GRDS Loafer 01 Brown Suede Review - One of the Best Casual Penny Loafers Around

As with many new brands and products, I first came across GRDS on Instagram around two to three years ago. It was their Loafer 01 in brown suede that caught my attention. Since I’m very particular when it comes to shape and proportions in shoes, I was drawn to it because it is really well balanced. In terms of proportions, it is quite similar to the Alden LHS Penny Loafer - it has a lower vamp, but the toe box is slightly more square. I got my pair in early March last year, so it’s been over a year of wear, enough time that I feel confident writing a full review.

GRDS is a Korean brand founded in 2015, and the name “grds” comes from the Latin word “gradus,” meaning “step.” The brand values walking as an important and enriching part of life, so they focus on designing well-crafted shoes to improve comfort and support while walking. They reimagine vintage and military designs through traditional craftsmanship, and all their shoes are based on classic silhouettes from the past. They are developing orthopedic lasts to deliver all-day comfort, and they are also very transparent about manufacturing and the materials they use. Over the last decade or two, Korean brands have earned our trust for having high standards when it comes to quality and craftsmanship, so I was very eager to try their shoes, especially considering the price seemed very fair, based on everything I learned about the product from their website.

I had some expectations for this pair, but I was still pleasantly surprised when I received them - the suede feels much better than on most other shoes in a similar price range that I have tried so far. The upper is made from unlined Italian full-grain suede calf leather, which is chrome-tanned. They also have nicely pronounced apron stitching on the toe box, which creates that classic penny loafer effect. The outsole is made from flexible, vegetable-tanned, oil-finished Italian cowhide. Their suede loafers also go through a two-stage stonewashing process - first the outsole alone, then again the entire shoe after the upper is attached. They do this to enhance durability and create a vintage aesthetic. The shoe is made in Italy using Blake construction.

Like with any new brand we’re buying online for the first time, sizing was a challenge. The biggest size available was EU 44, which based on their sizing chart, translates to US 11, JP 29, or 29 cm. This seemed perfect - that’s exactly the size I usually take (they have expanded sizing since, now they also offer EU 44.5 / US 11.5 / JP 29.5 and EU 45 / US 12 / JP 30). After receiving them, I can confirm that their sizing runs small. I usually wear UK 10-10.5 (US 11-11.5), for example, I’m US 11 in Alden LHS Penny loafers, but these were too tight. Luckily, this thick, unlined suede is very soft and forgiving, so I decided to try stretching them with a shoe stretcher before wearing them. After about 24 hours, they had stretched out quite a bit, so I wore them for the first time, but they needed another 24 hours. Now they are fine, and the shoe stretcher was just initial help, because this suede will stretch and form around your feet, and only get more comfortable with wear. 

Regarding sizing, I recommend going at least half a size up from your usual size for suede pair, and probably a full size up for leather pair. I think size 44.5 would be perfect for me in suede - then I wouldn’t need the shoe stretcher. I’m now seriously considering the black leather pair, and I think I will go with size 45, since these are lined and leather is not as forgiving as suede.

The more I wear them, the more I like them. I think they are one of the best casual suede penny loafers available, first in terms of aesthetics, including design and proportions, but especially in terms of value. The quality of these loafers is really good - the suede is excellent and thicker than what most brands in this price range use. I can say the same for this shade of brown, which is close to snuff - it’s a shade many brands in that price range usually don’t get right (it’s either too light or too dark).

I also really like the washed outsole - it adds a lot of character and creates the effect that these shoes have already been through something, like they have been worn and loved. I know many people don’t like the aged or worn-in effect on new garments, but I think this one is really well executed. There are no signs of washing or wear on the upper, but you can notice it on the outsole, so the shoe looks cared for and elegant.

I’m happy to say that these loafers exceeded my expectations, and I often reach for them instead of my Alden LHS Pennies. Not only because they look great and are extremely comfortable, but partly also because this outsole seems like it will have a longer lifespan than a regular leather sole. However, when the weather is bad, I still prefer my other pairs with a rubber sole.

Loafer 01 will cost you $295 (254.95 €) + shipping and import charges. They ship with delivery duties paid, and everything is calculated at checkout, so you don’t have to worry about any extra import charges. You can buy them here.

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