Many fashion experts consider both single and double monk strap shoes to be one of the most versatile and best dress shoes that a man can add to his wardrobe.
Their sophisticated yet restrained design gives these shoes a unique look compared to any other dress shoe.
Here are some of the best monk shoes currently available.
10 Considerations When Buying Monk Strap Shoes
When buying a pair of monk strap shoes, there are a few factors that you should consider:
1. Number of Straps
Monk shoes will have either a single or double strap paired with a clasp. Deciding on a single or double strap is a personal choice. Some may argue that double straps are a touch more casual given the additional hardware. However, the double strap monk shoe is the more popular of the two.
Related: Types of Monk Strap Shoes
2. Upper Material
You will find that many monk shoes will vary in their leather quality.
- Full and top grain leather: This is the highest quality leather and will last you several years. Additionally, with time, full and top grain leather will develop a velvet-like patina. Unfortunately, this leather variety may feel stiff and require a break-in period.
- Genuine leather: This is a cheap cut of leather that isn’t nearly as durable. Genuine leather is often used in budget-focused monk shoes that cost under $100. Expect a genuine leather monk shoe to last a year or two.
- Synthetic Leather: This leather type is good for animal-friendly buyers that are also on a budget. Shoes made with synthetic leather won’t last nearly as long, making them suitable for those who occasionally wear dress shoes.
- Suede: Suede is a type of leather that has been brushed to create a napped finish. This suede finish gives the shoe a luxurious look and feel, but it can be easily damaged if not taken care of correctly.
3. Welt Construction
How the upper attaches to the sole is another important consideration to make. Goodyear, Blake, and Bologna are the three most common types of welted construction. This type of welt can be brought to a cobbler for resoling.
Cemented soles are the weakest and least expensive method. The upper is glued to the sole. This type of construction is often found on cheap monk strap shoes and must be disposed of when the sole begins to wear down.
4. Footbed
As with any dress shoe, comfort should be a key factor when choosing a monk shoe. A good footbed will provide support and cushioning throughout the day – this can be important, especially if you are on your feet for long periods.
Some monk shoes will come with a removable footbed, which is always a nice feature to have as it allows you to use your custom orthotics if needed.
5. Sizes
Most monk shoes will come in sizes, from 6.5 to 15. However, some brands, including Allen Edmonds, Stacy Adams, and others, offer wide sizes. This can allow much greater comfort, especially for those with wider feet.
6. Color
You’ll find that most monk shoes are typically available in various colors that range from neutral colors to bold and bright shades.
If this is your first pair, we strongly recommend sticking to a traditional color: black, brown, tan, or burgundy. These colors can be worn with any outfit and help you decide whether monk shoes are right for you.
7. Country of Origin
Some countries, such as Spain, Italy, the United States, and others, are well-known for their high-quality leather craftsmanship when it comes to dress shoes. These monk shoes will typically be handmade using premium materials and can last for many years.
8. Intent
Monk shoes are widely considered more casual compared to oxford or derby shoes due to the lack of laces and the addition of clasps. However, monk shoes remain versatile and can be worn with a suit or casual clothes, including chinos and jeans.
9. Details
What truly sets one monk shoe apart from another is the details. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Brogue: Brogue monk shoes often come with intricate patterns and design details on the upper. This can give the shoe a more stylish look, but it can also be less versatile.
- Plain Toe: A plain toe monk shoe is a more classic and timeless option that can be worn with any outfit. This monk shoe style is perfect for men that want versatility and style without sacrificing comfort.
- Cap Toe: Monk shoes with a cap toe have an additional layer of leather on the toe box. This can give the shoe a unique look and feel but can also affect the shoe’s overall comfort.
- Clasp Material & Color: Companies will use different materials for the clasp on their monk shoes. The most common materials are brass and silver.
- Sole: The sole of the monk shoe is another important detail to consider. The most common sole materials are leather and rubber. Leather soles will often be of higher quality but can be more difficult to care for. Rubber soles provided better grip on slick surfaces such as water or ice.
10. Price
As with anything, you will find a wide range in prices for monk strap shoes. Budget-friendly options can be found for less than $100, while the high-quality options are well over $400.
