Handy timestamps: 00:38 Carmina, the brand 02:45 Carmina Chelsea, the aesthetic 05:45 Carmina's box calf leather 07:00 Carmina Chelsea boot sole 08:27 Carmina Chelsea fit & sizing 10:30 Carmina Chelsea price 12:35 Carmine Chelsea boot pros 13:20 Carmina Chelsea boot cons
This is the review I’ve been waiting for! These are gorgeous. Both in the gray slacks, and the cuffed jeans, just pure fire. I would mention that this boot is available in wider lasts, so although there is no “wide” option in Simpson last, just get a wider last like Inca or Oscar, which fit my slightly wider foot like a glove. The other thing I would point out is that you can get this boot with a couple of rubber sole options if you want better grip in the city. Great review, thanks! Edit: you can absolutely wear these with a suit, they are elegant and very dressy according to the rules of fashion (black, sleek shape, and no medallions or broguing). The miracle of Chelsea’s is that they look equally good dressed down. Lastly, the problem with Carmina is that once you experience them, you never want to go back to cheaper shoes. Especially once you find that perfect last, which for me is the Oscar last. I’m ruined.
Great review, Nick. I own a couple pairs of Carmina, one being the Chukka Boots, and can definitely say that they are one of the best value for the money out there right now. Yes, a little more on the elegant side, but with these Chelseas, one can also opt for the Rain last, which is a little wider, and choose Suede to make it less formal. Thanks for the 10% off code.
I’ve worn my Magnannis with jeans and a black tshirt and got compliments. A black sleek Chelsea boot turns heads. I always get asked about them, but especially my brown ones. I want some brown suede ones for the fall.
Please do some more R.M. Williams reviews. You could be the key to their success really off in the states. We need more info on how they are made where they get their leather from and how much is done on house. How their resole service works.
I'm looking to get a good quality chelsea boot that I can wear in winter with jeans or even while shoveling snow, but that I can also take to work in winter. I do see carmina has a couple different lasts and some dainite like soles, do you think it would be too dressy, is there a more casual but high quality chelsea boot you can recommend?
I don't own a black Carmina Chelsea, but I do wear my black Chelseas to work with a suit. I work in Japan and I got complements for the pair. Just for reference.
I live in australia so RM seemed like the reasonable choice but I kept getting put off by everyone having them and their chunky profile. Eventually found carmina and I was in love with the simpson last chelsea. I also have RM's but as a dress chelsea the carmina is in another league.
As someone who wears eee width shoes I genuinely wish I could invest in Carmina and other brands like it but they don't have many options that fit. I know the Detroit eee last is in their collection but each time I check they have no shoes in stocm that uses that last. Regardless, thanks for another honest assessment.
Wow I personally think those boots are a steal for that price. At least I can see that money reflects on the quality unlike my Indy's. So many flaws! I honestly just got them because of Indiana Jones thus kinda like a collector item, but these boots rock. Really like the casual look with the jeans. Pretty RocknRolla. Also after seeing these review I understand why you speak so highly of Thursday's. You get a lot boot for what you pay for. Great review and keep it coming!!
Thanks. Your videos have been an entirely accessible introduction to quality boots. Thank you again for your very clear delineation of the elements that define good footwear. Also I want these boots! Even though I have no defensible reason to buy them...
The boot seems well made. The hidden sole stitching is good. The only thing is missing a thin half rubber sole. The half sole will not make it stiff The price is very reasonable for what you get in return
Very nice indeed! I think these should stop at business casual, too casual and you should go with something along the lines of the Thursday Duke, the RM looks much more versitile but not as smart as these, but can be pulled off with smart wear.
I really enjoyed this video/review Nick for a number of different reasons. I thought that the video was outstanding, with the various outdoor scenes depicting the streets of New York. Excellent photography or videography or whatever the correct word would be...I agree with you that this Carmina is one classy looking boot! I can’t remember when I’ve seen closed channel stitching on a boot. Perhaps it’s more common than I’m aware of; nonetheless it looks pretty slick. From the video I couldn’t tell if it’s a 270 or 360 degree Goodyear welt. I think the closed channel stitching threw me off a bit. From how you describe the construction of these boots, it’s easy to see how price would inch up above $500.00. The discount code you’ve secured would come in handy for anyone interested in getting a pair of these Carminas’ Anyway, I just wanted to let you know how much I thoroughly enjoyed this video. You cover all the bases, as usual and its just plain fun to watch your production of this fine video. Keep up the good work!...Ed
Great! Glad I could help. Promos like this rarely work with expensive boots because people know if they want them or not and will pay what they need to, haha.
