@@Charlie_vz What s up with this guy? First raving on about how terrible boat shoes are in the comment section of the last video and now this. It's both funny and sad...
I love the conversational style of this video. The more I hear you talk WITH each other, the more admiration I have for you both. You both seem even more gentlemanly and respectful.
Meermin is without a doubt the best brand for under the under $300 price range. I hope you can do a review of the higher-end shoes, especially the $400-800 range and the $800-2000 range.
I like the format, could try putting a table in the middle so you can display the items. Having a conversation about it is better than just one person explaining, a lot of menswear videos look like sales pitches
I like the format of this video. Raphael’s tone seemed calm and relaxed which differs from when he’s talking specifically to viewers. Keep mixing it up. 👍🏾
My go to for dress shoes under $300 is to wait on a sale for Allen Edmonds seconds. Both of the seconds pairs I own have minimal imperfections that are hard to notice unless you really look for them. This allows me to get American craftsmanship for a much lower price.
Sigh ten years ago Allen Edmonds was a great choice, but I think the materials and build deteriorated heavily as they diluted their brand. They were under private equity control during 2013-2016. I got some brown Allen Edmonds oxfords right at the start of those private equity years (presumably pre-2013 production). They saw me through the high-sidewalk-mileage phases of my career. While heavily cracked and with significant wear on their second pair of soles, they are comfy and handsomely patinated. I got some black ones to match several years later. Same last, same size, but they somehow just will not break in the same way. They fit but are not comfortable. I don't understand the materials deeply, but the impression in their look, feel, and wear pattern is "plasticky" vs "leathery." Despite not a huge number of miles - I only wore them through a couple years of public transit commutes - they need new soles, which delaminated at the toe. Every other leather sole I've had to replace wore through at the ball of the foot as its failure mode. I am in the process of getting a (very) not so affordable pair of shoes, a bespoke pair from Perry Ercolino that will take the place of those brown AEs. In our kickoff appointment, Perry was able to accurately date the brown AEs to the pre-private-equity era. I asked him about off-the-shelf brands. He said, "Allen Edmonds used to be a solid choice, but these days I wouldn't bother." I actually asked him what he'd recommend in the $300-400 range. He suggested to keep saving until you have ~$700 and get Crockett and Jones.
Good video. As someone from England, with an English taste in shoes, I invariably buy either Loake or Barkers shoes, both offer good quality at at perfectly reasonable prices. My go-to choice for a business shoe is the "Arnold" Black Hi-Shine Men's Oxford Shoe from Barkers (£200, or $250). This is available (importantly for me) in different widths. Handy Tip: for daily office-use, buy several pairs, and use them in rotation so they stay fresh.
Fully agree with that comment. Loake, and Barkers have been my go to shoes for almost 20 years and are easily available from stores as well as on-line. They age well and the quality control is excellent.
I really quite like this new format! The old one definitely works too, but especially for longer videos I would prefer the laidback feel of the new format. For long videos, I would even do away with the background music to give it a more podcast-like feel. Great video as always!
As always you didn't fell short on anything in this episode. Even the chapters per brand (down at the player buttons) is useful for reference. For me, I finally went out to get Ace Marks. I ordered two pairs of them, from which one pairs already arrived. I never spent so much money on shoes, but it is definitely worth it. There has been no shoe in my whole life that fitted perfectly like these. In other words I have been walking on terrible shoes all my life. But my life is not over yet.... The best is yet to come!
Much better than "Honey, my new 350$ shoes broke, turns out they're poop" or, the classic, "Honey, my cheap shoes just peeled. Never noticed they weren't leather, it was like paint or something".
I can't believe I watched the whole video! I usually stick to a half hour or less, but their conversation in details a comfort of the shoe made 80 minutes go like 20 minutes. I hate clothes or shoe shopping with a passion. Now that I know what to look for I think I might enjoy shopping, a little. Great video and thanks.
I am happy with my becket Simonin cap toes, did not have color issues and even though I own better shoes I enjoy wearing them. Great value in my opinion. Great format! Would love to see $500-$700 shoe discussion in this dialog format. Thank you
When millions of people have lost their jobs the Gentleman's Gazette releases video after video on how to shop quality on a budget. Man, you could be a textbook case for corporate social responsibility! Keep it up!
