Is cordovan all that? - Page 17

Legendary quote!

 

the shell cordovan,
it good for cold day to keep feet warm,
it good for lazy man it fast to clean in 4 minute
it look good and rugged and good man shoe

I really like shell cordovan.  It has an appearance and characteristics that are different from calf, once broken in - I like that.  If properly cared for, it does not look plasticy or fake.  It can last longer than calf, whether well cared for or never cared for.  Even if abused, 30 minutes with a brush will have it looking great. 

 

I also like when I see someone else wearing shell, I compliment them on their shoes and we're part of an exclusive club. 

Best poster on SF, bar none.

I'm looking into Cordovan. Why should I buy cordovan and what shoes should I buy cordovan? Loafers? Laceups? Boots?

Why
1) Unique patina/glow - look at the Alden or Crockett and Jones threads for pictueres
2) Easy to care for - only need polish sparingly
3) Hard wearing - substantial leather, can take a beating
4) Versatility (cordovan "dress" shoes, more than calf, can be dressed down as well as dressed up because of how substantial the leather looks)

What shoes
1) Brogues (wintip or longwing)
2) Loafers (penny or tassel)
3) Boots (wingtip, captoe, etc)

Since they are so tough and substantial, is it better to buy them in a boot or casual shoe?

Both n00b! Just don't wear them with your Tom Ford.

Buy them in a wingtip boot (Lindrick). Buy in a regular wingtip (e.g., Carmina, like the one in my sig).

Some people say they don't look sleek enough for suits. For certain suits (like Tom Ford as mentioned) that is likely true. However for other suits, slacks/blazer combo, etc, cordovan dress shoes are entirely appropriate.

Cordovan works well in casual boots, casual shoes, dress shoes, etc. Just make sure they match your outfit. Most of the guys posting in the Alden thread seem to be wearing them casually but I wear wingtips, loafers, longwings, etc with suits

There is nothing inherently tough or rough about their appearance, their appropriateness for business vs casual depends on the design alone.

any thoughts on Allen Edmonds Cordovan Cambridge in Burgundy? Color? style? fit? Appropriateness?

Will cordovan footwear be cheaper in the future now that horses can be butchered or whatever?

It's a balmoral so it's going to be more formal. I think they look nice for what they are. I also really like the shell Strand if you're considering that sort of shoe. The most standard shell AEs would be the Leads and the MacNeil. Those are both "gunboats" which is very true to traditional American shell shoes.

Ended up ordering some. I might post pics when they come in.