Ultimately, the best investment monk shoe is one that fits your wardrobe and personal style preferences.
Quick Comparison
In the table below, we compare some of the best monk shoes against each other on the following features:
- Best For: What we recommend the shoe for.
- Straps: How many straps the monk shoe has.
- Upper: What material the upper is made of.
- Sole: What material the sole is made of; important if you want extra stability in slick conditions.
- Footbed: What type of footbed the shoe may have for added comfort and stability.
- Colors: How many colors the shoe is available in.
- Sizes: What sizes the shoe is available in
- Wide Sizes: Whether or not the shoe offers wide sizes.
- Welt: The type of welting used in the construction of the shoe.
- Country of Origin: Where the shoe was made.
| Shoe | Best For | Straps | Upper | Sole | Footbed | Colors | Sizes | Wide Sizes? | Welt Construction | Country of Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Edmonds St. John’s | Best Overall | Two | Calfskin | Leather | CustomCork | 3 | 6.5 to 15 | Yes | Bench | United States |
| Stacy Adams Desmond | Good Value | One | Leather | Synthetic | Memory Foam | 3 | 7 to 16 | Yes | Cemented | China |
| Paul Evans The Poitier | Upgrade Pick | Two | Calfskin | Leather | Leather | 5 | 5 to 16 | No | Blake | Italy |
| George Cleverley Thomas | Luxury | Two | Calfskin | Leather | Leather | 1 | 7 to 13 | No | Goodyear | England |
| Magnanni Marco II | Versatile | One | Leather | Leather | Leather | 3 | 7 to 15 | No | Bologna | Spain |
| Beckett Simonon Hoyt | Made to Order | Two | Full-grain Calfskin | Leather | Leather | 5 | 7 to 14 | No | Blake | Colombia |
| Meermin Monk Shoes | Full-Grain Leather | Two | Boxcalf | Leather | Leather | 6 | 4.5 to 15 | No | Goodyear | China & Spain |
| Bruno Marc Monk Strap Shoes | Affordable | Two | Synthetic | Rubber | Soft latex | 3 | 6.5 to 13 | No | Cemented | China |
| Clarks Men’s Tilden | Safe Choice | One | Leather | TPR | Ortholite | 1 | 7 to 13 | Yes | Cemented | India |
| Nunn Bush Newton | Brogue | One | Leather | Synthetic | Comfort Gel | 3 | 7 to 10.5 | Yes | Cemented | China |
| Vionic Spruce Harrison | Arch Support | One | Leather | Rubber | EVA Footbed | 2 | 8 to 12 | No | Cemented | China |
| Kenneth Cole REACTION Klay Monk Strap | No Frills | Two | Synthetic | Rubber | Extra cushion | 1 | 7 to 10 | No | Cemented | China |
| Thursday Boot Co. Saint | Most Comfortable | Two | Full-Grain Leather | Leather | Poron Anitmicrobrial Insole | 3 | 6 to 16 | No | Goodyear | Mexico |
| La Milano Men’s Monk Strap | Suede | Two | Suede | Leather | Resistance Foam | 7 | 7 to 13 | No | Blake | China |
Best Monk Strap Shoes of 2022 Reviewed
Here is our list of the best monk strap shoes of 2022, based on style, comfort, and price:
1. Allen Edmonds ‘St. Johns’ Double Monk Strap Shoe
Specifications:
- Upper: Calfskin
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: CustomCork
- Sizes: 6.5 to 15
- Wide Sizes: Yes
- Welt: Bench
The Allen Edmonds ‘St. Johns’ Double Monk Strap Shoe is a premium, top-quality double-strap monk shoe meticulously handcrafted in the United States using high-quality European calfskin leather. The durable and long-lasting upper will allow these shoes to easily last for years with proper care, and the single-layer leather sole adds a touch of refinement.
When the soles need to be refreshed, take them to your local cobbler – these shoes can be resoled, which is a testament to their craftsmanship and quality.
On the interior, the CustomCork footbed provides support and cushioning that’ll only get better with age as it molds to your feet over time. And for those with wider feet, don’t worry – Allen Edmonds offers this shoe in a wide range of widths from B to EEE.
