Noob shoe question

[Patek14]

Consider trying the AE shoebank for good quality seconds or go hunting at all nordstrom racks and see if you can snag a good pair of AE oxfords for $125.

If you go below the AE level (which is often considered the start of the SF approved manufacturers) try hard to find leather soled, NON corrected grain leather. Do not get plasticy coated correct grain leather or get ready for shoes that will deteriorate quickly

 

[pebblegrain]

I've owned the Florsheim lexingtons before, if they fit well and are comfortable, they are fine.

However, they are 100% cheap leather (something known as corrected grain). It doesn't mean they are less durable, but they have a plasticky shine to them and will crease like hell.

On the other hand, seriously 99.5% of people will never notice the difference. (out of 200 people at a wedding, possible 1 person will think less of you, and trust me he will not mention it.)

so, up to you, pay $100 for whatever shoes, or scrounge for $100 good value possibly used shoes, or pay $300 for good new shoes at retail.

 

[Erenoth]

I picked up a LNIB pair of discontinued AE Hale's on eBay for $80. Along with most-everyone here, I'd recommend waiting for a set of higher quality shoes that interest you to come up in your size; be it B&S, or eBay, etc.