Beckett Simonon Morgen Review – GAT-Style Sneakers In White

Style & Appearance

The Beckett Simonon Morgen Classic is inspired by German Army Trainer (GAT) shoes from the 70s. Back then, the army-commissioned sneakers were renowned for their comfort and durability.

So popular and versatile were the originals that various brands continued making their own interpretations of the design, including some designer shoe retailers. In the modern day, the white leather-on-gum look has become iconic. Subsequently, the GAT has come back into trend in full force.

With the Morgen Classics, Beckett Simonon has chosen to bring their high standards of construction to these classic shoes. In this regard, they do not disappoint.

The Morgen sneakers consist of a white full-grain leather upper, upon which various segments of repello suede leather are stitched. The sole is 100% natural rubber and possesses the muted gum color that seems to characterize higher-quality rubber. Inside, the entire lining is composed of soft, brown leather that is either vachetta or very similar to vachetta.

Those attentive to details will also appreciate the stitching on the outer surface. While functionally important for the shoe’s physical integrity, Beckett has also found a way to use these to augment the appeal of the overall design.

The laces, which are a stark white color with a glossy surface, further demonstrate the attention to detail. Finally, the bottom of the sole, although not often visible, also possesses the pattern encountered on the original GATs.

Fit & Comfort

Per the recommendation on Beckett Simonon’s online shop, I opted for a true-to-size pair of size 12 Morgen Classic sneakers. This size fits perfectly.

Upon delivery, I found the shoes to fit snugly yet not uncomfortably on my feet. This posed no issue for me; it’s to be expected with a new pair of leather-crafted shoes.

In fact, I’d venture to say I prefer a break-in period, given that it is during this time that the leather stretches and molds to the natural shape of the foot. Either way, after just a couple of wears, I could already feel the leather loosening and becoming much more supple.

The natural rubber sole also proved to be very comfortable and pliable, and the internal leather lining was quite smooth. Even during the break-in period, the soft lining prevented any heel bruise that often comes with new shoes.

I also found a critical detail that was not mentioned anywhere in Beckett Simonon Morgen Trainer’s online listing. Inside, the leather tongue is held in place by two elastic bands attached to the shoe’s interior.

As someone who struggles with the tongue deviating to one side on most sneakers, this small design choice makes all the difference and ensures an even more comfortable wear.

Lastly, I am looking forward to the leather’s appearance changing with increased wear. More specifically, I can see the suede segments burnishing and developing a lot of character. This is yet another favorable aspect of a pair of shoes crafted in great-quality leather, and one I am excited to experience with the Beckett Simonon GAT.

Dress Code & Formality

As far as formality for a pair of sneakers, you can probably guess that these should be mostly reserved for casual settings. That said, the refined nature of these makes it visibly obvious that Morgen Trainers are not just a regular shoe, and that they’re leagues ahead of other overpriced and overhyped sneakers.

Indeed, you shouldn’t devote too much effort to making these fit into a business casual outfit. There are so many possibilities for these in the casual range, that it’d be a waste to reserve them for that one time you’re able to wear them more formally.

Instead, the white-on-gum color and minimalist styling of the Morgen Trainers ensure that they’ll work with most colors and textures. As a result, they’ll be with you through all the seasons.

In fall and winter, they’ll fall right in line with jeans of any color, but they’re particularly alluring when paired with earth-tone chinos, such as olive or khaki. In the spring and summer, you’ll have a hard time finding a pair of shorts that these Trainers won’t augment even further.

Presentation & Value For Money

Even though the Morgen GATs are sneakers and most of Beckett Simonon’s shoes are formal, the presentation remains unchanged. Thus, the shoes were delivered in the standard BS-branded shoe box.

Inside, I found the pristine Morgens Trainers, along with a pair of white foam insoles, extra white laces, and black dust covers.

Initially, I did not need to use the insoles, but I can see how these may serve a purpose for those who tend to be in between sizes. Similarly, the laces remained in the box, though these will surely see some light when the first ones wear down.

Lastly, the dust covers. Although they may seem unimportant, I’ve found that there’s no better way to transport shoes in luggage than with these. They keep your clothes clean from dirty soles, and if anything spills inside your luggage, your favorite pair is much more likely to survive.

When it comes to value and substance for a price paid, it’s no secret that we here at Bespoke Unit consider Becket Simonon one of the best in this regard, whether discussing their outstanding dress shoes or even their leather dopp kits. The case with the Beckett Simonon Morgen GATs is no different.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find another pair of sneakers of this quality at a better price. While I can’t speak to the durability of the Morgen Classics yet, if they’re anything like the other Beckett Simonon shoes we’ve reviewed, they won’t disappoint.

This same bold value proposition put forth by Beckett Simonon led us to partner with them directly. Right now, you can get 20% off with our exclusive “BU20” code during checkout—bringing the final price of these sneakers to $135.20.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, I’m a massive fan of the Beckett Simonon Morgen Trainer. I had been searching for a white pair of minimalist sneakers, and they fit the bill perfectly.

The fact that they’re constructed of premium materials only makes me a bigger admirer. And as tends to happen with leather goods, I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing how these will evolve as I wear them more and more.

The GMTO (Group Made to Order) model that Beckett uses means you’ll have to wait a couple of months for your shoes to arrive. Yet, it also means that you’re able to get superior quality for a lower price, a trade-off I’ll take any day.

Lastly, aside from the competitive price, what made this a perfect deal for me was learning about Beckett’s manufacturing principles. They make their shoes by hand, via sustainable methods, and in fair conditions, a trifecta not often encountered in a fast-fashion world.

It is for these reasons, and everything mentioned above, that I’ll be confidently wearing my Morgen Trainers almost incessantly for the foreseeable future.

Further Reading

If you’re done with this review, check out our extensive collection of shoe content:

• Beckett Simonon Brand Overview
• Ultimate Guide to Men’s Sneakers by Bespoke Unit
• Reid Low Top Sneaker by Beckett Simonon Review
• The Official Guide to Business Casual
• Other Beckett Simonon Reviews