Unusually styled, surprisingly comfortable—Trickers’ Dominic Monkey Shoe stands out without shouting

Use & Wear: I’ve had these for about two weeks now, mostly wearing them at the office 2-3 times a week. They replaced my usual office trainers, which wore out quickly. I walk to work, take the train, and bike, so I need something that’s not too warm or wet inside. These fit the bill for office wear and short walks after lunch. They get light use, but enough to get a feel for them.

Leather: The leather is smooth and dark brown but not uniform, which makes sense since this is a press sample. So far, no major creasing or wear, and it looks good. The texture adds some character, and I like that it’s not a flat color.

Fit: They run a tad long for me and are just okay width-wise. The heel is cut low, so they don’t feel super secure if I had to rush or run. The wedge sole is a bit stiff right now, so I expect some break-in time. For my next pair, I’d go down to an 8 wide on Trickers’ true-to-size last.

Craftsmanship: This is the best-finished boot I’ve owned so far. No loose threads or rolled edges. The details feel clean and well done, which is impressive for a press sample.

Sole & Heel: The Vibram sole has good grip and looks great with the low-profile wedge style I prefer. It’s still a bit stiff but should soften up with wear. The white rubber sole contrasts nicely with the dark leather.

Final Thoughts: Overall, these are a solid pick if you want something casual but a bit different from your usual sneakers or boots. The price drop made it worth pulling the trigger despite shipping and import fees. Just be mindful of sizing—I'd size down and go wide next time. The leather and build quality are impressive, and they fit well into a casual office setting where style matters but comfort is key.