Gucci Horsebit Loafers 1953 Review $670 - $2600 - Is It Worth It? Part IV - Gentleman's Gazette

Should you get your hands on a pair of Gucci loafers? Read our review here: gentl.mn/is-it-worth-it-gucci-loafers
SHOP THE VIDEO:
1. Bronze Orange Madder Silk Pocket Square - gentl.mn/2oJ8rTF
2. Silver Eagle Claw Cufflinks - gentl.mn/2FfL9Pn
3. Caramel and Dark Burgundy Shadow Stripe Ribbed Socks - gentl.mn/2tjdAX4
4. Madder Silk Tie in Dark Blue, Light Blue, and Red Macclesfield Neats - gentl.mn/2FjCxTM
00:00 Introduction
Gucci is an Italian high fashion brand and they usually move very quickly with the trends, however, they produced one thing ever since 1953 and it's the Gucci horse bit loafer model 1953. Because they've been so popular over the years, there are many iterations and models, some are slippers with a soft heel, you can find them with different logos, but the original one has the classic horse bit, and no logos that are visible. You might wonder, at the end of the day, it's just a loafer, isn't it? Well, not quite.
00:52 History of Gucci
04:51 Construction & Workmanship
First, when I looked at it on the website, I was quite disappointed because there wasn't much detail. They just said, black leather and horse bit but they didn't talk about what kind of leather, how it was tanned, how it was constructed, if it was sewn, glued, what kind of construction it was, and so I was weary because I expected that it wasn't a good shoe after all. Now when I got the shoe, the actual first impression was much better. You could see the moccasin top was sewn by hand, that was quite obvious because of the different stitch density on the side and in the front which is a hallmark of handwork. You could also see little puckering along the edges which is typical for hand-sewn moccasins. The leather is very nice, good quality, it is hand stained but that makes more of a difference with brown shoes, not really with black, however, Italians are very good with leather especially around Florence and so you can rest assured that you get a quality hide on Gucci loafers.
Another area that I was quite surprised by it was the lining of the modern 1953 version. Because it's mostly a textile, you can see at the bottom of the shoe that it's a textile, it doesn't say whether it's cotton or linen, I suspect it's one of the other or a blend, could also be a poly blend but I don't know because Gucci doesn't provide any more information about it. The good thing is, it works really well for summery weathers because when your feet sweat, no matter, if you went on bare feet, or with no-show socks, or with regular socks, the cotton or the material, will absorb more than the leather and it will be more comfortable. If you look at the older Gucci horse bit loafers, they were all leather lined in a regular tan leather. Interestingly, there seems to be no foam pad underneath that leather insole in the heel area and I wonder why they didn't add that.
08:10 Pros:
- It's not a flashy shoe. It's an iconic shoe and this is an original.
- It's a comfortable shoe made in a classic last, made in the same shape since 1953.
- It's very easy to sell them and you still get quite a bit of money for them.
- Good quality
09:06 Cons:
- The cost
- Soft construction
So in conclusion, is the Gucci horse bit loafer worth it?
The answer is: it depends! (Watch the video for a detailed explanation.)
12:15 Outfit Rundown
#gucci #guccihorsebitloafers #isitworthit
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[@RizwanKler]

I found my old Gucci loafers collecting dust in my closet and I tried them on and they feel great! I think I'll start wearing them. I feel like a million $$ once again haha. Glad you made the vid!

[@AustinGordon4]

How’s the quality? Does your old ones seems nicer than the newer ones featured in this video?

[@iambrenthenderson]

How is the fit on yours? I just got a pair but my heel was slipping a comical amount. Think sizing down would solve that?

[@SaitouXD]

When are you reviewing the new supreme drop?

[@carlostorres8771]

The precious

[@luvillan4641]

🤣🤣🙌🏼

[@cloutsergio]

Deadass brub

[@ogfordays7540]

Shame people nowadays pay the same amount on lame Gucci sneakers instead of these amazing loafers that actually has exquisite labour care proportional to its price tag.

[@TheVoltaire1]

Nah these are nowhere near the value of 700 bucks. You can buy top notch shoes with terrific value from companies like Viberg.

[@jeremias-serus]

Zahinn I think OP recognizes that the GG loafers are not priced perfectly proportionally, but they’re still significantly more proportionally priced when compared some other items from Gucci, like say, their sneakers. I tend to agree with him.

[@neilsoulman]

agree, the Gucci loafers are of superb styling, material and workmanship, of course there is going to be a slight mark up just for the brand, but I feel they are comparable to the competitors on the mkt, SF, thom Browne (red bottoms) , , Louboutin, Burberry etc. Nevertheless can't say the same for the Gucci canvas sneakers, other then they match up well if you happen to have the matching jogger, imho, a good Belvedere, Mauri exotic, Bellaziglia sock, or even a limited ed. Jordan/ Nike are preferable as a stylish, quality athletic shoe.