At $395, these shoes are priced a bit higher than the average pair of monk strap shoes. But if you’re looking for an elegant and stylish pair of monks that are built to last a lifetime, the Allen Edmonds ‘St. Johns’ Double Monk Strap Shoe is worth a look.
There’s a reason that this company has been in existence for nearly a century – Allen Edmonds shoes are truly the best of the best, and this double strap monk shoe is no exception.
What Others Think
Generally, reviewers had positive things to say about the Allen Edmonds ‘St. Johns’ Double Monk Strap Shoe, with many men lauding the shoes’ style, comfort, and quality. However, a few reviewers did note that the shoes ran narrow and took some time to break in. So consider a wider width, if needed, when buying these shoes.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
Despite some initial sizing and breaking-in issues, the Allen Edmonds ‘St. Johns’ Double Monk Strap Shoe is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, elegant shoe that’ll last for years to come. Whether you’re a businessman or just someone who wants to look professional and put together, these shoes will do the trick.
Pros
- Premium, top-quality construction
- Durable and long-lasting upper
- Resolable for long-term wear and performance
Cons
- May require a bit of a breaking-in period
2. Stacy Adams Men’s Desmond Cap Toe Monk Strap Loafer
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather
- Straps: One
- Sole: Synthetic
- Footbed: Memory Foam
- Sizes: 7 to 16
- Wide Sizes: Yes
- Welt: Cemented
Massachusetts-based company Stacy Adams has been making high-quality shoes since 1875.
The Desmond Cap Toe Monk Strap Loafer is one of their most popular shoes, with a sleek and sophisticated design perfect for the office or any other professional environment.
Made from smooth leather, these shoes are extremely comfortable and flexible, with a memory foam footbed that molds to the shape of your feet over time. In short, it’ll feel like your feet are being hugged with every step.
With a price tag of $110, these shoes are a bit pricey – but if you’re looking for an elegant and professional pair of monk shoes that will last, they may be worth a look.
Color options are limited to black, cognac, and burgundy, but the shoes are available in a wide range of sizes, including regular and wide widths.
What Others Think
Overall, reviewers had positive things to say about these shoes from Stacy Adams. Men particularly loved the sleek design and that wide-width options were available. However, some reviewers noted that the shoes scuffed and creased very easily, making them look worn and old after only a few months of wear.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
While the shoe is a relatively no-frills option, it is sleek and well made, which makes it a great choice for those who are looking for professional monk shoes that provide good value.
Pros
- High-quality leather upper
- Memory foam footbed for extreme comfort
- Flexible and easy to break-in
- Available in both regular and wide widths
Cons
- Shoes may scuff and crease easily
- Limited color options
- Pricey
3. Paul Evans The Poitier Double Monk Strap Shoe
Specifications:
- Upper: Calfskin
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Leather
- Sizes: 5 to 16
- Wide Sizes: No
- Welt: Blake
New York City-based brand Paul Evans offers a range of premium, high-quality double monk strap shoes perfect for any occasion. Crafted from luxurious calfskin leather and featuring two straps, these shoes are elegant and sophisticated yet comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Available in sizes ranging from 5 to 16, these shoes should fit most people. However, Paul Evans does not offer wide widths, so those with wider feet may want to consider another brand.
However, color options are fairly good and include oxblood, Nero, Havana brown, chocolate, and brown.
The details on these shoes are impeccable, from the handcrafted construction to the Blake welted leather soles – they should easily last for years with proper care.
Think of these shoes as an investment – at $425, they’re certainly not cheap. But if you’re looking for a high-quality, stylish pair of double monk strap shoes that will last for years, Paul Evans is worth a look.
What Others Think
Some reviewers love these shoes and say they are incredibly comfortable and look great. Others note that the sizing can be a bit off for some people, although most rave about the quality and high level of craftsmanship. If you decide on these shoes, know they run a bit large (about one full size), so size down accordingly.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
If you have the discretionary income, the Paul Evans The Poitier Double Monk Strap Shoe is a terrific upgrade pick. The combination of quality materials, high-level craftsmanship, and stylish design make these shoes a great choice for those who want the best of the best.