@@Clickerbarmicker I dont really get that vibe. This is a good video if u want general information about relatively inexpensive shoes (at least as far as quality dress shoes are concerned). Being interested in leather footwear isn't snobby just like being interested in any other hobby isnt snobby. Some people want good quality shoes for work. Other people just like a certain style. Plus not everyone has lost their jobs. Im not quite sure where you get the snobby vibe. Maybe I'm missing something
I wonder how my shoe maker would rank with you guys. The shoe maker is "Sapatero Manila". Their made to order starts at around the equivalent of 300 USD. They do have RTW at around 200 USD but they're primarily a MTO and bespoke shoe maker so there's little variety with the RTW.
@Sunday Drive Yeah, even I didn't want to jump directly to bespoke when I ordered a pair. Those start at the equivalent of 500USD. I did find them because I was looking for mismatched sizes as my left foot is larger courtesy of an accident. The result is I got made to order as I didn't want to commit to bespoke before I knew how their shoes will wear over time. I love the look of the shoes but I haven't had them long enough to know how durable they are nor am I knowledgeable enough to judge the quality of leather.
I like both the conversation and the more formal presentations. The former is especially good in these strange days when many of us have a lot more time on our hands. Keep up the good work, men!
This was a really great video, very helpful and I liked the format as well - occasional longer videos is a welcome change, even though I appreciate your shorter videos as well. Stylish, elegant, with a great finish - I give this video 5 stars!
I found this really informative. I've really struggled with good formal wear and felt like I had to flee it at a young age, having bought suits in the as a teenager 90s.
So informative, I have watched it twice, taking notes on the second pass. This is the best channel on menswear, by far. Real Men takes second, but follows closely. I like the conversational presentation style, especially with of the number of cutaways. Those short clips really make the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. Thank you, gentlemen.
I just wanted to say thanks guys. I enjoyed the casual style of your review. It's given me a couple of exciting new leads for where to source some nice attire. I always enjoy absorbing your style advice.
This was a great show. I noticed that both of the presenters relaxed towards the end of the show and it was the best that I have seen both of them while presenting.
Thank you gentlemen for this video. I was considering the Becket Simenon shoes but now I'm not so sure. I really enjoy your channel please keep up the good work.
I really like this video format for you guys. I put this on while I was folding and ironing some clothes and ended up just sitting down and watching haha. I'd like to see you guys do this again with some watches if you haven't done it already. Thanks for everything!
Hi guys, thank you for this new format which I think is fantastic and I found it far easier to follow it and take it all in, I appreciate all the hard work and long hours you must have put into this video ... regards from UK
I wish your reviews on the shoes would comment on if widths are available. This is a major issue for some of us (which has led me to be a heavy Allen Edmonds wearer... but I would love to see some options).
Really enjoyed this video! $200 is most I think anyone should spend on dress shoes if they live out in a rural area like I do. Based off my experience, I think the best dress shoes around the $200 range is no doubt Beckett Simonon!
Really love this conversation style video. The regular count down style presentation, in contrast, feels too prepared and generally feels like someone's trying to sell me something. Would love to see the same across different price ranges.
Wow, glad I didn't watch this video before I ordered some Beckett Siminon or I would have taken a hard pass with the issues you both had. It did take 3 months to receive and they were too big, took another month to get the second pair. Overall they look near perfect, symmetrical and all leathers match. My only small complaint is one shoe gets a little more creasing while the other has almost none so it is noticeable.
love this video! would love to see more brands like santoni, carlos santos, herring, trickers, and Church's cheaneys. Great work as always my friend! best, John
Herring and Cheaney's are certainly solid choices for the sub-$300 price range and slightly higher. Carlos and Trickers are more expensive. And Santoni even more so.
Super helpful video and very well produced! Especially that you don't judge a brand on a single pair alone really provided insights others channels don't usually do. More of the same please 👍
There's a brand from right here in Canada I've been dying to see a video on. They're called Hartt, priced around $300 CAD (so like $10 USD). Would be really cool to see you guys review Canadian brands like them, Spier and Mackay, and SixSox.
I am so glad Preston mentioned the higher cut around the heel. I too, am slim. My ankles used to get so sore they would bleed. I never thought about it, just bought lower cut heels in shoes. Also, my fathers name is Preston and he was always dressed dapper. I am also a woman who appreciates a well dressed man.
Thats was really an awesome, comfortable video, very informative on how you actually judged the shoes! Also your conversations is exceptionally smooth and very nice to watch, I love it!
Been very impressed with the one pair of Meermin boots I have. My Thursday Boots and Beckett Simonon purchases have been disappointing however. Would love to see you examine Cobbler Union sometime.