Thanks for the introduction to a new brand! Looks pretty solid with a suit, probably wouldn’t rock them going super causal though. The nicks boots of luxury 💪
I really dig chelsea boots but I always feel insecure when I'm in them, I kinda feel like wearing a wellington boots lol I really hope they'd grow on me
Nick, the Chelsea boot is sleek, simple, and Classic! They have been around for years. In the 1800s in the US they were called "Congress Gaiters." Any historic photos (available for access on the internet) will show persons such as Mark Twain/Samuel Clemens, wearing this boot. To say they do not go with suits is a biased judgmental bit of "poppycock!" They have always gone with suits. The R.M. Williams versions, no doubt you are more than familiar with, have similar appeal. I wonder at the price point difference between them. Having wide feet has posed a problem for me previously. Anyway, thank you for this review, and I would urge those with a bias against a pair of Chelsea boots worn with suits to review their historic connection to suits. So there! DJ
i will say this, the 'cons' list seems to be all issues having to do with buying the ready to wear version, which can be remedied with their custom boots (althought that will be a few hundred more, you can pick from many custom options) no other widths, not grippy leather sole, not wholecut, all are addressed in other offereings. they allow you to have any model made in any last, and they have wider lasts. they have a wholecut model for a little more money. they also offer a few rubber/leather soles and a lug rubber sole for those who are really in the ice a lot. there might still be a tiny QC issue
@@Stridewise @Stridewise Thanks to you! Well, you can always find those photos on the website but, for instance, those images of you flexing the boot stepping on your toes is something I always pay attention closely while trying them at the shop, so it's really valuable to see those in a video.... From my experience, in addition to this Carmina model, I would say that the Crockett & Jones Lingfield are also perfect to wear with a suit.
Hi Nick. Thanks for the video! I’m in the market for new Chelsea boots and currently looking at both carmina and rm Williams? I’m curious to see what your thoughts are on these two companies. Keep up the great vids.
Thanks for the review Nick, you’ve pretty much sold them to me. I am a Chelsea boot man and I think every man should have a black and a brown pair amongst their collection. At present my choice for brown is a pair of RM’s, my black ones are Aquila which are nearing the end of their life. Was going to get another pair until I saw this video. Buying from Australia I’m gonna have to do it online. Would you say sizing is comparable to RM? Also any insights on buying them online? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Hi, mate. Which rm's did you get ? I'm looking forward to getting my own pair. I've checked, here in the uk, these carminas are near enough the same price, would you say rms are of similar quality or are a better buy?
Maqsood hassan I got a pair of the classic craftsman with rubber sole. I would much prefer a leather sole but I wear them onto building sites a fair bit, so figured rubber might be better. Super comfortable boot. I’m not sure how they go against the Carmina, the Carmina looks a smart looking boot and I’m itching for a pair of black ones. Decisions decisions, good luck my friend
Nick could you do a video on some casual Chelsea boots, boots to wear more with jeans and casual outfits. Also would you go with these or RM Williams ?
For dressing up, Carmina has RMs beat. For versatility, it's RMs! More casual Chelsea boots are Thursday's Duke, that's the best. I've also done Red Wing's Weekender which is nice and casual
Great review as always from a fellow Nick! I'm hoping you are going to start doing more reviews on leather jackets? I'm looking at the flight jacket from Thursday boots since I've had good experiences in the past and would love some more info on it
I think Thursday is discontinuing the jackets so I didn't really want to do a video on it, even though I wear mine constantly haha. Glad you liked the vid, Nick 2!
Oh man I just got my dyson... and you release this video... fantastic video and fantastic boot. I buy boots online with more confidence if you have reviewed it. I’m seriously thinking about the cordovan balmoral boots now. Thank you sir for the great video.
Very nice, informative video. Just a small detail: When you wear your dress boots with trousers, you have to shorten them more than usual or else you have an outdated, more than full break in your outfit.
Question: You stand up from a seated position and the back of your Chelsea is caught in your pant cuff. Ride it out, or bend down and fix it whenever it happens? Let’s say you’re trying to be on the dressier side in this scenario.
Curious what was the other video mentioned that was more like a commercial? Out of the channels I follow , this is the 2nd time Carmina is reviewed. I really appreciate your honest reviews. Big fan of your channel.
You can’t wear every Chelsea boot out there with a suit but with Carminas, I think it’s possible. I’d probably skip the tie but these are suit worthy. My opinion may be biased because I live in Texas and cowboy boots with a suit is not uncommon.
Nick, those boots are gorgeous and so European! You look great in them! You also look fantastic in a suit. I thought Europe’s sizes were in the 30s and 40s so I am a bit confused.i thought your 10.5 was a UK size and a 40 something would be your European size. Anyway, great boot and great review, thanks.
Ive always wanted chelsea boots but i could never find ones that has that perfect aesthetic besides the YSL Wyatt boots, which retail for $900. Carmina has ones that look as good if not better for $550, and i can customize the colors and leather and last and sole for $200 more. dont mind if i do
I'm US 8.5 on brannock so I bought the UK 7.5 one on Carmina's website. They fit perfectly on my feet but the only downside is they are very hard to take on and off. Never tried another size from Carmina, but also, it's just my first week on them. Do you think they just need to be worn more to break in?
