How to Choose the Right Balmoral Shoe

Your Guide to buying the best Balmorals

Overview

Balmorals are a timeless and classic style of shoes that have been around since the 1800s. They are characterized by their lace-up, open-laced construction, and their extended tongue. This buying guide will provide information on how to select and buy the right Balmorals, including the different types of Balmorals available, their features, and which style and size would be best suited for your needs. Additionally, this guide will provide tips on how to take care of and maintain your Balmorals for a long-lasting, stylish look.

Key features

  1. Style/Design: Consider the overall style and design of the Balmorals, which can range from traditional to contemporary. Choose the style that best suits your lifestyle and personal fashion preferences.
  2. Material: Balmorals are typically made of leather and suede, but may also be constructed from a variety of other materials such as canvas, mesh, or synthetics. Consider the material that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
  3. Sole: Balmorals will often have either a full rubber sole or a leather sole. Consider the material of the sole and whether or not it is slip-resistant.
  4. Color: Balmorals come in a variety of colors, from classic black and brown to more modern hues. Consider the color that best suits your wardrobe and desired style.
  5. Fit: It is important to find a pair of Balmorals that fit well and provide comfort when walking or standing. Try on the shoes to ensure the right fit.
  6. Price: Balmorals vary significantly in price, depending on the material, design, and brand. Consider your budget when selecting a pair.

See the most popular Balmorals on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Elegant and Timeless - Balmorals are a classic and sophisticated shoe style that can be worn for any formal or casual occasion. They are timelessly stylish and add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
  • Versatile - Balmorals are a versatile shoe that can be worn with a variety of outfits, from suits and dress slacks to jeans and chinos. They come in a wide range of colors, materials, and designs, so they can easily be matched with any wardrobe.
  • Comfortable - Balmorals provide a comfortable fit due to their design, which includes a closed lacing system and a cushioning insole. They also provide great arch support and can be worn for long periods of time without causing discomfort.
  • Durable - Balmorals are made with high-quality materials that make them highly durable. They are designed to last for years, and can withstand plenty of wear and tear without showing signs of wear.

Cons

  • Cost - Balmorals can be quite expensive, making them out of reach for many potential buyers.
  • Fitting - The fit of Balmorals can be difficult to get correct, as they are not as flexible as some other shoe styles.
  • Maintenance - Balmorals require regular maintenance to maintain their appearance and durability.
  • Style - Balmorals are a very traditional style and can look dated compared to more modern designs.

Best alternatives

  1. Derby Shoes - A style of dress shoe with an open lacing system characterized by the lack of eyelets on the top of the shoe.
  2. Wingtips - A type of dress shoe with a pointed toe cap, traditionally with a decorative “W” perforated pattern.
  3. Oxford Shoes - A type of dress shoe with a closed lacing system, with the laces and eyelets on the inside of the shoe.
  4. Monk Straps - A type of dress shoe that has a buckle instead of a lace-up system.
  5. Loafers - A style of slip-on shoe with a moccasin construction.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Thread - Thread is used to stitch the Balmoral to the sole of the shoe.
  • Shoelaces - Shoelaces are used to keep the Balmoral in place.
  • Leather - Leather is typically used for the upper portion of the Balmoral.
  • Rubber Sole - A rubber sole is used to provide cushion and traction.
  • Insole - An insole is used inside the shoe to provide comfort.
  • Stitching Needles - Stitching needles help to secure the threads used to stitch the Balmoral to the sole.
  • Shoe Trees - Shoe trees are used to help keep the shape of the Balmoral.

Common questions

  1. What is a balmoral? A balmoral is a type of dress shoe typically made of leather, characterized by a closed lacing system, a vamp with a straight-across toe cap, and a low heel.
  2. What are the benefits of wearing balmorals? Balmorals are a classic, timeless style of shoe that can be dressed up or dressed down, making them an incredibly versatile option for any wardrobe. Additionally, they provide superior arch support and improved stability due to their closed lacing system.
  3. What should you look for when purchasing balmorals? When purchasing balmorals, look for a good quality leather that will be durable and comfortable, and a lacing system that is not too tight or too loose. Additionally, ensure that the soles are flexible and provide good grip. Finally, make sure that the overall silhouette of the shoe is classic and timeless.
  4. Are there any variations of balmorals? Yes, there are a few variations of balmorals, such as wingtip balmorals, wholecut balmorals, and split-toe balmorals. Wingtip balmorals feature a decorative “wingtip” across the toe cap, while wholecut balmorals are made from a single piece of leather with minimal seams. Split-toe balmorals feature a toe cap with a “V” shape in the middle.
  5. What is the best way to care for balmorals? The best way to care for balmorals is to regularly clean and condition the leather, and use a protective cream or wax to protect the leather from water and dirt. Additionally, regularly rotate your shoes and avoid wearing them in wet or muddy conditions.

Trivia

An interesting story about Balmorals is that the company originally started in the 1860s when Queen Victoria purchased the Balmoral estate in Scotland. She commissioned the first Balmoral shoes to be made from the leather of the estate's Highland cattle. The shoes were then worn by the royal family and became known as "Balmorals". Today, Balmorals is still a family-owned business and the shoes are still made in Scotland. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.