Best foot forward: men’s winter footwear round-up

published 7 December 2017

Edward Green Halifax in burgundy Utah calf

Edward Green has been synonymous with the finest English Goodyear welted footwear since the workshop was established in Northampton in 1890. Its Halifax model is a chukka boot derived from the iconic Dover style, featuring a Norwegian apron, or a 'split-toe,' which is hand sewn with a boar bristle by a highly-skilled artisan. The boar's bristle is entwined with a thread and arcs through the calfskin, allowing the two pieces to be sewn edge to edge; each split-toe take two hours to hand sew. Made from supple yet durable hatch grain calf leather, they're as suited to sauntering through the city as for tackling country terrain.

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Crockett & Jones has been crafting the highest quality footwear since 1879 and developed its versatile last 348, featuring a square toe, in 2004. One of the brand's most iconic styles made from last 348 is the elegant English Oxford shoe, a formal style that dates back over two hundred years and is thought to have been named by students at Oxford University. The ‘Westbourne’ dark brown calf suede Oxfords feature a u-throat and punched toe-cap, offering a relaxed yet refined alternative to traditional smooth calf leather models – ideal for complementing business attire, as well as more casual weekend looks.

Jimmy Choo is renowned for show-stopping red-carpet heels for women, and its men's shoes are designed with just as much panache. For 2018, creative director Sandra Choi has introduced the Borrowed from the Boys collection, featuring three styles available for both men and women, inspired by the style of men's loafers and evening slippers. The men's Marlo model comes in a dark ‘dusk blue’ glitter fabric and, from black tie events to glamorous cocktail parties, it will add flair to any evening ensemble.

French shoemaker JM Weston was created in 1922 by Eugene Blanchard, who created shoes for men who strive to ‘go beyond’ in every aspect of life. Inspired by the ambition of Blanchard's Ultra Shoe collection, current artistic director Michel Perry has created his own Ultra Weston line comprising four sophisticated models with a slightly rounded toe. Embodying the brand's signature Parisian elegance, the low cut boot is a chic yet smart alternative to a formal shoe style, featuring hand pegging on the sole to ensure the heel is robust, and a sleek hand-polished tip.

The classic brogue is one of the most versatile shoe styles a man can own, and for those who want to add a pop of colour to their outfit, English designer Paul Smith can always be counted on for classic pieces with a vibrant twist. Crafted in Italy from premium leather, the polished dark navy 'Grand' brogues feature precisely punched uppers, a smooth leather lining and chunky stacked leather and rubber 'Artist Stripe' soles with extra durability and traction – a comfortable yet confident choice for pairing with relaxed tailoring or denim.

Dunhill began as a harness-maker in the late 19th century, and the company remains a specialist in leather craftsmanship. Its jodhpur boots in smooth black leather are handcrafted in England and feature a silver buckle opening, back heel tab and subtle branding on the soles. Supple yet durable and designed to hold their shape, each pair is versatile enough to be worn for both business and off-duty purposes, making them an effortlessly elegant and practical addition to your winter wardrobe.

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