Written by Menswear Style in New Collections on the 25th September 2019

As we move out of the summer months and the opportunities of going ‘sock-less' with a loafer start to decrease, it’s a good time to get out there to see what’s going on in the market and in particular, the boot world. There are the obvious go-to options that enjoy their time in the spotlight and tried and tested favourites that stand the test of time, and if it works, then of course why not.

You might even be one of those people that have made an investment into a good leather boot (Northampton made goes without saying) and like to dust down the old faithful and give them a once over after a visit to the local cobbler. Anyway… whatever the preference, it’s always good to keep your eyes on what new products and brands are putting out there.

One to watch for us is US company G.H Bass. Since 1876, these guys have been making some of the best high-quality, comfortable and durable handmade leather shoes including the original penny loafer. In addition, a booting collection that has a real original look and feel, including the contemporary Moccasin design which has its heritage in the world of hunting. As big fans of the G.H Bass Weejun and the Wilton Driver, we first stumbled on the outdoor range three or four seasons ago with the The Ranger Wedge coming to the fore in 2018, and now again in the very cool Earth Suede option.

Understandably, there’s a fear factor around suede for when things get messy weather-wise, but The Ranger Wedge is crafted from a resin-backed suede fabric, which gives a protection to a product that is effortlessly versatile for everyday living. A more casual aesthetic granted, The Ranger Wedge can be teamed with vintage or selvedge denim as well as rolled-up chino, perfect for cool outdoors inner-city hikes or for a dressed down casual meeting in the pub with friends - it’s an original and eye-catching product without doubt.

The Ranger Wedge in Earth Suede is hand-stitched in El Salvador and has a beautifully constructed modern wedge outsole in leather for that extra quality. The contemporary Moccasin design, as stated, is crafted from resin backed suede, a material chosen because it holds a fine shape. The shoes have been detailed with subtle hexagon eyelets and square cotton laces.

Hand-stitched in El Salvador, we take a first look at the G.H Bass. The Ranger Wedge in Earth Suede for autumn/winter 2019.