Penny loafers

Here you’ll find high quality penny loafers from Skolyx, Yanko, TLB Mallorca and Swims. Penny loafers are one of the most classic loafer models, characterised by the strap running over the instep with a smaller opening in the middle. The model combines timeless elegance with excellent comfort and ease of use, making it equally suitable for tailored outfits as for more casual wear.

Penny loafers are especially popular during spring and summer, worn with everything from chinos and tailored shorts to lightweight trousers and unstructured tailoring. At the same time, a darker and dressier penny loafer in smooth leather works perfectly all year round, even with business attire.

All Goodyear welted shoes from Skolyx, Yanko and TLB Mallorca are manufactured in Spain, in high quality leathers like full grain calf leather, calf suede , embossed grain or Shell cordovan. They are built to be easily resoleable. We also offer more relaxed and lightweight penny loafers in Blake stitched and cemented constructions.

What are penny loafers?

Penny loafers are a type of loafer, meaning a slip-on shoe without laces. What defines the penny loafer is the strap that runs over the instep of the shoe, with a small cut-out in the middle. Originally, the strap was introduced to add stability to the fit, but over time it became the model’s signature design detail.

Today, penny loafers are among the most versatile shoe models available. A dark brown or black pair in smooth leather can be worn with tailoring and more formal outfits, while suede versions in lighter shades are ideal for spring and summer wardrobes.

Why are they called penny loafers?

The name comes from the United States, where the model became especially popular among high school and college students during the mid-20th century. According to the well-known story, students used to place a penny coin in the opening of the strap, supposedly to have money ready for emergency phone calls. Whether fully true or not, the story stuck, and so did the name penny loafer.

How should penny loafers fit?

Since loafers have no laces or buckles to adjust the fit, getting the sizing right is especially important. Penny loafers should feel slightly snug when brand new, more fitted than lace-up shoes, but never uncomfortable or painfully tight.

It’s common to go down half a size compared to lace-up shoes or monk straps, depending on the last and how the shoe fits your foot.

How do I avoid heel slip in penny loafers?

Some heel slip is common when loafers are new, especially if the fit is slightly generous. One of the simplest and most effective solutions is to use a suede tongue pad attached underneath the tongue area, helping to secure the foot and reduce movement.

If needed, this can be complemented with a thin leather insole or a soft suede heel grip to further improve the fit.