Black Cap Toe Oxfords

**CMcG** · 14th September 11, 06:58 PM

So I'm in Hong Kong for school this year and decided to check out MacMillan of Rathdown's suggestion regarding bespoke shoes. I've found a place that makes custom shoes and actually fits my student budget! They apparently don't make a last for each customer but they do get good reviews HERE. They are called Zee's Leatherware & Shoes and they also have a facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ZeesLeatherCo

I'm looking to get a pair of black cap toe oxfords and am wondering what everyone has to say about the options available for this type of shoes. I'd be wearing them for dressy occasions with either a kilt or a suit, so I'm looking for something traditional but not necessarily conservative. The designs that have been attracting my eye are quite stripped down in terms of detailing. Also, I'll probably ask for a more rounded toe because of my wide feet and because I prefer that to a pointy or chiselled toe.

Here's my question: if you were having dress oxfords made for you, what would you ask for? Pictures of your own shoes or links to manufacturer's websites for examples would be much appreciated.

I'll post some pictures of the styles that I'm leaning towards but I won't include the brand or maker as I don't want to bias people's opinions.

These are the ones my lass likes best so far:

And the others that I also like:

**Father Bill** · 14th September 11, 07:02 PM

I'd be asking that they be made of topgrain, fine-grained hard finish leather in order to take one heckuva shine. I'd also be asking for four eyelets in order to use the military zig-zag lacing style.

**sydnie7** · 14th September 11, 07:16 PM

Second example and final example catch my eye.

**Mickey** · 14th September 11, 07:17 PM

I second the padre's notes. Get the best leather you can get that will require the least amount of wax to fill the pores. And get what your lady likes to see you in.

Personally, I don't like cap toes. They remind me of aviation/jump boots, so I can't really accept them as a dress look. That's MY weird hang up about them. However, if my wife were to give me these choices, I would pick #2 or #4. They have the more classic style of stitching. The rest have a look that is just a bit too... sleek, space age, want-to-be-trendy?... thing going on.

But then again, I'm not a fashion kind of guy. I let my wife pick out my clothes and shoes... then complain about the cost!

**CMcG** · 14th September 11, 07:21 PM

Originally Posted by Father Bill

I'd be asking that they be made of topgrain, fine-grained hard finish leather in order to take one heckuva shine. I'd also be asking for four eyelets in order to use the military zig-zag lacing style.

Good call on the leather because I want to be able to see my face in them once I finish shining them up!

As for the eyelets, must it be four or could it be just an even number? And could you explain that style of lacing or point me to one on the web?

**Spartan Tartan** · 14th September 11, 08:02 PM

All leather soles. I had a pair similar to those in #4 custom made for my wedding...the leather soles are great for dancing, not so much for traction. Then again, I got them to dance. I still wear them whenever I can, but they're a bit snug with kilt hose.

**Newfoundlander** · 14th September 11, 08:12 PM

Originally Posted by Father Bill

I'd be asking that they be made of topgrain, fine-grained hard finish leather in order to take one heckuva shine. I'd also be asking for four eyelets in order to use the military zig-zag lacing style.

Hit the nail on the head there Father, but may I also add:

I'd also ask to see what soles they offer, whether it's hard soles that'll make a "click" when you walk, or if they have rubber caps on the heels to soften the sound.

Myself personally, I enjoy the click, it sounds more classic to me. But that could be a throwback to wearing military shoes and the clicking cadence sound of marching.

**CMcG** · 14th September 11, 08:19 PM

Originally Posted by Spartan Tartan

All leather soles. I had a pair similar to those in #4 custom made for my wedding...the leather soles are great for dancing, not so much for traction. Then again, I got them to dance. I still wear them whenever I can, but they're a bit snug with kilt hose.

I see that Zee's offers Dainite soles as an option though I think their default is leather soles. Thinner = more formal, right?

And you've just reminded me that I should bring kilt hose when I go for a fitting... if they are made a bit bigger, I can put insoles in when I wear them with regular socks. Thanks!

**CMcG** · 14th September 11, 08:24 PM

Originally Posted by Newfoundlander

Hit the nail on the head there Father, but may I also add:

I'd also ask to see what soles they offer, whether it's hard soles that'll make a "click" when you walk, or if they have rubber caps on the heels to soften the sound.

Myself personally, I enjoy the click, it sounds more classic to me. But that could be a throwback to wearing military shoes and the clicking cadence sound of marching.

I think I can pretty much ask them to do whatever I want as far as construction goes. A rubber cap on the heel sounds like a good compromise between getting some traction and maintaining a thin profile on the sole...

**Mickey** · 14th September 11, 08:37 PM

Originally Posted by Newfoundlander

Myself personally, I enjoy the click, it sounds more classic to me. But that could be a throwback to wearing military shoes and the clicking cadence sound of marching.

I'm actually the opposite. I hate making noise when I walk. It drives me nuts if I can hear my footsteps on tile.

And YES, wear your hose to the fitting! Excellent point. My old dress brogues are fine with standard dress socks, but with hose, they are too tight to wear comfortaably.