Men's Black Suede Penny Loafers

These penny loafers are cut from soft black suede, the one suede color that behaves like a dress shoe, so they work with a suit on Monday and dark denim on Saturday. They are Goodyear welted on a leather sole and made to order in US sizes 5 to 18, in standard, narrow or wide fittings.

Why black suede is the dressiest suede

Most suede reads casual. Brown suggests the weekend and beige suggests summer. Black suede is different, because its dark, velvety surface sits close to polished black calf when seen from a few feet away. That means a black suede penny loafer can go with navy and charcoal tailoring, black evening wear and dark jeans alike. It is also softer and more comfortable from the first wear than stiff calf, and it hides creases well.

• Dark enough for suits, relaxed enough for denim.
• Soft and comfortable from day one.
• Hides creasing better than polished calf.

What makes a penny loafer

A penny loafer has a leather strap, called a saddle, stitched across the vamp with a slot cut into it. In the 1950s American students tucked a coin into that slot, which gave the shoe its name. It is different from a tassel loafer, which has leather tassels, and a horsebit loafer, which has a metal bar. The penny is the most versatile of the three and the one most men should own first.

Specifications

How this compares

Fit and sizing

Loafers run larger than lace ups, so most men take a little less than their lace up size. Order suede snug, because the nap gives slightly with wear. The loafer should grip your instep and heel with only slight lift as you walk. Check the men's shoe size guide and send us your measurements if you are between sizes; narrow and wide fittings are available through our made to order service.

What to wear with black suede penny loafers

• Navy or charcoal suits in wool flannel for the office.
• Black jeans or dark indigo denim with a knit.
• Gray flannel pants and a navy blazer for smart casual dinners.
• Black evening suits for parties and events.

Care

• Spray with a suede protector before the first wear.
• Brush with a suede brush after each wear, one direction only.
• No cream or wax on suede.
• Use a shoe horn rather than kicking the heel down.

Frequently asked questions

Can you wear black suede loafers with a suit?

Yes. Black suede is the dressiest suede color, and from a short distance it reads almost like polished black calf. Black suede penny loafers look sharp with navy, charcoal and black suits, especially in wool flannel or a textured cloth, and they are a stylish choice for evening events. For a funeral, black tie or a very conservative office, a black calf oxford is still the safer shoe. Wear dark socks that match your pants for a clean line. They are also a stylish choice for evening events.

What do you wear with black suede penny loafers?

Black suede penny loafers pair with more than most people expect. Wear them with a navy or charcoal suit, with gray flannel pants and a blazer, with black or dark indigo jeans, or with black chinos and a knit. They suit cooler, darker palettes best. A black suede or matte black leather belt keeps the textures consistent. Avoid pairing them with light summer colors such as cream linen, where brown suede usually looks better. The result is a look that works from office to weekend.

Are suede loafers good for everyday wear?

Yes, with a little care. Suede is soft and flexible, so it needs almost no breaking in and is comfortable for long days. Treat the loafers with a suede protector before the first wear, brush them after each wear and avoid heavy rain. On a Goodyear welted loafer the leather sole can be replaced when it wears, so a well kept pair lasts for years. Rotating with a second pair helps the suede recover between wears. A little care keeps the nap looking new for years.

How do I clean black suede shoes?

Brush black suede after each wear with a suede brush, working in one direction to lift dust and restore the nap. For marks, use a suede eraser gently, then brush again. For salt or water stains, dab lightly with a cloth dampened with water, let the shoes dry naturally away from heat, then brush. Never use cream or wax on suede. A suede renovating spray in black can refresh faded areas every few months. Regular brushing prevents most stains from setting.

Do penny loafers stretch over time?

A little. Leather and suede relax slightly with wear, especially across the instep, and the cork layer in a Goodyear welted loafer molds to the shape of your foot over the first few weeks. That is why a penny loafer should feel snug but not painful when new. If it feels roomy on day one, it will likely slip at the heel later. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller length and ask about a wider fitting. A correct fit on day one gives the best fit long term.

Can penny loafers be resoled?

These can. They are Goodyear welted, which means the leather outsole is stitched to a leather welt rather than glued directly to the upper. When the sole wears thin, a cobbler removes it and stitches on a new one while the suede upper stays untouched. Most mall brand loafers are cemented, so once the sole wears through, the whole shoe is finished. Resoling a welted pair costs a fraction of buying new. That makes them one of the best value loafers you can own.

Explore penny, tassel and bow styles in our men's leather loafers collection.