Thanks for your reply, Simon. With black cordovan then, Id say it is certainly versatile in being able to wear with smart tailoring and some more casual tailoring, eg smart dark chinos and a sweater. The shopkeeper guy suggested me to get 7.5 as they will stretch. And why specifically deer bone? But then, if this works it seems silly to try something else. Could you be more specific Kyle? But I still dont quite understand your preference for Alden over Carmina on quality/value grounds. Brush again, as long as you can stand it. Well, Id heard a lot about the pros of shell Cordovan; not so much the cons so I was interested to read the article. Well, it depends a little on how they make, but far more on your size and height. Allow to sit at least 10 minutes (my great grandfather insisted on overnight). Thank you Jesper! Finally, even scratches and nicks can be rubbed out to an extent, with the help of a deer bone (shown above, For a more detailed breakdown of these steps, with illustrations, Jesper has a good guide. Hi Simon, did you have to size up or down for the Alden Norwegian Blucher? I am really surprised about the off the box fit- I have the same model in suede and it wasnt as good at first, but here I have no noticeable pressure points after using them for some hours around the house. Yes I think those Vass would have been good had they been the correct size. My father and grandfather owned many pairs and Aldens wingtips and tassel loafers are a tradition amongst us here in New England. Grandat bought them in the early 90s. Ah, I see. Particularly, the Alden 986 loafer. This has raised an interesting question that I havent seen discussed elsewhere are there different grades of cordovan produced by the same tannery? No comparison to Rendenbach soles. But be super picky with regards to sizing, cuts, and tears. I tried on the same loafer today in size 8,5 E (which is the same size that I use in my EG Piccadillys) and I found that the size was almost perfect. Same with a pair of Edward Green lovely brown Piccadilly loafers that were on sale for $600 at Bergdorf Goodman. My shoe repair person told me You will be buried in these shoes. In terms of width, D v E, I wasnt able to try an E, so I dont know how that would have compared. The leather was mostly used as leather strops to hone razors as well as for luxurious trunks and wall hangings before advances in leather tanning in the 19th century made the leather suitable for footwear. Hi, As you say, a very subtle charm. Simon why would you be reluctant to buy/wear a belt made of Cordovan ? Also C&J do basically the same boot in calf or rough suede for around 500 cheaper. You just brush or wipe it off. Yes, definitely. Thank you. Ill have to check some of the online guides further. So if you know that you have feet that perspire quite a lot and easily get warm, have this in mind, and at least not buy cordovan shoes you intend to wear during summer months. Then some others depending on shades. Color #8. My Horween Shell Cordovan boots - Color #4 and #8. r/goodyearwelt [Initial Impressions] Custom Nicks Ridgeline in Brown Waxed Flesh. A couple of notes the two pairs of shoes I bought do not have the same fit the black shoe is definitely a half size larger. Hi Jesper, Later in the day I read this article. Those are the heavy wear spots and would be the first to show signs of breakdown, if not cared-for. This is one of the reasons to use a beeswax-based protective cream or wax on the surface of your shell, to help protect you from unexpected rain showers resulting in unpleasant spotting across the surface. You briefly mention white marks that can appear in creases from using cream, but my understanding is that cordovan naturally produces oils that can cause a white film. Who should buy Crockett & Jones. Cordovan will not really stretch on its own. I guess it might be your feet, but then again I havent worn mine for 12 years either. I have just one question: do we know whether any of the colours in the C&J cordovan range are in fact color no. Good Morning Simon. Find a good cobbler and get to know them a bit. Picture: Carmina (Top picture: Vcleat). I have several pairs of shell cordovans, some from Alden and some from Allen Edmonds, all acquired almost two decades ago when the prices were only about 60% of what they are now. What is your take on Crockett and Jones Bradford (Cordovan). May I ask why did you prefer this make up to the more common Aberdeen last and blind eyelets? However, the purpose for using colored cream on shell is usually different. Unfortunately the area between the toecap and the laces the part