Allen Edmonds, the venerable American footwear brand, has been crafting quality shoes for 96 years. The Port Washington, Wisconsin-based company gained a loyal following after providing the standard-issue shoes and boots to the United States Army and Navy during World War II. After the soldiers and sailors returned home, they continued buying the brand. And that's because Allen Edmonds makes the kind of shoes you can have for decades—the ones you wear year after year and eventually repair rather than replace. Even today, the majority of their shoes are handcrafted at their headquarters in Port Washington, Wisconsin, using a 212-step production process.
But not everything's so old school. The company just unveiled a new branding and direction that updates its outlook for a younger generation. It's still a heritage brand and many of their designs remain classic and refined. But they're also embracing a fresh approach to more rugged, street-influenced styles while embracing new technologies, materials and performance innovations. The results are good looking shoes with plenty of well-engineered yet under-the-radar technical advancements that make for long-lasting footwear that is extremely comfortable. Herewith, a few favorites from the new lineup.
Vintage WWII inspired design with weatherproof leather and a bench welt for added stability
Normandy military boots,
$395 by Allen Edmonds
Surrey Chelsea boots,
$395 by Allen Edmonds
Crafted with a Sympatex German waterproof lining and a deep tread, all-terrain sole
Ranger storm trekker boot,
$495 by Allen Edmonds
Perugia suede Italian loafers,
$425 by Allen Edmonds
Perugia suede Italian loafers,
$425 by Allen Edmonds
Ultra lightweight, with a flexible "Speed Welt" outsole for all-day comfort
Bond Street cap-toe Oxford,
$425 by Allen Edmonds
New Collabs
The brand just launched "Artisans of Freedom," a lofty sounding group that celebrates independent American brands. They've produced specialty items for Allen Edmonds such as this handsome work tote by Korchmar, which has been crafting hardwearing bags for four generations in Naples, FL.
Fairfield tech tote,
$350 by Korchmar