Pros
- High-quality construction
- Elegant and sophisticated yet comfortable
- Numerous color options
Cons
- No wide widths available
- May be more expensive than other brands
4. George Cleverley Thomas Cap-Toe Leather Monk-Strap Shoes
Specifications:
- Upper: Calfskin
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Leather
- Sizes: 7 to 13
- Wide Sizes: No
- Welt: Goodyear
With customers including some of the biggest names in fashion, business, and sports, it’s clear that George Cleverley makes some of the best monk-strap shoes on the market.
The London-based brand has been crafting high-quality footwear since 1958 and still makes its fine shoes by hand using only the best materials in England.
Crafted from premium Italian leather and using Goodyear welt construction, the Thomas Cap-Toe Leather Monk-Strap Shoes are only reserved for those with deep pockets.
Silver hardware adorns the ankle strap, and a toe cap adds a touch of character to the otherwise traditional style.
Prices start at a whopping $700, but you’re paying for the luxury materials, excellent craftsmanship, and timeless style that George Cleverley is known for.
Unfortunately, sizes are limited (only 7-13 are available), and no wide widths are offered.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
If price is no object and you’re looking for the absolute best in high-quality, timeless monk strap shoes, then George Cleverley’s Thomas Cap-Toe Leather Monk-Strap Shoes are worth the investment.
Keep in mind that sizes and widths are limited, so you may have a hard time finding a perfectly fit pair. But if you can, these shoes are sure to impress and last for years.
Pros
- Made from premium Italian leather
- Goodyear welt construction
- Timeless and elegant design that never goes out of style
Cons
- The expensive price tag makes these reserved for the top 1%.
- Limited size options
5. Magnanni Marco II Monk Strap Shoe
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather
- Straps: One
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Leather
- Sizes: 7 to 15
- Wide Sizes: No
- Welt: Bologna
Founded in Spain in 1954 by Sebastian Blanco, Magnanni is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-quality men’s shoes. While they have since moved their headquarters to New Albany, OH, these expertly crafted Marco II Monk Strap Shoes continue to be made using traditional Bologna welt construction in Spain.
The Marco II Monk Strap Shoe is nothing short of a work of art.
These shoes feature a single strap and sleek silhouette, perfect for the modern gentleman who wants to make a statement.
Made from premium leather and available in three different colors, these shoes are comfortable and stylish, with prices starting at just $399.
Unlike other monk strap shoes we reviewed that feature a Goodyear welt or Blake stitch construction, Magnanni uses Bologna welt construction. However, this shouldn’t be a cause for concern as the shoes can still be easily resoled when they need to be by your local cobbler.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the company today is still family-owned and operated, just like it was when it first started. The current President is Pascual Blanco, grandson of founder Sebastian Blanco.
What Others Think
Generally, men were quite impressed with the quality, comfort, and style of these Marco II Monk Strap Shoes, awarding them 4.9 out of 5 stars on average. If there were any cause for complaints, some customers found that the size runs big, so be sure to check the sizing chart carefully before purchasing.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
The versatile design, high-quality craftsmanship, and reasonable price tag make Magnanni’s Marco II Monk Strap Shoe a great choice for guy that wants one shoe that can fill multiple footwear needs. Whether you want to dress it up for work or wear it casually on the weekends, these shoes will look great and deliver comfort day in and day out.
Pros
- Handcrafted from premium leather materials
- Sleek and stylish design that is perfect for the modern man
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Some customers find that the size runs big
6. Beckett Simonon Hoyt Monkstraps
Specifications:
- Upper: Full-grain Calfskin
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Leather
- Sizes: 7 to 14
- Wide Sizes: No
- Welt: Blake
Founded by childhood friends Andrés Niño and Nicholas Hurtado in 2012, Beckett Simonon is a Miami, FL-based company that designs and handcrafts shoes, belts, and other accessories using traditional methods.
The Hoyt Monkstraps, one of their best-selling products, is made using full-grain calfskin leather and features two straps for a modern and clean look.
With each purchase made to order, you can rest assured that you are receiving a high-quality shoe made with care and attention to detail.
