M.Gemi Felize Loafer Review: The most comfortable driving loafers we've ever worn

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Those who have heard of M.Gemi's shoes are just as likely to know the startup's tagline: "Made in Italy the old way and sold the new way." And that pretty much sums it up.

Founder Maria Gangemi grew up along the olive tree-lined streets of Sicily. She would go on to mount a career in merchandising and creative for footwear and accessories brands, always reserving a special appreciation for the artistry bestowed upon shoes made in the mom-and-pop operations so commonly found in Italy. Three things ruled the hot, intimate shops clustered in town: quality, attention, and pride in one's work.

But it's not always easy to schedule a trip to Italy every time you need a new pair of flats. This is what led Gangemi to create M.Gemi — a startup that now connects anyone with internet access to shoes done "the old way" in Italy with the same quality as luxury names like Prada, for a fraction of the cost. 

The Felize driving loafer is known as M. Gemi's gateway shoe, because first-time shoppers tend to load up on more styles after giving them a try. This has rung true for us too — our favorite pairs from our M.Gemi review are featured heavily across our guides to ankle boots, loafers, and the most comfortable heels. 

The Felize is the classic driver that moonlights as the perfect travel shoe. It's been produced in over 160 unique color and material combinations since its debut. Currently, you can pick up The Felize in suede ($198), leather ($228), Croco leather ($278), glossy Naplak leather ($228), and even as suede mules ($198). 

It slips off easily for airport security lines, combines an effortlessly timeless style with extremely sensible comfort, and is made from a nice leather (or suede) and leather lining that gets better with time — molding to cup your foot like a custom-fit glove. It's the deceptively chic sub-in for sneakers on grocery trips, weekend mornings, or travel days.

Its versatility, quality, and the still-achievable price is probably why The Felize has been wait-listed over 36,000 times. 

How the Felize loafer is made

Part of the company's small-scale — and decidedly human, handmade process — means limited batches. And that can mean frequent sellouts, so not all colors and sizes are regularly available. However, the dexterity of a lean family-owned factory means that, overall, you've still got plenty of options (M.Gemi's also known for dropping styles on a regular basis, so there's always something new). 

Each pair is handmade in Tuscany in a tiny workshop that's been running for over 30 years. M.Gemi's partner artisan, Norina, oversees every detail — "including a tiny flame [taken] to the edges to singe away any loose threads." Plus, they're virtually season-less. 

Fit and sizing tips

I have The Felize Suede driving loafers in emerald green (a colorway that's now retired), and I'm happy to report that they're relatively true to size and required zero break-in time. My only fit tip is that they begin snug and grow looser and more custom-fit over time, meaning you should size a half size up for a looser fit immediately. For what it's worth, my regular size allowed for socks. 

I take them to brunch, the office, and the airport — making them one of the most versatile pairs of comfortable dress shoes I own. A rubber sole in the suede pair and a rubber peg sole in the pebbled leather pair make for distinctly cushiony steps for a signature driver. It also doesn't hurt that they've answered the age-old question of whether to prioritize strategic packing and polite outfits to the airport or the shameless, sloth-like comfort that would horrify my mother.

The bottom line

After over a year, I still wear them multiple times per week. They've worn into a customized mold over time, but haven't lost their shape. The color is still a vibrant green, and they show no real visible wear despite my frequent treks across the city. And I'd gladly buy a new pair if these ones vanished in the night. 

If you're looking for a chic shoe that can go anywhere, The Felize ($198) is my go-to recommendation for anyone that deems the price reasonable. Quality, style, fit, and comfort will deliver — so it really does come down to budget. If you're willing to spend a little bit more upfront to replace them less often, either because the fit isn't great, you're less ecstatic about the style or wear breaks down your cheaper pair, these are worth the splurge in my opinion. And, like other shoppers, you may find yourself returning to grab another pair of handmade Italian shoes from the startup before the year is up.