Product Details
- Hand-Sewn Black Sheepskin Upper
- Genuine Snaffle-Bit Hardware
- Moc-Toe Construction
- Blake-Stitched Leather Sole
- Leather Lined
- Handcrafted in Mexico
- Complimentary U.S. Shipping
- SKU: SNAFFLE-BLACK
Few materials feel as immediately luxurious underfoot as sheepskin. Lighter and softer than nearly any other leather used in fine footwear, it has a supple, almost weightless quality that calfskin, however fine, simply can't replicate. The Snaffle puts that material front and center, built on the same hand-sewn, moc-toe bit loafer silhouette that's become one of Alan Payne's signature constructions.
The upper is genuine black sheepskin, hand-sewn directly onto the last - a slower, more deliberate process than machine construction that results in a closer, more considered fit. The moc-toe seam across the toe box adds a slightly textured, handmade character, while the genuine snaffle-bit hardware anchors the design with real structure and polish. Sheepskin's exceptional softness comes with a trade-off worth knowing: it's a more delicate leather than calfskin, better suited to regular rather than daily hard-wear rotation, and rewards a bit of extra care in exchange for a feel few other materials can match.
Underneath, the Snaffle uses a Blake-stitched leather sole - a single-stitch construction that attaches the sole directly to the upper for a noticeably slimmer, more flexible shoe than a welted alternative. A full leather lining completes the build for comfort that molds to the foot over time.
Handcrafted in Mexico, the Snaffle brings genuinely luxurious sheepskin and hand-sewn bit loafer construction to a price that undercuts the storied houses associated with this style.
Wear it with chinos and tailored trousers for a business-casual look with real softness underfoot, or dress it down with rolled denim on the weekend. Few loafers feel this good this quickly.
FAQs
How does sheepskin compare to calfskin?
Sheepskin is notably lighter and softer than calfskin, with an exceptionally supple, almost weightless feel. Calfskin, in exchange, generally holds up better to daily abrasion and scuffing. The Snaffle's sheepskin upper prioritizes comfort and softness, making it a better fit for regular rotation and special occasions than for the hardest daily wear.
How does the Snaffle compare to the Snaffle II?
Both share the same hand-sewn, moc-toe, snaffle-bit silhouette and Blake-stitched leather sole. The Snaffle II uses calfskin, which is more durable and easier to maintain day to day, while the Snaffle uses sheepskin for a noticeably softer, lighter feel with a bit more delicacy in exchange.
What is a moc-toe loafer?
Moc-toe construction features a hand-stitched seam running across the toe box, a technique borrowed from traditional moccasin-making. It gives the shoe a slightly more textured, relaxed look than a smooth cap toe.
What does "snaffle" refer to?
A snaffle is a simple metal bit traditionally used on a horse's bridle. The term carried over into footwear to describe the horizontal metal strap detail across a loafer's vamp.
What is Blake-stitched construction?
Blake stitching attaches the sole directly to the upper and insole in a single seam, without the intermediate leather strip (welt) used in Goodyear construction, resulting in a slimmer, more flexible shoe with a closer profile to the ground.
Are the Snaffle loafers true to size?
Sizing can vary across Alan Payne's different lasts and manufacturing partners. If you've worn other Alan Payne styles or typically wear a wide or narrow width in other dress shoe brands, we recommend contacting our team before ordering.
Where is the Snaffle made?
The Snaffle is handcrafted in Mexico, reflecting the hand-sewn construction techniques used across Alan Payne's more traditionally built styles.
How should I care for sheepskin?
Wipe down gently with a soft, dry cloth after wear, and use a leather conditioner formulated for delicate leathers to keep the sheepskin supple. Avoid harsh scrubbing or saturating with water, and store with shoe trees to help the leather hold its shape between wears.