• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

The Modest Man

  • .
  • Start Here
  • Blog
  • About
  • Outfit Ideas
  • Free Stuff
Home / Blog / Shoes

The 8 Best Driving Mocs (Driving Shoes) for Men Right Now

Published on May 10, 2021 by Ian Chandler · Shoes May contain affiliate links (what's this?)

The driving moccasin is a classic men’s shoe with a rich history. If you’re in the market for one or just curious, check out our list of the best driving mocs for men.

Table of Contents

  • What Are Driver’s Shoes?
  • Quick Take
  • The Best Driving Moccasins
  • Conclusion
Best driving mocs

The driving moc is arguably one of the most underrated men’s shoes.

When you think of casual men’s shoes, you probably think of sneakers (or maybe boots for fall and winter). We think the driving moc deserves a bit more of the spotlight, so we’ve put together a list of the best driving moccasins.

But first, let’s take a quick look at the history of the driving shoe.

What Are Driver’s Shoes?

Driver’s shoes became popular in the sixties among sports car enthusiasts who wanted a smart shoe that would perform well when driving.  

These men didn’t want to drive in stiff (and sometimes dirty) dress shoes. Instead, they sought a flexible shoe that would feel great on the pedals of a car.

Driving mocs
Driving mocs can be immediately recognized by their studded soles.

The driving moc specifically caught on because it offered flexibility and comfort while fitting right into the preppy style of the period. It took the basic moccasin and added a considerable amount of durability and longevity.

Driving mocs are characterized by the rubber pebbles on the bottom of the shoe that serve to grip the car pedals. The body of the shoe itself looks similar to a standard moccasin but is a bit heftier in its construction.

Brock with cuffed olive chinos
You don’t have to be driving a race car to wear driving shoes 😉

While you certainly can wear driving mocs while driving, most guys today wear them for non-automotive purposes. They’re great for pretty much any time of the year except winter, and you can style them in all sorts of ways.

Now that you’re acquainted with the driving moc, let’s take a look at our 8 favorite mocs on the market today (in no particular order)

Quick Take

Short on time? Here are our top three picks for the best driving mocs you can buy right now:

Our Pick
Jay Butler Naples Driving Loafer
Jay Butler Naples Driving Loafer
$145

This shoe pulls inspiration from driving mocs and loafers to create a stylish hybrid that offers the best of both worlds.

Buy Now
Budget Pick
NOAH Tommy Suede
NOAH Tommy Suede
$99

Despite their name, these shoes are actually not made from suede but rather microsuede, a synthetic material. Microsuede is wear-resistant, stain-proof, and easier to clean than real suede.

Buy Now
Upgrade Pick
Rancourt & Co. Westbrook Driving Moc
Rancourt & Co. Westbrook Driving Moc
$295

For a lightweight yet durable driving moc, look no further than the Westbrook. The price tag may seem a bit high at first, but you’re getting made in USA construction and a great-looking product.

Buy Now

Read on for more info and the complete list…

The Best Driving Moccasins

Here they are in no particular order…

#1: Minnetonka P.W. Driving Moc

If you want an authentic old-school driving moc, look no further than the P.W. Mocs from Minnetonka Moccasin Co. The brand released its first driving moc all the way back in 1986, and the P.W. wears that heritage on its sleeve.

Minnetoca P.W. Driving Moc Custom Made
Check current price

Given that Minnetonka has a long history producing driving mocs, it’s no surprise that this is very much the definitive version of the driving shoe. Made from heavy full grain Horween leather, the P.W. mocs are iconic, textured, and comfortable.

Each pair is made to order, which is impressive considering the $190 price tag. The moccasins are available in 11 sizes (6 through 16) and 3 widths. (Split sizing is also available upon request.)

If this classic driving moc style is what you’re after, these Minnetonkas are hard to pass up if you’re looking for men’s leather driving shoes with prestige.

#2: Jay Butler Naples Driving Loafer

Several companies have taken the driving shoe and given it some contemporary design tweaks. One of our favorite driving shoes in this category is the Naples from Jay Butler.

Jay Butler Dark Brown Suede Leather Naples Driving Loafer
Check current price

This shoe pulls inspiration from driving mocs and loafers to create a stylish hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. The Naples is structured like a classic driving moc, but it features a slightly sleeker silhouette and a more modern look.

Most notably, there’s no rubber gripping on the bottom, which underscores the fact that this is a hybrid shoe. With a hand-sewn suede upper, a rubber outsole, and a padded insole with arch support, the Naples is as comfortable as it is fashionable.

