Every shoe in this collection is made with genuine alligator skin, from Mauri and Belvedere. You will find alligator oxfords, loafers, monk straps, and sneakers, some paired with calfskin, suede, or another exotic skin. The product title names every skin in the shoe, so you always know what you are buying. Looking for something with an embossed croc look instead? Those styles live in our crocodile shoes collection, labeled embossed.
How do you tell genuine alligator from embossed leather?
Look at the belly scales. Genuine alligator has large, irregular tiles that change size toward the edges of the skin, and no two are exactly alike. Alligator has no sensory pores on its scales. Embossed calfskin has a pattern pressed into smooth leather, so the tiles repeat, the grooves are shallow and even, and the surface feels flat. Our guide to what to look for when buying exotic shoes walks through more checks.
Alligator vs crocodile: what's the difference?
Alligator has no pores and larger, more irregular tiles. Crocodile has a small sensory pore on each belly scale and a squarer, more uniform pattern. Both are supple and long-lasting with proper care. Read the full comparison in alligator vs crocodile shoes.
How do you care for alligator shoes?
Wipe them with a damp, not wet, microfiber cloth and dry them right away. Every few months, apply a thin coat of a reptile conditioner such as Saphir Reptan. Never use regular shoe polish, saddle soap, or mink oil on the scales. Keep cedar shoe trees in them between wears and store them in a breathable dust bag, out of direct sun. Our exotic leather care guide covers the full routine.
Why buy exotic skin shoes from DapperFam?
Genuine skins are named. Every genuine exotic product title names its skin, such as Genuine Alligator, Caiman Crocodile, or Ostrich Leg. Embossed calfskin is always labeled embossed.
Brands we carry. Genuine exotic shoes from Mauri, Belvedere, and Paul Parkman, plus the DapperFam house line in croc-embossed Italian calfskin.
Sizes. Nearly every genuine exotic style comes in US 9 to 13, and most go up to 15.
A real store and real people. DapperFam has a store at The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, 1155 Buck Creek Road, Simpsonville, KY. Call 1-833-FAM-FITS for fit help before you order.
Returns and exchanges. Request a return within 30 days on unworn pairs in the original box. Approved size exchanges ship back to you free. Final sale and made-to-order items are excluded. Read the return policy.
Legal skins. International trade in crocodilian, python, and lizard skins is regulated under CITES. A few states restrict certain species, so call us if you are unsure about yours.
Are all shoes in this collection genuine alligator?
Yes. Every shoe here uses genuine alligator skin, and the product title names it along with any other material in the shoe. Embossed styles are not included in this collection.
Is alligator leather legal to buy?
Yes, in most of the US. Alligator skins are traded under CITES permits, and US alligator farming is regulated by state wildlife agencies. A few states restrict the sale of certain exotic skins, so call us before you order if you are unsure about yours.
Do alligator shoes stretch?
Very little. Genuine alligator does not stretch like calfskin, so order your usual dress shoe size, not your sneaker size. Between sizes? Call 1-833-FAM-FITS and we will help you choose.
Can I wear alligator shoes in the rain?
Light rain is fine. Avoid puddles, downpours, and snow. If they get wet, stuff them with paper and let them air dry for a day, away from heaters, then condition them once they are fully dry.
How do I wear alligator shoes?
Let the shoes be the focal point. Black or dark brown alligator oxfords work with navy and charcoal suits. Cognac and lighter colors suit daytime events, weddings, and smart casual outfits with tailored trousers or dark denim.