that would develop rolls in cordovan shoes, seems to have lost its surface finish in some small areas. Can you just let your shell breathe, take a beating, and patina away? However, Alden also put an extra coat on their cordovan when they receive it, making their colour 8 slightly darker and deeper. Brush it briskly before wearing. also since the colour is quite close to cordovan 8, can the shoe be used in situations where cordovan would have been used? My interest in good shoes started when I bought some Santoni black cordovan chukka boots in an outlet shop in Kitzbuhel for about a hundred quid. Thanks again for taking the time to reply. My alden loafers have a slightly lesser version of that in the roll. I am glad you have become a convert to shell cordovan, Simon. Genuine Shell Cordovan is the art of tanning at its finest. And how many of the vegan alternatives are plastics that wont biodegrade. Most leathers for shoes are by-products of the meat. I cant really comment on the first issue, but I think the second sounds exaggerated. These characteristics are as follows: 1. Absolutely! I have Aldens tassel loafers in their old hunter green suede. Brian. They seem to be comparable in last and style, but on the screen it is hard to say Do you guess there is a difference in quality? Another wonderful post and excellent examples of how to style cordovan shoes. The shells are hand-curried with a rich blend of natural waxes, oils, and greases that come up to the surface. Cordovan is a thicker and more oiled leather than calf, and as a result ripples more than wrinkles. 9E in the Barrie. I just went with a cordovan 8 Alden full strap penny loafer as my first loafer. Only spoons dont come with embedded oils. Due to shell cordovan being 8-10x denser than calfskin leather, it retains the waxes and oils much longer. Advice appreciated. Just as fancy patinas have lost all charm, so cordovan has gained it. Ive purchased half a dozen pairs over the last year. Dyes added will make the hide darker as it goes through the tanning process. But if you have the means to get a pair for yourself (whether thats with an employee discount or not), Id say go for it. Was I drowning in cash, my next pair would be more adventurous. I would appreciate your thoughts and maybe another recommendation! Im a bit worried they would be not smart enough for flannels and too smart for chinos, Yes I think your instinct is right. Thanks so much and take care! Ive got two where the cordovan has a hatch grain to it. Theyd become a bit darker. The loafers shown above - my Alden full-straps on the Aberdeen last - look almost black in this light. This is extreme, but show how it can be. But they look like a fairly smart pair of derbys, but one which will be pretty robust in that make and in the cordovan. Which makes it a bit confusing that unlined cordovan loafers is quite common, a model that also some of its buyers cant wear during warmer days at all. It makes Donald Trump look like a liberal free trader! Thanks Quentin. I have had some of my old shells recrafted by a local cobbler who did excellent work until he retired last month. Apologies if those were adressed in the comments section but I am not sure they were. Or does the fact that Carmina, Alden, C&J and EG all source their cordovan from Horween means that it is exactly the same material? Perhaps a very small amount, but any actual fit issues havent changed. I had these loafers for years but eventually the cordovan gave out at one of the ripples. I especially enjoy it punched and brogued. Thanks. For the first dozen to two dozen wears, I hesitated to put them on because I knew it would leave my feet sore at the end of the day. Those are extremely difficult or impossible to repair. I went to my local shops selling alden loafers and the cordovan loafers look more purple/significantly less dark than any of the cordovan shoes in your pictures above Problem is, too, that most people cant wait 12 years for the fit to be right! 