Point blank: you can never go wrong with a pair of penny loafers. The slip-on, no-fuss shoes are a seasonless wardrobe staple that can be worn with anything at any time. Slip them on for work, a cocktail party, or even casual daytime wear—the opportunities are endless.
Popularized in the 1930s, it's safe to say men's loafers will never go out of style thanks to their beloved qualities: durable construction, unmatched comfort, timeless appeal, and versatility. The modern-day loafers that made this Top 10 list offer those same qualities with details like moccasin toe stitching, supple leather, driver details, tassels, and cushioned footbeds.
With hundreds of iterations of the loafer on the shelves and even more to choose from online, it can be challenging to narrow down a pair—or three—to add to your shoe rotation. So, to make shopping for the best men's loafers simple, we turned to our data-backed algorithm to find and rank only the best ones the internet has to offer.
How We Found The Best Men's Loafers
Factoring in best-seller lists, social media buzz, trusted user reviews, editor recommendations, and more, our unbiased algorithm scoured the internet and landed on the following Top 10 loafers suited for every budget and style. Scroll ahead to shop the best men's loafers, from luxury designers to popular brands like Cole Haan, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, and Clarks.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsFebruary 3, 2023
Authors
Naomi Venerable is a writer based in Washington, DC. She received her degree in journalism from Howard University and is passionate about science-backed skincare and BIPOC-owned clothing brands. When she's not covering the latest beauty and fashion t
Written By:
Naomi Venerable
The Rankings
Best Overall
Our Score
Approved
4.9
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The iconic Gucci design and unmatched comfort make this pair of men’s loafers a staple worth investing in.
USER REVIEW
“There are no imitators to the classic and iconic Gucci 1953. The supple quality of the leather is instantly noticeable. They're extremely comfortable to wear, especially with the more updated cloth-lined interior. You can't go wrong, and there's simply no other loafer that defines elegance at the same level.”
Best Minimal
Our Score
Approved
4.8
User Reviews
2.4
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Made by artisans in Italy, the M.Gemi Filare is a favorite among loafer collectors due to its hand-burnished finish in luxe calf leather, grosgrain binding for blister-free wear, and stacked leather sole for extra durability.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Reviewers suggest going up half a size as these run slim and narrow.
Best Casual
Our Score
Approved
4.7
User Reviews
2.4
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Cole Haan reimagined what a loafer can do with the innovative design of the 4.ZERØGRAND. It has proprietary multi-layered foam cushioning that provides all-day comfort and a lightweight yet durable outsole that offers all the traction you need for everyday activities.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These loafers come in black and tan and are available in regular and wide-fit options.
Our Score
Approved
4.5
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Loved for its lasting leather quality and timeless design, the Double Gancini is a signature twist on the classic penny loafer.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These loafers fit true to size, so we recommend sticking to your normal shoe size.
Best Penny Loafer
Our Score
Approved
4.95
User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHO IT’S FOR
Modern-day loafer aficionados claim this pair sacrifices neither comfort nor style, thanks to its smooth leather lining and almond moc toe.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These loafers are part of Bloomingdale’s exclusive collection, which means you won’t find this design anywhere else.
Best For Everyday Wear
Our Score
Approved
3.6
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
A smooth leather lining and a durable rubber outsole make these classic penny loafers perfectly suited for everyday, easy styling.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This version is based on the brand’s original 1930s design and is made with premium leather uppers and a smooth leather lining that will soften with each wear.
Our Score
Approved
4.9
User Reviews
2.2
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Made from supple calfskin leather, these loafers fit snug for all-day comfort and cost a fraction of the price of similar high-end styles.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These loafers come in a variety of colors, including navy, brown, and tan.
Best Size Range
Our Score
Approved
4.1
User Reviews
2.7
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHO IT’S FOR
If you’re looking for a pair of durable loafers that will last for years to come, you’ve met your match. The Allen Edmonds loafers may be a splurge, but according to reviewers, the high-quality leather, unmatched comfort, and well-made construction are certainly worth it.
USER REVIEW
“For many years, all I have worn is Allen Edmons. I need a 9EE, and they are not the easiest to find. One of my friends introduced me to Allen Edmonds 30 years ago. This was my first penny loafer, and I love them. They fit great and feel good. I expected nothing less!"
Best Budget
Our Score
Approved
4.7
User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHO’S IT FOR
A classic take on the penny loafer, these leather slip-ons feature a classic driver sole that can be dressed up or down.
STYLE WITH
Pair these penny loafers with a pair of slacks or dark-wash denim for a classic look.
Best Cushion
Our Score
Approved
4.5
User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
WHAT IT DOES
This slip-on loafer has a sleek, moccasin silhouette that's equal parts stylish and comfortable. The rubber outsole provides long-term durability and enhanced shock absorption, while its OrthoLite insole offers plush cushioning.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This loafer comes in two neutral colors—black and dark tan—and is also available in wide-width sizes.
Authors
Naomi Venerable is a writer based in Washington, DC. She received her degree in journalism from Howard University and is passionate about science-backed skincare and BIPOC-owned clothing brands. When she's not covering the latest beauty and fashion t
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