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Well, living only one state next to Wisconsin means that the brown shell cordovan Patriots I ordered from the AE shoe bank yesterday arrived today. The shoes look fantastic and looks to be first quality. The brown shell looks pretty much exactly like Alden's cigar shell to me, although I won't be able to compare it to my cigar LWB's until tonight. So at $179 they are definitely a steal.
They feel good in the toe box and heel, but it does feel a little tight around the instep area. However, I've owned a few pairs of loafers that felt tighter to start out and became very comfortable after some wear, so I feel pretty confident that the tightness will go away in time. I'm a big fan of the Alden LHS and initially these look like they will be a killer substitute for the LHS.
On to some pics!
Rendenbach leather soles
Color comparison with the cappuccino shell Dundees I was wearing today
On foot
My theory is just based on the fact that none of my shoes with the old heels squeak.Old:It seems that they are transitioning to the V-tread toplift across the board. From what I can tell, the V-tread toplift is a bit softer than the original toplift. Perhaps it may not "clack" as loudly when it strikes the floor, and it may have slightly different wear characteristics. As for being more prone to squeaking, I would be surprised if it made a difference, but who knows.New:
Is it possible that they opened a store or entity in your state since the last itme you ordered?
Well, living only one state next to Wisconsin means that the brown shell cordovan Patriots I ordered from the AE shoe bank yesterday arrived today. The shoes look fantastic and looks to be first quality. The brown shell looks pretty much exactly like Alden's cigar shell to me, although I won't be able to compare it to my cigar LWB's until tonight. So at $179 they are definitely a steal. They feel good in the toe box and heel, but it does feel a little tight around the instep area. However, I've owned a few pairs of loafers that felt tighter to start out and became very comfortable after some wear, so I feel pretty confident that the tightness will go away in time. I'm a big fan of the Alden LHS and initially these look like they will be a killer substitute for the LHS. On to some pics!Rendenbach leather solesColor comparison with the cappuccino shell Dundees I was wearing todayOn foot
I'm not sure how it compares to other AE lasts, since the AE lasts I've tried in 9D (1, 5, 7) all fit me pretty well. I think it probably is closest to the 1 last. The toe box has ample room without feeling loose, and the heel is spot on for me (I'm not sure if my heel is considered normal or narrow). Once the instep tightness (which isn't bad at all, just tighter than a typical worn pair of loafers) goes away, it should feel great all around. The Alden Van last is one of the best fitting lasts for my feet, and the Patriot feels about the same except for the aforementioned instep tightness.Great pics! They look like a great fit on you. Other than the instep issue, any other initial fit comments (i.e. vs other AE shoes)?Well, living only one state next to Wisconsin means that the brown shell cordovan Patriots I ordered from the AE shoe bank yesterday arrived today. The shoes look fantastic and looks to be first quality. The brown shell looks pretty much exactly like Alden's cigar shell to me, although I won't be able to compare it to my cigar LWB's until tonight. So at $179 they are definitely a steal. They feel good in the toe box and heel, but it does feel a little tight around the instep area. However, I've owned a few pairs of loafers that felt tighter to start out and became very comfortable after some wear, so I feel pretty confident that the tightness will go away in time. I'm a big fan of the Alden LHS and initially these look like they will be a killer substitute for the LHS. On to some pics!
Rendenbach leather soles
Color comparison with the cappuccino shell Dundees I was wearing today
On foot
I went TTS (only choice in this case since they only had them at 9D). I would say the Patriot fits TTS based on how it fits me.
Wow, shell McGraws for 125... very impressive. Even a better deal than the Patriots for 179! Truly some steals to be had lately.
Yep, those look great!
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