Gaziano Girling or Edward Green first pair of Oxford shoes

[dan1996]

Hi all,

I am currently looking for my first pair of classic black Oxford cap toe shoes, and have been hesitating for several weeks between GG (Main range) and EG (the Chelsea model).

My understanding is that both models have a similar (very impressive) quality in construction, hand finishing etc, but I heard that the EG leather is slightly or simply better than the one from GG. Also you can never go wrong with EG in term of style and classicism, as GG is sometime quite fashion forward in their design. Even if imo, their Oxford shoes doesn't seem to be that different from EG model.

However, I am wearing orthotics because of flat feet. Therefore I have much more difficulties in the fitting. I struggled to have the right size with EG, with either a roomy fit, with heel lifting up because of the orthotics, or a too narrow fit. (I think I have to visit the store one more time just to be sure). On the other hand, with GG, although it has taken time and several visits, we were able to find the perfect size, with narrow waist and a more pronounced arch, which gives stability and confort. They seem to put a great emphasis on it, which isn't surprising, as GG is initially a bespoke shop.

Therefore I am hesitating between both, although I think fit is important, especially with my condition. But on the other hand, I'd like to make the best decision (without going as far as bespoke), and would like a pair of shoes as an investment piece, which can last decades and with a leather that can age well. How would you compare exactly a pair from GG with one from EG ? Does someone experienced EG with orthotics ?

I have though about John Lobb but heard that their construction is disappointing compared to what we can expect for this range of price, at least for their classic range. I haven't heard much about their prestige range, but they seem quite pricey for what you can get, except an exceptional leather that doesn't require any patina. However I might be willing to consider this choice, but needs to learn more about them. What do you think of JL ?

Forget about CJ handgrade etc, the quality upgrade from their main range seems marginal, and I'd like to buy less but better.

 

[Shoeguy57]

Hi all,

I am currently looking for my first pair of classic black Oxford cap toe shoes, and have been hesitating for several weeks between GG (Main range) and EG (the Chelsea model).

My understanding is that both models have a similar (very impressive) quality in construction, hand finishing etc, but I heard that the EG leather is slightly or simply better than the one from GG. Also you can never go wrong with EG in term of style and classicism, as GG is sometime quite fashion forward in their design. Even if imo, their Oxford shoes doesn't seem to be that different from EG model.

However, I am wearing orthotics because of flat feet. Therefore I have much more difficulties in the fitting. I struggled to have the right size with EG, with either a roomy fit, with heel lifting up because of the orthotics, or a too narrow fit. (I think I have to visit the store one more time just to be sure). On the other hand, with GG, although it has taken time and several visits, we were able to find the perfect size, with narrow waist and a more pronounced arch, which gives stability and confort. They seem to put a great emphasis on it, which isn't surprising, as GG is initially a bespoke shop.

Therefore I am hesitating between both, although I think fit is important, especially with my condition. But on the other hand, I'd like to make the best decision (without going as far as bespoke), and would like a pair of shoes as an investment piece, which can last decades and with a leather that can age well. How would you compare exactly a pair from GG with one from EG ? Does someone experienced EG with orthotics ?

I have though about John Lobb but heard that their construction is disappointing compared to what we can expect for this range of price, at least for their classic range. I haven't heard much about their prestige range, but they seem quite pricey for what you can get, except an exceptional leather that doesn't require any patina. However I might be willing to consider this choice, but needs to learn more about them. What do you think of JL ?

Forget about CJ handgrade etc, the quality upgrade from their main range seems marginal, and I'd like to buy less but better.

I have a lot of both EG and GG. I do get the sense that the EG leather is a little better but not significantly so. Given your feet issues I would go with GG since they fit you best. They are beautiful shoes.

 

[smooth bernie]

Hi all,

I am currently looking for my first pair of classic black Oxford cap toe shoes, and have been hesitating for several weeks between GG (Main range) and EG (the Chelsea model).

