Slim (280° welt) or Chunky (360° welt) Settle it, once and forever

[MyOtherLife]

Certain of our beloved members here prefer 360° Goodyear welt shoes because they offer a more substantial appearance,
while other members insist that the slimmer 280° welt is the choice of the true afficianado.
It is time to settle the score, once and for all time in this poll.
Perhaps another poll can be which welt do you prefer with more choices, but this poll is to get a feel for what the majority prefer,
between slim and chunky.
Please choose one of the two options. Reasons and photos are welcomed and encouraged.
So then, how do you like your shoes? Slim and dainty? or meaty and manly?
Please choose, and discuss.

I'll start. I prefer 360°. I pound pavement and for durability alone, the 360° prevails.

 

[cptjeff]

Yes.





Seriously, there's room in the world, and in most people's shoe wardrobes, for both types. Both have their appropriate places, and both have their own charms.

And yes, I own both types and wear both types.

 

[Lightbringer]

I confess I could use some images to illustrate the difference. =( I have never quite grasped the distinction.

 

[scourage]

seconded

 

[Jonathan Mills]

Well though both pairs are awesome, I prefer the 360 better.

 

[jrd617]

I've never heard a shoe referred to as a "280 degree welt" shoe, but I get what you mean. Your term probably comes from the AE "360 welt" branding which is supposed to signify that AE's are well-made and recraftable. The welting on AE's goes around the entire shoe. On the other hand, the welting on C&J, Vass, EG shoes stops at the heel.

In spite of this, I think that the alleged "blobbiness" of AE's comes from the lack of beveled waists and the overall shape of the lasts.