Monkey Boots - A Stylish Approach to Utilitarian Footwear
The monkey boot is one of the shoe designs that create the 'service look'. Whether it's a casual or work look you're after, you can find a pair of monkey boots that fit your style perfectly. eBay has a range of monkey boots from top brands in different sizes. Browse the collections for whatever colours or designs you prefer.
Why is the design called monkey boots?'Monkey boot' stems from the fact that the shoes can climb anything, thanks to their construction. The sole of the boot has a tread that resembles a tractor tyre, which offers excellent traction. Grafters was the original manufacturer of this type of footwear, but over the years, it has undergone some modifications. In WWII, this boot was part of the standard uniform of the Czechoslovakian army, which is how they became famous for the service look.
Which different types of leather are used to make monkey boots?One characteristic of monkey boots is their durability, and that is due to the material combination that manufacturers use. Leather is the primary choice for these shoes, but the specific type will vary from maker to maker. Some of the alternatives include:
- Smooth leather: A majority of vintage monkey boots are of smooth leather, which refers to any type of leather with a smooth surface. The leather can be embossed or coated, but the surface is always shiny.
- Rub-off leather: The material has pigments of two contrasting coats. An initial coating is applied, then a top layer of a different colour is added. A rubbing off process removes the top coat and exposes the original one, leaving a unique patina.
- Full-grain leather: This is higher quality leather than all the other options, with no imperfections. The leather is from the grain side of the hide and has not undergone any alterations. It is durable, tactile, and doesn't peel over time.
- Greasy leather: This material is full-grain leather that is altered by adding oil to give it a supple look. Due to the oil, greasy leather tends to be heavier than other kinds, meaning that breaking it in takes a while. The oil provides a waterproof surface.
Yes. Although the monkey boot was traditionally a man's working boot, manufacturers have designs for women. Some have larger soles than the classic boots while others have embellished features like D-ring eyelets. Shoppers also have unisex models to pick from.