Which sole to choose for men's shoes?
The sole of a shoe is more than just a functional detail. It's the key to everyday comfort, to the longevity of your shoes and to the way they look. Yet this essential component is often relegated to the background, overshadowed by the lines of the upper or the nobility of the leather. At In Corio, we attach particular importance to this.
Because an elegant shoe only makes sense if it's a pleasure to wear, we pay particular attention to the choice of soles. Each pair is designed to adapt to the rhythm of your life: walking a lot, standing for a long time, facing capricious weather or simply feeling good in your steps.
We offer two main types of sole in our collection:
- leather soles, prized for their finesse and unrivalled elegance;
- rubber soles, immediately supple and waterproof, ideal for everyday urban use and uneven ground.
From the soft, casual lines of Antoine moccasins to the formal rigor of Marc richelieus, each In Corio model is designed with a sole adapted to its function, without ever compromising style or comfort.
This guide will help you to better understand what each sole brings to your shoe, and to choose the one that suits you best.
Why is the choice of insoles essential?
The sole is often invisible to the naked eye. And yet, it's the sole that determines how you feel right from your first steps. A good sole not only ensures a stable footing, but also balanced weight distribution, effective cushioning and a smooth, supple walk. It's the sole that makes you forget the shoe... or reminds you of it with every stride.
Foot comfort and support
At In Corio, we started from a simple observation: wearing beautiful shoes should never be an ordeal. That's why all our shoes feature a high-density latex insole, which conforms to the natural shape of the foot and provides support. This structural comfort is complemented, depending on the model, by an outsole adapted to the use:
- Leather, for those seeking the classic elegance of a dress shoe.
- Gum, for more flexible, protective walking on a daily basis.
Gabin boots are available with a choice of leather or rubber soles, depending on your needs.
Posture, fluidity, confidence
A well-designed insole also acts on the whole body. It promotes natural posture, more fluid walking and better alignment. It contributes to that subtle feeling of well-being that lets you forget you're wearing shoes. Such is the case with our Marc richelieus in black or chocolate leather, whose discreet rubber sole accompanies your stride while ensuring excellent stability.
Elegance underfoot
Finally, the sole contributes to the overall aesthetics of the shoe. A thin, sober sole refines the silhouette. A slightly protruding sole adds character. A contrasting hue or natural leather reveal a taste for detail.
That's why our Paul and Arthur models, in black or cognac leather, feature stitched leather soles that blend elegantly into the line of the shoe - a discreet signature that makes all the difference.
The different types of insoles at In Corio
Two options. The same high standards.
At In Corio, we've made a clear choice: offer only what makes sense. No complicated technical soles, no superfluous synthetic materials. We focus on two types of sole: leather and rubber, which we select and sew with the utmost care.
Leather soles: tradition in all its nobility
For centuries, leather has been the material of choice for the great shoemakers. And with good reason: it resists abrasion, it adapts to the foot and it's refined. A leather sole offers natural comfort and incomparable styling.
Advantages:
- Timeless aesthetics: ideal for formal shoes.
- Resistance: when properly cared for, leather soles will last for years before needing to be replaced
- Fine lines: the sole follows the shape of the foot without protruding, for a sleek look.
At In Corio, our models such as the Arthur richelieu in black leather or the Paul moccasin in chocolate brown leather feature stitched leather soles, which enhance the look of the shoe while ensuring flexibility and longevity.
If you do a lot of walking on damp or abrasive surfaces, your shoemaker can add a pad and a built-in iron to preserve the sole. We always recommend it, and offer this service in our Paris boutiques.
Rubber sole: discretion, flexibility and urban comfort
Rubber is our everyday ally. More flexible and more tolerant to the vagaries of the weather, it extends the use of elegant shoes without ever sacrificing style.
Advantages:
- Enhanced grip: ideal on wet or uneven ground.
- Immediate cushioning: the sole naturally absorbs shocks.
- Visual discretion: our rubber soles remain slim and elegant, perfectly integrated into the design of the shoe.
Our Antoine loafers - available in a wide range of suede colors such as sky blue, taupe or olive green - are all mounted on thin gum soles: perfect for alternating between office, appointments and moments of relaxation.
Another example: Martin boots in black or mahogany leather, which combine sturdy rubber soles and a sleek silhouette to take on the city without ever compromising on elegance.
Which sole for which use?
Adapt the sole to your pace, without ever giving up style
The right shoe is the one that accompanies your day, without compromise. And it all starts with the choice of sole. Whether you're looking for an assertive silhouette for the office or a shoe ready to face the morning rain, every detail counts. Here are a few pointers to help you make the right choice, according to your needs.
For long days of walking or standing
Does your schedule leave you no time to relax? Opt for a flexible rubber sole, mounted on an ergonomic footbed. They absorb shocks, support foot movement and prevent fatigue at the end of the day.
Our Henry Chelsea boots are perfect for active men who want to stay stylish without sacrificing comfort.
For everyday urban life, between indoors and outdoors
Moving from the metro to a meeting room, then on to dinner on the terrace? You need a sole that keeps pace without weighing down your style.
The Olivier derby in grained leather, or the Gabriel sneakers in white leather and green suede, combine meticulous styling with a comfortable, lightweight rubber sole, perfectly suited to urban use.
For more formal occasions or important meetings
When it comes to making a lasting impression, there's no substitute for the finesse of a leather sole. Its elegant profile refines the silhouette of the shoe and demonstrates a certain taste for detail.
The Arthur richelieu in black leather, or the Armand in chocolate leather, embody this sober, timeless elegance - ideal under a suit or wool pants.
To alternate and extend service life
The best advice we can give you: alternate your shoes, because every occasion calls for the right model. Shoes need rest to last. That's why we offer a year-round sliding scale of prices for two pairs or more - so you can vary your soles, your uses and your desires.
For example, pair an Antoine moccasin for casual days with a black leather Marc for dressier moments.
Maintaining insoles: preserving comfort and style over time
A good sole lasts longer... if you take good care of it
Whether leather or rubber, a sole deserves as much attention as the rest of the shoe. Proper care extends its lifespan, maintains comfort and preserves the shoe's elegance over the years.
When and why should you have your soles serviced or replaced?
Over time, even the best soles naturally wear out. On a leather sole, visible signs of wear appear in the forefoot or heel area. On a rubber sole, grip can diminish with wear.
The advantage of the Blake stitched assembly - used on all our models - is that it allows easy resealing by a qualified shoemaker. This considerably extends the life of your shoes.
Our recommendations for caring for your insoles
- Let your shoes rest for 24 hours after each wear: this allows the sole (and leather) to breathe and dry properly.
- Use rough wooden shoe trees, which absorb moisture and retain the shape of the shoe.
- For leather soles, ask your shoemaker to fit a discreet pad and inset irons if you often walk on abrasive or damp surfaces. When they wear out, simply replace them without changing the entire sole.
Rubber or leather sole: make the right choice for your shoes
