Recently a few different American footwear brands have launched heritage collections. The new Cole, Rood and Haan Co. line (which includes the name of one of the original, yet unnamed founders) is the first I have seen that focuses on dress shoes, as opposed to work boots like Timberland, Red Wing and Wolverine. I had a chance to see the collection first hand at Project in Las Vegas and really liked what I saw. The worn-in looking shoes have great detailing, construction (Goodyear Welts, etc.) and are made from nice Italian leather. Looking at the samples at Project, I was especially drawn to the mocs (which can be worn with or without laces, I’m a laces type of guy myself) and the the brown leather boots.
The inspiration for the new younger, cooler off-shoot from Cole Haan is drawn from the company’s 1920s Chicago roots. The line – which is mostly men’s but also includes some women’s – will be hitting stores this coming fall. The CRH collection will have a totally separate distribution strategy, so look out for it at better specialty stores. Some of my favorite styles after the jump.
I agree the moccasins are awesome. I wonder if any of them will come with a zoom air insole?
foster
The curve in the sole seems to be in imitation of shoes that have gotten soaked, then dried near a heat-source without benefit of trees or stuffing. Italian makers have been doing this for a decade or more. In my opinion, it looks the opposite of “worn in”, which for me implies wear *and* proper care. Rather, it looks as though the shoes have been very badly cared for.
Distressing is not your friend. Ever.
I’ll have to check these out in person to form a fair opinion. I want to like it, but something isn’t right. I’m initially a bit turned-off by the turned up toe, which feels a bit trendy and contrived. They look like Varvatos got his design hands on them.
I’m an old school Cole Haan handsewn waxhide fan– these “heritage” designs seem to lack the air of timelessness which I always hope is inherent when brands look backwards. I guess it feels a little slick for what I idealize true Cole Haan heritage to be, which for me evokes handsewn, honest goods without tricks and gimmicks.
I love every single one of these – each has a classic, highly wearable design that could be paired with just about anything.
I particularly like the mocs – my preference would also be to have them laced. I’m not sure I agree with the comment about the turned up toes looking too modern, but in any case the mocs stick with a pretty traditional style.
The simplicity and ‘timeless’ appearance are laudable; those wayward toes are a curious choice though.
Are these actually American made?
A little late to the game, Mssrs. Cole, Rood, and Haan!
Agree with JP. I’ll hold judgment until I see them, but the grainy pics do not leave me hopeful. They remind be a little of the Timberland Boot Company fancied up Tims.
Please let us know where we can find those work boots. Most other throwback work boots are still a bit over the top, but these are pretty unassuming. Also, 6 in. lacers seem to be just the right height. If anyone knows of anything similar, please share.
I’m really digging the first pair of boots. Reminds me of the W+H/Dayton Service boot…hopefully the price-point will be about $500 lower.
Chad
A couple of these designs look killer. Which is heartening, as Cole Haan is a grand old American brand that has gone stale in recent years, design-wise. Some of the authenticity nazis may balk at the upturned toe, and the “workwear trend” fanboys will always feel like they discovered Nirvana first. But isn’t the whole point of this style ethic to encourage honest, handsome, manly fashion that doesn’t preclude function, and to celebrate the best in American design? To my eye, there are one or two silly touches here, but at bottom I see a very wearable oxford, moc, and boot. Bravo – here’s to future seasons perfecting the formula.
Boat shoes look cool, everything else I’ll pass.
Dodgy, mate.
The Bearcats look amazing besides the curve in the sole. It kinda ruins it for me.
ewww. these are sooooo varvatos! i cant believe a company like cole haan would stoop to these levels, so trendy. even making the photos look old, as if they are re-issued from a heritage collection. uch