Dark brown suede ankle boot

Men's chukka boot by Sangiorgio in waterproof vintage suede, dark brown. The chukka is the low ankle boot with a short lace-up closure, usually two or three pairs of eyelets, that sits just above the ankle. Here there are two pairs of eyelets, hidden within the leather, and the quarters — the side panels where the laces pass through — are stitched on top of the upper, as on a derby shoe. Suede is leather that has been buffed on the flesh side, meaning the inner side: it has a soft nap and a matte surface. The vintage finish gives it an uneven color: the brown is lighter and almost dusty on the sides, darker and glossier on the toe and heel, as if the leather were already worn from use. Each pair therefore shows slightly different shading. The waterproof treatment makes it more resistant than ordinary suede to light rain and splashes, which are its usual weak point. The short lace-up closure fastens in seconds and leaves the ankle free to move. The laces are round, waxed and black. At the back there's a suede pull tab. The toe is round and clean, with no decorative stitching. The sole is thick black rubber, with a deep lug tread that grips well on wet and uneven ground. The manufacturer describes it as flexible, meaning designed to bend with the foot despite its thickness. A visible stitch runs along the perimeter, between the upper and the sole. Inside, the lining is leather and the insole is padded leather. Leather in contact with the foot absorbs moisture better than synthetic linings, and the padding cushions pressure under the sole of the foot. Despite the waterproof treatment, it's best to dry-brush the suede after wear to keep the nap even. Brown is an alternative to blue and black that pairs with almost any winter wardrobe. It works well with light or dark jeans, sand or grey chinos, flannel or corduroy trousers. With a cream or camel sweater, the brown suede becomes the standout color of the outfit. Men's chukka boot, dark brown. Upper in waterproof vintage suede. Lace-up closure with two pairs of eyelets, black waxed laces. Pull tab at the heel. Round toe. Leather lining. Padded leather insole. Flexible black rubber sole with lug tread. Visible stitching along the perimeter.