n00b that has been lurking, with a question...

[Beancooker]

So I have my flame suit on, since after lurking this forum, I know I'm in for a hard time.
For Christmas, my wife wants to buy me a pair of shoes. Specifically the Louis Vuitton Outline Loafer. http://m.louisvuitton.com/mobile/eng_US/Collections/Men/Shoes/products/Outline-Loafer-947714

I really like the design of theses shoes. Not to much bling and they just look neat. I know they're Blake stitched, and don't have the prestigious Goodyear welt.

While I am aware that they are a bit overpriced and I/she will be paying for the branding, what is the quality of these shoes? Are they really handmade? Will they last a couple of years or are they just cheap crap that will fall apart?

I am braced for hearing the truth. I have seen how the LV brand has been shredded on this forum, and I am fine with getting a hard time for looking at something that is so commercialized.

I just want honest opinions.

Thanks,
Noah

 

[bertie]

Well it's your money and if you like them go for it.

No idea how well made they are but you can get a very nice loafer for a fraction of that. Assume that a majority of the cost is going to branding rather than quality. LV is not exactly a household name for shoes.

As an alternative, start with Rancourt and work your way up to Alden. Check out the Leffot and Leather Soul online shops for similar products.

Maybe spend a little time reading the various shoe threads on SF to educate yourself (and your wife- women are heavily targeted by brand advertising) and then decide if you still want to proceed.

 

[othertravel]

As with any fashion brand, you're paying a premium for the name. If money's no object, go for it.

But there are better brands out there. Alden or Carmina are good alternatives.

And I can't tell, but does LV use corrected grain? That should be a big factor in your purchase.

 

[Beancooker]

N00b question of the day... What is corrected grain?

 

[archibaldleach]

I don't own any LV shoes, so take this with a grain of salt.

I've owned shoes from Ferragamo and have seen a lot of Gucci loafers in action in my day. Generally, you are paying at least a bit for branding. I consider a $600 pair of Ferragamo loafers to be worth around $400 from a true construction and quality perspective, but I happen to like the design and that they make models for people with wide feet. I've been able to get them resoled and such multiple times, but you can do this with any shoe. Gucci and Ferragamo at least are somewhat known for shoes, even if there is a fashion component to their pricing. LV really isn't, so it would not shock me if you are getting $400 worth of shoe for $800.

If you want a fashion brand, I'd seriously look at Gucci and Ferragamo first. You will probably pay a bit less and get an equal quality or better shoe. I'd also check out discount websites like Bluefly which regularly have fashion brand shoes on sale for potential deals. Ultimately, it is your money and your decision. I'd pass on them personally, especially for the price.

 

[Beancooker]

Never mind. Google search answered my question.

 

[Beancooker]



I don't own any LV shoes, so take this with a grain of salt.

I've owned shoes from Ferragamo and have seen a lot of Gucci loafers in action in my day. Generally, you are paying at least a bit for branding. I consider a $600 pair of Ferragamo loafers to be worth around $400 from a true construction and quality perspective, but I happen to like the design and that they make models for people with wide feet. I've been able to get them resoled and such multiple times, but you can do this with any shoe. Gucci and Ferragamo at least are somewhat known for shoes, even if there is a fashion component to their pricing. LV really isn't, so it would not shock me if you are getting $400 worth of shoe for $800.

If you want a fashion brand, I'd seriously look at Gucci and Ferragamo first. You will probably pay a bit less and get an equal quality or better shoe. I'd also check out discount websites like Bluefly which regularly have fashion brand shoes on sale for potential deals. Ultimately, it is your money and your decision. I'd pass on them personally, especially for the price.

My wife bought me a pair of Ferragamo shoes a couple of years ago. They have held up very well, partly because I don't wear them very often. They are just uncomfortable. The leather right below my ankle digs in quite a bit and makes for a long day.
I am definitely interested in Alden. They seem to make an exceptional shoe. Lobb is also a big interest, but is think I will have to travel to find a pair.
My dilemma is that I really like the look of those LV loafers. My one condition is that they have to be comfortable. If they aren't one of the most comfortable shoes I have tried on, I won't consider them.
I have two pairs of (yes, I know they're cheap crappy shoes) Sandro Moscoloni shoes, and they are incredibly comfortable. They look okay, for a glued on sole, however I am not proud to wear them, like in am my Ferragamo or Magli (which are very comfortable also).
I am definitely concerned and want to find out if they are made with a vegetable tanned leather, or if they are a corrected grain. If I find out they are corrected grain, it's definitely a deal breaker. While I don't mind paying for branding, they better be damn well made out of quality materials.

I am not sure how to find out if they are corrected grain, vegetable tanned or tanned by another method. My search on these damn shoes continues.

Thank you all for your input. I really appreciate it.

 

[Ich_Dien]



would not shock me if you are getting $400 worth of shoe for $800.

more like $80 worth...

 

[jrd617]

There;s nothing wrong with blake stitching. Many mid high-ish range end shoes like Bontoni and Rancourt use it. I don't know that Goodyear could even be called "prestigious" to some here. The most "prestigious" shoes are hand welted, something that the Goodyear welting machine only mimick.

The problem with those shoes is the design. Hideous black checker pattern leather. Made for the Eurotrash crowd.

If you're looking to drop a ton of cash on a black loafer from a fashion brand like that (and brown is always bettter IMO), get a JM Weston

http://leathersoulhawaii.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/sl2-684x336.jpg

 

[GBR]

Her money but a lot to pay for a brand name however they might wear,

 

[Beancooker]

I really appreciate everyone's input. Thank you for all the suggestions of other shoes, links to brands and advice. It definitely gives me some other options to look into, and there are already many pairs on the wish list.

 

[bfsse]

I consider a pair of Ferragamo loafers to be worth around from a true construction and quality perspective

 

[MyOtherLife]

 

[Veremund]

It's a gift. If you like them, just say thank you. But I'd go for ferragamos.