[@amitchell4206]

I rather buy shoes than sneakers!!! Men buy shoes and boys buy sneakers!!

[@Oceangirl1234]

@@amitchell4206 good God. lol. Real men don’t care

[@tangchiprathomo819]

Your “is it worth?” series is your best series so far 👍🏽

[@valisechi2492]

Really enjoyed this! As you say, it depends if it’s worth it. To give you my example, I live in a former communist Eastern European country, in which people had no time to develop their tastes yet. If you want to do big business here one important aspect is that you need to be perceived as successful and doing so you will have a much better chance of securing deals. So certain status symbols are a must. No logos, but instantly recognisable expensive stuff. So yeah, they are worth it because in the end they may make you a lot more money. On intrinsic value alone, no.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Thanks for sharing this different point of view.

[@zhangken9884]

Same reason why big brands like Gucci go viral in China

[@fsabouni]

Excellent comment.

[@fez144]

"It's more about the crocodrldlrldlrll I think crocdrldlrlrlrl" LOL 9:40

[@12inch_monster]

wth?! how did i miss that? 😂

[@Cody_AT4]

Bruh LOL

[@marcoramirez7684]

Bro I laughed way to hard 😂

[@alert2725]

Anyone know if this is a inside joke or something?

[@RGK147]

@@alert2725 click on the time stamp on his comment.

[@CrepitusRex]

I like these videos best. Love knowing the history of things.

[@dipro001]

Agreed.

[@filip6127]

Well, pardon us, mister Gucci loafers.

[@deyudeyu505]

The star sign is sign of close channelling stitch. It show where the stich start and end. And to show people it is stitched, not only glued

[@iMadPow]

perfect shoes for city slickers

[@merb.3576]

Great video! So interesting to learn about the history of this particular shoe. There's one aspect that may make it a little more worth its price, and that's comfort. I taught languages for several years, standing for many hours at a time, which made my feet hurt at the end of the day, EXCEPT for the days on which I wore my Gucci loafers. They gave me great support and seemed to soften the ground, almost like walking on air.

[@FatSamEIE]

As a teenager these were the staple shoes we wore when going out. With jeans/shorts and a polo or button down shirt they were comfy and smart casual. (I would never wear loafers with a suit.) I now own a pair of Churches that look almost identical but cost me less while feeling a bit more exclusive and less flashy... even though they look the same! 😁

[@vimos.9996]

Og chad

[@tahbibahmed5065]

First generation Chad, father Chad.

[@ezra420420]

Almost had a heart attack when he folded the shoe in half😂

[@shibacrypto7908]

Did you?! Oh, no.

[@DoubleDare]

Thank you for this video, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I bought a pair of Gucci Horsebit Loafers with the Vibram heavy tread sole back in 1994 and they're still going strong. I'm wearing them even as I write this. I didn't have to pay $670 for them back then but even if I did, I think I well and truly got my money's worth by now. I do agree that they could be priced much lower.

[@edward9674]

I saw a cityslicker prancing around with these when i was by my pa's agricultural shop.

[@TheArtkaw]

This video is weirdly timely for me as I've been seriously thinking of picking up a pair of Gucci loafers in my upcoming trip to Paris!

[@DougsPerspective]

Did you purchase them? And now, a few years later, do you still think they are worth it?

[@bryantmarin4423]

Please do a video on Hermes Ties!

[@sepppepe2158]

Bryant Marin Yes!!!!

[@diegopinon5275]

Well pardon us, mr Gucci loafers.

[@MCSolaireBro]

wow, these videos are so informative! I can listen to you all day :)

[@andreware6492]

They are absolutely worth it! I own 7 different pairs. I love your channel

[@tedlifter]

I wore a pair of these to the local feed and seed and got given the run over by the two chaps sitting outside. 10/10

[@omareduardomijangossanchez9292]

how nice that you now have subtitles before I watched your videos without it but thanks. saludos!

[@pattgsm]

This series is very interesting. Awesome production! I agree on all pos and neg points presented. I lean more on the side of quality over status. However, if I did own a pair I'm sure I would enjoy them. On a side note, I appreciate the outfit.

[@mikalrain]

As always, so well-made and informative videos. Even when not interested in the subject, I watch them!

[@johnbaumgartner3822]

Totally agree - I've gotten into the habit of kicking back to check Sven's video's out and relax and experience a dose of painless well-presented information even when I'm not particularly interested in the subject.

