I’ve become quite familiar with Amberjack shoes over the years. So, I don’t need to bury the lead — I’m a fan. In fact, I’ve been on board from the beginning with their inaugural Original model.
As any true fan though, I will hold their feet to the fire. No one can break your heart like someone who loves you, after all.
When they contacted me about their Cap-Toe shoes, I was hesitant. Footwear with broguing really aren’t my thing. But I figured, they’ve done right by my shoe closet before, so why not give these a shot?
I’ve worn these shoes all summer long. If you want to know whether they’re right for you, here’s my take.
Amberjack, The Brand: A Focus on Comfort, Style, and Environment
I’m going to very quickly give you an overview of the brand. I’ve done this before in other hands-on reviews (like this one for their boots). So, check those out if you want to learn more.
Amberjack is based in Brooklyn, where all the designing happens, and was founded by John Peters.
He definitely positioned Amberjack as one of the relatively new brands leveling up the comfort hybrid shoe market. Prior, hybrids usually just meant a derby upper with an athletic sole slapped at the bottom.
Even more, Amberjack is the first business professional shoe company that’s completely carbon neutral. The way these Cap-Toes were packaged will shine more light on that. So, let’s get to the review!
Amberjack Cap-Toe Hands-On Review
I ordered the Onyx colorway in a size 8.5.
Before I talk about the shoe itself, I want to spotlight how well-packaged it was.
Amberjack mails its shoes in the actual shoe box instead of adding another layer of packaging over the branded box. Meanwhile, the dustbags are linen, not nylon, which is more sustainable.
Pro tip: The linen dust bags are useful for carrying small items when traveling.
This is a testament to Amberjack’s commitment to the environment and likely a major contributor to its carbon-neutral status.
Okay, on to the Amberjack Cap-Toe.
The Design
Remember when I said I wasn’t big on shoes with broguing? Well, I fully take that back. At least, I do with the Amberjack Cap-Toe.
Between the color, the hybrid aesthetic, and the generally smooth silhouette, there’s a beautiful balance here.
First off, it’s an Oxford, not a derby like their Originals are. There isn’t topography on top of topography, ensuring a more refined look. Plus, the all-black upper tempers all of the broguing. It isn’t subtle, but it isn’t loud.
I think the sneaker characteristics really bring the design elements together in a natural way. See, for dress shoes, I prefer fewer details. I don’t like a cap-toe on my Oxfords, and in fact, I prefer a whole-cut Oxford.
With the Amberjack Cap-Toe though, the white streak midsole and the perforations are visual hat-tips to its athletic personality. It’s more like an interesting, leveled-up, and distinct sneaker in that sense, and less like an overly fanciful dress shoe.
Still, this guy is versatile. You can definitely wear it with a suit or jeans.
Price
At $195, the Amberjack Cap-Toes offer a compelling value proposition. This always impresses me since Amberjack is so diligent about fair wages and sustainability.
