JOHNSTON & MURPHY

Johnston & Murphy is an American dress shoe brand with roots going back to 1850. According to a company history, the firm began as the William J. Dudley Shoe Company in Newark, New Jersey, and became Johnston & Murphy in the 1880s when partners James Johnston and William A. Murphy joined. At Sole Provisions, the Johnston & Murphy collection brings together oxfords, loafers, dress boots, and polished sneakers for men, and it sits naturally beside our wider men's footwear, men's oxfords, loafers, and men's boots selections.

Johnston & Murphy suits people who want a polished, traditional look for work, events, or smart casual outfits. The sections below explain the brand's story, its main styles, and how to choose a pair.

An American Dress Shoe Brand Since 1850

A heritage profile says the company began making durable shoes for men, women, and children in Newark, and later turned that durability into a line of fashionable footwear. According to Wikipedia, Genesco bought the company in 1951, and the brand is now a Genesco subsidiary based in Nashville, Tennessee. The company says it has designed shoes for every US president since Millard Fillmore, a claim from its own history. Where a specific pair is made can vary, so check the product information for the style you are considering. If you enjoy classic men's shoe brands, you may also like Florsheim, Rockport, and Clarks.

Dress Shoes and Oxfords

Cap toes, plain toes, wingtips, and lace to toe shoes are the heart of the range, usually in leather that suits suits and business casual outfits. Browse our men's oxfords and work shoes. Leather benefits from regular care, so follow the instructions that come with your pair and see our shoe care products. Styles in our collection change often, so check each product page for what is available now.

Loafers and Slip Ons

Penny loafers, tassel loafers, and Venetian slip ons are an easy way to look put together without laces. Browse our loafers, men's slip ons, and casual shoes.

Boots and Chelsea Styles

For cooler days, the brand makes plain toe boots and Chelsea boots in leather and suede. Browse our men's boots and Chelsea boots. Leather and suede are not waterproof unless a style says so, so check each product page before wearing in wet weather, or see our men's waterproof shoes.

Dress Sneakers and Knit Styles

Johnston & Murphy also makes derby sneakers and knit plain toe shoes that pair a dressier shape with lighter construction. Browse our men's sneakers and walking shoes, and finish the outfit with men's socks.

Comfort Features to Look For

Retailers describe cushioned footbeds, rubber soles, and lightweight constructions on many current styles, though features vary. Look for a padded insole, a flexible sole, and a secure fit, especially if you stand or walk a lot. If you want to add your own support, browse our shoe inserts. For medical questions about your feet, check with a healthcare professional.

Choosing the Right Fit

Fit varies by style and last, so check each product page and size chart. Width and sizing details are not listed on the collection page, so try a pair in store when you can. If you need more room, browse our men's wide widths. Try shoes on later in the day, when feet tend to be fullest, with the socks you plan to wear. For a personal fitting, visit one of our Sole Provisions locations, or read more in our educational hub.

A Few Johnston & Murphy Details Worth Knowing

• American brand with roots in Newark, New Jersey in 1850, according to a company history.

• Johnston & Murphy name adopted in the 1880s, according to the same source.

• Subsidiary of Genesco, based in Nashville, Tennessee, according to Wikipedia.

• Oxfords, loafers, boots, and dress sneakers.

• Country of origin varies by style.

• Styles and availability change often.

• Free shipping on orders over $75, see our shipping policy and returns page.

Explore More Men's Classics

If you like Johnston & Murphy, compare it with Florsheim for classic American dress shoes, Rockport for dress comfort, Clarks for casual and dress styles, ECCO for Danish comfort, or Mephisto for French comfort. Check new arrivals and sale items for the latest styles and markdowns.

Related Collections: Men's Footwear · Men's Oxfords · Loafers · Men's Boots · Work Shoes · Florsheim · Rockport · Clarks