There’s a new name in footwear at Peggs & Son, and one worth getting to know. Arriving in the UK for its first season, B.O.T.O is a Japanese footwear brand bringing a fresh perspective to one of menswear’s most established designs. With limited availability worldwide, we’re proud to be the only stockist in the UK.
B.O.T.O takes its name from the Japanese word for boat, a fitting reference for a shoe with deep roots in menswear. Reworking the traditional boat shoe, the brand retains its familiar design cues while introducing a more contemporary silhouette. Sitting somewhere between a moccasin and a traditional boat shoe, the result feels both recognisable and new.
What makes B.O.T.O particularly appealing is its versatility. The lines are refined enough to work with more formal looks, while the relaxed construction lends itself just as naturally to everyday dressing. Worn with denim, tailored trousers or shorts, they adapt easily to different shapes and styles.
Ian has been wearing a pair for several months, finding them among the most adaptable shoes in his wardrobe. It’s this balance between familiarity and a fresh point of view that makes the collection stand out.
Each pair is handmade in Portugal by a small, family-owned producer, using high-quality European leather and a traditional moccasin construction. The attention to detail is evident in the stitching, the finish of the leather and the considered proportions of the shoe.
A slightly squared toe gives the silhouette a contemporary edge, while the 360-degree lacing system stays true to the boat shoe’s heritage. Memory foam inserts in the heel add another layer of comfort, making them well suited to everyday wear.
B.O.T.O arrives in a selection of finishes, from classic lace-up styles in cognac leather and sleek black to suede options. The collection also introduces a distinctive alternative closure, offering a different take on the traditional design.
The cognac leather version, paired with a contrasting black sole, is a particular highlight. It’s a subtle change that gives the shoe its own identity without losing the simplicity that makes the original so enduring.
There’s also something to be said for discovering a brand before it becomes familiar. B.O.T.O is still rarely seen, but its appeal lies in the details: the shape, the construction and the way it brings together elements of classic footwear in a way that feels entirely its own.
Available now at Peggs & Son. B.O.T.O is arriving in limited numbers. Explore the collection online alongside our wider Autumn/Winter footwear selection.
View the collection
Shop Ians Look #5