It’s currently available in four handsome colors––the dark brown and navy are classic colors, but if you want to add a subtle burst of color to your outfit, check out the purple and royal blue colorways. All in all, these are easily among the best suede driver shoes out there today.

#3: Rancourt Westbrook Driving Moc

Rancourt has been handcrafting shoes in Maine since 1967, when the driving moc was really taking off. Add that to the fact that driving mocs are an integral part of the New England prep style, and it’s easy to see why Rancourt’s Westbrook driving mocs are so authentic.

Rancourt Westbrook Driving moc Black
Check current price

Rancourt calls the Westbrook “a true American driving moc,” and the specs back up that claim.

These mocs are made from full-grain Roan Pampas leather from S.B. Foot Tanery (who also provides leather for Red Wing Boots), lined with Horween Casco, and boast genuine moccasin construction. A nice touch is that the rubber dot sole is built into the shoe itself.

These are made-to-order in Rancourt’s Maine facility, which is another big plus. They are a bit more expensive, ringing in at $295, but considering the quality of the materials and the level of craftsmanship you’re getting, that price is hard to beat.

#4: Quoddy Camp Driver

The Quoddy brand name is almost synonymous with their popular Blucher mocs. There are good reasons why the Bluchers are so popular, but some of Quoddy’s other shoes definitely deserve more attention. That’s why we’re highlighting their Camp Drivers.

Quoddy Camp Driver Mocs
Check current price

With the same craftsmanship and good looks that made the Bluchers so revered, the Camp Driver is Quoddy’s updated take on the driving shoe. Quoddy offers a range of leathers and design options, allowing you to create your own custom shoe.

In addition, the sole is made from Vibram® air-injected rubber that provides extra cushioning. The rubber nubs on the sole are smaller and more numerous, which gives the shoe a sleeker look.

#5: M.Gemi Brolio

We took a look at M.Gemi a while back and were impressed by the quality of the shoes. Their Italian heritage and workmanship makes for some great shoes, and that’s especially true of their Brolio driving mocs.

M.Gemi Brolio Driver Moc Leather
Check current price

If you’ve been looking for a pair of driving mocs with a more European design, these are what you’re looking for. The design is reminiscent of Italian loafers, but it’s a touch more casual, which is ideal for a driving moc.

We’re fans of the unique grips on the sole––they’re large, durable, and satisfying. (They look especially nice with the navy colorway.)

The Brolio is handmade in Veneto, Italy using high-quality leathers. This is an undeniably elegant shoe, so it’s an excellent choice if you want a driving moc that’s casual yet classy.

#6: Jack Erwin Parker

Jack Erwin calls their Parker “the perfect driver.” You’ll have to make that judgment yourself, but we think it’s definitely a contender.

Jack Erwin Parker Light Grey Suede Moc
Check current price

Made from a suede or nubuck upper, Arneflex microfoam, and the standard rubber dot sole, the Parker is very much a vintage-style driving moc. The design takes obvious inspiration from classic mocs and loafers, yet it wears more like a comfy slipper.

It’s available in 8 sizes and 11 colors (check out the dusty blue). And at just $125, this is one of the most affordable driving mocs on our list. So if you’re on a budget, new to driving mocs, or just don’t want to spend a lot, the Parker is worth a serious look.

#7: Aurélien Suede Driving Shoes

You might not be familiar with the Aurélien name, but they make their products in the same factories that many top designer brands use. They offer an astounding 22 flavors of driving shoes, including these burgundy suede drivers.

Aurelien Classic Gommino Driving Shoes Loafer Men Suede burgundy loafers drivingshoes
Check current price

These shoes are made from Softey® suede and feature a leather interior, exposed hand stitching, and rubber pebble detail on the heel.

We really like this burgundy option, especially the way the color looks on the texture of the suede, but if you’re not into bolder shoes, they also offer these drivers in more subdued tones.

Aurélien calls itself a “smart luxury” brand, and while you won’t be getting top-tier designer quality, you will get well-made mocs for about $200 USD. A small downside is that they’re only available in 6 sizes (US 6-11), but the range they offer should be good for the majority of shoppers.

#8: NOAH Tommy Suede

To wrap up our list, we have the Tommy Suede driving mocs from Italian shoe brand NOAH.

NOAH Tommy Suede Vegan Mokassin Beige
Check current price

Despite their name, these shoes are actually not made from suede but rather microsuede, a synthetic material. It might seem weird at first to have a driving moc that’s not made from leather, but there are several advantages.