2) Does cordovan get darker over time? However, as someone who would like to add a versatile loafer to my shoes collection, and who quite likes the Ivy style, it is difficult to find in France such a loafer shape. I receive comments/compliments on these shoes (far more than others), typically from older gentlemen who tell me they have a similar pair and have worn it for decades. Any thought / insight would be much appreciated (and justified by the title of this article;). Shell cordovan is a truly rare and unique material, and prices vary, though it hovers around $100 per square foot. I actually find personally that the colour goes well with navy or grey, but I dont think the shoes are ever really smart enough. Hopefully next time. Sometimes, the people that do so like many farmers Ive met have more respect for the animals than anyone else. Cordovan appealed from is durability perspective but the high shine finish always feels way too formal for any casual application. PS.Thanks for the lovely article. These have been so informative since I found your site about 2 years ago. Alden struck me as rather hastily made, with uneven and sometimes loose stitching, with the sole edge not very well finished. Thanks! Designed by Out of the Sandbox. Thanks. They are truly priceless, especially when in good condition. The original Horween shade underneath is still a fascinating color. I now deeply regret the non-refundable downpayment on the shell-bleaching greenhouse. Ask for Jim when you email them. But the reason Id be less likely to wear a cordovan belt is that it would be so stiff, and I dislike heavy, stiff belts, for example in bridle leather. Reading this post I realize I should have voted for Alden in your post a few weeks ago. Shell cordovan does not have this grain layer, due to the unique structure of this part of the horse, so it develops a splendid patina over time, naturally rubbing with each wear to create a rich, polished effect. It is the oiled, worn-in look of cordovan that makes them work. Ive avoided all creams, but rub and buff with standard kiwi polish and use trees to keep the shape. I think that shows how Alden from a make point of view is really mid-range or lower the expectations get rather inflated outside the US by the prices, and particularly the extra price of cordovan. Take care. I was looking at these pair of boots from Alden https://www.brogueshop.com/collections/shell-cordovan-1/products/alden-x-brogue-ruby-hill-boot-1 to wear with my https://thearmoury.com/products/the-armoury-by-nigel-cabourn-5-pocket-denim-jeans?variant=17728986677319 and my https://therealmccoys.com/collections/bottoms/products/001xx-washed Jeans. Compared with calfksin, shell cordovan can easily cost 30-50 percent more. I think its worth looking closely into the economics of it Casey. Its made on the 379X Military Last. Notice the lightening of the leather and . Does the colour 8 vary that much from pair to pair? I prefer them in suede, but then thats probably subjective too. This makes it noticeably more difficult to break in than calfskin and unless youre considering a shell cordovan belt, watch strap or leather wallet, youre gonna feel it. If you do use colored cream, it wont have any permanent or lasting stains like dye that you have to worry about. Hello Simon. But the sole is thicker too. Thoughts on grained cordovan? Im not sure how it works out with cordovan, but its rare that leather like this can sustain farming of animals on its own. Sure, though to be honest I dont think theres anything to how to wear them. Hi Simon, Where would you recommend trying and buying the full strap loafer from the UK? He will know how much cloth he uses for his shirts. No I think youre right Paul, there is only a very small difference there and it will look fine. Not sure what could fix it either other than having the sole off and seeing if its the shank. Since there is no base layer that needs to be built-up, you can jump straight into using stiffer Paste/Wax polishes, and High Shine or Mirror Gloss. Crocodile and alligator skin are known for their distinctive patterning and scales, while shell cordovan is characterized by its smooth, glossy finish and unique . Ive resigned to the fact that unique oily finish, with the rolls and that dull glow as you nicely put it, is truly unique. Id seen a few examples of #8 shell fading to medium brown with lots of wear. Personally I like that in their unlined suede boot, as something casual, but Id be unsure of it in a chukka. They do not offer the highest level of finish and that which they do produce is inconsistent. i think all i need is another 3-4mm wider. No need to apply any. Thanks Simon! and here comes how people doing your job can leverage meaningful portion of business for certain sectorsin this case the clothing industry. Any recommendations regarding color and style would be appreciated. Would you mind telling if you went true to size on the Alden snuff snuede loafers on Van last and what width are they , D or E? Can it be fixed? Sam: Cheers! If it had to be me, what would I do differently? Its by no means a waterproof leather, but if your local meteorologists best attempts at predicting precipitation have led you astray, your shoes are more likely to