[@Mr.Ciobanu]

the only channel that i have the little bell on to hear the notifications :) epic outfit as always

[@gentlemansgazette]

Thanks!

[@Mr.Ciobanu]

no. Thank you ! I

[@gentlemansgazette]

What's your take, do you think they are worth it? Also, what should we film next in the Is It Worth It Series?

[@bemnet2000]

Wheather Suitsupply is worth it or not?

[@yanisbenchara3006]

No for the gucci all the way , there are many cheaper alternatives with better quality , i just hate the fact that i'm paying the big part of the product for brand's name, not for the product itself . here are some suggestions for next "is it worth it" episodes : rolex submariner/ omega speedmaster / audemars piguet original Royal oak / Levi's 501 jeans / Rayban wayfarer or aviator :) thank you ,

[@miguellorenzosingian1562]

Beement Eh, not really in the spirit of the is it worth it series. Suitsupply is not "cheap" but it is also very very far from being luxury which is more what this series is about.

[@yossavinsombutpanich9316]

How about TODS or Bally?

[@FatSamEIE]

I used to wear them when I was younger and was surprised at how much the price has gone up. I wanted a pair for old times saje but bought some Churches horsebit loafers that look very similar but were slightly cheaper and better quality (and less tacky in my humble opinion).

[@asds3876]

This is the video I've been waiting for.

[@JonnyHorseman]

I bought those shoes from a hobo

[@kiwano2971]

sneed

[@sikkableeat5614]

Well la dee da

[@JacquezRappaport]

My mom bought one HIDUPZ and she loves it. It had been there for over 10 years when she went out with it.

[@areebsyed8532]

Rewatching these vids because I love them!! Can you all make a video about the Gucci marmont belt

[@realtorkristianbell2857]

They are worth every penny. I have 3 colors and I also have 2 other model of Gucci shoes. What he failed to mention is they get better the more you wear them. I switched to Gucci after going through multiple cheap brands. Quality over quantity. Get rubber put on the soles. They last forever!

[@nadk8886]

Hi, why do they get better may I ask?

[@Roomba146]

I don’t really get why I’m commenting this, but if anybody’s seeing this, I want to share my thoughts. I think the stars on the heel are in reference to stirrups worn by horse riders, which is pretty cool and fitting.

[@kaunas888]

This seems to be to be quite a balanced and fair review.

[@MM-iu8fk]

Hey you! 🙋🏼‍♀️gentlewomen are watching, too! Love from a designer passionate about learning the never ending Couture techniques, Germany(:

[@emilianohernandezcastaneda1702]

I love the video. What's your opinion about ferragamo shoes?, do you think are worth it? Love the channel and best wishes from Mexico

[@rfn]

ferragamo belts are bad quality. i dont own shoes but i'll guess its about the same

[@ibnmianal-buna3176]

Brilliant as usual Sven! Mach weiter so!

[@gentlemansgazette]

Danke

[@davidthomas6949]

Awesome video my friend!! Glad the negative comments are drowned out by the good ones! You're holding down a "style of being" that we desperately need!

[@antonc108]

Have two, one recent penny loafer in a more casual styled, very well made and comfortable, obviously high quality, and another older horseblit, not the '1953' edition, but similar and older with goodyear welt instead of blake and leather lined. This horsebit one is one of my most uncomfortable shoe, and the leather is now cracking, something is just not right. It was maintained with saphir products and taken care of. Keeping it to remember an old friend who passed.

[@SP-pn7xx]

I've been waiting for a decent video on Gucci loafers! Thanks GG!! Please do a video on RM Williams for your Aussie fans! I bought my loafter in 2015 at full price. Expensive, but I love the hell out of them anyway! They are fantastic for special occasions, but they aren't weekly work shoes unless you have several pairs to rotate through.

[@SpaceWalkTraveller]

It's a great looking shoe, I really like it. The price seems reasonable as a good pair of English made loafer will cost you more. Great video.

[@ines4242]

I love the Gucci loafers! I think that it will go well with a lot of things in my wardrobe since I wear black shoes most of the time.

[@Ricky-ci4jx]

I love the way you say, “quality.”

[@duppyflyco]

The Allen Edmonds Verona II is virtually indistinguishable from the Gucci 1953 but half the price and higher construction quality.

[@plummerofficial]

I just got a pair of the Verona II yesterday in light brown/tan. They were on sale for $295, essentially half the price of the Gucci loafers.

[@billybadass8690]

Thanks for this comment. I didn’t know the Verona II existed. I’m buying one now!

[@STRATOHOLICRichman]

Was going to comment this, they also have a harder wearing boot style rubber sole for the city folk who walk everywhere.

