Goodyear welted cap toe Oxford in classic trim, made in England: the Loake 1880 Aldwych with leather sole is the purist's choice. Fully leather construction throughout, brass-nailed heel and closed Oxford lacing in standard F-width. For the man who values traditional elegance above all-weather practicality.
Loake 1880 Aldwych Black: Goodyear Welted Cap Toe Oxford with Leather Sole
Goodyear welted cap toe Oxford, fully leather construction, made in England: the Loake 1880 Aldwych with leather sole is the classic choice for the man who values traditional craftsmanship above all-weather practicality.
Leather sole or rubber sole: what is the difference?
The Aldwych is available in two sole configurations. The leather sole is the more traditional option: it moulds to the foot over time, provides a quieter and softer tread on smooth surfaces and is considered the more elegant choice among shoe enthusiasts. The Dainite rubber sole variant offers better grip in wet conditions and requires less maintenance. Those who care for their shoes properly and wear them primarily indoors or in dry weather will prefer the leather sole.
F-width: the classic silhouette
The Aldwych in F-width is built on Loake's standard Capital last and is designed for men with a normal-width foot. The F-width produces a slimmer, more formal silhouette than the G-width and is the traditional choice for business and evening wear.
Construction details
The heel of this model is built from stacked leather layers, traditionally secured with brass nails, with a rubber top piece for direct ground contact. The through-dyed calf leather upper and fully leather-lined interior meet the standards of the Loake 1880 line. Cork filling between the welt and outsole gradually moulds to the wearer's footbed.
Caring for a leather sole
A leather sole requires regular treatment with a leather sole oil to keep it supple and prevent cracking. We recommend Saphir Leather Sole Oil or Burgol Leather Sole Oil, both available at Langer & Messmer.
Technical Specifications
| Model: | Cap Toe Oxford |
| Lacing: | 5-eyelet, closed |
| Construction: | Goodyear welted, cork filling |
| Upper: | Through-dyed calf leather |
| Lining: | Full leather |
| Sole: | Leather sole |
| Heel: | Stacked leather with rubber top piece, brass nailed |
| Width: | F (standard width) |
| Last: | Capital |
| Made in: | England |
| Included: | Two flannel shoe bags, spare laces |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference from the rubber sole variant?
- The leather sole version is the more traditional and formal option. It moulds to the foot, suits dry indoor environments and formal occasions best, but requires regular sole oil treatment. The Dainite rubber sole variant is more resilient in wet conditions. The leather sole version also comes in standard F-width, while the rubber sole version is available in wide G-width.
- Can the Aldwych be resoled?
- Yes. Because it is Goodyear welted, the sole can be replaced by any skilled cobbler, whether leather or rubber. A well-maintained pair will outlast several resoles.
- How do I care for a leather sole?
- Treat the leather sole regularly with a sole oil to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Avoid wearing in wet conditions where possible, and allow the shoe to dry fully before the next wear if it does get damp.
- What is the significance of the brass-nailed heel?
- Brass nailing is a traditional English construction technique in which stacked leather layers are secured mechanically rather than just glued. It is a hallmark of classic shoemaking and a quality indicator, not a decorative feature.
- What occasions suit the leather sole Aldwych?
- Particularly well suited to formal evening occasions, indoor business settings and any situation calling for a classic, uncompromising appearance. For everyday wear in changeable weather, we recommend the Dainite rubber sole variant.