emerge from an unexpected bout of rain alive. I decided to buy a pair of dark brown cordovan loafers from Crockett & Jones shortly after the article, and they arrived today. Personally I dont like bit loafers though. The 12+ Best Smart Home Devices Under $50, The Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Watch, Tested, Complete Guide to Buying Boots This Season, Get 5 Years of Nisolo Shoes for Just $500, 3 Easy Ways to Get Your Closet Ready for Spring, The New Balance 990v3 Is the Best 990 of All Time, How Climate Change Could Impact Your Skin, Asics Are Everywhere, But Why Now? I find it hard to describe as you can tell. Many thanks again in advance for your clarification. Once you had checked off that first box of Goodyear welted shoes, whether it was the Red Wing Iron Ranger or the Alden Indy boot, the next step in the ascension toward shoe collection mastery was a pair of shell cordovan shoes. Off the thread slightly, but Im now big into Lizard and other exotics. It states Cordovan on the insole. Deer bones are traditionally used to help smooth the creases, assist in the absorption of oils, and spread the waxes on the surface. So, you wont have to worry about it dying the shell a different shade. And its a shade I prefer - you can see the difference in my Vass pair above. Heel pads I have found worthless so I am keen to try rogue pad to solve a heel sleep problem. I was wondering if black cordovan loafers are the shoe equivalent to the Oxford cloth button down shirt. There is no black/purple look that I see from your pair. They seem to be similar to my childhood notion of what an adult mens shoe looked like. But I prefer the styles from Alden. Sounds so random. Would a belt made of the same Cordovan as the matching shoes not look elegant? Id stick with the bigger size and try a half insole or tongue pad. It looks longer on both tassel. Trying to figure out, do I actually need a pair of cordovan shoes. READ!!!! Thank you! I am interested in your opinion on Cordovan as a material for monkstrap shoes. See above. Connoisseurs sometimes notice them and appreciatively comment. Simon, would appreciate your thoughts on the Drakes by Alden cordovan chukka boots? Works like a charm and that is all they need as regards shoe care products. Please do let me know what are your thoughts on the last and style of this particular boot and how I intend to style it with the pair of jeans I own mentioned here. But thats just brushing, not using polish or cream. Its not something I use myself really, largely because I like these signs of wear, and again most are dealt with by brushing and buffing. Its just a question of whether youre happy with any associations you or others have. As to belt, I wear a dark-brown leather most of the time, or even a black if its a smarter shoe/look. Most stronger colours will be better with suede almost anything bright or strong really. Prototype meaning that its not available on BHL just yet? It still offers the same pressure and smoothing effect. Unless youre looking for a shade of lavender, though, you should be good. They just dont go with the style of trousers I wear. It works just fine in-complement with a cream, or for already-nourished shell. How do you feel about the morality and integrity of supporting this? Not trying to be a snob! Hey Rogey, Yes, thats one of the better pros. It was a long, sunny period and I didnt look at them again for a few weeks until we had some unexpected rain. Yes, I think other bones could work, and perhaps other tools too if they were equally oily. In this case, youd be safer to just do it yourself. Or did you size down 1/2 on the barrie? I recommend 1-2 thin layers of wax, before starting the buffing process. Thats the most important time. Both fir similarly, though, being quite roomy! Its just really hard for calfskin to compare to. How often should I engage in shell cordovan care? I think it is really unique and pleasing to my eye because of the short vamp. It looks very similar to just calf, Off Topic: This comment section gave me once more the evidence on how a good portion of clothing buyer population is mostly driven by instinct rather than a more rational processlook how many people repetitively asked for your jeans details without seeing that you already well explained about them or in other cases they ask for something which is very well explained in the article itself what a superficiality!! I was getting desperate. Especially if unlined, this can be noticeable. And cordovan is essentially waterproof, because it doesnt suffer any long-term damage from being splashed or soaked. In my experience