Brands actually mean something in shoes. Btw when you mentioned made in Italy, it makes me want to comment this video. I have been living in Milan, for the last 3 years and I require to dress up Monday-Friday so let me share my Italian experience a little bit. Lower-end RTW (sub 200): Velasca, Scarosso, Cardinale scarpe, and Calzature Belfiore in Milan are really good for money brands. I have a pair of Cardinale and I must say, it is poor-man's Church with Blake construction - very happy with it. Medium-end RTW (200-600): Enzo Bonafe, Antonio Meccariello, and Santoni are my favorites. Although be careful with Santoni, as their shoes are a little bit hit and miss. Just go for their classic FTM and you will do fine. I have been looking at other brands like Fratelli Rosetti and Campanille, it seems they make good shoes as well. Higher-end RTW (>600): For me Bontoni and Scafora are just amazing - I prefer them than Greens or Lobbs. There are millions of hidden gems in Italy, although there are a lot of massive rip-offs as well. I own few pairs from Weston (France), Carlos Santos (Portugal), Meermin, and Yanko (Spain). But I tend to prefer Italian brands more.
Hey Ilham, thanks for your thoughtful comment. I haven’t heard of those entry level brands, so that’s great insight. EB and AM I’m very familiar with, AM is on my short list for sure. Italians do make some excellent shoes. I’m not sure if you’ve heard about Scafora may be shutting down, that made me a little sad as their shoes are beautiful. And lastly, thanks for checking out the channel, I appreciate it.
@@v_r_ Understandable, since you are in the US where Santoni might be the only Italian luxury brand available for many years. I myself visited the States for many occasions every year for business trips, and always checked on Nordstorm Rack. The only "ok" option maybe occasional Magnanni or AE (I tried one, for me it is not as good as it advertised). Although Cobbler Union is my next target the next time I visited Atlanta. Regarding Scafora? no, although rumour about EB yes, I have a close friend who visited Pitti every year (I only dress up for work) told me about Enzo is super old, and since it is family run business, this will be a problematic. Same thing happened in the famous tailoring house like Pernatopea in Napoli or other world-class tailors. Their sons/daugthers prefer to do something else, it is sad story..
Sorry, I’m just seeing this as I’m only getting notified for new comments but not replies to existing comments. But I hope that’s not the case regarding EB. That would be a real tragedy.
This is a journey, now you believe you know everything, but in 10 years from now, you will look back and will say " Oh man that jacket, the color of the tie..."
I know they are poor quality, but I love Cole Haan's because I love "dress sneakers". They seem hard to find in different brands that look good, so if anyone has some suggestions of dress sneaker brands that are high quality that would be awesome.
I have to admit that, while I do own and wear some very nice shoes, my favorites are mid grade at best. For me the old B.A. Mason Executive Imperials are the best combination of fit, comfort and durability with just enough style to get by on. Plus, these days I can pick them up dirt cheap because nobody remembers them.
This is my first time viewing your channel and you are the most ethnically rich person ever. Slavic first name french sounding surname on an African American guy. That's cool.
Love your channel. You have a lot of good advise. When it comes to the soles and the sides sticking out (10:41). That is not really a good indication of quality. Storm welted shoes typically stick out. I will say that those type of soles are typically reserved for your less dressy shoes and boots, but there are a lot of very high quality good year welted shoes who's welt extends beyond the vamp of the shoe. Great videos and love your style.
Hey Vladimir, you're videos are great! I have some feedback regarding the background music. I found it to be a little too loud and it was competing with your voice. Perhaps you could lower the music volume for future videos? Or opt for a more gentle background music. Looking forward to more videos from you.:)
Hey Adam, thanks for the kind words. I appreciate the feedback and I agree. I try to be better in my newer videos. Let me know if you notice a difference.
Hello Vladimir, yep we have all been there with early shoe purchases thanks for this video and very timely check out Sartorial Talks latest video again very informative on the subject of leather quality.Bought a pair of Church oxfords in 1989 had them resoled every few years still got them it pays to buy quality in the long run you really do save money. Come on Fellas punch the subscribe button this young man deserves your support. Cheers Vladimir.
Hey Adam, it’s so funny that you mentioned Sartorial Talks’ video. I recorded mine on Tuesday night and saw that they put out a very similar video on Thursday. I started watching it but haven’t finished it but it’s good stuff. As far as new subscribers, it’s been a little slow but I’m more focused on the subscribers that I do have. Guys like yourself are the reasons why I press record every week. Thanks as always for your kind words and support. Cheers!