Details throughout the shoe are remarkable; from the Blake welt construction to its five available colors and sizes ranging from 7 to 14, there is something for everyone.
Lastly, the monk strap buckles are made from solid brass, and the leather is sourced from Italy.
What Others Think
Men have given the Hoyt Monkstraps high marks, rating them 4.9 out of 5 stars. Compliments are often given to the shoes’ high quality, comfortable fit, and stylish design. However, the shoes have held up very well even on long-term durability tests.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
The fact that you can get a made-to-order shoe in the year 2022 is no small feat. It speaks volumes about the dedication that Beckett Simonon has to their craft.
Pros
- Handcrafted from premium Italian leather
- Features two monk straps for a modern look
- Available in 5 colors and a wide range of sizes
Cons
- Longer wait times
7. Meermin Monk Shoes
Specifications:
- Upper: Boxcalf
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Leather
- Sizes: 4.5 to 15
- Wide Sizes: No
- Welt: Goodyear
Founded in 2001, Meermin is a Spanish-based company that sells high-quality footwear directly to consumers. Their shoes are handcrafted, and Goodyear welted, using only the finest leather from France’s renowned Du Puy tannery. Their monk shoe has a sleek, sophisticated look with its single leather sole and full-grain calf lining.
Compared to other monk shoes on the market, such as those from Allen Edmonds, George Cleverley, and more, the Meermin dark brown monk shoe stands out for its excellent construction quality and stylish design.
Available in sizes 4.5 to 15 and in 6 different colors, you can get the perfect fit and look for any outfit.
What Others Think
Generally, people are very happy with their Meermin monk shoes. They love the quality of the materials and construction, as well as the stylish design. However, some people find the shoes to be stiff and uncomfortable, and they require a significant break-in period.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
If you want a full-grain leather monk shoe, then the Meermin monk shoes might be a good choice for you. However, they may not be the best choice if you are looking for a comfortable shoe right out of the box.
Pros
- Excellent construction quality
- Goodyear welted
- Sleek, sophisticated design
- Available in 6 colors and a wide range of sizes
Cons
- A bit more expensive than other monk shoes on the market
8. Bruno Marc Men’s Monk Strap Shoes
Specifications:
- Upper: Synthetic
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Rubber
- Footbed: Soft Latex
- Sizes: 6.5 to 13
- Welt: Cemented
Founded in 2013 by Brian Cao, Bruno Marc is a New York-based company that makes a wide range of men’s shoes, including oxfords, loafers, boots, casual shoes, and more.
What we particularly loved about their monk shoes was the price point – at only $50, they are a much more affordable option than many of the other monk shoes available on the market today.
These shoes are also extremely stylish with a 100% vegan leather upper and a rubber sole. However, some reviewers noted that the shoes had an odd smell and that the leather began to peel after just a few weeks of wear.
So if you only plan on wearing these monk shoes for special events or occasions, they may be a great option for you. But if you’re looking for something to wear daily, you may want to consider another option.
Furthermore, unlike other monk shoes with a Goodyear welt construction, these shoes are not as easy to resole – so keep that in mind when making your purchase.
With three different colors available and a wide range of sizes, a pair of monk shoes from Bruno Marc is perfect for everyone.
Lastly, you can pick up a pair of these shoes on Amazon, Walmart, or directly from the Bruno Marc website.
What Others Think
Men had mixed reactions to these monk shoes from Bruno Marc. Some people loved the style and comfort of the shoes, while others found them to be flimsy and poorly made. Additionally, one review mentioned that the shoes smelled strange when they arrived.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
These are among the best cheap monk shoes on the market today, so they may be a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and affordable pair of shoes that they can wear for special occasions.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Wide range of sizes and colors
- Stylish design
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- Odd smell when first worn
- Not as easy to resole as other monk shoes
- Leather may peel after just a few weeks of wear
9. Clarks Men’s Tilden Style Monk-Strap Loafer
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather
- Straps: One
- Sole: TPR
- Footbed: Ortholite
- Sizes: 7 to 13
- Welt: Cemented
Founded in 1825 by brothers Cyrus and James Clark in the English village of Street, Clarks is one of the world’s leading shoe brands. The company offers a wide range of footwear for men, women, and children in over 150 countries around the globe.
