5 Ways to Spot High-Quality Monk Strap Shoes Before You Buy

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Looking to step up your shoe game with a sharp pair of monk strap shoes? Good choice! Monk straps mix the polish of dress shoes with a bit of edge, thanks to their signature buckle design. But how do you make sure you’re getting a high-quality pair instead of a letdown? Here are 5 simple ways to spot a well-made pair before you buy.

You’ll find more helpful fashion tips like this at places like coveti.com, but let’s get straight into it here.

1. Check the Leather
Good leather is key. If the shoes look shiny and plastic-like, chances are they’re made from low-quality leather or coated materials. Fine leather has a natural shine and feels soft yet strong to the touch. Give it a gentle press—real leather should wrinkle slightly but bounce back.

2. Examine the Stitching
Look closely at the details. Are the stitches even and straight? Quality shoes often have clean stitching with no loose threads. Uneven or sloppy stitches are a sign that the shoes were rushed in production and might not hold up well over time.

3. Feel the Sole
Turn the shoe over and inspect the sole. Leather soles or high-end rubber ones are generally good signs. Cheap soles tend to be thin or made of stiff plastic. If possible, slightly bend the shoe in your hands—it should give a little but not feel flimsy. A strong, flexible sole means better comfort and durability.

4. Check the Buckle and Strap Quality
Since monk strap shoes are all about the buckle, make sure it’s not just there for looks. The buckle should be solid and securely attached, not wobbly or loose. The strap should feed through easily and fasten snugly. Weak buckles can break quickly and ruin a great-looking shoe.

5. Look for Clean Inner Lining
The inside of the shoe tells you a lot. A well-made monk strap will have a smooth, clean lining—usually leather or soft fabric—that’s neatly attached. Poor-quality ones often have lining that peels or feels rough. The inside should feel comfortable since this affects how long you’ll want to wear them.

Shopping for monk strap shoes doesn’t need to be a guessing game. With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be able to spot a high-quality pair just by keeping an eye (and hand) on the details. Happy shoe hunting!