@@v_r_Any time mate you keep rocking and producing great content like this ill keep watching and supporting .Its just annoying and not meaning to be rude but in You Tube land there a a few jerks out there producing content with thousands of followers who have none of your style , Knowledge or taste and just seem to follow each others stuff and flogging products to make a fast buck .You do it much better and with class .Full respect sir ,see you next time.
My problem is the high quality, goodyear welted shoes are hard to find that aren't to tight for my foot. But a $100 cemented Florshiem are very comfortable
@@v_r_ I ordered a pair of Oxfords from Meermin and Spire an Mcckany both were extremely tight over the top of my foot. I'm thinking maybe a pair of Derbys would be better suited for me but I haven't found a pair that I like. Beckett and Simonon have a pair that look like they should fit, but I need them before they can deliver. I need to find a shoe store in my area where I can try them on, but I am pretty new to this, and google isn't very helpful, so I dont know where to go. There is an Allen Edmonds here in Houston, maybe I will drive across town and check them out
What ever upscale or well made things you get into - shoes, shirts, suits, jacket, pants and even luggage you begin to pay attention to others around you. I have found new condition, well shined pair of cap toes from a lesser shoe company ( not goodyear welt) looks better than 95% of what I see on mens feet in offices and meeting events these days. So then becomes and internal appreciation of yourself and your focus on well made things. However those cheaper cap toe dress shoes won't last - so you are getting a new pair every year or two to main a decent look.
I want a pair like your Vass black captoe Oxford so bad!.. The two most beautiful ready to wear black captoe Oxfords to me in my humble opinion are your Vass Budapest ones and Gatziano n Girling... Thanks for the tips!!!
Everyone at some point evolve their Fashion style or taste for clothing at some point. What ever we were wearing at the time we were wearing it served the need at that time.
When I watch vids like these what I often appreciate is the actual education itself, sometimes far more that about the specific product. Because to me if the viewer is throughly educated they can make far better decisions generally even when they are in doubt about a very specific product or brand. The knowledge of shoes, their construction and what are good constructed shoes and what to look for is fundamental as teaching a man to fish so he can catch his own. While I’ve always tried to dress well for years on end always improving my wardrobe to the more classic and timeless man in dress and with buying good looking and seemingly good quality shoes at an inexpensive price I did my best and all looks good. But I can go up in their quality no doubt. But it wasn’t until I was listening to one your recent vids and listening with intention did I all suddenly realize the importance of a darker brown pair of shoes. As well the importance they serve in versatility in the different shades of color vs just having many different Black shoes. That’s the difference of having a mentor like figure that can sit down talk to you and give you sound educational advice on how to look at quality shoes and how to make the best decision. Thus the value in listening to the videos. Enjoyed the video.
I was off this weekend so I had a chance to catch some of your previous videos, very impressed with your passion and I must say I agree with you on 90 percent of them. Keep up the good work, hit the like thumbs up if you like my comment, I’m subscribed so I’m not at hater..........PEACE
Very informative video. I hope shoe newbies watch and learn. Goodyear stiched, and to a lesser extent, Blake stiched is a good indicator of quality. Leather quality is something that takes more education, and a lot of times, the shoe companies put some kind of thin coating of something on the new shoes that generally won't last more than a few wears, and you really find out the quality of the leather 6 to 18 months out when you have worn it 30 or 40 times, exposed it to inclement weather, and cleaned and polished it 3 or 4 times. The good shoe will look better once it is broken in and the first layers of shoe cream have had a chance to soak into the leather. The cheap shoes will start looking bad within 6 months to a year. Moreover, on really cheap shoes (and sadly that can include shoes that retail for $200 or even a bit more), the soles will be worn out after just 30 or 40 wears, assuming normal wear. (more than just wearing indoors, but not hiking up Everest or running marathons in them). Put another way, if you buy a cheap shoe that is part of a 5 shoe rotation, you would expect to wear it 4 to 5 times a month, so you would get to 40 wears in less than a year. If it is part of a 2 or 3 shoe rotation, you get to that point in less than 6 months. And this is why it pays to buy better quality. It will last for decades and will actually look better 10 years out than it does brand new. Cheap shoes never look great, and actually start looking bad within a few months, and generally last about a year, and when they wear out, it doesn't pay to try to repair them.
Vladimir Riché I got the moisturizer and applied it to a pair of new shoes, never worn. The color started to come off, I’m wondering if the shoes are cheap or if I rubbed to hard? The shoes were bought online for $299 I used an old dress sock to apply the Renovator
@@elsanch8675 the color is not coming off, only just some residual shoe polish from the factory. It's normal. Renovateur is very safe. Just allow it to dry, buff with cotton cloth or brush, then apply a good quality shoe cream the color of the shoes. Allow to dry and buff with a brush, and you're all done.
