No, driving shoes aren’t the sexiest of things. But neither are boat shoes. And while boat shoes look just fine even for those of us who are more land-lubber than deck-topper, drivers have a rooted purpose that most encounter more often. Y’know, driving.
Driving shoes are lightweight, have grippy soles, and can usually be identified by traction that extends up the back of the heel. They’re designed to provide stability and control while working the pedals (assuming you’ve got a standard transmission), while remaining comfortable on long drives. Even if you’re not carving up mountain roads while heading off for a long weekend, drivers are a good summer shoe that keep your (ugly perhaps) toes covered up, all while remaining breathable and light. Feel free to add your suggestions for good looking driving loafers in the comments.
Ralph Lauren Willem Ribbon Loafers – $99.00
An improved version of the Telly Loafer they’ve sold for a few years. The “polo” logo has been removed from the back of the heel and is now instead a tonal stamp on the side. Great looking ribbon colors too. Nubby heel for grip. Ships free if you have Prime and pick them up on Amazon
Brooks Brothers Suede Tie Drivers – $103.60 ($48.00)
Tie Driver. Not fighter (pew pew pew!). Rich looking suede, a heel grip that doesn’t dominate visually, and rawhide lace ties on top. Also available in a deep navy and an eye gouging green. Many thanks to jchughely for pointing out that these are on sale. Not a ton of sizes, but there are some in the blue and grey. Looks like Brooks Brothers put many of their shoes on sale overnight.
ASOS Navy/Tan Penny Drivers – $67.73
CHEAP. Drivers don’t usually have a ton of support as it is, so it’s probably safe to assume that at this price point, you’re not going to get a ton of construction quality. That said, nice two-tone upper. Try the code XTRA20 for 20% off.
Allen Edmonds Handsewn Ventura Hwy – $139.00
($195)
Made in the Dominican Republic. Part of the just launched Allen Edmonds Anniversary Sale, which also happens to include the Mora 2.0.
Zara Nubuck Bottle Green Drivers – $89.00
A not quite normal color, and a not quite normal texture. Nubuck is matte looking, like suede, but doesn’t have as tall of a nap. Boat shoe like details with the tie up front & grommets on the side.
Cole Haan Grant Suede Driver – $103.60 ($138)
More boat shoe details but this time in suede. These look pretty sturdy (at least, in the online pics). And the way the “Grant” sweeps some leather up in front of the toe is a nice touch. 30% off thanks to the CH F&F sale.
Mercanti Fiorentini Two-Tone Driver – $69.95
Hang out for a sale. Did just dip under $50 during their latest tiered code. Nice and soft leather, the penny strap across the top is a nice touch, and they’re lightweight without feeling flimsy. Toes do scuff up pretty quick, so be warned. Made in Brazil.
ZARA Ribbon Drivers – $89.00
What are those, Bally? Gucci? Helllllll no. Under $90 and ship free thanks to Zara. The contrast stitching is a little… loud, but Zara isn’t exactly a conservatively styled brand. Also available in sand.
Brooks Brothers Pebble Leather Driver – $117.60 ($168.00)
If Batman took the Batmobile out to the country for a nice 4-day weekend away from Gotham, this might be what he wore on his feet on the way out. They’re sensible yet sleek Dick…
The Sadly Out of Stock (for now?) Jack Erwin Dale Driver – $95.00
Ah man. They released their grey nubbed “Dale” clear back in December, but most of us were in boots… daily… at that point. Was just under a hundred bucks, made in Portugal, three shades o’ suede, and now that the sun is out and the roads are clear… it sure would have been nice to have picked up a pair of these over the holidays. But word is that they might be reintroducing this model? Maybe? Perhaps? More on Jack Erwin over here.
If you’re hitting the road this spring or summer, have a blast and drive safe. Meanwhile, feel free to make any additions to this list in the comments below.