Such a good video, very happy to see such a thorough review. I have to say I only own pairs from a Meermin and Acemarks, but I've been looking at a few of these brands for a while (looking for a blake constructed shoe). I have to say the ratings you both gave seem pretty consistent with what I've seen and read about these brands. I have both Meermin Linea Maestro and the Classic Collection. I would say there is a drop in quality in the details (usually small defects like seeing where the welt stopped, or a scuff that can usually be taken care of with some polish). With that said they are near unrivaled at this price point - though that might change with Justin Fitzpatrick's JF Line. I'd also agree about Acemarks, I think they are a much better value if they can be found at a lower price. Scarosso seems like perhaps the best maker of blake stitched loafers at this price point. Thank you so much for doing this review.
I have a pair Loake chukka boots and I love those! The construction and design is a very well done and I can recommend this brand for this budget. My only complain is that I can't drive confortably with those boots tied. The lining rubs against my leg and it can hurt a lot after a while. I just untie them while driving and thats it! My next step maybe into Velasca. Both Loake and Velasca have great instagram pages that makes me think of passionate shoe makers.
Before I saw your channel I only used the military issued dress shoes for almost all occasions with different suits yes that also included the infamous the *"Four- in- hand"* knot
My florsheims hold up pretty well. Although, i no longer wear them for business since i left the retail sales industry. I only wear them for certain events when it's required. I guess it depends on usage and what you are comparing them to.
Extremely helpful video. You’ve really got me excited about Meerman and Carmina. I’m looking for a new pair of dark brown suede loafers and the hand welted shoes in this video from Meerman look really impressive.
Years ago I owned a pair of Dexter black Oxford shoes. American and well made. Extremely comfortable and had good weight on my feet. They are no longer in existence. I owned them for 30 years and had them resoled twice in all that time. Eventually wore them out wearing them in rotation two to three days of the week. I haven’t found anything comparable in quality or comfort since.
Hey for affordable shoes, I don't care what the shoe snobs say, but Stacy Adams can be had brand new for less than $100, and despite the sole wearing through in about 6months, my Cap Toe Burgundy Monk Strap Stacy Adams (I believe the "Desmond?") Are still the most comfortable "dress shoes" I've ever had. * Currently wearing a burgundy and black wingtip lace up that are nearly just as comfortable. (My feet swell & I'm on my feet 12+hrs. Fay
I wear a 13 eee, which is unavailable in most of the brands evaluated. Allen Edmonds had a big online sale a few weeks ago. I ordered a pair of walnut Madison Park wingtips in my size. They were originally $425: I paid only $120 with shipping, and they're first quality!
I think it’s also great to have the opinion of a Man born in the United States as compared with a man born in Europe discussing these shoes. I realize most of the good shoes are from Europe anyway but I think there’s a number of different subjects of men’s styles that hearing about the difference between the two continents and styles is beneficial. Given the fact that there are different styles in Europe between Italian and French and English of course.
Very helpful video as I look to purchase a few other pairs of Dress Shoes under $200 in the future thanks again! Are Blake Mckay good quality? They're shoes are around $100-$150 at best. Or maybe I can save up a bit and get a couple pairs that are even better? Excellent content as always!
Thank you, gentlemen, for your honesty, and showing such a grand world of shoes from so many places. I found my favourite pair of boots in Canada, and shoes in England. Look forward to more of these types of series, as my lads shall be looking for updates. All the best.
Agreed! Next time it might be wiser to send ill-fitting pairs back to get the fit right in the first place, THEN do the testing and tell us about fitting idiosyncrasies of brand xy in general. Preston's feet certainly demand a bit of fine tuning in that respect, as he stated earlier on.
I loved how went in detail about each brands. Maybe for your next video maybe talk about different white shirts. Since there many shirt manufacturers but I don't know who has a best white shirt. Since I love a slim-skinny fit many companies I bought from are way too boxy for my body.
I love the burnt honey Becks. That patina doesn't bother me. Possibly, if I were fine tooth combing them, sure, but as a shoe to the floor, looks great.
You should’ve made this during the weekend, you could’ve recommended that everybody go buy some quality Allen Edmonds that are usually $400+ for $100-200. I personally got some mocha short wings during the sale.
Florsheim is low quality? Dang... I'm poor. I swear by mine, but I have a list of fitment complications (tall arches, wider feet, plantar fasciitis prone...) so they work wonders for me. And my oxfords were $130... My everything shoes. Would love to see a review that accommodates people in my position, as most dress shoes are very painful to wear or attempt to put on.