Around the world there are some well known brands who sell millions in cheap shoes (Zara, H&M for say some)... i think this is the prove in the world exist much more men and women who Dont know about shoes !! all people look for appearance and price... gentleman who know about shoes are Just a few!!
When you see friends or strangers in public can instantly look at their shoe and say to yourself that's good quality or to be more precise the name brand.
What's your opinion on goodyear welted shoes with a rubber sole? I am thinking about buying Meermin cap toe oxfords. But there are 2 options. One model has a Rubber Sole , and the other model has a leather sole.
I would say it depends. Rubber soles would last longer but aren’t as aesthetically pleasing, at least to me. The argument would then be that no one really sees the sole. Personally, I always go with leather sole and I get flushed metal toe taps installed.
@@v_r_ Fair point, but leather soles are more comfortable to wear. My strategy: 1 pair of black captoe leather sole and 1 pair of Havana / Dark Brown captoe with vibram sole - just in case it is raining outside.
I'd add that it also depends on where you live. I prefer how leather soles look but the ground is always wet over here so I'd be skating if I don't add a rubber layer on top or get a rubber sole...I do have both thought, love the noise of walking with leather soles
Great informational video. Enjoy the content of your video. What are the shoes you are holding up around the 6:30 mark they look like black captoes. Thank you
Thank you! The shoes are Dark Brown actually and they’re from Joe Works. I just released a video on them recently 👉🏾 th-cam.com/video/Jt87Nxi1umA/w-d-xo.html
I was fooled by Martinelli in my first pair of expensive shoes, they even picked an Italian name for a made in Spain shoe, what a clumsy move. Then I discovered Yanko for about the same price, omg...
I notice that when the styleforum crowd goes and declares a shoe "ugly", and "nice", it's really just gravitating towards one particular aesthetic. And I'm not convinced that just because your tastes are now more aligned with people you care about, that those tastes are actually now better. Don't get me wrong, I hate the first two pairs of shoes, too, but I would never nudge anyone if they thought they looked nice.
Hey,great video and just down my alley....im just getting passionate about shoes.Picked up two pairs of (what i presume)good quality shoes.I didnt have an option to buy off the shelf since i live in Pakistan since options are very limited.We have aldos store and some shops sell fashion brands which are not entirely familiar.I picked up an aldo for around $135 and realized thats too much for a brand like Aldos and thus began my research for good quality shoes.My wife was going to US so i decided to opt for American Shoe brands to avoid delivery and returns problems and zeroed in on Allen Edmonds and Paul Evans.From Allen Edmonds i picked the Strand in Walnut and from Paul Evans a Brando in Chocolate.Theyre both great looking shoes and from i have seen online,fairly reliable brands.Would love to hear your thoughts on both of these brands and also some of the other american brands you consider worth chechking out.Peace!
Hey Hameed, thanks for watching. I don’t own either brand but I’m very familiar with AE as I used to sell them back when I worked in the custom clothing industry. Leather quality and construction is excellent and they’re priced really well. If you’re lucky, you can even find them at 50% off during their “factory seconds” sale that they have throughout the year. Personally, I think they lack in the aesthetics department but it’s more of a personal choice. PE, I’ve heard good things but I have no personal experience. Although not made in the US, one American brand that I’d recommend would be J. Fitzpatrick Footwear. Justin makes some really nice looking shoes. I plan on doing an unboxing one day although I don’t really have a time table on it. Another American brand but made in Spain would be Cobbler Union, check them out as well. I hope that helps.
Hey Charles, I’m glad that you’re enjoying the content. Those shoes are from a Japanese shoe company called Joe Works. You can check out their Instagram here 👉🏾 instagram.com/joeworksshoemaker/?hl=en. I might make a video on them soon. Thanks so much for watching.
I’m always a bit skeptical of shoes from high fashion brands like Versace, Prada etc. In your opinion are there any of them with looking into our spending money on? I’m far less concerned with the brand than I am with getting something quality for my money. I saw your videos on shoes under $1000 and under $500, I just don’t see a lot of them in stores that I can try on first.
What’s up, Robert? I know what you mean, depending on where you are in the world, it’s hard to just walk in a store and try one of these on. The thing with those high fashion brands, you’re mostly paying for the name than you are quality. Where are you located?
I’m located in Minneapolis. There are a couple Nordstroms and of course the mall off America. That’s a bit touristy though. There’s also a few Saks off 5th outlets but I feel like those places focus more on trendy fashion than genuine quality.
That’s the thing exactly and unfortunately, unless you’re comfortable with shopping online which is not an easy thing, you wouldn’t have access to any of these type of shoes. If you are, I’d start with Carmina since they have a store in the US and shipping and returns are easy. Then once you know your Carmina size, you can venture to other European brands.
