite being a young brand, TLB Mallorca is quickly gaining recognition for its excellence and tradition.
Tricker’s
Country: England
Founded: 2010
Price range: €600 – €700
Website: https://trickers.com/
Founded in 1829 in Northampton, England, Tricker’s is the oldest established shoemaker in Britain, still operating from their original factory. Known for their durable shoes and boots, Tricker’s manufactures its footwear entirely from start to finish at their Northampton factory. While they may not suit a worsted wool suit, they are ideal for outdoor activities and pair well with fabrics like tweed, corduroy, and denim. Though priced at over EUR 550, a pair of Tricker’s should last a lifetime, thanks to their commitment to quality and traditional shoemaking techniques.
Vass
Country: Hungary
Founded: 1978
Price range: €500 – €700
Website: https://vass-shoes.com/
László Vass, the founder of Vass Shoes, established his company in 1978, breathing new life into the age-old craft of shoemaking. Based in Budapest, Hungary, Vass consistently delivers exceptional highest quality footwear in the €400 – €500 price range. Their extensive range includes oxfords, derbies, monkstraps, boots, and more, all featuring elegant lasts, exquisite heels, and top-notch leather. BUt what sets them apart is that all of their shoes are handwelted, a feature that only the luxury brands can offer. Once you experience the comfort and craftsmanship of Vass shoes, you may find it hard to consider any other brand.
Velasca
Country: Italy
Founded: 1978
Price range: €300 – €500
Website: https://www.velasca.com/
Founded in 2013 by Enrico and Jacopo in the Marche region, Velasca set out to offer high-quality men’s shoes at reasonable prices by selling directly to customers. Most Velasca shoes feature either blake or blake rapid stitching, with a smaller collection featuring Goodyear welt construction priced at about €450. Made from quality leather, their styles range from classic oxfords to country full brogue derbies, with a slightly chunkier appearance compared to typical Italian lasts. Priced between €300 and €350 and crafted in Italy, Velasca shoes provide good value and encompass all the classic styles one might desire.
Yohei Fukuda
Country: Japan
Founded: 2008
Price range: €1800
Website: https://yoheifukuda.com/
Yohei Fukuda, a skilled shoemaker trained in Northampton, England, returned to Japan to establish his brand in Tokyo in 2008. His workshop has since expanded to include four craftsmen who share his dedication to quality. Fukuda’s bespoke shoes, priced between €4000 and €5000, exemplify his commitment to craftsmanship and take 24 months to complete. For those who don’t want to wait that long or spend that much, Yohei Fukuda offers a small line of ready-to-wear shoes with design elements such as sloped heels, beveled waists, and metal toe caps, priced at €1800.
Zonkey Boot
Country: Austria
Founded: 2010
Price range: €900 – €1100
Website: https://zonkeyboot.com/
Zonkey Boot, founded in 2010 by Alexandra Diaconu and Michael Rollig in Vienna, Austria, offers a wide range of high-quality footwear. Despite the quirky name, they deliver impressive craftsmanship with their elongated lasts, deviating from the typical Austro-Hungarian style. Their collection includes an extensive variety of boots such as derby boots, Chelsea boots, chukkas, Balmoral boots, and wholecut boots, which are particularly challenging to produce. Most of their footwear is fully handwelted, a rare feature even in the €900 – €11000 price range, making Zonkey Boot a serious competitor in the premium shoe market.
Finding the perfect pair of classic men’s shoes is all about balancing style, quality, and budget. This list of the top 50 ready-to-wear men’s shoe brands offers a diverse selection, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re investing in your first pair of premium shoes or expanding an already impressive collection, these brands offer something special for every discerning gentleman. Happy shoe shopping!
