What are Moccasins? 8 Most Popular Styles and How to Wear

We have a soft spot in our hearts for cozy shoes. We all have a favorite pair for days when we want to be comfortable, utilitarian, and stylish.

Then there are moccasins. Native Americans invented these leather shoes, which have evolved with fashion trends to remain a closet staple.

Moccasins, often known as loafers or driving shoes, will move you from season to season with ease. These shoes are simple and elegant, and they are appropriate for practically any event.

What exactly are moccasin shoes? What is the best brand of moccasins? Can moccasins be worn outside? In the tutorial below, we answer all of these questions and more.

What are Moccasins?

Moccasins are usually crafted of soft leather with a single continuous piece of leather for the sole and sides. Moccasins are distinguished by their u-shaped toe box.

Moccasins are known as 'loafers' in Europe, and driving or boating shoes in the United States. The popular UGG boots were inspired by the original moccasins.

While most moccasins are made of leather, others include a suede finish or a shearling interior.

The Origins of Moccasins

These shoes were created as one of the first outdoor shoes, and they were worn by indigenous tribes as well as European settlers. They protected the feet while also providing additional support for a whole day spent outside.

Soft sole moccasins were created to protect the wearer's feet while also allowing them to feel the ground underneath them. Moccasin shoes were originally constructed from buffalo, deer, or moose skins.

Can You Wear Moccasins Outside?

Moccasins are basic, comfy leather shoes that are meant to be worn outside. While the original moccasins were intended to be worn outside, most moccasins today are not ideal for tough terrain.

Unless you live in a warm region, moccasins are now mostly considered spring and summer shoes. Wear moccasins just when it's dry outside and you're walking on a smooth surface or grass.

What Are Driving Moccasins?

Driving shoes are another term for moccasins. These driving moccasins are practical shoes for long-distance driving.

The sole tabs of moccasins serve to improve friction and grip, making them excellent for driving.

Driving moccasins are also great for circumstances where you need a casual, comfortable shoe with added support.

Because of this, they are commonly referred to as "boat shoes." Moccasins are a 'preppy' fashion staple that can be dressed up or down with chinos or trousers and a button-up shirt.

The 8 Most Popular Moccasins

Do you want to expand your shoe collection with a pair of moccasins? We've rounded together the most popular moccasin styles, which feature a mix of classic silhouettes and modern trends.

1. Bimba y Lola – Leather Moccasin Loafers

Do you enjoy the look of moccasins but want them to be more versatile? Bimba y Lola's moccasin loafers have a low block heel and a more sturdy sole. They're a mix of simple workwear and streetwear style.

If you live in a fluctuating climate or want moccasins that you can wear all year, these loafers are a perfect option.

2. The House of Bruar – Ladies Sheepskin Moccasins

House of Bruar is the place to go for a classic moccasin. This company specializes in soft sheepskin moccasins that are worn indoors. They have a thermos-regulating construction and are made of 100% natural sheepskin.

In dry areas, you can wear these at home or outside. They're ideal for your next family barbecue.

3. Tod’s – City Gommino Driving Shoes

Tod's is a well-known brand for moccasins and driving shoes.

The style is part of their permanent collection and is available in a variety of colors. The "City Gommino" is a traditional penny loafer with a stamped Tod's monogram.

Tod's signature rubber outsole contains engraved pebbles for added support. These exquisite moccasins are an excellent alternative for your first designer shoes or to supplement your capsule wardrobe.

4. Ugg – Eevon Loafers

UGG is well-known for its affinity for moccasin shoes. The distinctive UGG boots evolved from traditional moccasins.

The "Eevon" loafers are a transitional design with the brand's revolutionary imprint insole, which provides all-day support.

These loafers, which have a slight UGG logo appeal, will take you from the office to your next summer vacation.

5. Tod’s – Penny Driving Moccasins

Tod's penny-driving shoes are another famous style of moccasin. For added support, these penny loafers feature moc-toe stitching and a pebbled sole.

This model is a more relaxed take on the brand's "City Gommino" driving shoes.

6. L.L.Bean – Wicked Good Genuine Shearling Moccasin Slippers

Moccasins are a popular form of indoor slippers, therefore it's no surprise that the majority of shoes are made for inside use.

The sheepskin moccasin slippers from L.L. Bean have a sturdy sole and genuine shearling interior. These are the slippers you'll reach for throughout the year.

7. Michael Michael Kors – Sutton Moccasins

Moccasins are a style that most designers have in their permanent collections. Michael Michael Kors' "Sutton" style added a classic monogram twist to the style.

For a feminine appeal, these shoes have lacing wraps and a metal-tipped bow. The slightly squared toe gives the shoes a modern look.

8. Lauren Ralph Lauren – Barnsbury Suede Loafers

Moccasins belong to the 'preppy' fashion scene. It should come as no surprise that Ralph Lauren has a number of styles in their permanent collection. On the vamp of the "Barnsbury" Suede Loafer is the brand's 'LRL' metal logo.

These moccasins are an enhanced, transitional shoe that you'll wear year after year at an affordable price.

Why You Need Moccasins

Everyone requires a simple pair of shoes that will take them wherever. Moccasins, like loafers, will carry you from breakfast with your girlfriends to your next adventure. These shoes should be in your capsule wardrobe.

Moccasins are a versatile style that has something for everyone. They're a relaxed but stylish look that's an upscale alternative to sneakers.

These sneakers will get you through virtually anything, whether you're going on vacation or exploring the city!