C&J Conniston vs Alden Shell Cordovan boots

[c55]

I've narrowed my choices down to the two boots and was wondering if anyone who owns both could chime in on the quality of C&J vs Alden? These are basically the same price. Alden http://www.alden-of-carmel.com/index...e_Boot_160.htm C&J http://www.crockettandjones.co.uk/mensboots-conist.html I'm looking for something pretty tough that will last a long time and wear throughout the Boston winters. edit: not someone who owns both of these boots, but both brands

 

[Frittata]

Originally Posted by c55

...

I'm looking for something pretty tough that will last a long time and wear throughout the Boston winters.
Therefore I'd prefer the Alden. Great looking boots.

But have you considered the AF68? I like this model even more...

 

[Leaveitothexperts]

I like these ones better . . .

http://www.aldenshop.com/DrawOneShoe.asp?CategoryID=106

 

[c55]

Originally Posted by Leaveitothexperts

I like these ones better . . .

http://www.aldenshop.com/DrawOneShoe.asp?CategoryID=106

I like those too, but I'm not looking for Chukkas - these two pairs are high lace.

 

[auto90403]

nice boots, both pair.

but as winter boots, cord isn't my first choice. salted sidewalks and mushy puddles of melting snow will destroy a $500 pair of boots in no time.

get something cheaper and more durable, with lugged soles. and if the weather doesn't require boots -- this may be a warm and dry winter -- continue with regular dress shoes.

 

[oscarthewild]

The single most comfortable pair of shoes I have EVER had was a pair of Aldens with a crepe sole. So if you want to do a lot of walking, that may affect your decision.

-

 

[Bic Pentameter]

I have C&J and Alden shoes. I own the Alden high lace boots that you referenced. On the whole, I like Alden better, and the cordovan high lace boots in particular. Nevertheless, I think that the C&J's would be the better choice for snow and slush because of the storm welt. When I purchased my Alden high lace boots, I was told that although they are boots, they are not waterproof, or specifically intended for snow or serious downpours.

I would go one step further and recommend the C&J Snowdon, or its lil' brother, the Velt. These are a bit clunky, but are a better choice because they are waterproof.

http://www.crockettandjones.co.uk/countryshoescoll.html

Bic

 

[c55]

This is becoming harder

Well I like the Snowdon, but I'm not looking for a boot that I will just wear when it is snowing/wet, I'm looking for an all around boot that will take me from fall-spring and from jeans to trousers.

 

[jmonroestyle]

I recently purchased the Crockett and Jones Norfolk boot from Robert Old.

http://www.old.co.uk?acatalog/Mens_Boots.html

It is more of a city boot, while the Coniston is an English Country boot. The Norfolk is quite a bit lighter weight than the Coniston and is meant to be worn with a thinner sock. The Coniston is fuller fitting and meant to be worn with a heavier sock. I don't own the Coniston. However, I have read that some people find this boot makes their feet too warm. This could be a problem if the boots are worn all day indoors.

I have also bought this high lace up cap toe calf boot by Alden (style 39151) This is a special "Bootmaker Edition" and made exclusively for The ShoeMart:

http://www.theshoemart.com/cgi-bin/c...&browse_vendor

I bought the boot in black. However, it is also available in mahogany.

I also bought this Alden boot:

http://www.aldenshoe.com/cat_ortho_trub_86.htm

These two Alden boots have leather soles. However, you could add Topy rubber sole protectors to them.

I did not want cordovan boots, and these are the only high lace up non-cordovan dress boots I could find that would be suitable choices as a good fit for my feet.

I would say the workmanship and leather quality on the Crockett and Jones Norfolk boot is a little finer than on the Alden boots. However, the Alden boots are a better fit for me. The last on the Norfolk is fuller fitting than the Alden boots. There is a little less toe room, and a fuller fitting heel.

The Alden boots have a snugger fitting heel (due to the combination last they use) and a little more toe room.

They are all well made quality boots. You might want to base your decision on which brand will fit your foot the best.

 

[mell]

Although I do have several pair of the Aldens in mostly shell cordavan and they are comfortable, I have found that the Conniston fits me like a glove and is one of the most comfortable boots I own. To me there is no comparison, C&J all the way.

 

[kbuzz]

can anyone update this thread. Although there have been similar post recently, my first choice would be an alden wingtip boot but in whiskey or cigar cordovan. Neither of which is left at Alden of Carmel or Leather soul, as i am late this party.

Any suggestions apprecaited.

 

[swoobie]

Originally Posted by auto90403

nice boots, both pair.

but as winter boots, cord isn't my first choice. salted sidewalks and mushy puddles of melting snow will destroy a $500 pair of boots in no time.

get something cheaper and more durable, with lugged soles. and if the weather doesn't require boots -- this may be a warm and dry winter -- continue with regular dress shoes.

I didn't know that cordovan was more fragile than calf. Is it?