Why are they called driving shoes?  Do you wear them to drive? The truth is, during the 1960's, the predecessor of the modern day driving shoe was developed in Europe for professional automobile racing. Original drivers were extremely soft, lightweight, and were available in both lace-up and slip on models. The soles were all leather with protruding small rubber nubs that made clutch, brake and accelerator control more exacting. The rubber heel guard was added to protect the back of the shoe from premature wear due to the high number of repetitions that occur while moving the foot from the accelerator to the brake during competition.

Modern drivers continue the tradition of the authentic models with rubber nub soles and heel guards, which provide everyday function for weekends at the soccer field or a Sunday afternoon drive. Martin Dingman has taken driving shoes to a new level with soft calf linings, a heel to toe comfort system, and all rubber external soles that allow a driver to be worn in all seasons. With or without socks, today's driving shoes are the perfect compliment for khaki's, cords, denim, or shorts. These fun, all purpose shoes are available today in a myriad of styles, including penny loafers, shawl and tassel loafers, as well as the plain vamp that has become known as the Venetian.

The driving shoe is rapidly becoming an everyday casual sport shoe for men of all ages who possess a youthful attitude and discernment for fashion. Well-dressed men should reserve their athletic shoes for the gym and replace them with a pair of sleek, sophisticated drivers.

Co-authored by Giovanni Gambini and Martin Dingman. Mr. Gambini is a current resident of Florence and has spent over 30 years in the better men's footwear industry.