👍🏽 Good advice, I’ll do that. I’ve been looking at their Adelaides in black and also their cap toe oxfords in black. I’ve got a pair of Saks cap toe oxfords that are ok but definitely not what I really want. I got them to fill in the gap till I found some good ones. What are your thoughts?
From my experience with buying Saks shoes back in the day, you could do a lot better. I would definitely consider the Carmina Black Cap Toe Oxfords but I’d probably get the Adelaides in some type of Dark Brown or Burgundy.
Clean the ugly shoes up, and you'll have a nice pair of shoes!.. Styles change but well made is still well made Bro! Tho squared..they look well made to me!..
the first shoes were the best. cant stand the elongated oval tip... ugly the square tip is waaay better. NO, not in fashion, but they scream art and taste
Thank you for knowledgeable and interesting video. 10 thumbs up, already subscriber. Question… standard shoes/boots, and cap toe shoes/boots ??? is one better than the other, or is simply look’s preference ? Pros and cons, Please.
Hey Charles, thanks for watching! To keep it 100, square-toe shoes were never in style. They’re just the type of shoes that get mass produced by cheaper shoe companies. As a matter of fact, they’re still producing them today, so it’s not a time-period thing. Well-dressed men going as far back as 100 years or more have never worn those shoes. I grew up watching my dad and I’ve never seen him with those types of shoes. The type of shoes that I champion now have been around from way before I was born and I’m 44. And I’m not comparing an old shoe to a new one, just an ugly one to a nice one.
ill give you 3 signs a pair of shoes is broken and completely unwearable 1. stiffeners. at the tip, at the heel, on the sides... 2. bad lacing system, bad tongue, ugly stitching poking out etc. 3. bad leather (creases, chips, cracks) and bad sole material (rubber is yet the best)
Change the music style. These type of music are not the kind of music you use when you are trying to educate. Very loud and discrating. You trying to be cool and a ganster at the same time. Be youeself. Unless you are looking for for a gansgter audience. I would be very careful if you want to grow your chanel. Not all black people like gangster style or rap music. Create something that is inviting and inclusive to everyone. Next time do better.
@@v_r_ well for a guy that loves shoes i just didn't expect lacing like a 12 year old wearing sportshoes. but i still think your reviews are amazing and i hope you get the subscribers you deserve😊
Ok, I’ll play along and since you didn’t articulate your point, I’m going to assume that you’re referring to bar lacing as opposed to cross lacing. Show me a picture from a reputable shoemakers website or Instagram where their shoes are cross laced. I’ll wait!
These are the 3 signs that I look for when buying my shoes. Let me know what you look for when you shop for your shoes.
Brands actually mean something in shoes. Btw when you mentioned made in Italy, it makes me want to comment this video. I have been living in Milan, for the last 3 years and I require to dress up Monday-Friday so let me share my Italian experience a little bit.
Lower-end RTW (sub 200): Velasca, Scarosso, Cardinale scarpe, and Calzature Belfiore in Milan are really good for money brands. I have a pair of Cardinale and I must say, it is poor-man's Church with Blake construction - very happy with it.
Medium-end RTW (200-600): Enzo Bonafe, Antonio Meccariello, and Santoni are my favorites. Although be careful with Santoni, as their shoes are a little bit hit and miss. Just go for their classic FTM and you will do fine. I have been looking at other brands like Fratelli Rosetti and Campanille, it seems they make good shoes as well.
Higher-end RTW (>600): For me Bontoni and Scafora are just amazing - I prefer them than Greens or Lobbs.
There are millions of hidden gems in Italy, although there are a lot of massive rip-offs as well.
I own few pairs from Weston (France), Carlos Santos (Portugal), Meermin, and Yanko (Spain). But I tend to prefer Italian brands more.
Hey Ilham, thanks for your thoughtful comment. I haven’t heard of those entry level brands, so that’s great insight. EB and AM I’m very familiar with, AM is on my short list for sure.
Italians do make some excellent shoes. I’m not sure if you’ve heard about Scafora may be shutting down, that made me a little sad as their shoes are beautiful.
And lastly, thanks for checking out the channel, I appreciate it.
@@v_r_ Understandable, since you are in the US where Santoni might be the only Italian luxury brand available for many years. I myself visited the States for many occasions every year for business trips, and always checked on Nordstorm Rack. The only "ok" option maybe occasional Magnanni or AE (I tried one, for me it is not as good as it advertised). Although Cobbler Union is my next target the next time I visited Atlanta.
