A Thorough Dissection of Red Wing's Iconic "Postman Oxford"

America's iconic shoe brand, Red Wing, remains committed to MADE IN USA production and enjoys fans worldwide.

While Red Wing is home to legendary models, like the 875 Classic Moc—commonly known as the "Irish Setter"—this time we're shining a spotlight on the Postman Oxford. We sat down with Maya Suzuki of Red Wing Japan to thoroughly break down what makes this shoe so appealing.

Red Wing’s 120-Year Legacy

This year marks Red Wing's 120th anniversary. It's a household name even in Japan, but let's revisit the brand's history.

"Red Wing was founded in 1905 in Red Wing City, Minnesota, located in America's Midwest. Its founder, Charles Beckman, immigrated from Germany and started out working in a factory before opening a shoe shop.

"Driven by the desire to 'sell truly great shoes,' Beckman and 14 companions went on to build a small brick shoe factory. This was the beginning of the 'Red Wing Shoe Company.'"

Maintaining a Commitment to MADE IN USA

Known for its top-tier quality and global acclaim, Red Wing continues to make all its boots in its own stateside factories. Let's take a closer look at why that matters.

"All Red Wing shoes and work boots, crafted using the traditional Goodyear welt construction, as well as the distinct leathers historically used for these iconic items, are produced in-house.

"A key appeal of Red Wing shoes is how their leather molds to your foot the more you wear them and how its character deepens with years of use."

The Postman Oxford’s Service Shoe Roots

Now, let's thoroughly dissect this article's main subject—the Postman Oxford—starting with its origins.

"The Postman Oxford was launched in 1954 as a service shoe and just celebrated its 70th anniversary last year. Service shoes refer to shoes originally designed for military personnel that, in the U.S., became standard for uniformed officials like police officers and postal workers.

"While initially released as footwear for postmen, policemen, and station officers, it was soon adopted by 'USPS (the United States Postal Service),' making it the go-to choice for mail carriers nationwide and ultimately earning it the nickname 'Postman Shoes.'

"One feature of the Postman Oxford is its crepe sole. Because homes in America often have lawns between the gate and the doorstep, the crepe soles were valued by postal workers for being gentle on grass."

How Japan Led the Modern Postman Oxford Craze

Interest in the Postman Oxford has surged recently in Japan, a trend that’s spreading worldwide. Let’s uncover more about the modern Postman Oxford.

"One significant design cue is that today's shoe is cut from a single piece of leather, but in 1954 photos, you’ll see an external quarter panel—a design detail that changed in the 1960s.

"At the same time, the shoes started carrying the SR (Slip-Resistance certification) piece name, a designation that remains part of the design to this day.

"The leather used is a specially processed type called 'Chapparal,' which has a glossy finish. Among the many Red Wing models, aside from a few exceptions, only the Postman Oxford series features Chapparal.

"While Red Wing's work boots usually require oil care, Chapparal leather’s preexisting lustrous finish means simply polishing with boot cream enhances its shine and finish.

"This model has always had die-hard fans thanks to its stylish creases and beautiful aging, but its simple design also makes it a go-to for both those dressing up and dressing down—hence its current popularity among younger consumers. The Postman Oxford continues to be especially loved in Japan, which remains at the forefront of its popularity."

Passing Red Wing Down from Parent to Child

Red Wing products are not only exceptional in quality, but they also have a well-established repair system in place. The cool, distinctive look that only comes from years of wear and the attachment people feel are part of the appeal. Let's hear more about that.

"Red Wing shoes, when cared for properly, can be worn for decades, so there are actually people who pass them down from parent to child.

"Of course, we replace soles, but if you only need to replace the outsole (keeping the midsole), the price is 16,500 yen including tax; for a full sole replacement, it’s 18,700 yen including tax.

"Not only do we replace soles, but we can also repair loose stitching, replace eyelets or hooks, fix linings, and repair all sorts of other areas.

"Even worn-down heel linings can be restored remarkably well. If you take proper care of your Red Wing shoes, you can wear them for decades. Many customers are surprised and say, 'You can fix even that part?' so please feel free to consult us anytime you’re in trouble."

Among the many iconic models from Red Wing, one of America’s long-established brands, this time we focused on the Postman Oxford. You probably felt the appeal—the simple, timeless style, and their support system that lets you enjoy them for years to come, all because they’re Red Wing. Why not pick up a pair of Postman Oxfords and make them your lifelong companion?