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Table of Contents
Loafers were originally an antidote to overly stuffy dress shoes in the Fifties. Now they’re back, seen on everyone from Harry Styles to that stylish grandpa down the street.
At a Glance: The Best Loafers for Men
The Classics: G.H. Bass Larson Weejun Loafers
Rugged Pick: Dr. Martens Adrian Loafers
Venetian Loafers: Mr P. Suede Loafers
Minimal Pick: Jacques Solovière Lex Loafers
Funky Pick: Banana Republic Moc-Toe Loafer
The Icons: Gucci Horsebit Loafers
Luxe Pick: Loro Piana Sergio Walk Suede Loafers
Tassel Loafers: J. Crew Camden Loafers
Formal Loafers: Jos. A. Bank Belvedere Paolo Velvet Loafers
But, in 2025, the best loafers are much more than a playful alternative to dress shoes. The slip-ons can be worn with almost everything in your closet, from slacks to T-shirts, and look great doing it. Plus, we’re seeing every type of loafer back on the street, including classic penny loafers, chunky platform pairs, and slim Venetian styles.
In other words, they’ve become a much-needed option when tennis shoes are too relaxed and dress shoes are too stiff.
The Best Loafers for Men
If your closet is loafer-less — or you need a fresh pair — read on for some of the best loafers for men, including budget beaters and grail-worthy designer picks. We rounded up some top loafer brands, including selections for every style and budget.
G.H. Bass Larson Weejun Loafers
$175
Buy Now at G.H. Bass
The G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns are perhaps the best loafers around. They were the original loafers here in the U.S., and, luckily for us, G.H. Bass has maintained their authentic look and a reasonable price. The slip-ons are surprisingly comfortable and well-made, and they look even better with a few scuffs and creases.
Dr. Martens Adrian Loafers
$150
Buy Now at dr. Martens
Dr. Martens makes some of the best loafers around, and you get the brand’s famous durability to boot (er, loafer). One of our favorites is the Adrian tassel loafer, which boasts a chunky rubber sole and comes in several different colors and upper materials. Best of all, they’re one of the most affordable loafers on this list, starting at $150 (some are on sale right now for less than $100).
Mr P. Suede Loafers
$355
Buy Now at mr. porter
Venetian loafers are the sleek Italian cousin to the penny loafer, characterized by a lack of upper details. The result is something squarely in the recent “old money” or “quiet luxury” trend. One of our favorite examples of the wealthy European silhouette is this pair from Mr P. (Mr. Porter’s in-house label). They feature a soft suede upper and cushy rubber sole for padding around the Como villa — or your local cocktail bar.
Jacques Solovière Lex Loafers
$378
Buy Now at Todd Snyder
These minimal loafers from Parisian brand Jacques Solovière are at the top of my footwear wishlist right now. The grained leather, rubber sole, and smoking slipper-inspired look give them a more casual feel. I’d dress them down this summer with shorts, jeans, or chinos for relaxed office looks or elevated evening outfits.
Banana Republic Moc-Toe Loafer
$220
Buy Now at banana republic
We usually turn to Banana Republic for the classics, but the brand can get a little funky too. Case in point is these moc-toe loafers that feature a unique pinched front. This gives the shoes a more relaxed look, making them easy to pair with casual outfits
Gucci Horsebit Loafers
$1,050
Buy Now at saks fifth ave
They’re pricey, but Gucci loafers are a proper investment (I own a pair that my grandpa bought decades ago). Gucci’s equestrian-inspired Horsebit loafer is subtle but instantly recognizable, and the shoe’s overall silhouette nails the Seventies/Eighties vibe we’re seeing all over menswear right now.
Loro Piana Sergio Walk Suede Loafers
$1,125
Buy Now at saks fifth ave
Another high-end, investment-worthy pair of loafers is these Sergios from Loro Piana. The Italian label is famous for ultra-luxe yet understated pieces, and these loafers are a great example of their expertise. The darker color makes the loafers ideal for year-round wear, while the soft suede upper allows for easier pairing with casual outfits.
J. Crew Camden Loafers
$210
$248
15% off
Buy Now at J. Crew
If you’re looking for the old-money vibe that tassel loafers do better than any shoe, check out these Camden loafers from J. Crew. They’re very reasonably priced (despite their rich guy look), but deliver a ton of bang for your buck thanks to premium leather sourced from a renowned English tannery.
Jos. A. Bank Belvedere Paolo Velvet Loafers
Buy Now at jos. a. bank $125
If you’re dressing for a black-tie event, regular loafers usually won’t do. Instead, you’ll want formal loafers like these ones from Jos. A. Bank. They feature a suave velvet upper and make a unique, fun alternative to regular formal dress shoes. Plus, they’re very affordable at just $125.
Loafer Buying Guide
There are an overwhelming number of loafers out there. Here are some things to consider while choosing the right pair for your closet.
Material & Color: Most loafers will be either regular leather or suede. Traditional leather is usually more durable and versatile, but suede adds texture and personality to the shoe. As for color, we suggest starting with black or brown if these are your first loafers and then getting more adventurous with two-tone colorways or bright hues for your second pair.
Vamp: Loafer vamps — the uppermost part of the shoe — usually comes in one of three styles: penny, tassel, or horsebit. Penny loafers are the classic look with a panel across the top that usually has a gap in the middle (where people used to stash pennies, giving the shoe its name). Tassel loafers are more playful and typically work better with bold styles. Horsebits are in the middle, adding some flair but still mellow enough for simple, casual outfits.
Sole: The best loafers have a leather outsole, but rubber soles are great too, especially if you’re looking more casually. Choose whichever feels suitable for your style.
How to Wear Loafers
The ceiling for loafer-based outfits is higher than ever. We’ve seen people rocking loafers with shorts and tees, jeans and polos, and crisp suits. The best loafers — such as the Gucci Horsebits — can do it all with ease, while others are more style-specific. For example, suede loafers will be tricky to pull off with street-style outfits, while Dr. Martens might be too casual for some dressy attire. The bottom line, though? Have fun with it.
