Double Monk Strap in Black Box Calf Leather

Article no. 14750 - Double Monk Strap in Black Box Calf Leather

Centuries ago, monks would wear strapped sandals during the warmer months, but needed a more protective, covered type of footwear for the cold winter months. Hence, the original monk strap men's shoe was invented, as it gave monks the convenience and practicality of a sandal, combined with the protection and warmth of a covered shoe.

In modern times, the double monk strap has evolved to become a wardrobe staple for gentlemen looking for a versatile shoe that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

While not as formal as a pair of classic oxfords, the double monk strap is still considered to be more formal than a loafer, and can be paired with trousers for work, or with denim jeans for the weekend.

Features:

Goodyear-welted construction
915 chisel last
Black box calf leather from Tanneries D'Annonay used for the uppers
Calf lining
Leather sole

Step 1: Using a soft cloth, apply a base coat of Saphir Médaille d'Or Lotion leather conditioner. The beeswax and mink oil will condition the leather fibres and seal in moisture, preventing the leather from drying out. Alternatively, you could also use Saphir Médaille d'Or Renovateur.

Step 2: Using your fingers or a soft cloth, apply a few thin layers of Saphir Médaille d'Or Pommadier shoe cream to your shoes, and allow the cream to dry for a few minutes and be fully absorbed into the leather. After the cream has dried, brush the surface vigorously using a horsehair brush until a soft shine appears on your shoes.

Step 3: Using a soft cloth, apply a few thin layers of Saphir Médaille d'Or Pate de Luxe shoe wax and gently massage it into the surface of the leather, using small circular motions. Alternatively, some professional shoeshiners even recommend applying the first few leathers of this wax onto your shoes using your bare fingers. To achieve a high shine, gradually build up thin layers of wax using small amounts of wax interspersed with a few drops of water. As a finishing touch and to achieve that coveted mirror shine on the toe caps of your shoes, use a soft cloth to apply a few thin layers of Saphir Médaille d'Or Mirror Gloss shoe wax onto the surface of the leather, using small circular motions. Whenever the surface of the leather starts to feel 'sticky' and the cloth doesn't move around as smoothly, add a few drops of water onto the layer of wax you are building up to keep the surface as smooth and even as possible.