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

[balmoralsoccer]

I think the problem here is on this site black shoe in particular are not as popular. I on the other side like a good black shoe " though I have to admit don't wear nearly as much as my other shells". I have two pair black shells and like them allot

true...and on top of that the price alone makes it very desirable

 

[saywordsahn]

Noob question: I don't have any nice shoes, just some beaters for work, runners, and some canvas sneakers for summer. Should I pick up the Indy boots or will there be something that's more versatile with my wardrobe (some chinos and jeans?) I've only really seen the Indy fit with jeans which raised this question. Thanks!

 

[mediahound]

I don't give a hoot about popularity, but black shell doesn't give you the subtle color variations of #8, ravello, whiskey, etc. over time. I agree with "not as desirable".

Black shell is desirable because for one, you need at least one pair of black shoes for things like funerals, and Black shell is way better than Black calf. Way easier to keep a shine on, lasts longer, doesn't get nasty looking cracks/creases over time, etc, etc.

Shell is not just about color variations. It's a better material any way you look at it.

 

[david3558]

Okay I love black shell, proof here:

 

[interlockingny]

I've finally gotten around to taking pictures of my Ravello shell Shortwings -- size 9.5D Barrie last. New In Box. I will list them for sale in the classifieds tomorrow, however I'd much rather seem them to go to someone in this thread. Great opportunity for a pair that may not be produced again and the shortage of exotic shells being produced. Nothing wrong with shoes, selling because I haven't worn them and I have a similar pair in Ravello shell.

PM me if you are interested. Thank you.

With Flash:

Without Flash:

 

[stevent]

Black shell is bomb
Thanks for the Psa just picked up a pair

 

[Alcibiades]

The more black shell I see, the more I like it

A black calfskin shoe is essential, but I'm liking how black cordovan PTBs and chukkas look in the sun. I rarely wear my black balmoral cordovan boots (hard to get on and off, too chiseled of a last to wear casually), but they look good when I do

 

[interlockingny]



Black shell is bomb
Thanks for the Psa just picked up a pair

No affiliation but if you order going through ebates.com, you'll get 6% back at the end of the quarter. I believe you'll need to create an account to make this happen.

 

[mediahound]

Also, when you click 'More':



The more I look at these, the more I think they rock.

 

[balmoralsoccer]

the consensus is that barrie-lasted shoes fit slightly looser than barrie-lasted boots, right? is it an entire half-size different?

 

[mediahound]

the consensus is that barrie-lasted shoes fit slightly looser than barrie-lasted boots, right? is it an entire half-size different?

I think it's only the LWB Barrie that seems to fit a bit looser.

 

[rydenfan]



I think it's only the LWB Barrie that seems to fit a bit looser. 

I don't think it is enough to change size though, is it?

 

[rydenfan]

BTW, Mediahound I have a Woo amp, Auedeze LCD-2 rev.2 and a pair of Senn HD-800's so it looks like you and I share a few hobbies

 

[david3558]



Black shell is bomb
Thanks for the Psa just picked up a pair

You're welcome son

 

[mediahound]

I don't think it is enough to change size though, is it?

Really depends on your feet and what you want to do. To keep things simple, you could get the same size in all Barrie Aldens and could wear a thicker sock with the LWB and be fine.

Or, you could size down on just the LWB and probably also be fine. For me, I can wear 8.5D in all barrie Aldens except LWB, which I can wear 8D with thin socks, or 8.5D and thick socks.

BTW, Mediahound I have a Woo amp, Auedeze LCD-2 rev.2 and a pair of Senn HD-800's so it looks like you and I share a few hobbies

Cool. I'm actually working on a video on my Lyr amp as we speak. Should be up in my channel tomorrow.