IGI&CO 21080 Gore-Tex Waterproof Leather Lace-Up Brogue Shoes Men Black

The IGI&CO 21080 is a men's lace-up brogue shoe in smooth black leather, with a Gore-Tex membrane, textile lining and a low-profile lug sole, made for dressing well without fearing the rain. We selected it at Calzados Vesga because it solves a very specific problem: a black formal shoe that is genuinely waterproof and comfortable all day.

Technical Specifications

A dress shoe that does not fear the rain

A formal leather shoe is usually the first one left at home when the sky clouds over, because water ruins a leather sole and soaks the inside. The 21080 changes that logic: its Gore-Tex membrane stops liquid water and lets perspiration vapour out, so you can wear it in the rain, step through a puddle or walk on a wet pavement without trouble.

The membrane sits between the leather and the lining, so it is invisible and adds no bulk: the shoe keeps the look of a classic brogue. Because it still breathes, it avoids the inner damp and hot feet that other waterproof shoes cause.

It is an especially sensible choice for anyone who spends long hours away from home, because a dry, well-supported foot tires less and feels better.

Design and style: the classic black brogue

A brogue is recognised by the decorative perforations along the toe cap and the seams of the vamp. Here they appear on a wingtip lace-up design with a restrained black leather finish that makes it formal without being stiff. The perforations add character and avoid the monotony of a plain shoe.

The sole is what sets it apart from a conventional dress shoe: a synthetic outsole with low-profile lugs and a heel of about 2 to 3 cm, by our estimate from the photos, that keeps the silhouette elegant while adding traction and cushioning. A small Gore-Tex tag at the heel is the only visible sign of the membrane.

Being a single colour, it goes with any suit, dress trousers or dark chinos. A shoe with presence, yet discreet.

Materials and finish

The upper is smooth cowhide, easier to clean and maintain than suede and resistant to daily wear. The lining is textile, soft to the touch and made for long hours of wear. The cushioned interior improves shock absorption, and the padded tongue protects the instep from lace pressure.

The Gore-Tex membrane is the key technical component. Its pores are far smaller than a water droplet but larger than a water vapour molecule: liquid water stays out while perspiration can escape. That is why the shoe is waterproof without feeling stuffy.

The sole is synthetic, with a lug pattern that clears water and gives traction. It is attached to the upper by stitching and bonding, and its perimeter rim protects the leather from knocks against kerbs and steps.

Everyday comfort

A comfortable formal shoe depends on three factors: how the foot is held, how much the sole cushions and whether the leather gives with wear. The 21080 is held by adjustable laces, cushions with a sole thicker than a classic dress shoe's and adapts with hours of use, so it needs no long break-in period.

The laces let you loosen the instep if you have a high arch and tighten it if your foot is narrow, and the textile lining feels warm from the first wear.

A practical tip: if you plan to wear thick wool socks, try half a size up. With fine dress socks, your usual size will be right.

When to wear them

It is a shoe for the office, meetings, business lunches, weddings and autumn and winter events, and also for everyday wear if you prefer a smarter look. Thanks to the membrane it is a good travel option, because one black pair covers work and leisure even in the rain.

It is not a technical mountain shoe nor a snow boot. For hiking or very demanding ground there are more suitable categories, but for urban and formal use it covers almost any situation.

How to style them

With a grey, navy or black suit, the black brogue is a safe and formal choice. With chinos or dark jeans and a blazer, it adds a polished touch without overdoing it. With tailored trousers and a roll-neck jumper, it makes an elegant winter outfit.

As for belts and accessories, the natural choice is a plain black belt with dark dress socks. A trench coat or a wool overcoat completes a rainy-day outfit with style.

Size guide

The model comes in EU 41 to 44 with a standard fit: neither especially small nor especially large. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one, above all if you have a high instep, a wide foot or plan to wear thick socks; a membrane shoe should not squeeze, because the foot needs a little room to stay warm.

Approximate UK equivalents: EU 41 is about UK 7, EU 42 about UK 8, EU 43 about UK 9 and EU 44 about UK 10. These are indicative only and vary between makers, so refer to the brand's size chart. With laces you can tune the pressure precisely, but the inner length is fixed: between two sizes, the larger one with firm lacing usually works best.

Care and maintenance

• Wipe off dust and dry mud with a damp cloth or a soft brush.
• Let the pair dry at room temperature with newspaper inside, away from radiators.
• Apply a neutral or colourless cream for smooth leather from time to time, without saturating the seams or the perforations.
• Do not use abrasive products or solvents, which damage the leather and can affect the membrane.

With these basic steps, the shoe keeps its look and the membrane keeps performing for many seasons.

Our verdict at Calzados Vesga

We think it is a very solid choice for anyone who needs a formal black shoe that copes with rain without giving up elegance. Its main strength is that it combines things that rarely come together: a classic look, a genuine Gore-Tex membrane, a sole with grip and everyday comfort. Its limit is that of any low shoe: it does not shield the ankle from deep water, although the membrane does protect the foot.

About the IGI&Co brand

IGI&Co is an Italian label specialising in comfortable, functional footwear, known for bringing the Gore-Tex membrane to everyday and formal models. Its range includes shoes and ankle boots for men, women and children for daily wear. See more options in our men's Gore-Tex shoes section or in the men's Oxford lace-up shoes category.

Frequently asked questions

Are they really waterproof?

Yes. They have a Gore-Tex membrane, which blocks liquid water and lets perspiration vapour out. It protects the foot from rain and puddles, although they are not meant to be submerged above the instep.

Do these run small?

No, they follow a standard fit. Order your usual size and go up half a size if you have wide feet or wear thick socks.

Are they comfortable all day?

Yes. The sole cushions, the laces adjust the instep and the tongue is padded. They are designed for long hours on your feet or walking.

Can I wear them with a suit?

Yes. It is a classic black brogue and works with grey, navy or black suits as well as with chinos and a blazer.

How do I clean them?

With a damp cloth or a soft brush, no running water, and a neutral cream for smooth leather. Let them dry in the air, away from radiators.

How high is the heel?

Approximately 2 to 3 cm, a low, stable heel typical of a dress shoe.

What size should I choose with wide feet?

Half a size above your usual. The laces let you loosen the instep, but a membrane shoe should be roomy across the width of the foot.

Delivery, returns and secure checkout

Delivery anywhere in Europe takes 4 to 6 working days. Shipping is charged by destination country and calculated at checkout. Returns from outside Spain are at the customer's expense. Payment is secure, and an experienced member of the team answers any sizing question before you order.

Why buy from Calzados Vesga

We are a family shoe shop on the main square of Burgos, northern Spain, with over fifty years behind the counter. We work with a curated selection of brands rather than an endless catalogue, and we know each model because we try it and sell it in our shop. Before and after purchase you deal with a real person.

Is this your shoe?

Yes, if you want a black formal lace-up shoe that is waterproof, comfortable and easy to style. Perhaps not, if you prefer a loafer with no laces, a classic leather sole or technical mountain footwear.

If you want a dress shoe that copes with rain without changing shoes, the black IGI&CO 21080 is a safe choice, available now at calzadosvesga.com.