I don't own that brand, but I have similar pair of black chelsea boots, I got from Saks. I like wearing chelsea boots, I usually go a size up, because I have a wide sized foot. Btw, rad boots. This boots goes well with all outfits.
There are 'car shoes' and there are 'street shoes'. Car shoes are beautiful if you are are walking minimally and want the most elegantly styled last. For the rest of us, the Forest last is the most comfortable and the 810 forest Chelsea boot makes the most sense for many (York rubber sole). Nothing wrecks a quality leather sole than winter weather and salt. Thanks for the great review.
Really informative video! I'll be in Minneapolis so rain/snow would be inevitable for all my shoes. Do you think this pair will be able to withstand the weather elements considering it's a leather sole?
Definitely a quality boot at a reasonable price. But calling it the "ultimate" suggests that you've never heard of Edward Green, Gaziano & Girling or St. Crispin's. Which in turn suggests you have no concept of the premium ready-to-wear market.
I’m a big fan of leather soles. They are so comfortable after you’ve worn them for a while. Had a pair of wonderful Loake wingtip boots resoled because I didn’t like their Dainite soles.
You know nothing at Frye has really caught my eye, there's no One Model that people tend to search for. I might have another look but my other Frye video didn't get that many views
@@Stridewise what about the RM Sydney boots..? Splitting hairs between those and the Carminas, pretty much the same price as well. I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger picking between the two, though will probably be the Sydney boots as I'm in Adelaide. Thanks for the videos!
@@Stridewise Also, your video quality is getting insane. I'll miss the old music, but the graphics are great, and I really like the fashion shots, they really help show off your style. Really helps fools like me get inspiration to look presentable.
I'd go with RMs just because I wear more casual clothes and it's a more casual shoe. Carmina for dressier occasions. I mean Carmina can work with jeans but I'd be more comfortable dressing down the RMs
@@Stridewise and I terms of quality of materials and built? In EU they are the exact same price and I can't tell which one is better... (I ended up going for RMs since I wanted to try the brand)
Lol - the narrower they are the dressier they are. Looks like I’m right out of luck. I wear a G width in Loake’s widest brogues and they’re only just wide enough. I guess these nice boots will have to stay on the ‘top shelf’ for me. 🙁
Usually I envied how you can match any kind of clothes with any kind of boots but I don't think this Chelsea boots get along with jeans and tees / henleys. Also, love the new layout Nick. Keep looking fresh.
To the casual observer, these are going to look really similar to RM Williams chelsea's. I don't think it's fair to say that these are hard to pull off casually with jeans, but then say the other is fine for that, since to most people they look like the same shoe
They're definitely sleeker than RMs, but if you read the comments here it's pretty much an even split of people who think you can and can't wear them with jeans haha!
There is a train of thought that black is a formal colour. Therefore, black shoes/boots shouldn't be worn with casual clothes. Although, I don't agree. I think I would wear a boot with a suit if it was rainy outside. Otherwise, I would wear shoes. Although, I don't think it is a big deal.
FEELING THE DIFFERENCE : I bought a pair of Bally shoes once when working in Zurich. THE most comfortable shoes I ever had. They felt like they were custom made for me, and were comfortable and light beyond belief. So if you pay the premium for Carmina, I'm sure you'll feel the quality
I know you have a lot of boots to review waiting in your pipeline but would be great if you look into Benzein Shoes on Instagram. It's an Indonesian boot maker and their chelseas are REALLY cool looking. With the right leather I think they'd be quality.
That's funny they're actually friends of a friend and they want me to do their boots. There's zero search for them though, I don't know if I can spend the time making it when no one will see it
Every other week someone tries to sue me for using my old music even though I bought it from a stock music website very legally, so I'm using a different library haha
Well they are but they're UK sizes, so they're not haha. You usually go a whole size down from your Brannock device. Carmina can help you figure it out. Glad you liked it!
@@Stridewise So apparently they're only sold in Mexico, and the prices on their site is in pesos (1USD = 22.14 Mxn Peso). Also it's all in spanish, but I do really hope you can get your hands on their dress boots/shoes, i have a couple pairs and they're amazing, and they go for about the same cost as Thursday's (lower at times).
That's so hard! You know since this is such a dressy boot but it's limited in it forality by the fact that it's a Chelsea, I'd go with burgundy and wear it to weddings and such :)
@@Stridewise they're too skinny, they throw your proportions off. You probably need them over 3" wide with the width of your shoulders, but the ones in the video look (maybe) just over 1".
It's like a better made RM Williams 🤣. Carmina also made a whole cut Chelsea which is like an RM Williams. It evem has the front and rear pull tabs. With the increase in prices for RMs, Carminas are very competitive.
RM Williams uses single piece of yearling leather. Carmin uses 2, hence stitching in the middle of the boot. Visually and quality wise, single piece is a winner. RM Williams is a Goodyear which is as good as it gets. I used to have 2 pairs of Carmina shoes - great products - but given the price, not so great. I buy them when I am in Spain and there is a sale on, else I pass.