Their Tilden Style Monk-Strap Loafer for men is a popular choice for those looking for stylish yet comfortable footwear. Crafted from a leather upper with a TPR sole, the Tilden is available in brown and features a Clarks Ortholite footbed for added comfort.
While this is by no means a buy-it-for-life shoe, the sole is cemented, and the leather quality, while good, is not the best. The Tilden remains an excellent choice for those looking for a quality shoe at an affordable price.
What Others Think
Based on our qualitative research, the vast majority of users are happy with the Tilden. Compliments are often given to the shoe’s comfort, style, and value. However, there are a few about the utility of the monk strap, with some users finding them difficult to undo and redo – it’s more decorative than functional.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
We would recommend this shoe for men who want a trusted and established brand without spending a lot of money. In short, it’s a safe choice and a great entry-level option for those exploring the world of monk strap shoes.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Features a Clarks Ortholite footbed for added comfort
- Crafted from a leather upper with a TPR sole
Cons
- Cemented sole is not the most durable construction
- Slightly more difficult to undo and redo the monk strap than other types of shoes
10. Nunn Bush Men’s Newton Monk Strap
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather
- Straps: One
- Sole: Synthetic
- Footbed: Comfort Gel
- Sizes: 7 to 10.5
- Welt: Cemented
Milwaukee-based shoe brand Nunn Bush has been crafting quality footwear since 1912. Their Men’s Newton Monk Strap is a popular choice for those looking for a monk shoe with distinct brogue details. The single strap upper is made of smooth leather with cemented welt construction. The Newton also features Nunn Bush’s Comfort Gel footbed for all-day comfort.
Owned by the Wayco Group, Nunn Bush shares the same parent company as other popular brands, including Stacy Adams and Florsheim. Aggressively priced and available in wide sizes, the Newton can work for many men.
What Others Think
The most common complaint that men had about this shoe was sizing. Most found that the fit was a bit big, with some having to go down one full size to get the right fit. However, most were overall happy with their purchase.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
We recommend the Nunn Bush Men’s Newton Monk Strap for those looking for a monk shoe with distinct brogue details. The comfort gel footbed is a nice touch, making this shoe a great option for those on their feet all day.
Pros
- Distinct brogue details
- Comfort Gel footbed for all-day comfort
- Wide sizes available
Cons
- Sizing can be large
- Cemented welt construction is not the most durable
11. Vionic Men’s Spruce Harrison Leather Monk Strap Dress Shoes
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather
- Straps: One
- Sole: Rubber
- Footbed: EVA Footbed
- Sizes: 8 to 12
- Welt: Cemented
Founded by famed podiatrist Phillip Vasyli, Vionic is a brand that emphasizes arch support and foot health. Their Men’s Spruce Harrison Monk Strap Dress Shoe is a great option for those looking for a shoe that will provide all-day comfort.
With an EVA footbed and a rubber sole, this shoe will feel like you’re walking on air. It also features a comfortable leather upper that won’t feel too stiff or constricting.
The Harrison is available in two colors and sizes 8-12 but unfortunately does not come in wide sizes.
Design-wise these shoes are polarizing as the brogue styling is not for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe that won’t break the bank,
What Others Think
Men were generally very pleased with their purchase of the Harrison Monk Strap Dress Shoe. They found the shoe quite comfortable and loved that it came in two different color options. Men’s main complaint was that the shoe did not come in wide widths, so if you have a wider foot, you might want to consider another option.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
If you have flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or any other foot condition requiring arch support, the Vionic Men’s Harrison Monk Strap Dress Shoe is great. This shoe will provide all-day comfort with a comfortable EVA footbed and a rubber sole.
Pros
- Comfortable EVA footbed
- Available in two colors and sizes 8-12
- Rubber sole for added traction and support
Cons
- No wide sizes available
12. Kenneth Cole REACTION Men’s Klay Monk Strap Oxford
Specifications:
- Upper: Synthetic
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Rubber
- Footbed: Extra Cushion
- Sizes: 7 to 10
- Welt: Cemented
The Kenneth Cole REACTION line remains one of the most popular and trusted brands in men’s footwear. Their stellar Men’s Klay Monk Strap Oxford is designed for those who want a no-fuss stylish and comfortable shoe.
