The perfect rainy season shoes: "City 2 Aqua Calf" | JOHN LOBB

JOHN LOBB

Rainy Days Are a Joy with the "CITY II in Aqua Calf"

Shoes for the British Gentleman to Enjoy the Rain

Even on gloomy, rainy days, life isn't entirely without its pleasures. An umbrella, and a pair of shoes. When you choose esteemed items, each with its own story and character, rainy days can even become something to look forward to. One such item is the "CITY II in Aqua Calf," based on the "CITY II" from the 7000 last, and crafted from "Aqua Calf," a new water-repellent material.

Photographs by KOBAYASHI Takashi (ITARU Studio)Text by ITO Yuji (OPENERS)

The Ideal Man, as Seen Through Shoes and Umbrellas in Britain

Historically, a walking stick might be considered a quintessential accessory for the British gentleman. However, as times evolved, the act of carrying a stick became largely ceremonial. What remains as a vestige of this tradition is the slender, rolled umbrella. While ostensibly a tool for protection from the rain, when carried by British men, it serves as a substitute for a walking stick. The anecdote that men once competed to see who could roll their umbrellas most elegantly and thinly, and that there was even a profession called 'umbrella roller,' perhaps illustrates the ideal image of a man that British gentlemen aspire to.

This approach, finding beauty in a tool and obsessing over subtle differences, can be seen as a quintessentially British form of understatement. Alongside umbrellas, shoes are another item that men choose with great care. Among John Lobb's offerings, the "CITY II," with its particularly refined appearance, is a classic straight-tip model. Maintaining its exquisite form, the "CITY II in Aqua Calf" is a version adapted for rainy days.

John Lobb's Craftsmanship: Merging Practicality and Fashion

The appeal of the "CITY II" lies in its versatility, excelling not only in business settings but also in formal occasions. It is one of the most popular models offered in Japan, an undisputed classic. The "CITY II in Aqua Calf" is this design clad in Aqua Calf, a water-repellent material.

Aqua Calf itself has been used before, notably in the deck shoe "LIVONIA." As it was designed for use in aquatic environments like a yacht deck, its characteristic feature is water-repellent leather that repels water from the surface. It also repels not only water but also helps prevent dirt and dust from adhering.
(Note: This is not waterproof, so proper care is recommended after getting wet.)

Designed for use in the rain, the sole features John Lobb's original rubber sole, the "November Sole," providing exceptional security and confidence with every step. Furthermore, its appearance is slimmer than the "October Sole" used on the "DARBY III," making it look more dressy and creating a perfect match with suit styles.

Wearing fine shoes with confidence, even on rainy days. This, and the understated British male persona that doesn't flaunt it. Following this example, acquiring the "CITY II in Aqua Calf" might even make one look forward to the sound of the rain.