Allen Edmonds Appreciation Thread - Page 276

So I just picked up a new pair of AE Walnut Calf Strand's.  Actually I ordered them after I tried some on in Nordstrom's because they didn't have an E width.  After seeing so many beautiful pics of them I was a little underwhelmed with the color. Just because I have seen so many that have somewhat of a burnishing or color variation in the leather.   The ones I received are pretty consistent.  Is this normal?  Where does the great color variation come from?  Wear over time? Polishing?

As you can probably tell I am fairly new to quality leather shoes.  But it has me wondering when I see nice pics like this:

Quote:

Originally Posted by I Like Turtles 

How did the Neumok run? A half size or a full size larger?

I've been told the Neumok runs tighter than the typical #5 last.  That was not my experience.  I just ordered the red Neumok in 11.5C, my standard size on the #5.

Quote:

Originally Posted by plei89 


They usually come with variation. All 6 pairs of mine come with variations on the finish. Same with my friends'. They also patina with wear and time.

I saw your ad in B&S and wanted to ask how you came to own six pairs of walnut strands in the same size?

I believe AE has the standard "unworn shoes" may be returned.  Yet I have seen several posts from SF members who have exchanged shoes that did not fit after wearing.

The AE store will order the size you want and hold them in-store if you want to try them on.  I'd try that first.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJG_NYC 

In case I decide to return, whats AEs return policy if I wear them to test them out?

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhiPsi32 

I believe AE has the standard "unworn shoes" may be returned.  Yet I have seen several posts from SF members who have exchanged shoes that did not fit after wearing.

 

The AE store will order the size you want and hold them in-store if you want to try them on.  I'd try that first.

That's great advice. I've used that service a few times. Rather than incur shipping charges, worrying about returns and ponying up the money for several different sizes or models, AE stores are happy to order up to three pairs of shoes for you to try on at no cost (or more if you have a relationship with the SA). I'm lucky that I have a half dozen AE stores within an hour's drive and many aren't that lucky. However if you have AE stores or even outlets closeby, it's a very useful service.

I know your concern about too much room in the toe. I have found that rarely has a little extra room in the toe caused me any issues. I had to size up a half for my macneils and I was really concerned but in the end they ended up working out just fine. I have a slightly larger right foot as well so I have to size for that one. For me anyway, I've had lots of shoes that were slightly small that I hoped would stretch out...and never did. OTOH, the few pair I have with a bit of extra room in the length have always worked out well.

Just one man's experience but it may help.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJG_NYC 


Yea, unfortunately I went ahead and ordered my Neumoks online (since I was told they'll fit exactly like my PA, Strand, and Fifth Aves) this way they would just come directly to my home. I may go to one of the local stores here and have them order me a smaller size so I can try it on and compare it to the pair I already have at home. I'm just a bit uncertain as they overall fit pretty well, theres just a tad bit extra room (length wise) in the toe as compared to same sized strands that I'm wearing today. I even tried the Neumoks with no socks, as I plan to wear them that way from time to time (I think...) and they seem okay, I'm just worried about extra creasing.
That said, if I do go a half a size down I definitely think I'll need to up the width - my right foot is wider than my left it seems and I think I'd need the extra room going a half size down. Below, is a quick picture I snapped before trying them on with my iPhone - more to come in time:
(edited to rotate photo)

I'd be surprised to see extra creasing in that shoe caused by a little extra toe room.  If they had a more elongated toe (like my Delrays, which have the double crease in one shoe), then I would say beware, but if the next size down is too small, I would not be concerned.