Listen to Good Advice

Do you ever wish you listened to helpful advice earlier?

When it comes to shoes, the brown chukka is always recommended. Derek Guy calls them “useful and versatile.” Simon Crompton says “they can be worn with pretty much everything at the weekend. Doesn’t it seem an obvious choice for your next pair of shoes?

Stubbornly (and let’s face it, foolishly), I resisted. When I began my menswear journey and starting investing in quality footwear, I already followed menswear doctrine. My first pairs of shoes were a pair of black calf captors and suede brown semi-brogues. At this point, I was the expert, right? So I deviated from mainstream advice and began my own journey, which led me to pick up everything ranging from shell cordovan jumper boots, huaraches, even cowboy boots.

It wasn’t until 2019 when beloved San Francisco menswear store Unionmade good went out of business that I finally revisited chukkas. In their closeout sale, I found a brand new pair of Aldens that were aggressively priced that I couldn’t resist. Unlike most Alden chukka makeups, these were a special order from Unionmade and were on the Barrie last and featured black Goodyear-brand wedge soles, which made them optimal for inclement weather. However, I’ve worn them year-round, rain or shine.

Like Derek and Simon have mentioned, they’re casual enough to be worn with jeans but still look sharp paired with tailored clothes. And unlike my other boots, they’re easier to put on and take off, which make them convenient for traveling. In a post pandemic world, my other shoes sit jealous in their boxes while I constantly wear these.

While it’s great to explore things on your own, don’t be a goof like be and snub useful advice. If you’re going to purchase on pair of good shoes, I would implore you to follow this advice and get a pair of chukkas. They truly are worth it.