The black Chester is the heavier of the two we stock, and the difference is underfoot: Loake build this one on a double leather sole. Two layers of leather instead of one make the shoe stiffer out of the box and noticeably more substantial in the hand, and they raise it off wet ground in a way a single sole does not. It takes longer to break in. It also lasts longer before it needs the first resole.
The upper is burnished black calf. Burnishing puts darker tones into the toe and heel by hand, and on black the effect is subtle rather than obvious, showing up as depth at the extremities rather than as visible contrast. Polished properly, the toe will hold a real shine.
Loake describe the Chester as a country brogue, which is the right way to think about it. The punching runs along the seams and through the toe cap medallion, and the shoe sits on Loake's 024 last, one of only two country lasts they currently use. The 024 is deliberately roomier than their city shapes so that a thicker sock fits without cramping, and its toe is rounded rather than tapered.
Loake have made shoes in Kettering since 1880 and the business is still run by the fifth generation of the family.
You can ask any question about this product.
Our specialists will answer you shortly!
The black Chester is the heavier of the two we stock, and the difference is underfoot: Loake build this one on a double leather sole. Two layers of leather instead of one make the shoe stiffer out of the box and noticeably more substantial in the hand, and they raise it off wet ground in a way a single sole does not. It takes longer to break in. It also lasts longer before it needs the first resole.
The upper is burnished black calf. Burnishing puts darker tones into the toe and heel by hand, and on black the effect is subtle rather than obvious, showing up as depth at the extremities rather than as visible contrast. Polished properly, the toe will hold a real shine.
Loake describe the Chester as a country brogue, which is the right way to think about it. The punching runs along the seams and through the toe cap medallion, and the shoe sits on Loake's 024 last, one of only two country lasts they currently use. The 024 is deliberately roomier than their city shapes so that a thicker sock fits without cramping, and its toe is rounded rather than tapered.
Loake have made shoes in Kettering since 1880 and the business is still run by the fifth generation of the family.
You can ask any question about this product.
Our specialists will answer you shortly!
