C&J Aintree Questions

[bdeuce22]

I have decided that my next shoe purchase is going to be a black 2-3 eyelet derby. Before I pull the trigger on some C&J Aintrees, am i missing any other models that are of equal or lesser price while maintaining the quality. This is pretty much my max budget. I would search harder, but I want to have these for an event in 3 weeks.

From searching, it looks like the 337 last runs about 1 full size smaller UK than US. Am i right on this? I typically take an 8.5D US, so I would be around a 7.5E UK. I would go try them on, but I do not know where C&Js are readily available in Metro Detroit.

This shoe will split time between work and nights out. To the owners of this shoe; how does it go with denim. Does it look out of place?

Work is pretty much business casual, dress slacks and a shirts, sometimes a tie, rarely a suit. It really all depends, so i think these would go well with what I already have.

Opinions are welcome.

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[Baron]

I have the RLPL Herend, which is the same as the Aintree. You're correct on sizing - you should take a 7.5E UK. Mine are beechnut/dark brown - I've happily worn them with jeans. Nice, versatile blucher.

 

[rilian]

One difference I noticed from reading the description of the RLPL Herend and the CJ Aintree is the sole. The aintree is an Oak Bark sole, while the Herend is a leather sole. I don't know anything about Oak Bark. Is this comparable to leather in durability?

 

[bdeuce22]

Well I made the plunge and sent in my order to plal.

Those guys sure are quick to respond to emails.

Thanks for the advice baron.

 

[KlezmerBlues]

Originally Posted by rilian

One difference I noticed from reading the description of the RLPL Herend and the CJ Aintree is the sole. The aintree is an Oak Bark sole, while the Herend is a leather sole. I don't know anything about Oak Bark. Is this comparable to leather in durability?
They're both leather soles. The difference lies in the tanning process. Oak-bark tanned soles are tanned through a very time consuming process, using natural vegetable agents, resulting in a very lightweight and hard-wearing sole. I believe them to be a bit more water resistant as well. (Edit, quoted wrong post)