Is cordovan all that? - Page 2

I have never been that interested in shell on normal shoes...I'd love to find a pair of dusty, tried-on-once florsheim longwings on a forgotten shelf somewhere but its not like I would prefer all of my shoes to be shell.


This morning however, I started wishing I had shell boots. I was brushing the fuck out of my sno-sealed boots that had gotten some bigger scuffs and nicks on them and I realized that I could be doing the same thing to a pair of shell boots. I wouldn't pick very dressy ones but I think it would be a great material to replace the boots I am wearing right now (can I get a cobbler to do a reverse resole? Sew new shell cordovan uppers onto my current boots? )

+1

When I first started reading the forums and finding out about shoes I thought Cordovan was quite ugly - what with the creases and rugged appearance of the leather.

It really grew on me though over the last couple of years. I love it on rugged boots and shoes. Definitely the go-to choice for jeans. I don't think you can beat a pair of Shell chukkas with dark denim.

Also - Cordovan is best at what it was originally designed for. Harsh use. I don't think anything of going out wearing shell. Come rain, sleet or snow - they always brush up looking like new (well as new as shell can look!)

To reiterate - It's definitely "Alpha as Fuck"

I love shell b/c it wears super hard, is incredibly durable, and requires minimal upkeep. if you are lazy, want to keep your shoes for 10 years, and live somewhere with rain/snow, I think it's an awesome choice.

You have a good sense of humor.

^ Actually that seems like a random collection of words. But I know what he's trying to say.

I think you need to see the thread in DT

Yup

Actually, I could have lived without seeing it. I'm an adult. But thanks for sharing.

I like shell and it's my go-to rain shoe, but don't believe the hype about how it needs nothing but a good stiff brushing for maintenance. Like any leather, Cordovan eventually dries out and cracks without regular nourishment. You can get away with not doing much to supple, brand new shell for quite awhile, but that "bloom" it produces doesn't spring eternally: the more it's wiped off the less there is, and eventually you have the dry shell shoes you see on eBay constantly that crack after a few wears.

Do Alden shells ever go on sale or deep discount?

I've been leering at the captoe blucher in number 8 for a while but not ready to lash out $550 plus. Can't seem to find them any cheaper anywhere.

Given your comment ... I think you needed to see it ... as juvinile as that thread is.

compared to calf Aldens its not even much of a price difference anymore: $440 vs $550

My thoughts exactly.

You didn't get the joke. I didn't say I approved of the content, nor that you would enjoy it.


If you want wingtip, plain-toe, saddle, loafers or monk strap, you're in luck. Otherwise, no.