DKNY Mantin Driver – $72.99 | Banana Republic Gibson Driver – $69.99
The driving loafer is a personal favorite because they’re as comfortable as a slipper, but there’s nothing slobbish about them. The major drawback is that they’re almost impossible to wear with socks. Especially this time of year. If your feet sweat at all, you’ve probably experienced that unpleasant damp leather feeling underfoot. Drivers cover most of your foot so they just don’t breath that well, and that’s a problem.
Enter the next evolution of the Driving Loafer.
Perforated Drivers seem to have popped up in the last year or two and they’re a tempting purchase. The added texture is nice, but does that take an already almost too casual for a suit shoe, and make it even more dressed down? Or does the perforation detail some how make it more elegant… more European?
The pair from DKNY look especially slick with the scoop side detail and heel branding. And at under $75 both would be a terrific addition for someone thinking about getting their first pair of drivers.
So. Would you wear it?
Want the sockless look but don’t want any of the potential foot generated funk? Take a look at these no-show summer loafer socks from Mocc Sock & Co.
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I think it definitely makes it look more casual, which isn’t a bad thing really. Can’t see myself wearing either of those with a suit (except maybe the black one), but I would definitely wear it in a more casual outfit.
Can’t see these working with a suit – they remind me too much of water shoes, especially with the perforations.
I agree the suit is a little bit much with these perforated loafers. However, i wouldnt dismiss a cotton suit dressed down, no tie (possibly a tshirt), with a pair of loafers on that warm sunny day…Loafers are for chill out days…
Absolutely. Again, not with a suit, per se, but with jeans or chinos…definitely.