Regarding Scafora? no, although rumour about EB yes, I have a close friend who visited Pitti every year (I only dress up for work) told me about Enzo is super old, and since it is family run business, this will be a problematic. Same thing happened in the famous tailoring house like Pernatopea in Napoli or other world-class tailors. Their sons/daugthers prefer to do something else, it is sad story..
Sorry, I’m just seeing this as I’m only getting notified for new comments but not replies to existing comments. But I hope that’s not the case regarding EB. That would be a real tragedy.
great info!
Hey Vlad I love your videos. Great content and I’m just getting into Oxfords having worn derby’s most of my life.
Thanks for your kind words. I’m glad you’ve found me.
Much respect. Those 'first' shoes, I wear on rainy days. I can't kill my gems. Keep it up.
Rain day shoes LOL.
This is a journey, now you believe you know everything, but in 10 years from now, you will look back and will say " Oh man that jacket, the color of the tie..."
I know they are poor quality, but I love Cole Haan's because I love "dress sneakers". They seem hard to find in different brands that look good, so if anyone has some suggestions of dress sneaker brands that are high quality that would be awesome.
I have to admit that, while I do own and wear some very nice shoes, my favorites are mid grade at best. For me the old B.A. Mason Executive Imperials are the best combination of fit, comfort and durability with just enough style to get by on. Plus, these days I can pick them up dirt cheap because nobody remembers them.
This is my first time viewing your channel and you are the most ethnically rich person ever. Slavic first name french sounding surname on an African American guy. That's cool.
What’s up, bro? I’m from Haiti, hence the French surname. And my dad loved Russian names, so here we are.
@@v_r_ god power brother enjoyed your channel
Love your channel. You have a lot of good advise. When it comes to the soles and the sides sticking out (10:41). That is not really a good indication of quality. Storm welted shoes typically stick out. I will say that those type of soles are typically reserved for your less dressy shoes and boots, but there are a lot of very high quality good year welted shoes who's welt extends beyond the vamp of the shoe. Great videos and love your style.
You won my sub at the 2:00 mark. Thanks for the clear and understandable way you inform!
You’re welcome, Morgan! Thanks for watching.
Hey Vladimir, you're videos are great! I have some feedback regarding the background music. I found it to be a little too loud and it was competing with your voice. Perhaps you could lower the music volume for future videos? Or opt for a more gentle background music. Looking forward to more videos from you.:)
Hey Adam, thanks for the kind words. I appreciate the feedback and I agree. I try to be better in my newer videos. Let me know if you notice a difference.
Hello Vladimir, yep we have all been there with early shoe purchases thanks for this video
and very timely check out Sartorial Talks latest video again very informative on the subject of
leather quality.Bought a pair of Church oxfords in 1989 had them resoled every few years still got them
it pays to buy quality in the long run you really do save money.
Come on Fellas punch the subscribe button this young man deserves your support.
Cheers Vladimir.
Hey Adam, it’s so funny that you mentioned Sartorial Talks’ video. I recorded mine on Tuesday night and saw that they put out a very similar video on Thursday. I started watching it but haven’t finished it but it’s good stuff. As far as new subscribers, it’s been a little slow but I’m more focused on the subscribers that I do have. Guys like yourself are the reasons why I press record every week. Thanks as always for your kind words and support. Cheers!
@@v_r_Any time mate you keep rocking and producing great content
like this ill keep watching and supporting .Its just annoying and not meaning to be rude
but in You Tube land there a a few jerks out there producing content with thousands of
followers who have none of your style , Knowledge or taste and just seem to
follow each others stuff and flogging products to make a fast buck .You do it
much better and with class .Full respect sir ,see you next time.
I’m humbled, Adam and I plan to keep it going. The subscribers will come in due time. Thanks again!
Brother, you do a heckova job on these videos! Keep up the great work.
That means a lot, Mark. Thank you! 🙏🏾🙏🏾
“Made in Italy” lol 😆 .... this video definitely makes me want to go buy a few new pairs of shoes.
Then I’ve done my job 😂😂
My problem is the high quality, goodyear welted shoes are hard to find that aren't to tight for my foot. But a $100 cemented Florshiem are very comfortable
That’s odd! Most brands have wide options. Which ones have you tried?
@@v_r_ I ordered a pair of Oxfords from Meermin and Spire an Mcckany both were extremely tight over the top of my foot. I'm thinking maybe a pair of Derbys would be better suited for me but I haven't found a pair that I like. Beckett and Simonon have a pair that look like they should fit, but I need them before they can deliver. I need to find a shoe store in my area where I can try them on, but I am pretty new to this, and google isn't very helpful, so I dont know where to go. There is an Allen Edmonds here in Houston, maybe I will drive across town and check them out
What ever upscale or well made things you get into - shoes, shirts, suits, jacket, pants and even luggage you begin to pay attention to others around you. I have found new condition, well shined pair of cap toes from a lesser shoe company ( not goodyear welt) looks better than 95% of what I see on mens feet in offices and meeting events these days. So then becomes and internal appreciation of yourself and your focus on well made things. However those cheaper cap toe dress shoes won't last - so you are getting a new pair every year or two to main a decent look.
