My Tricker's arrived! Three questions for the community...

[LB_J]

At first sight, I love the build quality. I was looking for something to straddle the line between classic / time-off while holding up to the winter. I think these will be grand. Here are those three questions:

1. Is anyone aware of Tricker's segmenting their offerings? I.e. producing superior and inferior models (sales, outlet etc.) in parallel for different vendors?

2. Right now, these are comfortably snug. Can I expect them to be comfortably comfortable once I've put a few miles on 'em?

3. Tricker's doesn't explicitly say that their leather is full-grain. With the exception of those that stipulate otherwise, can I more or less take for granted that they're using full grain?

Thanks!

 

[knittieguy]

I think the answer to the second and third questions is a yes (that is also pretty clearly full grain from the picture, in my opinion). Can't answer the first

 

[MrCat]

As to the first question, Tricker's used to make the wingtips for Thom Browne going back more than ten years ago. Between 2010 and 2011, TB changed makers. I have a pair of the Tricker's, and they're marvelously well made and comfortable.

 

[Reiver]

1. I think all Trickers are generally of a similar high standard. I don’t think they make lesser versions. Some leathers may be better than others in certain ways but that’s just one of those things.

I would imagine they’ll give a bit. The footbed will compress a bit as the cork layer underneath conforms to your foot and the leather should have a bit of give. They are sturdy though so this can take a little while.

3. I believe all Trickers should be full grain, I’ve never seen any poor leather used by them. The only exception might be the coated shiny leathers but even these are probably full grain.

 

[monkey66]

Similar to others.
1. The only difference in grades I am aware of is if you buy from the sample sale. With the samples there is always a possibility you get test shoes or rejected leather shoes. Saying that I have bought several pairs with no issues whatsoever.
2. All leather shoes will give a bit and this will take longer on a heavily built shoe. Think 100hrs wear to start to form on your foot. If they are too snug you may have an issue but only you can judge that.
3. All Trickers are full grain apart from Bookbinder/Patent finished as far as I know.

 

[JustPullHarder]

Trickers tends to punch above their price for their clicking consistency IMO

 

[florent]

Tricker's used to have a higher grade line which was called "St James Collection" but is now discontinued.
They also had a notoriously bad collaboration line with Corniche.

 

[ultramantaro]

I got a pair of walnut belgrave from their sample sale recently and they have some rub marks on inner side of the right shoe, though the issue is minor. There are also about 6 what appears to be staple holes on the insole. (No actual staples thought!). Otherwise, no creases and the shoes have not been worn so they were likely used for press clippings or sale samples.

I would say for the US $190 shipped they are leagues above AEs at the similar price range, and a notch above my Cheaneys (just slightly for better finishing)