Monk straps

Here you'll find monk straps from Skolyx, Yanko and TLB Mallorca. Monk strap shoes have for many years been a popular choice among shoe aficionados. The model is closed with one or more buckled straps instead of laces. The most common monk shoe today is the double monk strap with two buckles, but also the single monk is common.

The model is less formal than an oxford but a black or dark brown monk shoe works well with a suit even if they have a slightly lower grade of formality. Look at England for example, where the financial districts are filled with people wearing black single monk straps.

All shoes from Skolyx, Yanko and TLB Mallorca are made on Mallorca, Spain, with a Goodyear welted construction to be easily resoleable and made in high quality full grain leather.

Why are monk straps called monk straps?

The monk shoe is a really old shoe model. No one knows exactly when the shoe model was invented, but it was more widely established during the High Middle Ages in Europe (c. 1000-1350 AD), when monks adopted the model, having previously worn mostly sandals. Hence the name of the shoe type. The monks used it as a work shoe as it provided more protection and was more comfortable to work in than sandals. Even at that time, monk shoes were available with both one and two buckles, so although John Lobb would like to take credit for inventing the double monk strap, this is not really the case.

What characterises the monk strap shoe?

The main characteristic of the monk strap is of course that it is fastened with buckles instead of laces. The single monk strap has a strap that runs across the instep, while the double monk strap has like a wider section across the entire ankle of the foot, with buckles at either end. They are a bit similar to derbys in that they have an open construction. In addition to the more classic models of single monk strap and double monk strap, there are several slightly more specialised versions of them, such as taller boots with three buckles, and similar.

Are monk straps comfortable?

Monk straps are considered by many to be comparable to derbys in being able to offer a little more comfort not least for people with high step, as they have an open construction. All the buckles have multiple holes and new holes can be made to ensure the best possible fit and that the shoes sit comfortably but clearly in place. The buckle attachment often also has an elastic for additional flexibility in the fastening.

Are monk straps a formal or casual shoe model?

Monk strap shoes are generally considered a slightly more casual style within the classic shoe segment. However, a black single monk strap can certainly be worn with, for example, a dark blue suit or similar, not least in England it's seen as a business shoe. While a double monk strap in brown suede is a clearly more informal shoe model that goes more with casual odd trousers or jeans. In other words, a lot depends on the choice of material, the shape of the last and so on.