[@omareduardomijangossanchez9292]

very good detail in putting subtitles in Spanish you should put the title equal so there is no barrier. Greetings from MX

[@thiaguinhogameplays]

I'm 15 and I've always been in love with these. Is it worth it to buy it?

[@stancurry6265]

Where can you get custom horsebit loafers for 670 dollars as referenced in the end??? That’s something I’d be interested in

[@darthvictor001]

My personal preference goes out to the Salvatore Ferragamo loafers. The logo looks similar to the Gucci horsebit loafers and they will cost you anywhere from $580 to $680 depending on the model/version. (Maybe there are more expensive models out there, not sure about that)

[@badcholesterol]

Sneed

[@ohwx4212]

I'm usually in to the more trendy/srteet part of the fashion scene but still deeply enjoyed this video, this is great!

[@schizo0223]

They are the Rolex Datejust of shoes. There are better watches out there that have more watch snob creds, but the masses still buy them just because it is what it is. My dad wore them, I have them, and my son has a pair (in brown.) I agree they don't work work with a suit, but it works with chinos and jeans (especially in suede which were available on the past.) But personally the JM Weston moc get more wear from me, and they do work well in black even for casual situations.

[@FatSamEIE]

Joshua Lee good comparison-and like the datejust they are tried and tested, reliable, go with pretty much anything and easily recognisable. Along with being a bit over priced but not enough to be silly overpriced. (Like a hublot with an eta movement or a pair of Loboutin sneakers for £600/$750+)

[@picanha694]

Date just is old chinese uncle's watch. It is a status symbol for them. I see the 1953 gucci as a shoes for hip young folks who dont wear socks with it.

[@Cyb0rgLP]

Imo a Datejust just looks way better than a Submariner, I really dislike watches like the submariner. Funnily people who aren't into watches usually tell me the same (when I show them both watches).

[@stanrymkiewicz4118]

What about salvadore ferragemo shoes? I would love to see review on them from you. Great video tho!

[@gcsalzer]

In general, Ferragamos are better than Gucci overall. Except for the classic loafer, Gucci shoes scream that you've got more money than brains.

[@jameslovesbutter2314]

They are definitely worth it. They are beautiful. They will last years if looked after properly :)

[@jamxtube]

Very good rational laid out for reason why and why not to make this purchase. My favorite, which I had not considered, is to have a bespoke pair of loafers commissioned. Excellent.

[@andresrodriguez8894]

Hello Sven. I have a pair of Gucci loafers, black with gold horse bit (just like the ones shown in your video). I absolutely love them. However, I have had a hard time finding a belt to wear with them. What do you recommend? Keep in mind I'm a small guy (5'6 tall 28" waist). Thank-You.

[@joelsilverberg92]

Thanks for your review here and the reference to Jay Butler, which seem like excellent shoes with a similar silhouette.

[@ChevyBM]

These are soo timeless, the horsebit loafers are the next pair of shoes I'm gonna get me.

[@DDSMASH74]

When I worked at a high end fashion boutique in London, Gucci was always seen as gaudy and Prada et al was the preferred brand by the jet set.

[@andrewciebrant5789]

Thank you been waiting for his since you mentioned it in the other video!

[@jliscorpio]

I bought my black Gucci 1953s in the 90s at the NYC store. They have silver bits on them, not gold. Just had them resoled and they're like new again!

[@NoraAuraCosplay]

I would certainly love to see your opinion on the Kingsman range available from Mr Porter , as I love the film (Kingsman: The Secret Service; 2014) and the mostly British styling they use.

[@philipface30]

I'm beyond pleased with my Allen Edmonds horsebit loafers, and scored them for just over $200.

[@sn0w1et]

I clicked on the video because I found it appealing over my video suggestions and i ended up having a brilliant design lesson 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@travisala8152]

Please!! Compare Mooseknuckles starting ~950$ for a bomber and going well over 1500 for parkas ect. over brands like Canada goose and maybe other extreme weather coats which cost ~1000$CA. Love your eye for quality, I've learnt much watching your videos. Thanks

[@elora2525]

I have the brown AE Verona2 and looks very similar to Gucci and Jay Butler very close design. The others just don't look the same. My black Bruno Magli the leather quality is awesome but with there own style doesn't look like gucci bit loafers.

[@iambrenthenderson]

Hey there, I just got mine in the mail today and I was a bit disappointed how much my heel was slipping. Do you think sizing down a half size would resolve the heel slippage? I wear size 12 athletic shoes but typically wear a 10.5 or 11 in dress shoes. Please help!!! Your videos are incredible !!!

