Can you suggest a pair of shoes like this but better build quality?

[Thermionic]

My price range is $200-400 new or used, I live in San Francisco if you have something size 12-13. I have been lurking on the forum for a bit and have about 25 tabs open of different shoe makers I have heard good reviews about, but a few of the brands of shoes I like the look of, despite the price, have some pretty bad reviews regarding build quality.

I'm using nordstom links just for ease of access -

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/to-boot...egoryid=0&fashionColor=T.Moro&resultback=2398

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/cole-ha...ualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=3233

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bruno-m...ualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=1584

Cheers!

 

[mymil]

Meermin: http://www.meermin.es/ficha_articulo.php?id=1947

 

[gooter]

E Delray- on sale, too http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/producti_SF1208_1_40000000001_-1

 

[atoms]

AE Delray- on sale, too http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/producti_SF1208_1_40000000001_-1

I'm not sure what the intended use is but I will second the Delray. I've tried it on before and it's a slick modern looking shoe with the split toe. It's very dressy though.

 

[Thermionic]

Delray was in consideration since I discovered how highly regarded AE is around here, I may jump on them just because I know they will last but I was hoping for something a bit more Italian styled. I have large feet and do better for sleek smaller soled shoes.

 

[kev777]



Meermin: http://www.meermin.es/ficha_articulo.php?id=1947

All the way !!!!

 

[gooter]

If you do decide that the Delray is an option you can probably source a pair from the shoebank for a good price. The Meermin's are very nice also, I must admit.

 

[mymil]

Personally, I think the way the seam is finished on the AE Delray looks pretty bad, and greatly prefer the Meermin.

That said, is the seam running around the top of the shoe necessary for you? Why? The three styles you posted are getting into square toe territory, and all three are poorly constructed with low-quality leather.

AE, Meermin, or any of the below will be much much much better. None of the soles are going to be too thick.

Consider a plain-toe or captoe blucher instead of a split-toe:
http://www.meermin.es/ficha_articulo.php?id=1955
http://www.meermin.es/ficha_articulo.php?id=1931

Or even a balmoral if you're planning to wear these with a suit or non-jeans:
http://andrewlock.storenvy.com/products/389994-the-brown-oxford
http://www.meermin.es/ficha_articulo.php?id=2339
http://www.kentwang.com/shoes/benchgrade-captoe-balmoral.html

 

[Thermionic]

Or even a balmoral if you're planning to wear these with a suit or non-jeans:
http://andrewlock.storenvy.com/products/389994-the-brown-oxford

http://www.kentwang.com/shoes/benchgrade-captoe-balmoral.html