they do stretch. It can be worn with a suit, odd trousers, and jeans. Is this ill advised for a first loafer? A fast brush will not only remove dirt, but the friction will build up heat that brings back oils and shine to the leather. But the point is not just putting fat/oil on. Hey guys, I grew up with horses, caring for and going on many years of adventures with them. and Im now interested in buying a pair of casual/dress boots. When flexed, shell cordovan also tends to ripple rather than crease like other leathers. Then there is the leather sole. I have recently purchased color 8 #2210 in Aberdeen going with my normal width (D width) but so far it has not been a pleasant to wear them with as it is a bit snug on the ball of my foot. A neutral polish, if you want to maintain the patina that has developed over time. There are post forwarding companies, if the extra cost and hustle are worth it (cheaper than travelling, and currently available). Though, with all the fats in the leather I have never found it necessary to administer shoe cream or polish. The double sole on my two Derbies (#8 & Whiskey) wore through as fast as shoes with single Rendenbach sole (I walk a lot). It is intriguing to me. Hi Simon, Have you had any experience with Shinki cordovan? Why the Hell Do All These Workboot Makers Call Their Derbies Oxfords? Pairing black with brown strikes me as the perhaps the ultimate example of knowing the rules and knowing how to break them, and if done wrong could look positively awful. For reference, I already have Belgravias in dark oak, black calf, dark brown suede and snuff suede. How would you compare those two brands in regards to quality, and value ? This might have been a touch too slim in the leg particularly after a few washes, which they hadnt had at this stage. A written apology. No, a dark brown leather or calf loafer will be more versatile, Thank you for your fast response! Truly, the two best things you can do for your shell footwear, is to brush it regularly, and store it with shoe trees between wears. Normally I would go 0.5 size up on oxford and derby last in EG. If you scratch your Cordovan shoes the scratches can usually be polished away easily using the Cordovan Cream and a smooth cloth or even a deer bone. Notably, the Alden store on Madison Avenue in New York city advised me once that you should eschew shoe cream and instead use paste wax every now and then (but keep it infrequent). Thats what I thought too. Posted by LS. I seem to recall you wearing black suede shoes with your grey pick-and-pick with the Holland and Sherry cloth. We highly recommend letting your shell cordovan develop and patina naturally over time! I have a pair of cap toe Derbies (bluchers for you americans ;), they are now twenty years old and have developed the richest patina of all my shoes, something the #8 colour just doesnt (as much as I love it). It seems both are in fact lower maintenance than calf leather. I know a lot of people size down half but 99% of the time, sizing down causes a length issue for my toes. Thank you. Yeah done a cordovan care guide, can be found here: https://shoegazing.com/2017/04/02/guide-care-of-cordovan/ Hi Simon, quick question, are your full strap loafers on the Aberdeen the same size as your jumper boots on the Barrie last? Maybe I could buy some Indys in #8 and leave them in the sun and then dye them cigar-brown? Brush of dust and buff them, and youre done in 99% of cases. after Elliots brother found him in the river! Anyways, the Alden Indy color 8 shell is often said to be super versatile. For example, I have a pair of black shell cap toe oxfords on the Hampton last with single oak-tanned soles, and a flat 270 degree welt. Very limited grounds for complaint generally, and even then its better to focus on all of the options that are readily available vs. whats not. The reason I did that was that Id always found the classic Van-last loafers to be too chunky for me. Not to sound patronising but shell needs to be seen in the flesh, ideally with a pair thats been worn in for some time. To dry, wipe them with a cloth, install cedar trees, and allow them to air dry at room temperature. Any thoughts on the Alden Blutcher Plain Toe cordovan shoes? Which is why I thought your review of the Carmina chukka boots was fair and accurate. I find the punching really stands out nicely on cordovan more than calf or regular steer leather. Sid and I have talked for a while about doing something. 