A good pair of penny loafers are an essential staple in any closet. They are versatile, practical, and can be worn from winter to summer, and from work to a dinner outing with friends. However, finding the perfect pair of loafers can be a challenge. Some are too stiff for everyday wear, while others are too trendy to stand the test of time. But fear not, as Cole Haan’s Lux Pinch Penny Loafers ($158) have arrived to solve all your loafers woes. These shoes feature a classic penny silhouette, a style that has been around for centuries, in a soft-grain leather. As a long-time fan of Cole Haan shoes, I was excited to try out this style and see if it could earn a spot in my everyday shoe rotation. Read on for my full review of the Lux Pinch Penny Loafers.
What Makes a Good Pair of Loafers?
Living in New York City, I know the importance of proper footwear. My shoes need to keep up with my fast-paced lifestyle, enduring eight-plus miles a day as I go from the office, to the park, and even on bike rides through the streets. For me, comfort and practicality are key when it comes to shoes, but I also want them to be stylish and versatile enough to wear with a range of outfits. This often leaves me with a limited selection of shoes to choose from, beyond my trusty Salomon sneakers and my Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock sandals. However, the Lux Pinch Penny Loafers tick all the right boxes.
What I Love About the Lux Pinch Penny Loafers
At under $200, these Cole Haan loafers are surprisingly affordable for a pair made of real leather. Unlike my other leather loafers, which can be quite rigid, this pair is soft and flexible while still maintaining its structure. I was able to wear them comfortably all day long without any breaking-in period – no blisters or aching feet in sight.
To really put these loafers to the test, I wore them while biking from Williamsburg to Prospect Park, a roundtrip of about eight miles. Usually, I have to compromise on my outfit and opt for sneakers when biking, but not anymore. Cole Haan promises their loafers come with “3D Lux Comfort,” an innovative technology that provides shock absorption, arch support, and heel cushioning. As I stepped into the shoes, I could immediately feel the cushioning effect, which made the bike ride a much more comfortable experience. These loafers proved to be just as comfortable as my trusty running shoes, but with the added bonus of being a stylish addition to my outfit.
Apart from their comfort and fit, the timeless design of these loafers is what makes them truly stand out. The soft, shiny leather adds a touch of luxury, while the classic penny shape can easily be dressed up or down. I have worn these loafers with a long dress for a Friday night dinner and with a tennis skirt and an oversized T-shirt while running errands. No matter the occasion, I simply slip my feet into these loafers and wear them all day without any issues. It’s safe to say that these Cole Haan loafers have earned a top spot in my closet.
Things to Consider Before Buying These Loafers
According to the product listing, these loafers run small for those with narrow feet, so it is recommended to order a half size down. However, I found that the opposite was true for me. As a US women’s size seven with medium-width feet, I initially ordered a size seven, but they were too tight. I had to go up a half size, and they fit perfectly. Keep this in mind and order accordingly if you have wider feet, as these loafers only come in standard width sizes.
One other thing to note is that the soles of these loafers do not have a strong grip, particularly the upper part of the sole. I occasionally experienced my feet slipping while walking, especially on the ramp of the city’s street curbs. If you prefer more traction, you can always take these loafers to a cobbler and add a rubber grip to the sole.
Additional Details About the Loafers
The Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafers ($158) are available in four different colors. They come in women’s sizes ranging from 5 US to 11
