A classic British shoemaker since 1880, Loake focuses on quality and craftsmanship, with several shoe collections to cater for different customers. The Loake 1880 line is regarded as the apex of their offerings.
What is the difference between Loake 1880 and other Loake series:
Material Quality:
The Loake 1880 line employs high-quality calf leather in the upper of their shoes, as opposed to corrected grain or polished leather in other collections. As a result, the finished product is more luxurious and long-lasting.
Country of Origin:
All Loake 1880 shoes are handcrafted in England, showing the brand’s dedication to traditional workmanship and quality. Some other lines include models manufactured outside of the UK, such as in India, allowing for a lower pricing point.
Construction:
The Loake 1880 collection’s shoes are mostly made using Goodyear welted construction. This method is well-known for its resilience and capacity to re-sole the shoes, extending their lifespan. Other collections may utilize less lasting and more difficult to fix construction methods, such as cemented or Blake stitched.
In this review, I’m going to cover it in terms of its design and materials, fit and comfort, and durability.
Design and Materials
The Loake 1880 Edward is a classic country brogue shoe with a wingtip toe cap, perforated details and a five-eyelet lace-up closure. It is available in two colours: dark brown and tan burnished calf leathers. The leather is sourced from reputable tanneries and has a rich, natural and smooth finish.
The shoe features the ‘Victory’ rubber sole, which is a thick, sturdy and grippy sole that provides excellent traction and longevity. The sole is attached to the upper using the Goodyear welted construction, which is a traditional method that involves stitching a leather strip around the edge of the sole. This makes the shoe more durable, water-resistant and repairable.
The shoe is part of the Loake 1880 collection, which is the premium range of the brand that emulates the way they first manufactured their shoes more than 130 years ago. The shoes are made in England by skilled craftsmen using bench-made techniques and the finest materials.
The design of the shoe is elegant, refined and timeless. The brogue details add some personality and charm to the shoe, while the colours are versatile and easy to match with different outfits. The shoe has a sleek and streamlined silhouette that can flatter any foot shape.
Fit and Comfort
The Loake 1880 Edward comes in a G fit, which is a standard width for most men. The shoe runs true to size, so you can order your usual UK size. However, if you have wide feet or prefer a roomy fit, you might want to go up half a size.
The shoe has a comfortable leather lining and a padded leather insole that provide breathability and cushioning. The shoe also has a plastic heel stiffener that helps to maintain the shape and support of the heel. The shoe might feel stiff at first, but it will soften and mould to your feet after some wear.
The shoe has a generous toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally. The shoe also has a curved last that follows the shape of your foot. The shoe has a medium arch support that can accommodate most foot types. The shoe is easy to put on and take off thanks to the lace-up closure that allows you to adjust the tightness according to your preference. The shoe does not cause any blisters or rubbing on your feet, as long as you wear proper socks and break them in gradually.
Durability
The Loake 1880 Edward is a durable and well-made shoe that can last for years with proper care and maintenance. The leather upper is resistant to scratches and stains, and can develop a beautiful patina over time. The rubber sole is hard-wearing and can withstand various terrains and weather conditions. The Goodyear welted construction allows the sole to be replaced when worn out, extending the life of the shoe.
To keep the shoe in good condition, you should follow some basic steps such as cleaning it regularly with a damp cloth or a soft brush, applying some leather conditioner or cream to nourish and protect it, polishing it with some wax or cream to restore its shine and colour, and storing it in a cool and dry place with some cedar shoe trees or paper stuffing to preserve its shape.
The shoe is comparable to other premium country brogue shoes from brands like Crockett & Jones or Tricker’s, but at a lower price point. The shoe also comes with free express delivery and free returns within the UK.
The shoe is an investment piece that can serve you well for many occasions and seasons. The shoe can be paired with casual or smart casual outfits, such as jeans, chinos, cords or tweeds. The shoe can also be worn with suits or blazers for a more formal look. The shoe can add some character and flair to your wardrobe with its distinctive brogue style.
Let us now look at the distinctions between the 1880 Classic and the 1880 Country:
Style:
The 1880 Classic line is focused on refined, timeless designs that are appropriate for formal and business wear. Oxford, Derby, and brogue shoes are among the styles available. The 1880 Country line, on the other hand, has sturdy and rough designs, such as brogue boots, that are more suitable for casual wear or outdoor situations.
Material and Construction:
Both lines are made of high-quality calf leather and have Goodyear welted construction. The 1880 country line, on the other hand, frequently uses grain leathers and suedes, as well as more sturdy soles ideal for rural usage. These might be commando, Dainite, or other rubber soles, which provide greater durability and traction than the leather soles seen in the 1880 Classic line.
Purpose:
The 1880 Country series, as the name implies, is intended to resist more harsh use and outdoor use, whilst the 1880 Classic collection focuses on subtle elegance ideal for formal or business situations.
Conclusion
The Loake 1880 Edward is a great option for men who are looking for a premium country brogue shoe that combines tradition and innovation. The shoe offers a classic design, high-quality materials, comfortable fit, durable construction. The shoe is versatile, stylish and practical for both outdoor and indoor wear.
If you are interested in buying this shoe or learning more about it, you have two colors to choose from Dark Brown or Tan:
If you have any questions or comments about this shoe or any other Loake product, feel free to leave them below. You can also browse other models from the Loake 1880 collection here.
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