My understanding is that both models have a similar (very impressive) quality in construction, hand finishing etc, but I heard that the EG leather is slightly or simply better than the one from GG. Also you can never go wrong with EG in term of style and classicism, as GG is sometime quite fashion forward in their design. Even if imo, their Oxford shoes doesn't seem to be that different from EG model.

However, I am wearing orthotics because of flat feet. Therefore I have much more difficulties in the fitting. I struggled to have the right size with EG, with either a roomy fit, with heel lifting up because of the orthotics, or a too narrow fit. (I think I have to visit the store one more time just to be sure). On the other hand, with GG, although it has taken time and several visits, we were able to find the perfect size, with narrow waist and a more pronounced arch, which gives stability and confort. They seem to put a great emphasis on it, which isn't surprising, as GG is initially a bespoke shop.

Therefore I am hesitating between both, although I think fit is important, especially with my condition. But on the other hand, I'd like to make the best decision (without going as far as bespoke), and would like a pair of shoes as an investment piece, which can last decades and with a leather that can age well. How would you compare exactly a pair from GG with one from EG ? Does someone experienced EG with orthotics ?

I have though about John Lobb but heard that their construction is disappointing compared to what we can expect for this range of price, at least for their classic range. I haven't heard much about their prestige range, but they seem quite pricey for what you can get, except an exceptional leather that doesn't require any patina. However I might be willing to consider this choice, but needs to learn more about them. What do you think of JL ?

Forget about CJ handgrade etc, the quality upgrade from their main range seems marginal, and I'd like to buy less but better.

Fit is more important in this case, especially since very, very, *very* few people will recognize aesthetic differences between Edward Green and Gaziano & Girling.

In any case: don't forget to buy shoe trees, and get some shoe care products to make sure your shoes will age well.

 

[Satmoche]

If GG fits you better, you have your answer. Furthermore, the difference of quality - if it does exist - would not justify the downgrade in fit for you.
I heard that JL Prestige leathers are a cut above EG but, again, it is really about the fit. In terms of finishing, you will have mixed answers as both EG and GG have their loyal customers here but I would doubt that any of them would begrudge them for buying a pair from the competition, your money will be well spent either way.

I do like GG, especially for the arch support, and what they have done for the English shoe world but their aesthetic is a bit too 'fashion forward' for my own taste. I am always in awe of their patina, leather quality and their MtM programme seems really worth it.

 

[dukenukem4ever]

In your case I will be Frank.

Get whichever is the better fit. Don’t worry about “better quality leather.” Remember, fit is KING.

 

[dan1996]

Thank you all for your replies, I'll definitely choose GG over EG then,

What do you think of JL ? I've never tried these shoes. Does it fit well ? Maybe I'll keep JL prestige as wedding shoes and more formal occasions, if worth the price, as their leather seems unique

 

[jonathanS]

Thank you all for your replies, I'll definitely choose GG over EG then,

What do you think of JL ? I've never tried these shoes. Does it fit well ? Maybe I'll keep JL prestige as wedding shoes and more formal occasions, if worth the price, as their leather seems unique

I like lobbs prestige.

Another option is the Anthony cleverley by George cleverley line. I quite like those too.

Go for what fits your feet the best. For me, Edward green 888 last was wildly uncomfortable. The only green lasts that worked for my feet were the 82 for Galway. But that might be because of the grained leather, I’m not sure.

I have had good success with gaziano & girling and the Anthony cleverley for gc line. They’re rumored to be made by Edward green (which goes to show how important lasts are). I find the leather on them more resistant to wrinkles than my gazianos.


Brown wingtip - John lobb prestige, after a full day of wear (and around 18,000 steps).

Black cap toe - Anthony cleverley

Burgundy wholecut - gaziano & girling (yes, the leather got damaged about a month ago by my lack of care - I knew they needed a polish / shine but didnt have time to take care of them, so I had to use a repair cream and it’s getting less and less noticeable every time I work on it).