@@Stridewise While this video is about Chelseas compare prices of Carmina vs Alden in oxfords. Carmina is about $100 less. I own both and Carmina is vastly superior. Would love to see you review the Carmina Wholecut Oxford some time. They might be the best looking wholecuts I have ever seen. www.carminashoemaker.com/wholecut-box-calf-black-910
Comfort > durability, most American brands care more about durable/strong shoes and European brands care more about comfort and style which is what I prefer
Handy timestamps:
00:38 Carmina, the brand
02:45 Carmina Chelsea, the aesthetic
05:45 Carmina's box calf leather
07:00 Carmina Chelsea boot sole
08:27 Carmina Chelsea fit & sizing
10:30 Carmina Chelsea price
12:35 Carmine Chelsea boot pros
13:20 Carmina Chelsea boot cons
Man alive!!! You really went into the details
This is the review I’ve been waiting for! These are gorgeous. Both in the gray slacks, and the cuffed jeans, just pure fire. I would mention that this boot is available in wider lasts, so although there is no “wide” option in Simpson last, just get a wider last like Inca or Oscar, which fit my slightly wider foot like a glove. The other thing I would point out is that you can get this boot with a couple of rubber sole options if you want better grip in the city. Great review, thanks!
Edit: you can absolutely wear these with a suit, they are elegant and very dressy according to the rules of fashion (black, sleek shape, and no medallions or broguing). The miracle of Chelsea’s is that they look equally good dressed down.
Lastly, the problem with Carmina is that once you experience them, you never want to go back to cheaper shoes. Especially once you find that perfect last, which for me is the Oscar last. I’m ruined.
Great, glad you liked it! Yeah I should ask Carmina what lasts are good for E width feet.
@@Stridewise I just bought these (Inca last) 🫣 couldn’t resist anymore. This review was really helpful, thank you!
Great review, Nick. I own a couple pairs of Carmina, one being the Chukka Boots, and can definitely say that they are one of the best value for the money out there right now. Yes, a little more on the elegant side, but with these Chelseas, one can also opt for the Rain last, which is a little wider, and choose Suede to make it less formal. Thanks for the 10% off code.
Sorry for the late reply but delighted you enjoyed the video! Hope you made use of that code.
I used to only buy Meermin, I got a pair of Carmina monk straps in Simpson last and am never going back
I bought 2 pairs in Mallorca. Just amazing. Carmina herself was in the store, what fun.
My formal black Chelsea is the RM Macquarie. Slim narrow round toe
I’ve worn my Magnannis with jeans and a black tshirt and got compliments. A black sleek Chelsea boot turns heads. I always get asked about them, but especially my brown ones. I want some brown suede ones for the fall.
I love how everyone is complaining about your outfits, it's almost as enjoyable as the video itself
Yeah once you get as dressy as Carmina, all the formal dress guys start getting mad at you
Please do some more R.M. Williams reviews. You could be the key to their success really off in the states. We need more info on how they are made where they get their leather from and how much is done on house. How their resole service works.
It looks amazing with business casual outfits!
I'm looking to get a good quality chelsea boot that I can wear in winter with jeans or even while shoveling snow, but that I can also take to work in winter. I do see carmina has a couple different lasts and some dainite like soles, do you think it would be too dressy, is there a more casual but high quality chelsea boot you can recommend?
I don't own a black Carmina Chelsea, but I do wear my black Chelseas to work with a suit. I work in Japan and I got complements for the pair. Just for reference.
I live in australia so RM seemed like the reasonable choice but I kept getting put off by everyone having them and their chunky profile. Eventually found carmina and I was in love with the simpson last chelsea. I also have RM's but as a dress chelsea the carmina is in another league.
totally agree- love me RMs, but terrible looking for a suit.
As someone who wears eee width shoes I genuinely wish I could invest in Carmina and other brands like it but they don't have many options that fit. I know the Detroit eee last is in their collection but each time I check they have no shoes in stocm that uses that last. Regardless, thanks for another honest assessment.
We will be more than happy to locate a pair for you to try the last out, you can contact our customer service team for more information.
Nick, thanks for a deep dive review on Carmina! Keep up the good work! 👍🏽
Wow I personally think those boots are a steal for that price. At least I can see that money reflects on the quality unlike my Indy's. So many flaws! I honestly just got them because of Indiana Jones thus kinda like a collector item, but these boots rock. Really like the casual look with the jeans. Pretty RocknRolla. Also after seeing these review I understand why you speak so highly of Thursday's. You get a lot boot for what you pay for. Great review and keep it coming!!
Glad you think so, Tito! I totally get the "I just got Aldens because of Indiana Jones" mentality haha. Delighted you enjoyed the vid!
Thanks. Your videos have been an entirely accessible introduction to quality boots. Thank you again for your very clear delineation of the elements that define good footwear. Also I want these boots! Even though I have no defensible reason to buy them...