Made from synthetic materials, this shoe is vegan-friendly and durable, perfect for everyday wear. It also features a rubber sole and extra cushioning in the footbed for added comfort. The Klay is available in sizes 7-10 but, unfortunately, does not come in wide sizes. Color is also limited to just brown. Priced under $100, this is a great option for men who want basic and stylish footwear.
What Others Think
Overall, reviewers thought the Klay Monk Strap Oxford was a great shoe for the price. They loved the comfort and style of the shoe and found it to be an affordable option for their everyday wardrobe. Additionally, the shoe fits true to size, according to most reviewers.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
Men’s fashion enthusiasts will love the Kenneth Cole REACTION Klay Monk Strap. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a no-frills, timeless, affordable shoe.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Extra cushioning in the footbed
- Rubber sole for added traction and support
Cons
- No wide sizes available
- Limited color options
13. Thursday Boot Co. Saint Double Monk Dress Shoe
Specifications:
- Upper: Full-Grain Leather
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Poron Anitmicrobrial Insole
- Sizes: 6 to 16
- Welt: Goodyear
Founded in 2014 by Nolan Walsh and Wilson Connor, Thursday Boot Co. is a new name in men’s footwear, but one that has quickly gained popularity for its commitment to quality and comfort. The Saint Double Monk Dress Shoe is one of the brand’s most popular styles, and for a good reason.
Made from full-grain leather, this shoe is built to last. The leather sole ensures optimal traction and support, while the Poron antimicrobial insole delivers maximum comfort and odor control. Available in three colors and sizes 6-16, most men should find exactly the right fit for their needs. And at just $168, this shoe is also a great value.
Thursday Boot Co. can achieve this competitive price point by producing its shoes in Mexico, where labor and materials costs are lower than in the US.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, co-founder Nolan Walsh remains an active and engaged presence in the company serving as the CEO. When a co-founder remains involved, product quality usually remains high as they have a personal stake in the company’s success.
What Others Think
Men on popular forums such as Reddit and Styleforum are raving about the Thursday Boot Co. Saint Double Monk Dress Shoe, praising its comfort, quality construction, and affordable price.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
If you value comfort and quality, then the Thursday Boot Co. Saint Double Monk Dress Shoe is perfect. Whether heading to work, a weekend event, or a night out on the town, this shoe will have you looking and feeling your best.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Made from full-grain leather
Cons
- No wide sizes available
- Limited color options
14. La Milano Men’s Leather Double Monk Strap Loafer
Specifications:
- Upper: Leather & Suede
- Straps: Two
- Sole: Leather
- Footbed: Resistance Foam
- Sizes: 7 to 13
- Welt: Blake
The La Milano Men’s Leather Double Monk Strap Loafer is an excellent choice for those seeking a quality suede monk shoe at a fraction of the cost of other brands. This shoe features two straps, a leather and suede upper, along with a leather sole for a touch of sophistication. The footbed is made from resistance foam for added comfort, and the shoe is available in seven colors and sizes 7-13. While wide sizes are not available, most men should be able to find a good fit.
And at just $65, this shoe is an affordable and decent option for anyone in the market for a new monk shoe. While La Milan is a relatively unknown brand, the design of their shoes is comparable to higher-end brands like Clarks and Cole Haan.
What Others Think
Reviews of this monk shoe were generally positive, with many reviewers noting the quality of the shoe for the price. Compliments were given for the look of the shoe and the comfort. Some reviewers did note some construction issues, so if you are looking for a shoe to wear daily, pay close attention to the details should you decide to purchase this monk shoe.
Who We Think This Shoe is Best For
We recommend this shoe to anyone looking for a quality suede monk shoe at an affordable price. However, if you are looking for a shoe to wear daily, we recommend checking out other options as there have been some complaints about the quality of construction.
Pros
- Suede and leather upper will be sure to get compliments
- Available in several colors
Cons
- Construction issues reported by some reviewers