An Oxford shoe is defined by its “closed” lacing system, meaning that its eyelet tabs are stitched underneath the vamp (i.e., the top) of the shoe so that they aren’t visible. Oxfords are occasionally called Balmorals after Balmoral Castle. The shoes are named Oxfords after Oxford University. This shoe style did not appear in North America until the 1800s. In the United States, Oxfords are called "Bal-type" as opposed to "Blucher-type" (see Derby). In France, Oxfords are known as Richelieu.

Oxfords were derived from the Oxonian, a half-boot with side slits that gained popularity at Oxford University in 1800. Oxfords were cut smaller than the foot. The side slit evolved into a side lace that eventually moved to the instep, as students rebelled against knee-high and ankle-high boots. The toe cap can either be lined with two narrow rows of stitching, perforated holes along the end cap stitching (quarter-brogue), perforated holes along the end cap stitching and on the toe cap (semi-brogue), or a semi-brogue with the classical wingtip design (full-brogue).

The Balmoral is also known as an Oxford with no seams, apart from the toe cap seam, descending to the welt. Oxford shoes are also known by their variation, or style. The Cap-Toe Oxford is the most well-known, although 'Whole Cut', 'Plain Toe', and a variation of 'Brogue' Oxfords are common. Shoes with closed lacing (Oxfords/Balmorals) are considered more formal than Derby’s. 

A rich brown just like a really good Beechnut should be. Our Beechnut Burnished colourway is the perfect tone for those not wanting to wear Black or Dark Brown. Perfect for all occasions and beautiful when ages and full of the character gained from plenty of wear.

Calf leather is finer grained, and lighter in weight than the hide of older cattle. This means that it is also more supple. It is also very durable in comparison to its thickness.

We advise using a Neutral polish to help care for these.

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This last has been used for our City shoes for many years.

The size (length fitting) of Tricker’s footwear made on this last (4537) is true to size, we recommend sticking to your regular than a regular UK. If you are unsure of your UK size, use our size guide to convert your known size to a UK size.

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• The Single Leather Sole - Single leather soles are lighter, have a slimmer silhouette and are more flexible. These soles are sleek, elegant and are the best choice for classic dress shoes. They are oil infused for enhanced flexibility and added protection.

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All shoe and boot orders are delivered in plain packaging containing the distinctive blue Tricker's shoe box and complete with a complimentary Tricker's shoe bag and polishing cloth.

For orders of £100 and over:
UK: 1-2 working days - Free Delivery
EU: 2-5 working days - Free Delivery
USA: 1-5 working days - Free Delivery
Japan: 3-7 working days - £25.00 Delivery
Hong Kong: 3-7 working days - £25.00 Delivery
Rest of World: 3-7 working days - Free Delivery

For orders below £100 (UK £50):
UK: 1-2 working days - £3.50
EU: 2-5 working days - €25.00 Delivery
USA: 1-5 working days - £25.00 Delivery
Rest of World: 3-7 working days - £25.00 Delivery

For more details, please see our Delivery & Returns Guide.

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