IGI&CO 21163 Gore-Tex Waterproof Nubuck Zip Trainers Men Black

The IGI&CO 21163 are men's trainers in black nubuck with a Gore-Tex membrane, laces and a side zip, with a flexible synthetic sole of sporty profile, made for walking comfortably with dry feet all winter. We selected them at Calzados Vesga because they bring together three things that are hard to find in one pair: a restrained look, genuine waterproofing and a very practical way to put them on.

Technical Specifications

Winter trainers that do not look like winter trainers

Many waterproof trainers have a technical look that does not suit every setting. The 21163 look like restrained urban trainers: a smooth black nubuck upper, clean lines and a low silhouette. The Gore-Tex membrane sits between the outer and the lining, so the shoe keeps a discreet look and a moderate weight.

In them you can walk on a wet pavement, cross a puddle or sit out a shower without water reaching your foot. Being breathable, the membrane lets perspiration vapour out and avoids the damp, hot-foot feeling other waterproof footwear causes.

It is an especially sensible choice for anyone who spends long hours on their feet or walking, because a dry, well-supported foot tires less.

Design and style: all black with a side zip

The black nubuck has a slightly velvety finish that softens the shine and looks warm. A fabric reinforcement at the heel and a piece of smooth leather on the rear counter protect the area of greatest wear, and visible stitching underlines the design.

The metal side zip is the most characteristic detail: it runs along the side of the vamp, next to the laces, and opens the shoe for easy entry and exit. A small Gore-Tex tag on the side and the brand's tone-on-tone logo complete a discreet whole.

The sole has a sporty profile with a marked pattern of side lugs, in the same colour as the upper, which lightens the look and gives a modern feel.

Materials and finish

The upper is nubuck leather, a cowhide sanded on the outer face to give a fine, velvety surface. It is tougher than traditional suede and, with the membrane, tolerates damp better. The lining is textile, soft to the touch, and the interior has cushioning that improves comfort.

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, light and flexible, with lugs that clear water and give traction. It is attached to the upper by stitching and bonding, and its perimeter rim protects the leather from knocks.

Everyday comfort

What you notice most in these trainers is the flexibility of the sole: it follows the natural movement of the foot, without the stiffness of a classic shoe. Together with the moderate weight and cushioned interior, they feel comfortable from the first day, with no long break-in.

The lace and zip system allows two uses: with the laces tied firmly, for a secure fit when walking or working; with them slightly loose, to get in and out quickly using the zip.

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

When to wear them

They are footwear for everyday autumn and winter: relaxed office, walks, shopping, travel or jobs with long hours standing. They are also a good choice for a damp spring and for rainy regions such as Burgos.

They are not a deep-snow boot nor technical mountain footwear. For demanding hiking there are more suitable categories, but for urban use they cover almost any situation.

How to style them

With dark or black jeans, the black nubuck trainers give a discreet, current look. With grey or navy chinos, they form a relaxed, well-kept mid-season outfit. With tailored trousers and a roll-neck jumper, they suit the office without looking too sporty.

Black goes with everything: greys, navy, olive green, burgundy or all black. A parka, a bomber jacket or a wool overcoat completes a winter outfit with no effort.

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

• Brush off dust and dry mud with a soft nubuck brush, always in the direction of the nap.
• Let the pair dry at room temperature with newspaper inside, away from radiators.
• Apply a protector spray made for nubuck from time to time, without covering the membrane.
• Do not use polish or greasy creams, which flatten the nubuck and change its colour.

With these basic steps, the trainers keep their look and the membrane keeps performing for many seasons.

Our verdict at Calzados Vesga

We think it is a very solid buy for anyone who wants black, waterproof winter trainers that are easy to put on. Their main strength is that they combine things that rarely come together: a restrained look, a genuine Gore-Tex membrane, a flexible sole and a practical zip. Their limit is that of any low shoe: they do 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-looking models. Its range includes shoes, trainers 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 sports shoes and trainers 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 is flexible, the interior cushioned and they weigh little. They are designed for walking and long hours on your feet.

What is the zip for?

To get them on and off easily without untying the laces, and to adjust the opening. It is a practical system for anyone who changes shoes several times a day.

Can I wear them in snow?

In light snow, yes, thanks to the membrane and the lugs on the sole. For deep snow, a higher-shaft boot is better.

How do I clean them?

With a soft nubuck brush, no running water, and a protector spray made for nubuck. Let them dry in the air, away from radiators.

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.

Are these your trainers?

Yes, if you want black winter trainers that are waterproof, comfortable and easy to put on. Perhaps not, if you need technical mountain footwear or a tall-shaft boot for deep snow.

If you want everyday trainers that cope with rain without changing shoes, the black IGI&CO 21163 are a safe choice, available now at calzadosvesga.com.