I want a pair like your Vass black captoe Oxford so bad!.. The two most beautiful ready to wear black captoe Oxfords to me in my humble opinion are your Vass Budapest ones and Gatziano n Girling... Thanks for the tips!!!
Like your content, you got yourself a subscriber. 👍
Welcome aboard, fam! 🚀🚀
Everyone at some point evolve their
Fashion style or taste for clothing
at some point. What ever we were
wearing at the time we were wearing it
served the need at that time.
When I watch vids like these what I often appreciate is the actual education itself, sometimes far more that about the specific product. Because to me if the viewer is throughly educated they can make far better decisions generally even when they are in doubt about a very specific product or brand. The knowledge of shoes, their construction and what are good constructed shoes and what to look for is fundamental as teaching a man to fish so he can catch his own.
While I’ve always tried to dress well for years on end always improving my wardrobe to the more classic and timeless man in dress and with buying good looking and seemingly good quality shoes at an inexpensive price I did my best and all looks good. But I can go up in their quality no doubt. But it wasn’t until I was listening to one your recent vids and listening with intention did I all suddenly realize the importance of a darker brown pair of shoes. As well the importance they serve in versatility in the different shades of color vs just having many different Black shoes. That’s the difference of having a mentor like figure that can sit down talk to you and give you sound educational advice on how to look at quality shoes and how to make the best decision. Thus the value in listening to the videos.
Enjoyed the video.
Your videos make so much sense. Thank you!
I was off this weekend so I had a chance to catch some of your previous videos, very impressed with your passion and I must say I agree with you on 90 percent of them. Keep up the good work, hit the like thumbs up if you like my comment, I’m subscribed so I’m not at hater..........PEACE
Thanks, Anthony! I’ll take 90%.
Very informative video. I hope shoe newbies watch and learn. Goodyear stiched, and to a lesser extent, Blake stiched is a good indicator of quality.
Leather quality is something that takes more education, and a lot of times, the shoe companies put some kind of thin coating of something on the new shoes that generally won't last more than a few wears, and you really find out the quality of the leather 6 to 18 months out when you have worn it 30 or 40 times, exposed it to inclement weather, and cleaned and polished it 3 or 4 times. The good shoe will look better once it is broken in and the first layers of shoe cream have had a chance to soak into the leather. The cheap shoes will start looking bad within 6 months to a year. Moreover, on really cheap shoes (and sadly that can include shoes that retail for $200 or even a bit more), the soles will be worn out after just 30 or 40 wears, assuming normal wear. (more than just wearing indoors, but not hiking up Everest or running marathons in them). Put another way, if you buy a cheap shoe that is part of a 5 shoe rotation, you would expect to wear it 4 to 5 times a month, so you would get to 40 wears in less than a year. If it is part of a 2 or 3 shoe rotation, you get to that point in less than 6 months. And this is why it pays to buy better quality. It will last for decades and will actually look better 10 years out than it does brand new. Cheap shoes never look great, and actually start looking bad within a few months, and generally last about a year, and when they wear out, it doesn't pay to try to repair them.
You’re preaching, Martin! Forget my video, I hope these youngsters read your comment. Thanks for watching and contributing.
Fantastic explanation! I wish I had found this a couple of years ago.
I like your hand gestures, makes it look like as if you’re rapping.
Very nice video V. Very informative
Thanks, Melvin!
Man, thriftshop is full of those "kicked the wall" shoes.
Haha..I’m sure.
May I ask a recommendation of a good moisturizer for leather shoes?
I use Saphir Renovateur exclusively, it’s like liquid gold. I highly recommend it 👉🏾 amzn.to/2ScaHBR
Vladimir Riché thank you, I also enjoy your reviews.
Vladimir Riché I got the moisturizer and applied it to a pair of new shoes, never worn. The color started to come off, I’m wondering if the shoes are cheap or if I rubbed to hard?
The shoes were bought online for $299
I used an old dress sock to apply the Renovator
@@elsanch8675 the color is not coming off, only just some residual shoe polish from the factory. It's normal. Renovateur is very safe. Just allow it to dry, buff with cotton cloth or brush, then apply a good quality shoe cream the color of the shoes. Allow to dry and buff with a brush, and you're all done.
