I’ve waited a long time (years) for this version 4.0 of the FER Cap-Toe Oxford from Carets Co (formerly The Primal Professional and Chronology LG). I last wear tested a pair of the original Primal Professional FER Cap-Toe over 4 years ago and I still wear that same pair for all my business meetings so all the details from the first review still hold today.
The latest version (v4) comes in both Black and Oxblood colorways and is a significant (major in terms of footwear design) improvement from a customer standpoint.
- finished footbed
- less toe spring
- less eyelets
- higher quality full grain leather
- round elastic laces
- better quality shoe tree
- multiple colorways
The first thing you’ll notice is that the shoe looks more narrow and is more traditional looking than other minimalist shoes from LEMs Shoes or VIVOBAREFOOT. But don’t let that fool you – the toe box is wide enough for my 2E wide feet. I do wear thin socks when wearing dress shoes (I don’t with casual or running shoes) and still have very generous width and volume for my toes to splay!
The latest version kept Carets Co patented hollow heel design – it’s what sold me back in 2014. The hollow heel design provided a flat outsole while showing everyone else the look of a heel! This is truly the ultimate zero-drop minimalist dress shoe...
Two little nits. The first is the elastic laces – you won’t get a tight lacing as they stretches somewhat after tightening but the upside is that you can slip in-and-out with the laces tied (even double knotted) although you might need a shoe horn. The elastic laces are however more durable than traditional laces. The other nit is that the down curve on the ankle area is 1mm or so taller than I like – I scratch my ankles with certain type of movements like getting into and out of a car.
My size 10 W pair of FER Cap-Toe Oxford, Oxblood weighs in at 11.2 ounces, about identical weight as my previous pair. Out of the box, the leather is a little stiff and it took at least two long wearing sessions (more than 8 hours) before it soften up. This model came in the nick of time as I’ve been involved in daily business meetings and multiple travels monthly in my new project. From minimalist running shoes to minimalist casual shoes to minimalist dress shoes, my shoe collection is almost complete.
Always keep the shoe tree inside the shoes when not wearing them. And slide them back into the soft shoe bags when storing or travelling.
The Carets Co inventory is now FULLY STOCKED for ALL models so you’ll never have to wait patiently like I did for years!!! Get your own pair now at Carets Co online and give your feet a well deserved break. Yes, classy dress shoes can also be comfortable!
For our readers only: Use code 1805-WEARTESTED and get $35 off your order.