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The Official Alden Thread for 2021 - Share Reviews, Sizing, Advice, and Photos.

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DG123

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Got my first Indys! But I wanted to check something with you guys. The right heel seems to be offset slightly medially with extra space on the heel block on the lateral side. In other words, the heel is not completely centered. It's not egregious, but I've tried to capture it in the photos below. Also, the stitching near the welt joint seems a little sloppy. Am I good?

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Left boot for comparison:
View attachment 1691866

If you purchased the boots from an authorized Alden dealer, and you are not pleased, send the pair back for a refund or an exchange? Separate from the quality control question, how is the fit for you ?
 

MacGuffen

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If you purchased the boots from an authorized Alden dealer, and you are not pleased, send the pair back for a refund or an exchange? Separate from the quality control question, how is the fit for you ?
Fit is perfect and I already love the comfort. It's a bit of a hassle to return since I'm not in the States. Judging by the lack of replies I'm guessing it's within normal tolerance for Alden.

After some great experiences with Spanish and English shoemakers for around $400, I found the QC a bit disappointing for these $600 Alden boots.
 

JSO1

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Fit is perfect and I already love the comfort. It's a bit of a hassle to return since I'm not in the States. Judging by the lack of replies I'm guessing it's within normal tolerance for Alden.

After some great experiences with Spanish and English shoemakers for around $400, I found the QC a bit disappointing for these $600 Alden boots.

Personally, I would recommend contacting the retailer and seeing what they recommend. I would not keep those myself.
 

MacGuffen

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Personally, I would recommend contacting the retailer and seeing what they recommend. I would not keep those myself.
Yeah, that's what I ended up doing. If it has no functional consequence I probably won't bother exchanging. These are MTO with commando soles, so I'll probably have to wait until 2022 for a new pair.
 

madhat

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Yeah, that's what I ended up doing. If it has no functional consequence I probably won't bother exchanging. These are MTO with commando soles, so I'll probably have to wait until 2022 for a new pair.
I had a pair come in with the wrong soles (the whole order lot came in with wrong soles), and Brian in DC was able to get Alden to resole them with the correct sole. It might be something similar where the shop can arrange for Alden to rewelt/resole them and correct the poor workmanship.
 

MacGuffen

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I had a pair come in with the wrong soles (the whole order lot came in with wrong soles), and Brian in DC was able to get Alden to resole them with the correct sole. It might be something similar where the shop can arrange for Alden to rewelt/resole them and correct the poor workmanship.
Thanks for the suggestion. So we're in agreement that the heel offset isn't normal?
 

JSO1

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Thanks for the suggestion. So we're in agreement that the heel offset isn't normal?

i would just ask for another pair, it’s not like they are an ultra rare or limited run.
 
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Check out Dashing Chicago. My go to shop. Just picked up a pair of special order snuff suede chukkas this weekend.


Quoting my own post since I did not get any response last time. I’m finding that my Barrie lasted pairs are now fitting tighter over my instep. Maybe I’ve spent too much time with TB or feet have changed. Any case, I need a new size in Barrie and I’m in Midwest, with no local retailers. I tried 8.5E Barrie against my 8.5D TB and there is no instep pressure but the length and volume is noticeably more (see pic with Barrie left, TB right). I can make do with thicker socks but wondering if anyone has any advice that will help me dial in the fit. Thanks in advance.
View attachment 1689607
 

Vincent George

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Pumpkins and Black Levi Cone Denim (made in USA). Ready for Halloween
?

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DG123

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Fit is perfect and I already love the comfort. It's a bit of a hassle to return since I'm not in the States. Judging by the lack of replies I'm guessing it's within normal tolerance for Alden.

After some great experiences with Spanish and English shoemakers for around $400, I found the QC a bit disappointing for these $600 Alden boots.

I consider fit to be what matters most. Regarding your quality of production questions, I took a few photos of my pair of model 405 Indy boots, trying to capture the same perspectives you shared. Hope this helps.
 

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ProfilaBinding

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Recent addition. Best part is double leather antique. I feel a bit commandoed out so love the profile of these soles.

To stay on the recent hot topic, their Arabica Lux counterparts are on their way. Can't wait to see the leather in person. Seems like it's gonna be a super versatile and a go to this fall.

Happy Monday fellas ?

View attachment 1691828 View attachment 1691829

Wow, those are just beautiful. What color shell is that?

I'm still considering (eventually) getting the 45634 in burnished tan (more like AE chili).
 

MacGuffen

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I consider fit to be what matters most. Regarding your quality of production questions, I took a few photos of my pair of model 405 Indy boots, trying to capture the same perspectives you shared. Hope this helps.
Thank you for taking the time to take these pictures! That does look similar to me. Alden said it shouldn't affect wear and if there was ever a defect in the future they would take care of it. I think I'll keep them. Thanks to everyone for your input!
 
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