@@steventrosiek2623 thank you
Nicely done.
Thank you 😎
Thanks for the tips!
Damn, your sister did you dirty lmao
Facts 😂😂😂
Around the world there are some well known brands who sell millions in cheap shoes (Zara, H&M for say some)... i think this is the prove in the world exist much more men and women who Dont know about shoes !! all people look for appearance and price... gentleman who know about shoes are Just a few!!
Nice video bro! Have “friends” STILL wearing shoes 1 & 2... embarrassing! By the way, where’d you cop that foulard tie? Gotta get it!
love your tie bro
Thank you, bro! This one is from Shibumi, they make really nice ties and I have a 10% off code in the description.
Ohh please fix your tie.. cant look at nothing else right now haha
But great video, keep it going !
When you see friends or strangers in public can instantly look at their shoe and say to yourself that's good quality or to be more precise the name brand.
What's your opinion on goodyear welted shoes with a rubber sole? I am thinking about buying Meermin cap toe oxfords. But there are 2 options. One model has a Rubber Sole , and the other model has a leather sole.
I would say it depends. Rubber soles would last longer but aren’t as aesthetically pleasing, at least to me. The argument would then be that no one really sees the sole. Personally, I always go with leather sole and I get flushed metal toe taps installed.
@@v_r_ Fair point, but leather soles are more comfortable to wear. My strategy: 1 pair of black captoe leather sole and 1 pair of Havana / Dark Brown captoe with vibram sole - just in case it is raining outside.
I'd add that it also depends on where you live. I prefer how leather soles look but the ground is always wet over here so I'd be skating if I don't add a rubber layer on top or get a rubber sole...I do have both thought, love the noise of walking with leather soles
I agree that your environment plays a huge part in your sole choices.
Very good info.
Great informational video. Enjoy the content of your video. What are the shoes you are holding up around the 6:30 mark they look like black captoes. Thank you
Thank you! The shoes are Dark Brown actually and they’re from Joe Works. I just released a video on them recently 👉🏾 th-cam.com/video/Jt87Nxi1umA/w-d-xo.html
Vladimir Riché thank you I will definitely check them out.
Great Video!!
Thanks for watching, Waylan!
I was fooled by Martinelli in my first pair of expensive shoes, they even picked an Italian name for a made in Spain shoe, what a clumsy move. Then I discovered Yanko for about the same price, omg...
We’ve all been fooled at some point..LOL. Yanko shoes are very well made.
Very nicely done :)
Refined shoe last really matters
Amen to that, brother!
I notice that when the styleforum crowd goes and declares a shoe "ugly", and "nice", it's really just gravitating towards one particular aesthetic. And I'm not convinced that just because your tastes are now more aligned with people you care about, that those tastes are actually now better.
Don't get me wrong, I hate the first two pairs of shoes, too, but I would never nudge anyone if they thought they looked nice.
Hey,great video and just down my alley....im just getting passionate about shoes.Picked up two pairs of (what i presume)good quality shoes.I didnt have an option to buy off the shelf since i live in Pakistan since options are very limited.We have aldos store and some shops sell fashion brands which are not entirely familiar.I picked up an aldo for around $135 and realized thats too much for a brand like Aldos and thus began my research for good quality shoes.My wife was going to US so i decided to opt for American Shoe brands to avoid delivery and returns problems and zeroed in on Allen Edmonds and Paul Evans.From Allen Edmonds i picked the Strand in Walnut and from Paul Evans a Brando in Chocolate.Theyre both great looking shoes and from i have seen online,fairly reliable brands.Would love to hear your thoughts on both of these brands and also some of the other american brands you consider worth chechking out.Peace!
Hey Hameed, thanks for watching. I don’t own either brand but I’m very familiar with AE as I used to sell them back when I worked in the custom clothing industry. Leather quality and construction is excellent and they’re priced really well. If you’re lucky, you can even find them at 50% off during their “factory seconds” sale that they have throughout the year. Personally, I think they lack in the aesthetics department but it’s more of a personal choice. PE, I’ve heard good things but I have no personal experience.
Although not made in the US, one American brand that I’d recommend would be J. Fitzpatrick Footwear. Justin makes some really nice looking shoes. I plan on doing an unboxing one day although I don’t really have a time table on it. Another American brand but made in Spain would be Cobbler Union, check them out as well. I hope that helps.
@@v_r_ Thank you so much!Have heard about both brands,will dig deeper.Peace!
You’re welcome! Keep me posted.
@@v_r_ I think AE Strand is aesthetically appealing😊
Hi Vladimir, where did you get this tie from?
Awesome vids man. What brand are the beautiful dark brown punch cap toes that you are using as the good shoe example? Thanks!
