The five pairs our team can’t stop talking about
Born in 1966, the Vans Authentic ($90) set the standard for clean, functional design.
Published
September 17, 2026
Published
September 17, 2026
Photography
Courtesy
Note
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When’s the last time you bought yourself some shoes? Let this be your sign that it’s time. There are so many great styles dropping these days, we thought we would pull a few of our current favorites to showcase. Maybe it’s the transition into fall, but the footwear is really suede heavy this week. From a pair of rugged work boots to some sleek minimalist mules, these are the kicks our team can’t stop talking about.
Autry’s Medalist has all the hallmarks of an old-school court shoe (think a low profile, uncomplicated panels and just enough vintage branding) but feels considerably more polished. The slightly worn-in aesthetic is part of the appeal and the dove grey colorway works particularly well with dressier clothes, from pleated chinos and dark denim to relaxed tailoring. They make for an easy everyday sneaker for when Sambas feel a little too obvious.
Autry Medalist low sneaker,
Red Wing’s Blacksmith has roots in the work boots once worn from farm fields to the forge, but this new version comes in Chocolate Muleskinner, a roughout leather that should only get richer with scuffs, scratches and wear. The plain toe keeps the silhouette cleaner than a traditional work boot, while Goodyear-welt construction and a Vibram mini-lug outsole mean they’re still built like proper Red Wings. Wear them with faded denim, fatigues or cords and resist any urge to baby them.
Blacksmith boot,
Vans took one of its simplest sneakers and gave it a badass makeover, retaining that familiar low-top shape while swapping in some outdoors-inspired details. The result still has the throw-on-and-go appeal that’s made the Authentic indispensable for decades, only with a little more texture and substance. And like most Vans, they’ll probably look even better once they’re a little dirty.
Premium Authentic shoe,
How do you make Birks even cooler? The Amsterdam takes everything you love about the brand’s clog (the contoured cork-latex footbed, roomy shape and walk-all-day comfort) and wraps it in soft charcoal suede. The result lands somewhere between a slipper and a mule, with a clean, almost minimalist silhouette that you can easily wear with everything from wide trousers or sweats to your favorite jeans.
Birkenstock Amsterdam clog,
Copenhagen label Vinny’s has a knack for making traditional shoes feel a little younger, and this is exactly that kind of penny loafer. The classic shape is balanced by a sturdier sole and relaxed proportions, giving it enough presence to work beneath the wider pants we’re wearing now. Try them with some bold colored socks and faded denim, pleated trousers or even shorts while the weather holds. But you’ll be wearing these well into the fall and winter.
Vinny's Lee Vale Penny loafer,
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