Haha yes I get many guys complimenting me and cussing me out for making them spend money! Thanks for the kind words though James.
@@Stridewise I also appreciate your openness and willingness to connect your viewers to other quality footwear enthusiasts. Keep it up!
The boot seems well made. The hidden sole stitching is good. The only thing is missing a thin half rubber sole. The half sole will not make it stiff The price is very reasonable for what you get in return
Some of their boots have a rubber half sole and you can get the sole you want if you order custom.
Very nice indeed!
I think these should stop at business casual, too casual and you should go with something along the lines of the Thursday Duke, the RM looks much more versitile but not as smart as these, but can be pulled off with smart wear.
Good input, Mr Leery!
Great Review, I think I might have to grab a pair 🤔
I really enjoyed this video/review Nick for a number of different reasons. I thought that the video was outstanding, with the various outdoor scenes depicting the streets of New York. Excellent photography or videography or whatever the correct word would be...I agree with you that this Carmina is one classy looking boot! I can’t remember when I’ve seen closed channel stitching on a boot. Perhaps it’s more common than I’m aware of; nonetheless it looks pretty slick. From the video I couldn’t tell if it’s a 270 or 360 degree Goodyear welt. I think the closed channel stitching threw me off a bit. From how you describe the construction of these boots, it’s easy to see how price would inch up above $500.00. The discount code you’ve secured would come in handy for anyone interested in getting a pair of these Carminas’ Anyway, I just wanted to let you know how much I thoroughly enjoyed this video. You cover all the bases, as usual and its just plain fun to watch your production of this fine video. Keep up the good work!...Ed
Thanks! I was planning on getting a pair of MTO "Calways" for a while and am finally ready to pull the trigger with the 10% discount.
Great! Glad I could help. Promos like this rarely work with expensive boots because people know if they want them or not and will pay what they need to, haha.
How do you like them? I got a pair as well, incredible boots. I went with a museum calf lower, brown suede upper
I probably would try Carmina Chelsea with a suit, but not with the RM Williams Chelsea
Yeah if it was one or the other to go with a suit I'd definitely say the same
Thanks for the introduction to a new brand! Looks pretty solid with a suit, probably wouldn’t rock them going super causal though. The nicks boots of luxury 💪
You bet Chris! These are the schmancy boots.
Love the new video layout and graphics. Keep it up my brother 👍
Thanks! Just playing around with new stuff. For a fancy boot, thought I'd try some fancy graphics!
Reminds me a lot of my Alfred Sargent black Chelseas. Very nice shoes
I really dig chelsea boots but I always feel insecure when I'm in them, I kinda feel like wearing a wellington boots lol I really hope they'd grow on me
Haha I'm the same with chukkas, they never seem like a real shoe
What other brands have the same level of quality and craftsmanship regardless the price point?
Nick, the Chelsea boot is sleek, simple, and Classic! They have been around for years. In the 1800s in the US they were called "Congress Gaiters." Any historic photos (available for access on the internet) will show persons such as Mark Twain/Samuel Clemens, wearing this boot. To say they do not go with suits is a biased judgmental bit of "poppycock!" They have always gone with suits.
The R.M. Williams versions, no doubt you are more than familiar with, have similar appeal. I wonder at the price point difference between them. Having wide feet has posed a problem for me previously. Anyway, thank you for this review, and I would urge those with a bias against a pair of Chelsea boots worn with suits to review their historic connection to suits. So there! DJ
i will say this, the 'cons' list seems to be all issues having to do with buying the ready to wear version, which can be remedied with their custom boots (althought that will be a few hundred more, you can pick from many custom options) no other widths, not grippy leather sole, not wholecut, all are addressed in other offereings. they allow you to have any model made in any last, and they have wider lasts. they have a wholecut model for a little more money. they also offer a few rubber/leather soles and a lug rubber sole for those who are really in the ice a lot. there might still be a tiny QC issue
This is how all shoes should be reviewed. We buyers want to know how they look while and after wearing, not only brand new from the box. Great video!!
Thanks man! I probably should have taken photos right after I got them, but oh well!
@@Stridewise @Stridewise Thanks to you! Well, you can always find those photos on the website but, for instance, those images of you flexing the boot stepping on your toes is something I always pay attention closely while trying them at the shop, so it's really valuable to see those in a video.... From my experience, in addition to this Carmina model, I would say that the Crockett & Jones Lingfield are also perfect to wear with a suit.
@@roskes Glad you find the channel useful, roskes!
Please check their shell oxford boot, it looks gorgeous.
Hi Nick. Thanks for the video! I’m in the market for new Chelsea boots and currently looking at both carmina and rm Williams? I’m curious to see what your thoughts are on these two companies. Keep up the great vids.
Thanks man! Carmina's dressier, RMW is more versatile.
It costs more (about $250 more), but you can make a custom fit using the online maker. It allows different lasts and extended widths.
