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Rugged Work Shoes

Douglas

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I'm in search of at least one, probably two pairs of rugged, everyday work shoes.

Requirements:

- Rubber soles. I work in manufacturing and I am on a shop floor that can have oil, grease, metal chips, or other debris on it every single day. Crepe is OK, but I'm really digging commando soles these days.
- Chunkier last. I'm a bigger dude, so overly svelte shoes just aren't proportioned well for me.
- Must be shoes. I already have too many chukkas and several pairs of other rubber-soled boots. I'm looking for something to get me through summer.
- No suede. It seems the best looking versions of what I'm looking for are all suede, generally in lighter hues. I need something a bit more bulletproof.
- To be worn in a business casual environment - even a few steps short of that. Button-down shirts, slacks or decent khakis. Not needed for suit wear. The occasional sportcoat is worn.

I tend to like the look of English shoes and I want something decent. I could just go buy a pair of Eccos or Rockports like everyone else but I am looking for something a bit more fun than that.

These Alden walkers are along the right lines:

700


Any and all suggestions appreciated.
 

OldSchoolDagger

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If you like that look then just type "brown English brogues" into a google image search. This will at least give you a visual catalog, so to speak, that will help you discover and refine your choices. You know, not to swank but work worthy: Dr. Martens makes excellent factory-floor-worthy shoes and their tassel loafers were just stunning.

Check out their new catalog as I think you will find something you won't mind getting dirty without the Alden price tag.
 

fredrikkm

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Trickers ilkley comes to mind.

I also like a lot of the shoes in the Alfred Sargent Country Line, but I don't think you'll find any of the models with commando soles. Worth checking out though.
 

JLibourel

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Allen Edmonds Benton or Ashton might be good candidates--dressy, yet very comfortable.
 

Septimus

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How nice do you want them to be, and how much do you want to spend?

Florsheim Havilands would fit the bill, and they're not expensive. (Check Sierra Trading Post.)
 

dfagdfsh

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Look at Sanders, McNairy and Grenson. Lots of commando/vibram soles on chunky English lasts
 

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