***The official Alden thread *** - Page 2524

Is that the mosaic floor at Washington National?

Chromexcel is indeed durable in terms of taking scuffs and resisting tears (under the conditions most people in this thread put it through) and one of the things I love about the leather is the way you can buff it up with little other than a horsehide brush. However, it is a soft, pliable leather and Alden uses thin cuts. Having worn and subsequently sold two pairs of Alden boots in Chromexcel after they stretched too much and lost their shape when put through several months of my daily activities (for example installing art shows, doing wiring and mechanical repair, touring as a musician, hiking) I do not think that Chromexcel leather is the best choice for hard wear. To reference to the Roy boots specifically, I will point to these photos from Superfuture user El Topo showcasing the Roys after only 7 months of wear in similar conditions to how I treat my boots with an emphasis on outdoor activity:

I think they look cool, but I do not think you're going to get the kind of mileage out of the Chromexcel leather that the above poster was inquiring about as he does intend for these to be his only pair of boots. Provided that the ten year suggestion is hyperbole, I would reconsider.

Though the initial depth of color is less impressive, the classic wax hide Indy has been a far better every day work horse for my needs and does darken and develop more interesting character with use.

I will provide the disclaimer that I am the type of person who likes to toss on his boots and see what happens rather than plan out specifics. I purchase most of my footwear to be accordingly flexible, both aesthetically pleasing and durable. If you are using your boots less intensely doing city walking, occasional work, and especially if you're regularly rotating them with other pairs, then I think Chromexcel is an excellent leather. It is especially perfect for moccasins, though I prefer it in thick cuts as found on Yuketens and some Quoddys.

Here's are some pics!