Now, in the process of doing this, I’m also going through my shoes trying to streamline what I have. I noticed that I only have a pair of driving moccasins (or you can call them driving mocs) and they’ve seen better days. They’re not too bad, but I used to have several pair in a few different colors. Since the weather is getting warmer and summer is almost here, I want to pick up another pair. That sparked the idea for this article. Let’s do a brief rundown of what a driver actually is, when you should wear them, when you shouldn’t and why I think they’re the perfect casual summer shoe.
What is a driving moccasin?
First of all, driving mocs are usually made of soft flexible leather like these that I have from Nordstrom, suede or some sort of soft synthetic leather. It’s a modern version of the traditional native American moccasin. They typically have rubber tread pads or small rubber nubs on the sole extending up the back of the heel similar to a racing driver’s shoe. The pads are added to the sole to increase longevity while still maintaining comfort and flexibility and also pedal grip while driving. I think brown is the most versatile color, but if black is your thing, take a look at these!
They come in a lot of different styles, but personally, I’m drawn to the tie version and the horse bit style. You can also get them plain, penny, tassel or even with buckles. Think of this shoe as a better option than your flip-flops or sandals. If you need to run out somewhere and you feel yourself reaching for flip-flops, reach for your drivers instead. Keep in mind, these are a casual shoe, especially in a suede or synthetic. And they look their absolute best either sockless or with no-show socks, especially on warm summer days.
Perhaps the perfect summer shoe.
Drivers are incredibly versatile. They look good with jeans, chinos and also shorts. In fact, they might be the perfect shoe to wear with shorts because of their slim silhouette. They’re not as chunky as some sneakers might be, but they’re also not as dressy as a penny loafer. They fit a really nice position of being nice, but not too nice. Think about having lunch outside somewhere or a weekend outing with your spouse or friends on a warm summer day. This is the perfect setting for a driving moc.
Wearing jeans or chino’s is also fine, but since the shoe has a slim silhouette and a short vamp, it’s important that your pant legs aren’t too long or too wide at the foot opening. Otherwise, it just swallows up your shoe and ruins the nice clean, sleek aesthetic this type of shoe gives you. Keeping your pant legs slim with minimal break is the ideal clean and classic look. The same rules apply with a loafer.
Personally, I wouldn’t worry too much about trying to dress them up. After all, this is more of a casual shoe. You can find them in shiny leather like a standard dress shoe, but I feel they look best in a more casual finish. I also wouldn’t wear them to a wedding, when wearing a suit, or to any nicer event. Keep it casual and you’ll be fine. I’m gonna be on the hunt for another pair in either a blue or burgundy, because it’s totally acceptable to go a little bold with a driver. However, if you’re just getting your first pair, I might suggest going with a nice versatile medium brown. Once I find something, I’ll post it on my Instagram so be sure you’re following along over there.
One more thing gentlemen, the entire reason this channel exists is to prove that it’s never too late and you’re never too old to make a change or start something new. So if you’re not yet a subscriber to my YouTube channel, please consider it. Because I’m here twice a week with new videos that surround men’s lifestyle topics for grownups. Until I see you again, live well, stay healthy, and we’ll see you soon.
My Poshmark – https://posh.mk/adLSKhAqz6
The driving moccasins I’m wearing – https://go.magik.ly/ml/wvf1/
Another Driving Moc option in black – https://go.magik.ly/ml/x5gw/
A nice one in blue – https://go.magik.ly/ml/x5gz/
Something a little more fancy – https://go.magik.ly/ml/x5h6/
