Alden Shoes how do they stack up to the competition?

[SirWilliam]

I am looking for some new shoes and I am interested in this Alden brand as they have cordovan leather.

In terms of quality where do they fit in between the following brands?:

Lobb
E. Green
Weston
C&J
A. Testoni
Barker Black
Church's
Allen Edmonds

 

[Kuro]

I'm sure the man with multiple same pairs will be along to dispute this, but IMHO towards the middle (beneath C&J).

 

[ndw]

Originally Posted by Kuro

I'm sure the man with multiple same pairs will be along to dispute this, but IMHO towards the middle (beneath C&J).

+1

 

[TheFoo]

I have several pairs of Alden and Lobb each. Of course, the Lobbs are much more neatly finished and totally absent of cosmetic defect or flaw. But I haven't noticed any advantage in terms of durability or, as far as I can tell, longevity. In fact, my Aldens seem to last longer before they need re-soling.

 

[Kuro]

right on time.

 

[constant struggle]

This question gets asked literally 5x a week or more! Search function!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[TheFoo]

Originally Posted by Kuro

right on time.

I pride myself on dependability.

 

[SirWilliam]

Originally Posted by constant struggle

This question gets asked literally 5x a week or more! Search function!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I did a search and after the first page I got bored, did not find what I was looking for and just said F it.

 

[Tarmac]

Originally Posted by mafoofan

But I haven't noticed any advantage in terms of durability or, as far as I can tell, longevity.

by this standard, Loakes should serve you well.

 

[TheFoo]

Originally Posted by Tarmac

by this standard, Loakes should serve you well.

I'm sure a lot of shoes would.

 

[anon]

Originally Posted by Tarmac

by this standard, Loakes should serve you well.
are Loakes crap or something?

 

[zjpj83]

Originally Posted by mafoofan

I have several pairs of Alden and Lobb each. Of course, the Lobbs are much more neatly finished and totally absent of cosmetic defect or flaw. But I haven't noticed any advantage in terms of durability or, as far as I can tell, longevity. In fact, my Aldens seem to last longer before they need re-soling.

I agree. They are hardy. They are also less sleek.

I like them (shell cordo only), FWIW.

 

[JayJay]

I like Alden shell cordovan and have bought several pairs over the years. They hold up well and provide comfort. I'm not as fond of Alden calf.

 

[polar-lemon]

If you want a traditional American cordovan gunboat shoe, Alden is the place to go. If you're looking for a svelte European type shoe, you're in the wrong place. Even their sleeker lasts are still decidedly American- not a bad thing.

 

[Xiaogou]

Are you worried about how the cordovan will wear over time?

Originally Posted by mafoofan

I have several pairs of Alden and Lobb each. Of course, the Lobbs are much more neatly finished and totally absent of cosmetic defect or flaw. But I haven't noticed any advantage in terms of durability or, as far as I can tell, longevity. In fact, my Aldens seem to last longer before they need re-soling.