Boston vs Harvard 2 – Which Crockett & Jones Loafer Is Right for You?
Boston and Harvard 2 are two of Crockett & Jones' most classic penny loafers. They share a similar timeless appearance, but differ clearly in construction, last and feel on the foot. In this guide, we compare the two models and help you find the one that suits you best.
Boston vs Harvard 2
Two classic penny loafers from Crockett & Jones with a similar appearance but clear differences in construction, last and feel on the foot. Use the table as a quick guide to choosing the right model.
| Feature | Boston | Harvard 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Lined penny loafer | Unlined penny loafer |
| Last | 314 | 376 |
| Fit | More generous volume and higher instep | Narrower rear section and closer heel fit |
| Feel | More structured and supportive | Softer, lighter and more flexible |
| Style | Classic and slightly more formal | More relaxed and casual |
| Best suited for | Office, smart casual and year-round wear | Relaxed styling and particularly well suited to spring and summer |
| Heel fit | Traditional loafer fit | More sculpted and closer fitting heel |
Fit will always depend on the shape and volume of your foot. See our last guide and size guide for more detailed guidance.
The classic and more structured penny loafer
Boston is one of Crockett & Jones' most classic penny loafers and is made on last 314. The model is fully lined, giving the shoe more structure and support than Harvard 2.
Last 314 has a rounded and balanced toe shape with relatively generous volume. It is particularly well suited to those who prefer a little more room through the forefoot and instep.
Its more structured construction gives Boston a classic appearance that works equally well with chinos and flannel trousers as it does with smarter everyday clothing.
The softer and more flexible penny loafer
Harvard 2 is Crockett & Jones' unlined penny loafer and is made on last 376. Its unlined construction makes the shoe softer and more flexible from the start, giving it a more relaxed character than Boston.
Last 376 shares much of its toe shape with 314 but features a narrower and more sculpted rear section. This creates a closer fit around the heel and makes Harvard 2 particularly well suited to its softer, unlined construction.
Harvard 2 works particularly well with chinos, denim and lighter trousers. It is a natural choice for spring and summer, while also working throughout the year for those who prefer a lighter and less structured loafer.
Last 314 vs 376
Boston and Harvard 2 share a similarly classic toe shape, but the difference becomes more noticeable towards the rear of the shoe. Last 314 offers more volume, while 376 has a narrower and more sculpted rear section.
Boston
Last 314 is a classic loafer last with a rounded toe and relatively generous volume. It is particularly well suited to those who need a little more room through the forefoot and instep.
- More generous volume
- Relatively high instep
- Classic rounded toe shape
- Traditional loafer fit
Harvard 2
Last 376 builds on the classic toe shape but features a narrower and more sculpted rear section. This provides a closer fit around the heel and works particularly well with Harvard 2's soft, unlined construction.
- Narrower rear section
- Closer fit around the heel
- Similar rounded toe shape at the front
- Developed for a softer loafer fit
Harvard 2 does not necessarily feel smaller simply because the heel fits more closely. The main difference between the lasts is found in the rear section, while their shape through the front of the shoe is much more similar.
When Do Boston and Harvard 2 Work Best?
The difference between the two models is not only about fit. Their construction and feel also influence how they work across different occasions, seasons and styles.
Office & Smart Casual
Boston is the natural choice when you want a more structured loafer with chinos, flannel trousers or other smart casual clothing. Its lined construction gives the shoe a slightly smarter and more formal appearance.
Relaxed Everyday Wear
Harvard 2 works particularly well with denim, chinos and more relaxed combinations. Its soft, unlined construction gives the shoe a more casual appearance and a more flexible feel on the foot.
Spring & Summer
Harvard 2 is particularly at home during the warmer months. Its lighter construction works well with lighter trousers, relaxed styling and a more exposed ankle.
Year-Round Wear
Boston is a highly versatile option for much of the year. Its more structured construction makes it easy to wear from spring through autumn and indoors during the winter months.
Structure or Flexibility?
Choose Boston for a classic, more structured loafer with a slightly smarter appearance. Choose Harvard 2 if you prefer a softer, more relaxed loafer that adapts quickly to the foot.
Frequently asked questions about Boston vs Harvard
Are Boston and Harvard 2 the same type of loafer?
Yes, both are classic penny loafers from Crockett & Jones, but they differ in construction, last, and feel. Boston is lined and built on the 314 last, while the Harvard 2 is unlined and built on the 376 last.
What is the biggest difference between Boston and Harvard 2?
The biggest difference is the construction and the fit. Boston feels more structured and stable, while Harvard 2 is softer and more flexible. Harvard 2 also has a narrower heel section with a tighter grip around the heel.
Which model is best if I have a high instep?
Boston on last 314 is more generous in volume and usually fits better for those with a higher instep or who want a bit more space over the forefoot.
Which model is best if loafers usually slip at the heel?
Harvard 2 may be a better option because the 376 last has a more sculpted and enclosing rear section that provides a tighter heel grip.
Is Harvard 2 smaller in size than Boston?
Not necessarily. The Harvard 2 fits more snugly at the back, but that does not mean the entire shoe is smaller. The difference lies primarily in the rear part and around the heel.
Which model is the most formal?
Boston has a more structured and classic look and is therefore perceived as slightly more formal. Harvard 2 has a softer and more relaxed character.
Which model is best suited for summer?
Harvard 2 is particularly appreciated during spring and summer thanks to its soft, unlined construction. Boston, on the other hand, works very well all year round.
Can both Boston and Harvard 2 be worn without visible socks?
Yes. Both models work well with low, invisible socks. The softer and more relaxed construction of the Harvard 2 makes it particularly natural for that type of styling.
How should I choose the size for Boston and Harvard 2?
Take your usual Crockett & Jones size as a starting point, but keep in mind that the fit differs between lasts 314 and 376. If you are unsure, we recommend that you compare with our size guide and last guide.