Thanks for the review Nick, you’ve pretty much sold them to me. I am a Chelsea boot man and I think every man should have a black and a brown pair amongst their collection. At present my choice for brown is a pair of RM’s, my black ones are Aquila which are nearing the end of their life. Was going to get another pair until I saw this video. Buying from Australia I’m gonna have to do it online. Would you say sizing is comparable to RM? Also any insights on buying them online? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Hi, mate. Which rm's did you get ? I'm looking forward to getting my own pair. I've checked, here in the uk, these carminas are near enough the same price, would you say rms are of similar quality or are a better buy?
Maqsood hassan I got a pair of the classic craftsman with rubber sole. I would much prefer a leather sole but I wear them onto building sites a fair bit, so figured rubber might be better. Super comfortable boot. I’m not sure how they go against the Carmina, the Carmina looks a smart looking boot and I’m itching for a pair of black ones. Decisions decisions, good luck my friend
Very nice review! Can we use the discount in store?
Nick could you do a video on some casual Chelsea boots, boots to wear more with jeans and casual outfits. Also would you go with these or RM Williams ?
For dressing up, Carmina has RMs beat. For versatility, it's RMs! More casual Chelsea boots are Thursday's Duke, that's the best. I've also done Red Wing's Weekender which is nice and casual
Great review as always from a fellow Nick! I'm hoping you are going to start doing more reviews on leather jackets? I'm looking at the flight jacket from Thursday boots since I've had good experiences in the past and would love some more info on it
I think Thursday is discontinuing the jackets so I didn't really want to do a video on it, even though I wear mine constantly haha. Glad you liked the vid, Nick 2!
Which Chelsea would you recommend between Carmina and R M Williams?
1:52 all dress shoes are goodyear welted or hand welted
I have a pair of Paul Smith falconer Chelsea boot and it's an amazing boot
Oh man I just got my dyson... and you release this video... fantastic video and fantastic boot. I buy boots online with more confidence if you have reviewed it. I’m seriously thinking about the cordovan balmoral boots now. Thank you sir for the great video.
Glad to help! If you do get those boots make sure you do it before the discount code expires haha
Very nice, informative video. Just a small detail: When you wear your dress boots with trousers, you have to shorten them more than usual or else you have an outdated, more than full break in your outfit.
Ah, I have some slim black slacks that cut well above the ankle, sounds like I've found the perfect ensemble for these. Thanks, Nikos!
Question: You stand up from a seated position and the back of your Chelsea is caught in your pant cuff. Ride it out, or bend down and fix it whenever it happens? Let’s say you’re trying to be on the dressier side in this scenario.
Excellent, excellent question. I fix it, and then consider chopping it off, then never do that
Curious what was the other video mentioned that was more like a commercial? Out of the channels I follow , this is the 2nd time Carmina is reviewed. I really appreciate your honest reviews. Big fan of your channel.
Thanks dude! It's the top result for "carmina chelsea boot" right now on TH-cam haha, a lot of commenters found it to be too commercial-y
Where in the tri state area ny nj conn can you find them?
They are sized in UK sizing. With that being said I wear a 10 us. I know a 9uk is equivalent to a 10us but should a size a half size down to a 8.5??
I know it's my hurt but i need to ask this question. Are they better than RM Williams? :)
These are what I call a Chelsea boot . They look great with a suit 👌
Glad you like em Rob!
You can’t wear every Chelsea boot out there with a suit but with Carminas, I think it’s possible. I’d probably skip the tie but these are suit worthy. My opinion may be biased because I live in Texas and cowboy boots with a suit is not uncommon.
I think you're right about skipping the tie! I never wear one so it didn't occur to me haha, but that's a great point.
Nick, those boots are gorgeous and so European! You look great in them! You also look fantastic in a suit. I thought Europe’s sizes were in the 30s and 40s so I am a bit confused.i thought your 10.5 was a UK size and a 40 something would be your European size. Anyway, great boot and great review, thanks.
... oh yeah. You're right. It's British sizing, not European. God damn it!!! Well thanks for saying I look nice in a suit anyway, Joe!
Ive always wanted chelsea boots but i could never find ones that has that perfect aesthetic besides the YSL Wyatt boots, which retail for $900. Carmina has ones that look as good if not better for $550, and i can customize the colors and leather and last and sole for $200 more. dont mind if i do
Nice review! Mate have you seen the Grant Stone Edward Honey Glazed Boots? Those are sickk, but bloody expensive! Also no shipping to Australia
I'm US 8.5 on brannock so I bought the UK 7.5 one on Carmina's website. They fit perfectly on my feet but the only downside is they are very hard to take on and off. Never tried another size from Carmina, but also, it's just my first week on them. Do you think they just need to be worn more to break in?
I don't own that brand, but I have similar pair of black chelsea boots, I got from Saks. I like wearing chelsea boots, I usually go a size up, because I have a wide sized foot. Btw, rad boots. This boots goes well with all outfits.