[@user-em9su3dd9y]

Informative! Thanks for these kinds of videos.

[@gentlemansgazette]

It is our pleasure.

[@theartistformallyknownasdi5338]

The Star symbol on the heel is just for fishing, it has featured on several of my shoes of various brands. Oh and great vid as usual!

[@matthewmarroquin9991]

Never have been a fan of Gucci too much notoriety with not enough quality nor reasonable price. To me its just a brand to flaunt not to truly enjoy. Anyway great video keep these up.

[@safuan5941]

Thank you so much, this was so cool.

[@nehaalkadge8279]

good review. Keep up the good work .!

[@sofearichielgbtq9430]

Thanks for the information and your thoughts I already knew what to buy for my little brother I think it is worth it for the brand and Gucci hard work

[@lucab.6516]

I like this series very much! 👍🏽

[@Mikey-240]

You are a better KZbinr than others. Continue these videos sir

[@Mikey-240]

I do believe you should hit the gym tho my guy

[@robinthomas4213]

Always loved loafers. I have a pair of black and of brown. My favourite look is a black/brown combo.

[@thesceptic1018]

If they're your most comfortable shoes and you wear them a lot (and you look after them), the cost per wear becomes relatively low (I heard this on this very channel)

[@likeris2]

what brand you recomend for custom loafers in London? I in love with Burbery loafers shape, but disapointed with confort and quality.

[@markrobertsonalba3174]

Hi! I really love your videos Sven and I'm really inspired to make my wardrobe more formal. Can you please make more videos about big (plus size) gentleman? Thanks! Greetings from the Philippines!

[@Sam-lj9vj]

I learned more history from you than all of my school classes ever combined.

[@RevJamesCostello]

Did you end up keeping the loafers or did you return them?

[@sampetersen855]

Thanks for the review! You have such a lovely voice, nice asmr vibes. :)

[@felicecinque]

Brixtons are my favorite - they are like wearing slippers and are very chic looking.

[@gilbs72]

What are your opinions on the Gucci Alfons (similar shoe with tougher lug sole)? Any good or bad experiences? Also are those welted? Thank you.

[@samanthab1923]

My father taught me the value of good footwear. Always big on taking care of your feet. He had his first pair in 1975. Brown, then the blue & even white. Remember watching All the Presidents Men, Ben Bradlee wore them in the office.

[@fixyourface9]

No matter the price . I love gucci loafers

[@chlim8311]

Can you review Salvatore Ferragamo loafers on worth it please?

[@zhisu2665]

gucci has a few little added "features" that knock-offs won't bother including or notice, like on the tags there's usually red two-lined stitching on the top.

[@mullman]

4 worn pair and two pair new in the box (70s version) for the future since they aren’t made often. Yes they’re worth it.

[@trxmpg70]

I have enjoyed my Cole Haan Gotham Bit Loafer, and the price is comparison is much easier to accept.

[@Andrewjceballos]

AND IT HAD THE... HHHHHHHORSE BIT

[@Archer335]

Well done. Thank you for the history lesson.

[@merniel9659]

I just bought my pair of Gucci 1953 Horsebits and realized, that the toe/tip of the shoe curls up really badly. I dont know if this is a side effect of the shoes "moccassin"-like construction, or if this is because they used cheap stiff leather... I saw this on several google-pictures too. The Gucci horsebit loafer often curls up and looks like the shoe of a leprechaun. Am I the only one seeing this problem?

[@ismail548]

I hate when this happens!!! People shed light please

[@4082410557]

Is this loafer a good choice for indigo denim? If you wear a black polo with indigo jeans do you wear black or brown loafers?

[@bigtasty5348]

if he thinks 670 is expensive for designer shoes - imagine him with like Paris dunks - 60000 for nike - he's gonna go nuts

[@getitenterprise]

How do these truly compare to ferragamo loafers. I tried the gucci they felt softer, and looser where as the ferragamo was rigid and a nice fit..

[@blaineurich98]

Icons never die. You can buy a more crafted and quality made shoe. But Gucci holds their value strongly

[@jason41a]

by far probably the best gucci product for men and the value.

[@jerrymartin7377]

PLEASE, DO A VIDEO ON HERMES NECKWEAR ! 👍👍

[@evgenykorneev6973]

Where do you get a custom-specs loafer made to measure for $600? You'd need to go t least twice the amount to get into any decent MTM shoe. I would be curious to know.

[@colinmurphy2214]

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Ferragamo, their my father and mines’ go to shoe both for causal loafers and dressed up

[@nathanwoolley8479]

What do you think about the British „public school“ Look of chinos , shirt ,schoffel fleece and black Gucci horsebits ?