Do I dare stray from my workhorse of a shoe for the workplace? It’s been a constant to restock on Rockport Northfield Oxfords, but after reading some of the Amazon reviews, I do agree that the quality of this model has come down over the years. While I haven’t experienced any issues with the soles, the laces do fray very easily usually within the first month. The laces haven’t actually broken on me but to have them start coming apart only after several wearings is a bummer.

So instead, I’m taking a look at the similar looking Rugged Bucks Plain Toe. Not as many reviews but still rated at 4.5 stars. That and there’s an Amazon discount of 20%. Will the Rugged Bucks become my defacto work shoe?

For me, buying shoes for the workplace isn’t as fun as buying kicks for everyday use. But it’s something that’s gotta be done. Luckily, Rockport shoes have been my staple for years. While I may experiment with other brands occasionally, I always come back to Rockport, specifically the Northfield Oxford. Black, dark brown, light brown, it doesn’t matter; they all belong in my work shoe rotation.

Usually, I get these from Macy’s on sale, but I haven’t seen them discounted for some time. And heck, Amazon is selling them at a good price so why not?