There are 'car shoes' and there are 'street shoes'. Car shoes are beautiful if you are are walking minimally and want the most elegantly styled last. For the rest of us, the Forest last is the most comfortable and the 810 forest Chelsea boot makes the most sense for many (York rubber sole). Nothing wrecks a quality leather sole than winter weather and salt. Thanks for the great review.
Does Carmina offer these in black calf hatchgrain?
Really informative video! I'll be in Minneapolis so rain/snow would be inevitable for all my shoes. Do you think this pair will be able to withstand the weather elements considering it's a leather sole?
Glad you liked it Joshua! The grip won't be amazing, to be honest :/
@@Stridewise Alright, good to know! I might have to invest in a pair to see how it'll do then haha! Keep up the good work, I subbed for more!!
Maybe with a good pair of black jeans....maybe
You rock them with the business and business causal outfit, however, not too sure if they work with the casual one 😅nevertheless nice looking shoes
It's funny, opinions really are split like 50/50 on the casual outfit Mujtaba haha
Pulled the trigger after watching your review and using your promo code
Thank you
Awesome! So glad to hear it, good luck man.
Definitely a quality boot at a reasonable price. But calling it the "ultimate" suggests that you've never heard of Edward Green, Gaziano & Girling or St. Crispin's. Which in turn suggests you have no concept of the premium ready-to-wear market.
wow harsh
no Carmina stores in Australia :(
Tons of European dress boots are goodyear welted...
If you wanna expand beyond boots then take a look at TLB Mallorca. They look amazing from reviews.
Thanks Freddy! I think I need to keep the channel mostly casual, at least for now.
TLB is great quality but they dont have large/wide sizes like Carmina does
I’m a big fan of leather soles. They are so comfortable after you’ve worn them for a while. Had a pair of wonderful Loake wingtip boots resoled because I didn’t like their Dainite soles.
Yeah leather soles can be great, depending on what you've got 'em for
@@Stridewise I assume they don’t last as long as rubber soles?
May I suggest reviewing another pair of Frye boots?
You know nothing at Frye has really caught my eye, there's no One Model that people tend to search for. I might have another look but my other Frye video didn't get that many views
Gorgeous boots. Still would rather kick around in my RM Williams, but man, these are tempting.
Yeah these are dressier than RMs, but less versatile
@@Stridewise Yep, just like you said. For the guy that likes to dress sharp. And nothing wrong with that. Great video, Nick, as always.
@@Stridewise what about the RM Sydney boots..?
Splitting hairs between those and the Carminas, pretty much the same price as well.
I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger picking between the two, though will probably be the Sydney boots as I'm in Adelaide.
Thanks for the videos!
@@Stridewise Also, your video quality is getting insane. I'll miss the old music, but the graphics are great, and I really like the fashion shots, they really help show off your style. Really helps fools like me get inspiration to look presentable.
Please review archibald London handwelted shoes/boots next Nick!! Really wanna know what you think:)
I would definitely wear these with a suit and tie, and with jeans.
Nice
Hey man, would you go for Carmina or RM Williams for a black Chelsea boot?
I'd go with RMs just because I wear more casual clothes and it's a more casual shoe. Carmina for dressier occasions. I mean Carmina can work with jeans but I'd be more comfortable dressing down the RMs
@@Stridewise and I terms of quality of materials and built? In EU they are the exact same price and I can't tell which one is better... (I ended up going for RMs since I wanted to try the brand)
Do Carmina make any boots/shoes in a UK G/Wide fit?
Lol - the narrower they are the dressier they are. Looks like I’m right out of luck. I wear a G width in Loake’s widest brogues and they’re only just wide enough. I guess these nice boots will have to stay on the ‘top shelf’ for me. 🙁
You must be able to lift barbells like a mother though!
Stridewise no, I have wide feet.
Digging the new intro music bro 👌 😎
Good to hear! Just playing around with different styles
Do you know how the sizing compares to the RMs in width /last
Usually I envied how you can match any kind of clothes with any kind of boots but I don't think this Chelsea boots get along with jeans and tees / henleys. Also, love the new layout Nick. Keep looking fresh.
Thanks Alvin! Yeah I just wore them with jeans/henley to see what commenters thought, I was undecided myself haha. Thanks for the input
Look really good with the suit.
Thanks man
Sick boots bro, Is the black henley from Buck Mason?
It is! Good eye. It's stretched a lot because I wear it so much haha
I’m looking for a pair of chukka better than Clark’s desert boots. Anything to recommend? Is Thursday still the best deal?
Yes, they're the best deal.
What kind of watch are you wearing in this video? Thanks!
To the casual observer, these are going to look really similar to RM Williams chelsea's. I don't think it's fair to say that these are hard to pull off casually with jeans, but then say the other is fine for that, since to most people they look like the same shoe
They're definitely sleeker than RMs, but if you read the comments here it's pretty much an even split of people who think you can and can't wear them with jeans haha!
