Thick-soled Chunky Loafers

Height and grip in the same shoe. These soles are deep, notched and made to hold the road, and about nine pairs in ten are cut for women. Just over half the rack is faux leather, then leather, suede and glossy finishes.

See also: Chunky Platform Loafers, Women's Platform Loafers, Black Loafers, White Loafers, Brown Loafers, Women's Loafers

What the thick sole is actually for

Two reasons, and only one of them is about looking taller.

1. Grip
   A deep tread on wet pavement is the single most useful thing on a fall shoe. It is why this shape sells from September onward.
   See also: Autumn Loafers, Winter Loafers

2. Distance from the ground
   A thick sole keeps your foot out of the cold and out of the puddle you did not see. Mundane, and you notice it every day.

3. Height that walks like a flat
   Because the sole is thick front and back, the height does not tip you forward. That is the difference from a heel.
   See also: Chunky Platform Loafers

3 mistakes to avoid when buying thick-soled loafers

1. Ignoring the weight
   These are the heaviest shoes we carry. For a day on your feet, pick the lighter of two pairs you like the same.
   See also: Women's Soft Loafers

2. Pairing them with a narrow hem
   A slim cropped pant over a heavy sole cuts the leg short. Wide or full-length works, the in-between does not.

3. Assuming they are all the same height
   A chunky sole can be an inch or three. Look at the side of the shoe rather than the word chunky, because the difference in how it walks is real.