Hey Charles, I’m glad that you’re enjoying the content. Those shoes are from a Japanese shoe company called Joe Works. You can check out their Instagram here 👉🏾
instagram.com/joeworksshoemaker/?hl=en.
I might make a video on them soon. Thanks so much for watching.
If I could afford bespoke I would not be watching this program, I would be watching my cream......
I’m always a bit skeptical of shoes from high fashion brands like Versace, Prada etc. In your opinion are there any of them with looking into our spending money on? I’m far less concerned with the brand than I am with getting something quality for my money. I saw your videos on shoes under $1000 and under $500, I just don’t see a lot of them in stores that I can try on first.
What’s up, Robert? I know what you mean, depending on where you are in the world, it’s hard to just walk in a store and try one of these on. The thing with those high fashion brands, you’re mostly paying for the name than you are quality. Where are you located?
I’m located in Minneapolis. There are a couple Nordstroms and of course the mall off America. That’s a bit touristy though.
There’s also a few Saks off 5th outlets but I feel like those places focus more on trendy fashion than genuine quality.
That’s the thing exactly and unfortunately, unless you’re comfortable with shopping online which is not an easy thing, you wouldn’t have access to any of these type of shoes.
If you are, I’d start with Carmina since they have a store in the US and shipping and returns are easy. Then once you know your Carmina size, you can venture to other European brands.
👍🏽 Good advice, I’ll do that. I’ve been looking at their Adelaides in black and also their cap toe oxfords in black. I’ve got a pair of Saks cap toe oxfords that are ok but definitely not what I really want. I got them to fill in the gap till I found some good ones.
What are your thoughts?
From my experience with buying Saks shoes back in the day, you could do a lot better. I would definitely consider the Carmina Black Cap Toe Oxfords but I’d probably get the Adelaides in some type of Dark Brown or Burgundy.
Clean the ugly shoes up, and you'll have a nice pair of shoes!.. Styles change but well made is still well made Bro! Tho squared..they look well made to me!..
What are the shoes in the thumbnail
These 👉🏾 th-cam.com/video/Jt87Nxi1umA/w-d-xo.html
What’s the high-quality shoe you’re comparing the $300 pair to?
the first shoes were the best. cant stand the elongated oval tip... ugly
the square tip is waaay better. NO, not in fashion, but they scream art and taste
It looked like a cemented Florsheim that’s all we get in my country for ‘high quality’
That’s rough. Where are you from?
Vladimir Riché Trinidad and Tobago
OHOOOOOO
Thank you for knowledgeable and interesting video. 10 thumbs up, already subscriber. Question… standard shoes/boots, and cap toe shoes/boots ??? is one better than the other, or is simply look’s preference ? Pros and cons, Please.
Square toes shoes were in style years ago. It also looks like you're comparing an old shoe to a new shoe.
Hey Charles, thanks for watching! To keep it 100, square-toe shoes were never in style. They’re just the type of shoes that get mass produced by cheaper shoe companies. As a matter of fact, they’re still producing them today, so it’s not a time-period thing. Well-dressed men going as far back as 100 years or more have never worn those shoes. I grew up watching my dad and I’ve never seen him with those types of shoes.
The type of shoes that I champion now have been around from way before I was born and I’m 44. And I’m not comparing an old shoe to a new one, just an ugly one to a nice one.
ill give you 3 signs a pair of shoes is broken and completely unwearable
1. stiffeners. at the tip, at the heel, on the sides...
2. bad lacing system, bad tongue, ugly stitching poking out etc.
3. bad leather (creases, chips, cracks) and bad sole material (rubber is yet the best)
Change the music style. These type of music are not the kind of music you use when you are trying to educate. Very loud and discrating. You trying to be cool and a ganster at the same time. Be youeself.
Unless you are looking for for a gansgter audience. I would be very careful if you want to grow your chanel. Not all black people like gangster style or rap music. Create something that is inviting and inclusive to everyone.
Next time do better.
😂😂
I quite liked your ugly shoes. Maybe not with a suit but I can still appreciate them
the way you tie your dress shoes make me cringe
You might have bigger issues if the proper way I tie MY shoes bother you enough to comment on it. Good luck!
@@v_r_ well for a guy that loves shoes i just didn't expect lacing like a 12 year old wearing sportshoes. but i still think your reviews are amazing and i hope you get the subscribers you deserve😊
Ok, I’ll play along and since you didn’t articulate your point, I’m going to assume that you’re referring to bar lacing as opposed to cross lacing. Show me a picture from a reputable shoemakers website or Instagram where their shoes are cross laced. I’ll wait!
@@v_r_ Still waiting, I see. :)