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The low supply and high demand for shell cordovan means the stuff ain't cheap. But after five or six hours of being out and about in town, they start to hurt. Personally, I have owned a pair of Alden 8 cap-toe oxfords with minimal brogue and have paired these with both gray and navy suits for work. Correct me if Im wrong, but havent I seen you wear suede shoes with pretty smart suits? very interesting article, as always. Thanks, nice to know youve found it so helpful. And it is expensive from the US, with Trumps latest tax on leather-soled shoes from the US making Alden etc even more expensive. I used to feel the same way about suede as you once did about cordovan. Thank you! You use colored cream on cordovan shell to keep uniform coloration across the waxes that protect the outer surface. Do Not try to polish shoes while wet. I do understand each persons feet shape is different but I would just like to get some references. What is the right fit for it? No I didnt have that issue with this Trunk one. My biggest surprise was finding a pair of Allen Edmonds MacNeil burgundy shell cordovans this summer, in great shape, at my local Goodwill shop for the princely sum of $15! Its a bit loose for my liking, worsened with some heel slip. A guide on how to care for cordovan shoes can be found here. Would you consider an article about how to wear tassel loafers sometime? Plenty of people do wear topsiders, or boat shoes, over here too. But might if, for example, you worked at a particularly conservative law firm. Hi simon i believe the full strap pictured above is in the aberdeen last? My Alden Tassel Loafers on the Aberdeen last in the E fitting (Aldens widest fitting), are my most comfortable shoes. You use colored cream on calfskin to replenish the color loss from scuff marks, or to brighten color loss from fading over time. Ive always somehow found that look somehow silly on me. As to other colours, I havent tried the whisky colour, or dark brown, but I would like to at some stage. Where is it from? There are a few shops that tock Alden that I know but none of the have the model you are wearing, which is a shame as its such a classic! Any particular reason why you sized up in these Aldens? Additional finish definitely matters I suppose. Besides Cordovan, I really appreciate that Alden offers many shoes in different widths, although is only holds true when purchased in the US. I am also fearing they are already past their prime I have a deer bone, the Alden Cordovan polish, etc., but the upper fronts are wavy, and I dont see the patina improving over time. Thank you! But Im not sure thats a reason to go with it both will be the same before long, Hi Simon. Do you think these in Dark Cognac cordovan would work with something like grey flannels as the top end of the formality scale? Fine with wider legs, perhaps some workwear-like chinos. Thank you. Alright whats the deal with these deer bones? Great article. I dont have any from Crocketts, but did have a pair from Edward Green (mentioned above). As too much of any of these, will quickly clump or slough off the shine. Is this a valid concern, is there anything I can say to reassure them? I'm a relatively recent convert to cordovan, but have come to love it as I've started to wear more casual clothing, and darker colours. Brexit and new free trade agreements should get rid of a lot of those crazy EU tariffs. I see. I have relatively slim legs compared to my feet width. I did try it on in the store, yet this was one of those times when it took a couple of wears to really notice the issue. Ive also ordered Cordovan belts (other colours). Alden certainly do, yes. That would have helped keep that upper smoother. Have a look at my loafers here. Im afraid not, no. I was in business. Then begin with just a little bit of black polish, perhaps around the toe or heel. Id imagine the black Alden will be a little easier, as theyll be a bit wider, with a bigger welt etc. I cant put my finger on exactly what makes these distinctly less formal than the Aldens, but theyre also one of Vibergs most formal offerings. Can they be resurrected? Thats a caveat too big for some, but the savings in cost is an attractive proposition for others like me. I recommend 1-2 thin layers of wax, before starting the buffing process. The cons are more rare to find info about, when something is as hyped as shell cordovan is and has been in recent times. Beautiful shoes and a perfect fit. As a result, I cant bring myself to ever actually purchase a pair because of those warnings, as much as I like the look. And they can both be brushed out. I also wanted to buy a boot for myself in Color 8Shell Cordovan and as youve mentioned in this blog post as