What makes a good shoe? - Page 2

Quote:

Originally Posted by cptjeff 


Ah yes, assertion without evidence. Such a great argumentative tactic.
Corrected grain is shitty leather that has the surface sanded off, and the surface is then sprayed with a plastic coating to make it even. That's what the correction is. It is nothing like shell cordovan, which is an oily leather that comes from the ass of a horse. Yes, you can fix the finish without polish much of the time. However, shell does dry out, and while it's best to use a polish specifically formulated for shell, it does require polish from time to time.

Old post but... wrong!   That is laminated leather.

Read on here:

http://www.leatherusa.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3287

Quote:

Originally Posted by cptjeff 


Ah yes, assertion without evidence. Such a great argumentative tactic.
Corrected grain is shitty leather that has the surface sanded off, and the surface is then sprayed with a plastic coating to make it even. That's what the correction is. It is nothing like shell cordovan, which is an oily leather that comes from the ass of a horse. Yes, you can fix the finish without polish much of the time. However, shell does dry out, and while it's best to use a polish specifically formulated for shell, it does require polish from time to time.

Wrong.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bengal-stripe 


Nope - not necessarily wrong!
As long as the coating (usually a polyurethane mix) does not exceed 0.15 mm, the leather does not have to be declared as 'coated leather'.
Even 'real leather' can be coated, as long as the thickness of the coating is less then 0.15 mm.

Aren't most leather or leather shoes "finished" with a top coat?  So what's a better way to define corrected leather?

Being on budget doesn't necessarily mean you have to settle for lower quality shoes. You just have to be an educated consumer, which means knowing when and where to shop for good sales. Allen Edmonds can easily be had for $200. Keep an eye out on Amazon, they regularly run sales on AE. As for AE themselves, they do run a few sales per year, most notably the Rediscover America sale in the fall. AE seconds can be had from the shoes bank for $260, 200 or lower on sales. In fact, a few styles are available right now for $160. Another option is Nordstrom during their semi annual sales.

Although I do like AE and have a few pairs, their lasts can be a little too old-fashioned for some. For your budget, if you're looking for sleeker lasts, I would highly recommend you look into Meermin. There's a thread on here. Their classic line can be had for around $200 and offer very good value for the money.

I 

Quote:

Originally Posted by bellyhungry 

Back on topic....
In my opinion, what make a good shoe are:
Timeless styling
Durable
Hold its shape over time
Solidly built
Made of at least calf leather

That kills most RTW brands with gemmed goodyear constructions

"Appearance and comfort" are the two words that come to mind. In most clothing-related discussions, I'd put "quality" 3rd on that list. First, I find a look that I like. Then, I find versions/sizes that I feel comfortable wearing. After that, I compare the quality of my options vs. the prices.