The bit loafer is a type of shoe that does not have laces. Instead, it has a metal band across the top (“the vamp”) of the shoe.
This style of shoe was invented by Gucci in the 1960s and has since become known as a “Gucci loafer.” The bit loafer is generally made from leather and is a slip-on style, meaning it does not have a fastener such as a buckle or laces.
Bit loafers can be worn by both men and women and are typically considered to be casual shoes, however, depending on their construction and the materials used, they can form part of a more formal ensemble.
On this page, we will cover:
Finding The Best Men’s Bit Loafer Styles On Zappos?
Below, you will find quicklinks to our favorite bit loafer styles available on Zappos that we’ve featured on this page. If you’re looking for another style of shoes and prefer shopping with Zappos due to the convenience and amicable customer service, then make sure to visit some of our other related guides below.
What Are Bit Loafers?
Bit loafers are a popular style of shoe that is characterized not only by their lack of laces or other fasteners but by a metal “bit” that spans the top of the shoe. This bit is usually decorative, but can also serve a functional purpose by helping to keep the shoe snug on the foot.
The bit loafer style was first popularized by Gucci in the 1960s and has since become synonymous with the luxury fashion brand. However, this style of shoe is now produced by many different designers and can be found in a range of price points and formalities.
Bit loafers are generally made from leather, although some synthetic materials are also used in more casual styles.
Where Does The Name Originate From?
One theory is that the name “bit loafer” comes from the metal band across the top of the shoe, which resembles a horse’s bit. This may be why these shoes are often associated with equestrian and country styles. Alternatively, some have speculated that the term is simply a shortened version of “slip-on loafers.”
Whatever the origin, it seems clear that the bit loafer has become an iconic fashion symbol for men and women alike. Whether you’re looking for a dressy or casual look, this versatile style is sure to add an elegant touch to any outfit.
How Should Men Style Bit Loafers?
Bit loafers can be styled in a variety of ways to suit any warrobe.
For a more casual look, try pairing them with light jeans or chinos. If you’re looking to dress up your bit loafers, consider teaming them with dark-toned trousers. And for a truly dapper look, pair your bit loafers with a tailored suit. No matter how you style them, bit loafers are sure to add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.
Always keep in mind that the materials from which a pair of bit loafers is crafted can influence their formality. For instance, if you have a pair of loafers crafted from premium Chromexcel leather, you’ll be able to get away wearing this in more formal settings such as business casual.
On the other hand, less formal materials such as suede or synthetic materials will push the shoes into the casual realm. This doesn’t mean that they won’t look good on your fit, it simply means that you should be mindful that every shoe style has their ideal setting.
Is It A Priority To Own A Pair Of Bit Loafers?
While there is no definitive answer, we think bit loafers are a great investment for any fashion-savvy man. Not only are they versatile and stylish, but they’re also comfortable and easy to slip on and off.
If you’re looking for a shoe that will take your outfits to the next level, bit loafers should be near the top of your list, though not necessarily in one of the top spots. This is because other styles like oxfords or penny loafers are more common and likely to fit into more outfits. Nevertheless, the bit loafer poses a unique look that, when properly matched, can take an ensemble over the top.
Shopping For Bit Loafers On Zappos
While Zappos has many categories for their shoes, they’ve yet to implement an individual bit loafer category. Nevertheless, it’s quite easy to filter the site’s inventory by typing “men’s bit loafers” into the search bar on the home page.
Alternatively, use this link to get there directly. Once you’re on the search results page, use the filters on the left side of the page to narrow down the results. If you’re not one to spend too much time picking out a pair, then consider the phenomenal bit loafers that we highlight next.
They’re all available for sale on Zappos which means you get free 2-day shipping and free returns, among the other perks that come with shopping on Zappos.
- Color: Black
- Material: Calfskin Leather
- Pricing: $650 [Buy From Zappos]
With several styles of bit loafers to choose from, Bally is an elegant premium option. Its understated but unquestionably superior leather upper makes the Wesper bit loafer one of our favorites. With a leather lining and lightly-padded leather insole, you won’t sacrifice comfort for style, either.
- Color: Black, Cognac, Taupe
- Material: Clafskin Leather & Suede
- Pricing: $159 [Buy Now On Zappos]
An elegant yet affordable bit loafer, Kenneth Cole has opted for a bicycle toe with light use of moccasin stitching. Perhaps most notably, they’ve also implemented a driver-style sole for this shoe. And while mixing style in such a manner often goes wrong, Kenneth Cole’s attempt results in an attractive and comfortable bit loafer.
The metal buckle on both the brown and black pair has a stunning vintage brass finish, which accentuates the leather’s rich patina. Alternatively, the light suede option has a contrasting black style also demonstrates the brand’s keen eye for alluring shoe designs.
- Colors: Black, Cognac
- Material: Full-Grain Leather
- Pricing: $128.95 [Buy On Zappos]
Carlos Santana’s line of shoes is one of our favorites; perhaps you’ve noticed if you’ve browsed some of our other shoe content.
Besides their stylish curves and unique designs, they’re also made from full-grain leather and a Goodyear welt. Lastly, they have an interesting style of bit which isn’t completely metal – in fact, it employs both metal and leather elements to produce a contemporary version of the traditional bit.
At less than $130 from Zappos, the Milagro loafer is also quite competitive in price.
- Colors: Expresso, Black
- Material: Italian Suede
- Pricing:
$268160.99 [Buy From Zappos]
An outstanding bit loafer example that is ideal for both casual and more formal outfits, the Dacio 3 is crafted from Italian suede with a sleek leather sole and soft leather lining.
The contrast stitching of the moccasin toe looks absolutely great in both the black and dark brown (“expresso”) version and adds an element of creativity and personality to your shoes.
Perhaps most importantly, the Dacio 3’s are currently on sale on Zappos. While their regular price of $268 is rather fair for the quality you get, the discounted price of $161 makes them very difficult to pass up.
- Colors: Black, Navy
- Material: Rubber-Coated Mesh
- Pricing: $178 [Buy From Zappos]
A great casual yet stylish option for a hot summer’s day, SWIMS’ Sporty Bit Loafers are made from a breathable synthetic upper that also boasts an intriguing rubber layer on top of it.
These bit loafers have a suede vamp with a rubber bit, a moccasin-style toe, and a contrasting rubber sole. Decidedly casual, these are ideal for a day at the beach or on the boat thanks to their rubberized construction and textile insole.
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