Patnoflex

The Patnoflex is marketed as a travel-friendly option due to its lightweight construction and flexibility, making it compressible enough to pack efficiently. The seventh-generation family-owned company emphasizes environmentally responsible construction methods while maintaining affordability, with the Patnoflex typically retailing between $195 and $198.

The Patnoflex uses stitchdown construction, a method that attaches the upper directly to the outsole. The upper consists of roughout suede that is unlined with leather backing, creating a soft, flexible fit. The sole combines a single thick piece of vegetable-tanned leather with a rubber heel toplift for traction and durability.

Inside the shoe, removable insoles feature vegetable-tanned leather backed with neon orange comfort foam. An additional layer of denser grey cushioning is glued and nailed to the leather outsole to provide extra comfort. This multi-layered approach balances the traditional leather construction with modern comfort features.

The slip-on design requires no fasteners, while the Venetian loafer silhouette provides a subtle formality that works across casual and smart-casual contexts. The super-flexible sole construction requires minimal break-in period.

The Patnoflex is available only in whole sizes, with no half sizes offered. Customers are generally recommended to try their true-to-size Brannock measurement first. The shoes start snug when new but the uppers stretch over time due to the minimal lining in the roughout suede construction.

Those planning to wear the Patnoflex with socks should consider sizing up, as the initial fit runs close to the foot. The stretching characteristic of the unlined suede upper means the shoe will conform to the wearer's foot shape with regular use.

The Patnoflex is produced in four colorway options: militare suede, stone suede, tan leather, and dark chestnut nubuck. The suede and nubuck options showcase the roughout construction characteristic of the model, while the tan leather variant offers a smoother finish. Prices typically range from $195 to $198 at retail, with sales occasionally bringing the price down to $139.