There is a train of thought that black is a formal colour.
Therefore, black shoes/boots shouldn't be worn with casual clothes.
Although, I don't agree.
I think I would wear a boot with a suit if it was rainy outside.
Otherwise, I would wear shoes.
Although, I don't think it is a big deal.
FEELING THE DIFFERENCE : I bought a pair of Bally shoes once when working in Zurich. THE most comfortable shoes I ever had. They felt like they were custom made for me, and were comfortable and light beyond belief. So if you pay the premium for Carmina, I'm sure you'll feel the quality
I know you have a lot of boots to review waiting in your pipeline but would be great if you look into Benzein Shoes on Instagram. It's an Indonesian boot maker and their chelseas are REALLY cool looking. With the right leather I think they'd be quality.
That's funny they're actually friends of a friend and they want me to do their boots. There's zero search for them though, I don't know if I can spend the time making it when no one will see it
@@Stridewise yeah that makes sense. Love the vids btw!
Benzein shoes look legit, would also like to see a review on them. I read a review from thedenimdentist it was pretty solid
Do these still make it in your rotation? I've been eyeing the museum brown version for over a year now
Any time I wear a suit, pretty much. That's just very rare!
HEY.....where’s the old music???
Every other week someone tries to sue me for using my old music even though I bought it from a stock music website very legally, so I'm using a different library haha
Good call man, I love the intros from Nick👌
Impressive Review, Is Carmina True to size?
Well they are but they're UK sizes, so they're not haha. You usually go a whole size down from your Brannock device. Carmina can help you figure it out. Glad you liked it!
You should do a review on Cuadra boots or shoe! It's a Mexican brand that, imo, has a pretty good price to quality ratio.
I'll check it out!
@@Stridewise So apparently they're only sold in Mexico, and the prices on their site is in pesos (1USD = 22.14 Mxn Peso). Also it's all in spanish, but I do really hope you can get your hands on their dress boots/shoes, i have a couple pairs and they're amazing, and they go for about the same cost as Thursday's (lower at times).
If you had to get another pair would you choose brown, museum, or burgundy? Yes
That's so hard! You know since this is such a dressy boot but it's limited in it forality by the fact that it's a Chelsea, I'd go with burgundy and wear it to weddings and such :)
My man, what's with the lapels on that suit jacket? No shade - it's just accentuated next to those beautiful boots!
what's wrong with the lapels now? i don't know much about suits
@@Stridewise they're too skinny, they throw your proportions off. You probably need them over 3" wide with the width of your shoulders, but the ones in the video look (maybe) just over 1".
@@InformationRequired Huh. I just had that suit made in a little town in South Vietnam haha I just let her do her thing! Good pointers, John.
It's like a better made RM Williams 🤣. Carmina also made a whole cut Chelsea which is like an RM Williams. It evem has the front and rear pull tabs.
With the increase in prices for RMs, Carminas are very competitive.
RM Williams uses single piece of yearling leather. Carmin uses 2, hence stitching in the middle of the boot. Visually and quality wise, single piece is a winner. RM Williams is a Goodyear which is as good as it gets. I used to have 2 pairs of Carmina shoes - great products - but given the price, not so great. I buy them when I am in Spain and there is a sale on, else I pass.
@@noyb-yb they have a pair of single piece Chelsea boot as well
Dollar for dollar Carmina is the best value in the shoe game
I wasn't sure if anyone would agree with me that they're good value! Thanks for chiming in.
@@Stridewise While this video is about Chelseas compare prices of Carmina vs Alden in oxfords. Carmina is about $100 less. I own both and Carmina is vastly superior. Would love to see you review the Carmina Wholecut Oxford some time. They might be the best looking wholecuts I have ever seen. www.carminashoemaker.com/wholecut-box-calf-black-910
Stridewise ...I tend to agree with Mr. Smirk, based on what I’ve learned watching this review.
Can you compare this one to the one from redwings.
They're the most dissimilar chelsea boots on Earth haha. These are much dressier, much more precisely made, much slimmer, much less outdoorsy
Stridewise I think we are not speaking about the same product. RED WING 9438 WILLISTON CHELSEA
I don’t need dress boots or particularly like them but good review nonetheless.
Same. I still have curiosity about things I'm not all that interested in, and Nick does solid reviews.
Thanks man. I don't do many on this channel but Carmina's something special.
Super slick!!!!
Boots smooth like butter
Boots are extremely light 👍
carmina vs Rm?
Comfort is ALWAYS a priority... especially when you spend $500+ dollars.
Comfort > durability, most American brands care more about durable/strong shoes and European brands care more about comfort and style which is what I prefer
Hay más baratas y ,muy buenas las duke
I was planning to order in 10th of September but the discount code will be over...you couldn't extend it a little more !!!!
They actually e-mailed to say they liked the video so they'll leave it up for 6 months? So try it in September I think it'll still work
@@Stridewise You're amazing man ...god bless you 🙏 ❤