elegant above, durable below
In an era where versatility reigns supreme, dress shoes with commando soles have emerged to combine classic elegance with modern practicality. These sophisticated, rugged additions to your footwear collection offer something special - the ability to maintain a professional appearance while withstanding whatever the day throws at you.
Commando Soles: A Step Forward
The commando sole, with its distinctive rubber lug pattern, was originally designed for military use. When combined with a fine dress shoe, it can be a sophisticated choice for the urban professional who refuses to compromise between style and functionality. These robust soles offer:
Superior Grip: The deep lug pattern provides exceptional traction on wet pavements and challenging surfaces
Enhanced Durability: Thick rubber soles are resilient and able to take a beating
All-Weather Versatility: Perfect for transitioning from office to bitter weather
Longevity: Made with our usual Goodyear construction, no compromises are made for commando styles. Each pair can be resoled just like a traditional leather-soled pair
Continued Comfort: With the same cork-lined footbed as our leather-soled styles, commando soled shoes keep you on your feet all day
STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE
At J.FitzPatrick Footwear, we understand that modern gent needs shoes that work as hard as he does, which is why we've been expanding our collection of dress shoes (and boots) on commando soles.
These styles maintain the elegant silhouettes you know and love from our existing fine designs, while incorporating an extra measure of practicality. Whether it's our refined oxfords, playful loafers, or hardy boots, the addition of a commando sole doesn't detract from the shoe's elegances; it enhances its versatility.
model highlight: the "whittier"
A wholecut oxford at heart, the Whittier and its hand-finished floating stitching details pair beautifully with the added heft of a commando sole
when should you "go commando"?
These versatile soles are perfect for:
- Business professionals in urban environments
- Frequent travelers who pack light
- Those who often encounter varying weather conditions
- Anyone seeking a better balance of style and functionality
Styling Your Commando Sole Dress Shoes
Despite their robust nature, commando sole dress shoes nevertheless remain dress shoes, and can be styled for various occasions:
- Business Attire: Pair with wool suits for a contemporary look
- Smart Casual: Perfect with dark denim and a blazer
- Weekend Wear: Elevate casual outfits while maintaining practicality, and without feeling like you're dressing "up"
Care and Maintenance
If you can care for a classic leather-soled shoe, a commando-soled pair will be a cake walk. To keep your commando pairs in prime condition:
- Clean the lugs of any buildup of dirt or debris
- Store with shoe trees to maintain the shape of the shoe's upper
- Allow shoes to dry naturally and away from direct heat
- Keep the upper leather clean from dirt, and shine polish as needed
Investment Value
Like everything we make at J.Fitzpatrick, our "commando style" models are built to last. Combining premium European leather and suede uppers, and Goodyear welt construction, these shoes represent a smart investment in both style and practicality.
don't forget the classics...
commando sole boots
Commando soles obviously have their origin in rugged wear, and rugged means boots. For your toughest outfits, stick with these heavy hitting styles
strap boots
An extra high boot shaft and a buckled leather strap add heft to the "Colville's" fine silhouette
Colville - Black Scotch Grain
alpine boots
Inspired by alpine style boots, our "Snoqualmie" is made on dress shoe lasts to bring this handsome style from the ends of the earth, back to the city
Snoqualmie - Rugged Brown
Chelsea boots
The wholecut, slip-on design of our popular chelsea boot enjoys a tough twist with this rugged colorway, broader last, and of course a commando sole
Alki - Brown WaxyFinal Thoughts
Commando sole dress shoes are a newer step in the evolution of classical footwear. The "true classics" may never give up their throne, but these "commando styles" are a testament to how traditional design can adapt to modern needs -- without sacrificing elegance. For any discerning gent who demands both style and substance, they're an invaluable addition to his shoe collection. If you're ready to nab a pair of your own, shop our commando soled collection below.
shop the collection
Commando Style
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