Our Styles and Leather
This page is intended to introduce to you the styles and leathers that Batsanis has been producing for over 60 years. Throughout our history we have produced thousands of variants whist staying true to the history and style of these beautiful styles of shoes. We hope to educate you and give you as much information so that you are comfortable in making a decision in purchasing with us.
The loafer
A moccasin inspired shoe recognised by it slip on style with a variety of vamp and toe styles. It can feature a saddle or decoration, plain straps or straps with slits, tassels, metal buts such as clips or buckles. The loafer did not become popularized as a casual shoe until it began being manufactured in the United States in the 1930’s. It kept its status as a casual-only shoe until the 1960’s when American businessmen and lawyers began wearing loafers with suits.
The Derby
In the 20th century, the Derby began to be appropriate footwear to wear into town. It has open lacing by having the facing stitched on top of the vamp. This construction allows for a wider fit. Usually this style is a more comfortable option. Different uppers can consist of, cap, plain toe and wingtip derby.
The oxford
Gaining its name from its history at Oxford University, oxfords were a newer version of the popular Oxonians that were popular at the university in 1800. This half-boot style became outdated and students looked for an alternative style that was more current, thus the oxford shoe was born. This is a basic and timeless dress shoe. It should be a staple of every man’s wardrobe. It has closed lacing, the facing is stitched on under the vamp. For general everyday wear, stick to a dark brown or black standard leather pair, while if you’ll be pairing them with a tux, a patent leather pair will fit the best.
Dress boot
A great alternative to your typical dress shoe that’s perfect for formal day wear. Built like your standard Oxford, the dress boot is generally the same shape with a longer shaft. This style traces its roots to the Victorian era when the choices in men’s shoes were very limited. During this time, men could only wear boots with day wear or pumps for evening wear. Now, the dress boot’s place in menswear has remained quite similar as a great alternative to your typical dress shoe that’s perfect for formal day wear. It has a more casual look if you go for lighter brown leathers. For more formal occasions, darker colour leathers are more appropriate.
Chelsea Boot
The Chelsea boot predominately has elastic siding allowing them to be put on easier while maintaining the refined silhouette of a laced boot. It is a practical boot usually ankle length. It has an incredibly clean look with each of the vamp and quarters being made from a single piece of leather keeping the stitching to a minimum. It is a sleek look with minimal decorations. A Chelsea boot can add a classy touch when worn with jeans. Suede Chelsea boots should be worn causally.
The Chukka Boot
The Chukka Boot finds its origins within the game of polo, gaining its name from the seven and a half Polo playing period, called the “Chukker” or the “Chukka.” Players would often wear these type of boots after a game as they were a comfortable option. They are an ankle boot with 2-3 eyelets on each side for a lace-up closure. These eyelets allow for a snug fit around the ankle that, unlike regular boots, will not disrupt your pants’ shape.
The Monk
The monk strap serves as a medium between the oxford and the derby in terms of formality, featuring a similar apart from the laces. Instead of having an eyelet closure, the monk strap has a wide strap that is fastened across the front of the shoe with either a single or double buckle closure. The monk strap takes its name from the monks who originally donned them. The closed toe design was a much more protective alternative to wear while working than the sandals they usually wore. Monk straps are often crafted out of leather or suede and can be found with and without decorative broguing.
The leathers
We work closely with a number of Italian tanneries to source some of the best leathers that are on offer. All our shoes are made with Italian materials to ensure the highest quality. One of our most preferred leathers for dress/business shoes is calfskin. Calfskin that comes from a calf has a tighter grain and fibre, and is thinner and lighter, this makes for better shoe leather. The other types of animal leather we usually use are Cow, Kidskin (from goat), Pig, Buffalo, Kangaroo, Alligator and, Crocodile. Reptile skins tend to last longer and need less care than animal leathers, but they are also more expensive. Full grain side leather which is used to make the uppers for shoes is one of the most versatile of all leathers as well as being the most common. This type of leather is very durable and malleable while possessing the other desired characteristics of leather such as breathability.
Shoes that are not all leather may have rubber soles, and heels made of wood, or rubber. The industry practice for measuring leather thicknesses is measured in ounces of weight to thickness in fractions of an inch:
