There are levels of quality to just about every category in the menswear world, a difference you can feel in each and every step when it comes to the best men’s sneakers, for instance. There are other plentiful ways in which quality shines through, of course, but it’s especially impressive when heritage craft meets modern style in a way that remains true to the past.

Indeed, when you know, you really know as far as standout worksmanship is concerned. And that brings us quite neatly to Crown Northampton, which makes exceptional footwear in its namesake town, which it calls “the heart of the world’s shoe trade.” That lends itself to plenty of shared knowledge and expertise, no doubt about it.

It’s quite the mantle to meet, but England’s Crown Northampton takes great pride in its hand-stitched and hand-welted sneakers, traditional boots and desert boots.

I’ve had the chance to try out Crown Northampton sneakers in the past (see my Crown Northampton review for a deeper dive into a standout pair of high-top sneakers), and the opportunity arose once more to put a distinctive pair to the test.

That pair would be the Crown Northampton Abbey Unlined Oxford, a handsome set of shoes so refined as to rival the quality found in some dress shoes — that word, “quality,” indeed comes up a lot as far as these stylish sneakers for men are concerned.

The Crown Northampton Abbey Unlined Oxford separates itself from the pack in a number of ways, including the use of remarkably supple yet sturdy Horween Dearborn Leather. Closed-toe Oxford lacing gives these shoes a sleek profile that I’ve successfully worn (at least in my opinion!) with stretch chinos and blue denim in equal measure.

Another selling point as far as these fashionable-yet-classic brown leather sneakers are concerned? A hand-filled cork footbed for springy comfort and rebound, plus a sustainable Lactae Hevea sole. French-bound edges offer a clean finish, whether you opt for a natural gum rubber outsole or a black sole.

Take heed: With made-to-order sneakers like the Crown Northampton Abbey Unlined Oxford, the wait time runs 9 to 12 weeks. And yet, I can quite confidently say these absurdly comfortable, incredibly well-crafted sneakers are more than worth that wiat.