Posted on Feb 14, 2017
Are square-toed Oxford shoes technically authorized?
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Saw a lot of debate on US Army WTF Moments over this photo, but as usual, healthy debate was ruined by memes. Obviously, his pants are ill-fitting, but the square-toes is what I'm curious about.
Posted in these groups: 
Dress Uniform
DA Pam 670-1
Dress Uniform DA Pam 670-1
Posted 7 y ago
Responses: 12
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxford_shoe
The answer is in the definition of "Oxford Shoe". Although not stated, Oxfords have a toe cap. The shoe above does not. This is some deep research!
The answer is in the definition of "Oxford Shoe". Although not stated, Oxfords have a toe cap. The shoe above does not. This is some deep research!
An Oxford shoe is characterized by shoelace eyelets tabs that are attached under the vamp,[1] a feature termed "closed lacing".[2] This contrasts with Derbys, or Blüchers, which have shoelace eyelets attached to the top of the vamp. Originally, Oxfords were plain, formal shoes, made of leather but they evolved into a range of styles suitable for both formal, uniform, and casual wear. Based on function and the dictates of fashion, Oxfords are...
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SPC (Join to see)
I'm starting to think a book should be written that can be applied to the AR and PAM because every so often there's a question like this that an SM like yourself helps find the answer to MSG.
That or we need to re-write the regulation to make clear and perfect sense.
That or we need to re-write the regulation to make clear and perfect sense.
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Good question as DA Pam 670-1 does not designate rounded, pointed, or squared.
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SGT (Join to see)
Yeah, that's where I was lost. They have to be Oxford, but Oxford shoes are not defined by the toe.
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As a 1SG I would not allow it as it violates the concept of uniformity. I'm fairly sure my CSM would back me up on that, we aren't about special snowflakes in the military.
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CW4 Keith Dolliver
I agree that the square toe is not authorized, but I don't agree with your rationale because "it violates the concept of uniformity". There are lots of things in the reg that allow for variation; e.g. Boots, PT shoes, white button-down shirt (for blues), just to name a few. We need to make decisions and enforce policy based on the regulations not just because it's something we're unfamiliar with and haven't seen before.
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