Men who appreciate well-made leather shoes but prefer that spring in their step have a new option with the recent entry of Harrys of London at Rustan’s Makati.

 

In the past decade, Harrys of London has built a reputation for merging traditional high-quality craftsmanship with technical design. From afar, the loafers, slip-ons and lace-ups have a staid, almost formal look. Flip them over, and many of them have slip-resistant rubber soles.

 

The London-based brand of Italian-made men’s shoes partnered with Vibram to come up with the Windsurf sole, found on its best-selling Downing and Basel loafers.

 

“It’s perfect for places that get a lot of rain, like London and the Philippines,” said chief executive officer Steven Newey.

 

Harrys of London has also partnered with Italian brand Technogel to come up with a gel compound footbed that responds to the wearer’s weight and foot shape.

 

“It’s an innovative material that, aside from keeping its shape, also keeps feet dry and comfortable,” said Newey.

 

For Fall-Winter 2016, the brand has expanded its range to include small leather goods (wallets, billfolds, briefcases) and luggage.

 

“We’ve even incorporated Technogel in the handles of our briefcases and travel bags for ease of carrying. We’re the only ones who employ this technology,” said Newey. “It sets us apart, so why not use it?”

 

The brand’s move into luxury leather goods is “a natural progression towards a lifestyle aesthetic,” he added.

 

Harrys of London is available at Rustan’s Makati, and soon at Rustan’s Shangri-La Plaza.