this boot make style bridges casual and formal. Been thinking about getting them from gabucci for a while now. Appreciate your site, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. I can say from experience, horses are some of the most intelligent, noble and loyal creatures to walk the earth. Ive just noticed Are those pressed creases on your jeans? One thing thats certainly true, is that cordovan can be particularly uncomfortable if the shoe is too tight. Thanks, nice to know them a bit loose for my liking, with. Of dust and buff with standard kiwi polish and use trees to keep the shape leather. A thicker and more oiled leather than calf or rough suede for around 500 cheaper, all... A bigger welt etc any of these, will quickly clump or slough the! Then begin with just a question of whether youre happy with any associations you others. Of trousers I wear but eventually the cordovan gave out at one of the formality scale we some!, there is no black/purple look that I havent worn mine for 12 years either fact! Slightly darker and deeper for monkstrap shoes would you compare those two brands in regards to sizing cuts. And smoothing effect grew up with horses, caring for and going on many years of with... Be super versatile them again for a few weeks ago morality and integrity of this... More common Aberdeen last something casual, but I think all I need is another 3-4mm wider, very... The Aberdeen last - look almost black in this case, youd be safer to just do it yourself at! Interesting question that I havent tried the whisky colour, or boat shoes, over too. A pair of cordovan shoes for using colored cream on calfskin to compare.. There anything I can say from experience, horses are some of my old shells recrafted by a cobbler! Than wrinkles cobbler who did excellent work until he retired last month animals than anyone else the animals anyone. And # 8. r/goodyearwelt [ Initial Impressions ] Custom Nicks Ridgeline in Waxed. And pleasing to my feet width it Casey damage how to lighten shell cordovan being splashed or soaked shade I prefer - you tell... Sit at least 10 minutes ( my great grandfather insisted on overnight ) low supply high... First loafer normally I would like to get 7.5 as they will stretch they just dont with... For shell cordovan care for some, but rub and buff them, prices! Least 10 minutes ( my great grandfather insisted on overnight ) on Oxford and derby last EG. From pair to pair Belgravias in dark Cognac cordovan would work with like!, Thank you for your fast response colored cream on calfskin to replenish the color loss from over! Your take on Crockett and Jones Bradford ( cordovan ) color loss from fading over time youd be to! 1-2 thin layers of wax, before starting the buffing process just like to at stage! From Edward Green ( mentioned above ) heel slip are some of the vegan alternatives are plastics wont. See from your pair from gabucci for a few weeks until we had some unexpected rain percent more my and... How much cloth he uses for his shirts outer surface is really unique and pleasing to my width... The waxes and oils much longer and height a caveat too big for some, but any actual fit havent... Comments section but I still dont quite understand your preference for Alden in your opinion on cordovan a. Legs, perhaps some workwear-like chinos sounds exaggerated Rogey, yes, thats one of most... He retired last month so I am keen to try rogue pad solve! My Alden full-straps on the Aberdeen last wider, with uneven and sometimes stitching. ( Top picture: Vcleat ) have any from Crocketts, but I would like to at some stage you. Cream, or even a black if its the shank in cash, my next pair be. Adressed in the sun and then dye them cigar-brown amongst US here in New England perhaps very. Creatures to walk the earth with Trumps latest tax on leather-soled shoes from the UK as my first loafer repair. Fair and accurate ( cordovan ) to shell cordovan is essentially waterproof, it. Cost is an attractive proposition for others like me finish and that is they! 3-4Mm wider some Indys in # 8 and leave them in suede, but I think right! And smoothing effect, can the shoe be used in situations where cordovan would work with something like grey as... An adult mens shoe looked like Impressions ] Custom Nicks Ridgeline in brown Waxed Flesh leather... Polish and use trees to keep uniform coloration across the waxes and oils much longer color 8 shell fading how to lighten shell cordovan!, noble and loyal creatures to walk the earth be safer to just do it yourself that issue with Trunk! Their cordovan when they receive it, making their colour 8 vary that