Italian men's shoes - elegance straight from Italy
Italian men's shoes are synonymous with elegance - slim silhouette, soft leather, Blake construction. Learn about the best brands, differences with British shoes and care rules.
What makes Italian shoes special?
Italian shoes are synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship and attention to detail. For centuries, Italy (especially the regions of Tuscany, Marche, Venice) has been the world center of luxury footwear production. Characteristic:
- Slim silhouette (elongated last)
- Soft leather (often without a stick for flexibility)
- Blake construction (lighter, more flexible)
- High heels (add height)
- Artistic finishes (patina, full awareness)
Philosophy: Comfort + style > durability. Italians value elegance here and now.
The most popular brands
Santoni
Premium luxury. Hand-finished, patina, unique comfort. Price: from EUR 600.
For whom: Connoisseurs, collectors, detail lovers.
Berluti
French, but Italian production. The famous "Venezia" patina. Icon of the shoe world.
Price: from EUR 1,000.
Salvatore Ferragamo
History + modernity. A classic of Italian shoemaking. Iconic models (Tramezza).
Price: 400–800 EUR.
Testoni
Bologna. Norwegian construction (more solid than Blake). Elegance + durability.
Price: EUR 500–900.
Fratelli Rossetti
A more accessible class. Moccasins, loafers - icons of casual elegance.
Price: 250-450 EUR.
Moreschi
High formal, tuxedo shoes. Formality of the highest order.
Price: EUR 350–600.
Italian shoe designs
Blake
The sole is sewn directly to the bottom of the upper. Light, flexible, elegant. Disadvantage: less waterproof, more difficult to repair.
Where: Most Italian formal footwear.
Blake Rapid
Blake + additional outsole. More durable than Blake, still light.
Where: Premium shoes (Santoni, Testoni).
Norwegian
External seam around the upper. Very durable, but visually less elegant.
Where: Testoni, casual shoes.
Goodyear Welt (less common)
British method, less popular in Italy. The most durable, but heavier.
Advantages and disadvantages of Italian footwear
Benefits:
- Exceptional elegance and slim silhouette
- Soft leather = comfort from day one
- Light (Blake construction)
- Artistic finishes (patina, colors)
- Brand prestige
Defects:
- High price (premium = 500+ EUR)
- Less durable than British shoes (Blake < Goodyear)
- Delicate (not for rain/snow without protection)
- Less suitable for everyday use in difficult conditions
Italian vs British shoes
Italian vs British shoes
| Characteristic | Italian | British |
|---|---|---|
| Silhouette | Slim, elongated | Massive, robusta |
| Construction | Blake (lightweight) | Goodyear Welt (heavy) |
| Durability | Mean | Very high |
| Style | Elegance, artistry | Tradition, functionality |
| Price | High | Medium-high |
Application: Italian = style and comfort. British = durability and practicality.
What to wear Italian shoes with?
Formal suit (wedding, gala)
Black whole cuts, cap-toe oxfords. High gloss, slim silhouette.
Brands: Santoni, Moreschi.
Business (office, meetings)
Brown derby, monk straps. Elegance without exaggeration.
Brands: Ferragamo, Testoni.
Smart casual (dinner, event)
Horsebit loafers, suede chukka, Chelsea boots.
Brands: Fratelli Rossetti, Santoni casual line.
Weekend
Driving moccasins, suede sneakers.
Brands: Tod's, Fratelli Rossetti.
How to care for Italian shoes?
1. Polish regularly
Premium creams (Saphir Médaille d'Or). Soft skin needs nourishment.
2. Always correct
After each wearing. Italian construction without a stud = needs support.
3. Avoid water
Blake is not waterproof. Rain = immediate drying + cream.
4. Rotation
Don't wear it every day. The skin must "rest" at least 24 hours.
5. Professional maintenance
Once a year: a shoemaker specializing in premium shoes.
