The Splurge: To Boot New York “Aaron” Medallion Cap Toe Oxford – $199.90
($295)
$200 is far from a bargain. It’s downright out of reach for many. But there’s something to be said for saving up and splurging on a quality pair of shoes.
You’d just wish a less expensive brand like Calvin Klein or Kenneth Cole could make a more wallet friendly version with this kind of toe shape and details. Of course the leather wouldn’t be as nice and the soles would be glued, but couldn’t something be replicated for the guys who only wear dress shoes on special occasions?
The pictures (like this one and this one) don’t do these things justice. Not here and not on the Nordstrom site. They actually seem to change color in different light. In bright sunshine they lean tan and the burnishing jumps. In a regularly lit indoor situation they can look almost milk chocolate brown.
The toe is nothing short of perfect. It’s slightly elongated and comes to a rounded point. The shape won’t make you look like an elf, yet at the same time they’re far, far from stumpy. The leather feels soft and flexible and yes, they’re made in Italy.
The medallion, cap toe, and perforations all scream classic, but they don’t make the shoe look fat, and instead assist the trim lines.
This is what To Boot New York excels at. Taking classic details and wrapping them around an updated but not too modern platform. Everybody wins… if you have $200 to spend on one pair of shoes.
The sole isn’t an all leather, but instead has a not that invasive rubber grip pattern on the ball of the foot. A modern addition, and might be a deal breaker for some. Also available in black. Retail is $300. Currently marked down to just under $200 during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
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