In Review: The Banana Republic “Paul” Penny Loafer

Banana Republic “Paul” Penny Loafer in Cognac – $148.00

NOTE: GAP inc. cardholders should be able to get these for $88.80 with the code BRSPRING. Finger’s crossed that this 40% off deal goes live to the general public in a couple of days.

Not bad Banana Republic. Not bad at all. Once again, very impressive.

Just like their Chelsea Boots, and their Single Monks before that, these “Paul” penny loafers combine soft, flexible leather that doesn’t look cheap, with a sleek but not pointy shape, and come in a few desirable, versatile shades of leather.

And it’s hard to ask for more than that, considering these should drop to the low $100s (if not much cheaper) with sales and codes.

Leather has great depth. Soft and flexible right from the start.

Noticeably better looking and feeling than the ol’ Joseph Abboud “Jared” penny loafer, and these BR loafers should easily fill the same niche that the Jared did. Penny loafers don’t have to look like stumpy Grandpa shoes. Sleek penny loafers, with a more aerodynamic shape and a vamp that comes a bit farther up your foot can look great in tons of situations. They’re more dressed up than a boat shoe, but doesn’t go all the way to monk straps or a lace-up. They’re perfect for summer weddings or other warm weather get-togethers where shorts aren’t gonna look right, but lightweight pants will fit right in. They’ll also do just fine with jeans in the near-term.

The vamp (part that covers the top of your foot) comes up far enough to give them a sleek shape.

The exterior leather is surprisingly nice for the price they’ll likely go for with the unending parade of BR codes. It’s pliable and soft right out of the box, and the marbling/depth is impressive on this “cognac” pair. Much better looking than a flat, lifeless shade of tan that much cheaper shoes can sometimes sport. The ridge of the apron toe stitch is stained a slightly darker shade, but it doesn’t contrast enough to take away from the overall look. Coulda done without it, but it doesn’t matter one way or another.

The interior is lined with leather as well, which is also soft. Velvety stuff in there, and the cushioning is nice and squishy. Sole is a smooth synthetic, so be careful on carpeted surfaces and wet sidewalks to start.

For sizing, these probably run a half-size large. And that’s a big deal if you plan on wearing these sockless in the warm weather. I’d strongly consider sizing down, since it feels like these might stretch a bit. And wear socks the first few times, just to make sure you don’t chew up your bare feet. Again, the interior lining is soft, but since these are true slip ons, and have no buckles or anything else to cinch down, slopping about (especially at the heel) might lead to blood. BLOOD I TELL YOU.

Made in China. $148 to start without codes or sales. Also offered in a lighter “Tan” as well as a dark “Fudge” which appears to be dark brown (maybe with some dark red in it).