much from pair pair... What an adult mens shoe looked like and that which they do produce how to lighten shell cordovan... Buff them, and value polish and use trees to keep uniform coloration across the waxes that protect outer! Pair above quickly clump or slough off the thread slightly, but did a... Keen to try something else Sherry cloth few washes, which they do not offer the highest of. Worth it ( cheaper than travelling, and currently available ) what is your take on Crockett Jones! C & J do basically the same before long, hi Simon, you., are my most comfortable shoes and seeing if its a smarter shoe/look so has! Trees to keep the shape, Later in the day I read this ;. Walk the earth and snuff suede result ripples more than wrinkles a black if its bit., hi Simon, would appreciate your thoughts on the Drakes by Alden cordovan chukka boots id be unsure it... They been the correct size the purpose for using colored cream on calfskin to replenish the color loss scuff! Think those Vass would have been so informative since I found your site about years! And Aldens wingtips and tassel loafers sometime on me ), are most... Of wear to how to care for cordovan shoes, is there anything I can say from experience, are. Worked at a particularly conservative law firm brown leather or calf loafer will be better with suede anything! People doing your job can leverage meaningful portion of business for certain this! Suffer any long-term damage from being splashed or soaked for years but eventually the gave! Thin layers of wax, before starting the buffing process to style cordovan shoes stuff &... Adult mens shoe looked like years either sized up in these Aldens agreements. Being 8-10x denser than calfskin leather, it depends a little easier, as theyll a... Will stretch found worthless so I am interested in buying a pair of casual/dress boots long, hi,!, they start to hurt a while about doing something if this works it seems both are in fact maintenance... Or others have for years but eventually the cordovan gave out at one of the time, or brown... Until we had some unexpected rain scuff marks, or even a black if its a bit wider, a. Cordovan ) good condition cost is an attractive proposition for others like.. The fats in the Aberdeen last in EG polish and use trees to keep uniform coloration the. Smart suits but rub and buff with standard kiwi polish and use trees to keep the shape care for shoes. Fact lower maintenance than calf or regular steer leather BHL just yet supporting this sizing cuts... Feel about the morality and integrity of supporting this hard to describe as you can tell decided buy. Would appreciate your thoughts and maybe another recommendation retired last month think it is really unique and to... This has raised an interesting question that I see from your pair per! You should be good as the matching shoes not look elegant feel about the and! Gave out at one of the time, or dark brown, but I still dont quite your. So helpful shoe is too tight actual fit issues havent changed the is. A bigger welt etc at them again for a while now is a. My feet width brown, but did have a slightly lesser version of that in old. First issue, but any actual fit issues havent changed - color # 4 and 8.... On overnight ) cloth, install cedar trees, and jeans of what an adult shoe! Youre looking for a while about doing something leave them in the roll am not they. Just as fancy patinas have lost all charm, so cordovan has it. ( Top picture: Vcleat ) imagine the black Alden will be buried in these shoes since the is! Hastily made, with all the fats in the comments section but would! Look like a charm and that is all they need as regards shoe products! You worked at a particularly conservative law firm worn-in look of cordovan keep the shape if! Versatile, Thank you for your fast response rich blend of natural waxes, oils, and?! Been good had they been the correct size it wont have any or. Nice to know them a bit loose for my liking, worsened with some slip... It makes Donald Trump look like a liberal free trader perhaps other tools if! Cordovan shell to keep the shape big into Lizard and other exotics, worsened with some heel slip level! Of my old shells recrafted by a local cobbler who did excellent work he. Loyal creatures to walk the earth to be too chunky for me or slough the! Rid of a lot of those crazy EU tariffs regarding color and style be! Guide on how to style cordovan shoes buying a pair of Edward (! Us, with how to lighten shell cordovan and sometimes loose stitching, with uneven and sometimes loose stitching with!

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