There’s something deeply satisfying about opening a new pair of shoes from Crockett & Jones. Not just because they’re one of the foremost destinations in English shoemaking, but because the experience itself reinforces why the brand remains worth keeping in a world full of shortcuts.
This review focuses on the Crockett & Jones Boston 2, a classic penny loafer rendered in green rough-out suede, built on the updated 376 last, finished with a storm welt and a rugged City sole. On paper, it’s a casual loafer. In reality, it’s one of the most versatile pairs of shoes you can own—especially if you live, travel, or work in unpredictable conditions.
This is my second pair of Crockett & Jones shoes, and my first loafer from the brand. I’ll walk you through the leather, construction, fit, styling, maintenance, and where this loafer fits among the choices today—especially for those of us who actually put our shoes to much use.
Crockett & Jones consistently does a nice job with presentation. Inside the box you’ll find dust bags, paperwork, and their current catalog—a beautifully bound piece that’s part lookbook, part education, and part history lesson. It’s the kind of thing worth keeping, not tossing aside.
Once you get to the actual product, the excitement kicks in.
The Boston 2 emerges in a subtle olive-green rough-out suede that immediately reads refined rather than loud. In certain light, this shoe could easily pass as dark brown suede, which only adds to its versatility. That tonal depth makes it ideal for business casual wardrobes where flexibility matters.
This isn’t a novelty color. It’s thoughtful. Intentional. And very wearable.
Let’s talk about the star of the show: rough-out suede.
Unlike traditional suede, rough-out uses the reverse side of a whole piece of leather, leaving the fibrous nubbin exposed on the exterior. Crockett & Jones treats this leather to create a waxy, slightly oily surface that’s naturally resistant to moisture.
Out of the box, this loafer is already prepared for bad weather. Parking lots, wet sidewalks, unexpected rain between buildings—this is exactly where rough-out suede excels.
Street Ready
This makes the Boston 2 a far more practical option than smooth calf or dress suede, especially in regions like the United States where weather swings are common. It’s a loafer that doesn’t panic at rain.
The Boston 2 is fully Goodyear welted, with what I’d describe as a light storm welt effect—just enough to provide protection without looking heavy or clunky.
The City sole adds another layer of durability. It offers better traction than traditional leather while maintaining a refined profile suitable for tailored clothing. This isn’t a chunky lug sole, but it’s far more forgiving than a slick dress sole.
For a casual loafer, this construction choice dramatically increases longevity and seasonal range. Fall and winter wear become realistic, not risky.
As always, I measure stitching—and the Boston 2 delivers.
The apron toe stitching is clean, even, and well-executed, with no over-sanding or shaved edges near the welt. This matters more than people realize. Excessive sanding can compromise long-term integrity, and it’s something I’ve unfortunately seen from other brands—even on shoes sold as first quality.
Here, everything is tight, straight, and thoughtfully finished.
The Boston 2 is built on the 376 last, which represents an evolution of Crockett & Jones’ traditional loafer shaping.
Think of the forefoot as borrowing from classic English lasts—balanced, elegant, and accommodating—while the heel has been refined to improve grip and reduce slippage. Crockett & Jones updated this last around 2015, and it has clearly stood the test of time.
Fit notes:
I wear a 9.5 regular, and this fits exactly as expected. Even if there’s minor heel movement initially (common with loafers), quality leather will mold to your foot with wear.
This is where the Boston 2 really shines.
Despite being a casual loafer, it integrates seamlessly with:
It’s not a serious suit shoe—and it shouldn’t be—but for business casual, travel days, client meetings, or smart off-duty looks, it’s outstanding.
That green rough-out suede pairs beautifully with:
In warmer months, it still works with cotton and lightweight wool blends, though this is not a linen loafer. This shoe truly comes alive in fall and winter rotations.
Rough-out suede is refreshingly low maintenance—if you don’t overdo it.
Primary care:
Crockett & Jones recommends Saphir Invulner spray, which is perfectly acceptable and enhances water resistance without flattening the nap.
What not to do:
If you choose to apply a grease-based product (such as dubbin), use a very thin layer, let it absorb naturally, and brush thoroughly. Over-application will darken the leather and flatten the texture.
The goal is preservation, not transformation.
At this price point, expectations should be high—and Crockett & Jones meets them.
You’re getting:
Compared to alternatives like an Alden loafer or dark brown suede options, the Boston 2 stands out for its versatility and resilience. It’s a pair of shoes you’ll reach for often—and that’s ultimately what makes something worth keeping.
When I closed out this review, I was already excited. Opening the box only reinforced that feeling.
The Crockett & Jones Boston 2 green rough-out suede loafer hits a rare balance: elegant enough to feel special, tough enough to wear without hesitation. It’s the kind of shoe that earns its place through use, not admiration from a shelf.
This is exactly what I look for—high quality, practical luxury, and craftsmanship designed for real life.
As always, I’ll be wearing these, testing them in bad weather, seeing how the rough-out suede dries, ages, and responds over time. That’s how you truly know if a shoe delivers.
For now, consider this an easy recommendation for anyone building a serious business-casual rotation.
