Vass Mtm

My MTM Vass shoes arrived -Old Englich II, F last, Oxblood-but looks almost brown.

Yes, I did, but they were not lasted and did not fit so well.

They are a bit too short in fit. The size is 43.5. I wrote Gabor and called him-no response. So, I will have to deal with it. I asked for an F last, that is what the box says-although it does look a little bit unique in shape. The finish is good, actually. The sole is a tad bit disturbed b/c I have worn the shoes. I ordered shell cordovan, but got boxcalf.

Not a problem-it is a good question. "More variable than most" - a good way to put it. Yes-Maftei on first pair of shoes they did for me-ankle boot monk straps. Also, they resoled/fit my Klemann's-fit perfect now. The second pair of monk low quarters fit good, but have some minor problems. The third pair they made for me a great-semi brogue low qaurters. The fourth pair I ordered from them, I just cancelled b/c they were so far off in fit and style that I sent them back. 9 months later I had no response, so I just cancelled the order-they kindly obliged without disent. I suspect Koji Suzuki as well, based on the trial shoe. I will find out this month.

Also, keep in mind, although I had a problem with Cleverly, it was fixed and the shoe fits exteremely well-I will go back to Cleverly in the future. One maker who I think made the nicest shoes that I have to date are those made by JP Myhre-by far his leather is the best and I like the shape the best. I finally got the shoe to fit by having the local cobbler stretch it for a couple of days. Now-I think had JP Myhre actually seen the trial shoe on my feet for himself, I think that I would not have had a problem with the fit-but it doesn't matter, as now they are one of my best fitting shoes.

Now, Dimitri Gomez-I won't go back to him. Stretching didn't even phase them. Koji is working on them as we speak. I think Manton once said that all the makers have their own idiosyncratic problems-none of them are "perfect" or something to that effect-I agree. However, still light years ahead of RTW.

LC-I will let you argue with the manufacturer regarding the last and style of the shoe. I asked for an F last Old English II and below is the box that the shoes came in.

I don't search for perfection-only satisfaction. Moreover, many of the shoe makers I have dealt with aren't half as good as their reputation or, dare I say, as they think they are. They can all "talk the talk" but only a few can "walk the walk." The proof is in the pudding.