Microsuede is wear-resistant, stain-proof, and easier to clean than real suede. This is a significant advantage specifically for driving shoes, which tend to be less durable than other casual shoes.

The inside is also lined with microsuede, and the insole is removable, which is another feature that sets these shoes apart.

The slightly raised heel also gives the Tommy a bit of a different look but doesn’t make the silhouette look awkward. This is a good choice if you want a more loafer-styled moccasin and are up for trying out a different material.

Conclusion

That does it for our list of the best driving mocs. If you’re new to driving mocs, you should consider adding a pair to your selection of casual shoes.

Thinking of picking up any of these driving mocs for men? Got a favorite pair/brand we missed out on? We want to know, so give us a shout in the comments!

Shoes Buying Guides, driving mocs

Related Posts

Best Mens Slip On Shoes
18 Best Men’s Slip-On Shoes to Buy for 2023
Best Maison Margiela GAT Replica Alternatives
9 Maison Margiela GAT Replica Alternatives
Best Affordable Common Projects Alternatives
18 Best Affordable Common Projects Alternatives
Places to Buy Mens Shoes Online
14 Places to Buy Men’s Shoes Online (No Matter Your Budget)

About Ian Chandler

Ian Chandler is a freelance writer with a penchant for men's hair and style (and hairstyle). He enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, reading, playing music, and overthinking.

Background: Ian Chandler is a copywriter and writing instructor from Kent, OH. He’s been writing professionally for 9 years and specializes in business, marketing, and men’s fashion. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Kent State University.

Expertise: Ian is the cofounder of Writing Launch, an online training platform for freelance writers. As Head Instructor, he has helped thousands of new freelancers from around the world find success and grow their careers.

Ian's book The No B.S. Guide to Freelance Writing was published in 2016. His work can be found in The Penny Hoarder, SitePoint, Social Media Explorer and more.

More Articles by This Author

Instagram LinkedIn

Join the Club

Never miss a post, plus grab this free guide (instant download). No spam. Ever.

Subscribe Now

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Ask Me Anything Cancel reply

    Got questions? Want to share your opinion? Comment below!

  1. George Reis says

    October 16, 2021 at 8:56 am

    To me, it’s the heel of the shoe that makes for a good driving moc. I would have loved to see photos that included the heel. Two things that are important in the heel are reinforcement/durability; and a roundness to their shape.

    Reply
  2. George Givens says

    May 18, 2021 at 12:04 pm

    I wear Uggs suede driving mocs.

    Reply
  3. George Lush says

    May 18, 2021 at 10:14 am

    I have a pair of Clarks driving mocs. Bought them several years ago. Styled more like a Venetian loafer than a boat shoe. They look great with a pair of tailored shorts and no-show socks. My comment concerning driving shoes is that they have a thin, non-supportive, flexible sole because, well, they’re driving shoes. So they’re not great to walk long distances in.

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

Join the Club

Never miss a post, plus grab this free guide (instant download).

No spam. Ever.

Subscribe Now

Top 5 Favorites for Fall & Winter 2022

  1. Thursday Boots Captain – still the best Goodyear-welted boot under $200 (full review here) 🥾
  2. Matte for Men SPF Lotion – because you should be using moisturizer with SPF
  3. Darn Tough Wool Socks – possibly the best boot socks you can buy 🧦
  4. Hamilton Khaki Mechanical – perfect everyday mechanical watch under $500 (Amazon/Jomashop)
  5. Flint & Tinder Waxed Jacket – great fit, perfect weight for fall 👍🏼

Trending Articles

Men over 40 style

How to Dress Well In Your 40s and 50s (and Beyond)

Fashion brands for short men

Where to Buy Clothes for Short Men (2022 Guide)

Seiko 5 SNK805

31 Great Watches For Small Wrists (Updated for 2023)

Best Business Casual Shoes for Men

Top 8 Best Business Casual Shoes for Men (2023 Guide)

Business casual outfits

The Complete Guide to Business Casual Style for Men

Topics

  • Clothing & Style
  • Outfit Ideas
  • Fitness
  • Product Reviews
  • Dating & Confidence
  • Grooming
  • Men of Modest Height
  • Income Reports

Footer

The Modest Man logo

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Home • Blog • Resources • Contact • Advertise

 

Privacy Policy & Affiliate Disclosure • Terms & Conditions

 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

Copyright © 2023 The Modest Man (Registered Trademark)