***The official Alden thread *** Share enthusiasm, reviews, sizing, advice, and photos.

[sevenfoldtieguy]



On this topic, what is the purported benefit of the double waterlock sole? I have a few (CXL chukka, whiskey Indy), but I find they don't seem to offer any advantages on wet pavement. I've seen retailers say that the sole lasts longer because the oil protects them from water, but Alden's regular double leather soles last a long time as well. I understand the advantage of the single flex welt oiled sole (found in suede chukkas, loafers, etc) - the oil makes the sole softer, which makes a more comfortable shoe out of the box (and goes well with styles like suede loafers or chukkas where the user may go sockless). But I haven't been able to find a real advantage of the double waterlock.

The waterloc soles are designed to keep water from getting into the pores of the leather, which (1) extends the life of the leather sole, and (2) keeps your feet dry. They are better suited for wet conditions than regular leather soles. My ravello LWBs from Alden DC have the double waterloc, and, if it would have been possible, I would have probably gotten all my LWBs on double waterloc. Based on my experience, I would also say double waterloc (vs. standard double leather) makes the shoe slightly more comfortable out of the box.

 

[sevenfoldtieguy]



Old picture of my medallion tips. These are soon headed to BNelson for a JR resole with natural edge, I am considering the JR soles and Topys with the recessed metal toe plate. Suggestions regarding JR + Topy?

I already have the brown shell AE Strand, and Alden's Hampton last (this model's last) is not my favorite - so I have opted not to get this model; however, having said that, these shoes are very nice looking. Get the JR soles and nothing else.

 

[sevenfoldtieguy]



Came home to some Cigar captoes sitting on the porch! Initially I like the Grant very much. Certainly more narrow than my Barries or Trubalance but a really nice feel.

The cigar is much darker than the chukka version I tried on recently but going to wait for the sun to be out tomorrow to judge the color.

The boots did come with a bit of a demur. I have attached a pic. Do you guys believe this is something I could buff out? Or no?

Exchange for another pair in your size. If that is not possible, ask the retailer to send them to the factory for buffing and "repair." If that doesn't work, get a refund.

 

[BeSpiffington]



Ravello PTB from Alden SF

Absolutely gorgeous. Were they a special order or a stock item. If a special order how long did you have to wait?

 

[blue collar]



Those look great. I'm not brave enough to wear my shell in less than perfect weather.

Exactly, and in the elusive Ravello SWB! Better man than I! Looking real sharp though

 

[hkpm]

Absolutely gorgeous. Were they a special order or a stock item. If a special order how long did you have to wait?

I just got them on their website.
Once in a while Alden Sf puts exotic shell on the website for ordering.
Just check regularly and you should be able to get them (if you are lucky....)
You may also call to check if you are in the State.

 

[Burton]



I already have the brown shell AE Strand, and Alden's Hampton last (this model's last) is not my favorite - so I have opted not to get this model; however, having said that, these shoes are very nice looking. Get the JR soles and nothing else.

+1

 

[barabara]

I like sunset Ravello NST.

 

[MickCollins1916]

Natural CXL tanker boots w/crepe sole from LSW on a snowy day in Charm City

 

[sazon]

In anticipation of the monster snow storm coming to NYC today (well, not really, but the news surely makes it sound that way), it's casual Friday with Nat CXL Tankers and commando soles.
I love these boots, between the Trubalance last and the comfy commando soles.

I'm thinking I need more Alden calf.

 

[Don L]

Cigar day

 

[thebeebs]

^ Those CXL tankers are sweet, where did you score them?

 

[Chubbs]

Got my Indy boots in the mail today from JCrew. I love them but am not too crazy about the contrast stitching. What's the best way to darken the stitching and reduce the contrast. Just use brown shoe polish?

 

[mcbrown]



Got my Indy boots in the mail today from JCrew. I love them but am not too crazy about the contrast stitching. What's the best way to darken the stitching and reduce the contrast. Just use brown shoe polish?

Yes, but I'd suggest waiting a while. Once done it can't be undone, and the stitching will darken over time from bright white to somewhere between off white and tan, depending on how you use your boots and how dirty they get.

 

[Chubbs]

Thanks mcbrown, I'll take your advice.

What is the consensus for treating chromexcel? I don't plan on babying them of course, but would like to know the preferred method?