Yes. Like the format of the video. Please do more like this. Would like to see the $300 to say $800 review. Then do a price is no concern for shoes above $800. I think some people won't like the above $800 because the shoes will not be in the vast majority of peoples price range and the present economical. But I would like to see what big money can buy. Besides, I watch videos about Lamborghini and Rolls Royce cars that I can't afford. Keep up the good work.
@@gentlemansgazette I see, they have sales every season going well below that price so I never considered them a 300+ brand, but I can see how it gets complicated.
Look, I am a huge Allen Edmonds fan, I also own a few Edward Green’s. I do have to disagree with the assertion that Florsheim shoes were too low in quality to be included. “That’s crazy talk good sir!” No in all seriousness, they’re a fine shoe for the money. I own five pair and wouldn’t hesitate to purchase a sixth.
I've been curious about the current Florsheim Imperial line-up. They look to be pretty well made for just over $200, but everyone seems to immediately dismiss the brand.
I’d rather get slightly used Allen Edmonds. Just bought Park Avenues in Merlot worn 3 times to church by a 92 year old fellow for $70 dollars. They were asking $125 by the way. They are in wonderful condition.
I‘ve missed that video so far! This format is amazing, reminding me when I and my best friend discuss about some new vintage/classic menstyle stuff we’ve just bought. I’m totally agree with your shoes choices for this video as for the comments on these. Please, go further with this kind of format. Good job guys. Sir Thomas Wilmington.
That is if the gentleman has a wife or girl friend- could come up with a women's shoe sequel and l am not talking of the horrible disfiguring stilettos, Louboutin, Jimmy choos - but sensible go to shoes, good lined winter boots for Canadian winters?
. For the well-dressed man. Love the channel guys! I love the Black, Burgandy and Brown cap toe and wing tip shoes! I enjoy wearing my pair of black and brown monk strap shoes too! Plus please yes more of this conversational format. Thanks! 😊
Sir: I listened to your video & your rating of Meermin. I viewed their website & found the nicest pair of loafers for under $150! No wonder you said in another video that Gucci loafers are not worth the money! I believe that I’ve bought a higher quality loafer than the Bass Weejuns that I currently own & I will have an even more distinguished look.
If you where to continue this format or style I think try a background like a den, or wine club, or cigar lounge setting, just saying. I’d love that personally
I'm tired of seeing certain TH-camrs swear by some of these brands and dismiss others. Finally some honest and impartial reviews of budget shoe brands
@@Clickerbarmicker Ok Mr. Dingleberry
@@Charlie_vz What s up with this guy? First raving on about how terrible boat shoes are in the comment section of the last video and now this. It's both funny and sad...
@@krunoslavkovacec1842 And here you are again, how funny!
Love to see you commenting on exactly the same videos I enjoy watching, cheers✌️
@@dawolki Salute David. 👊
Cough Thursdays cough
That's an hour that just slipped by - this is the sort of information I like: in depth, unbiased, and actually useful.
I love the conversational style of this video. The more I hear you talk WITH each other, the more admiration I have for you both. You both seem even more gentlemanly and respectful.
Meermin is without a doubt the best brand for under the under $300 price range. I hope you can do a review of the higher-end shoes, especially the $400-800 range and the $800-2000 range.
I like the format, could try putting a table in the middle so you can display the items. Having a conversation about it is better than just one person explaining, a lot of menswear videos look like sales pitches
you watch alpha M. i can tell
A extremely wonderful format and a good subject matter. Helps the watcher or viewer to see how personal and informative. I appreciate this.
I like the format of this video. Raphael’s tone seemed calm and relaxed which differs from when he’s talking specifically to viewers. Keep mixing it up. 👍🏾
Those chairs look amazing, I really liked the new format, besides we can see almost the entire outfits the whole time. Great as always!
My go to for dress shoes under $300 is to wait on a sale for Allen Edmonds seconds. Both of the seconds pairs I own have minimal imperfections that are hard to notice unless you really look for them. This allows me to get American craftsmanship for a much lower price.
Sigh ten years ago Allen Edmonds was a great choice, but I think the materials and build deteriorated heavily as they diluted their brand. They were under private equity control during 2013-2016.
I got some brown Allen Edmonds oxfords right at the start of those private equity years (presumably pre-2013 production). They saw me through the high-sidewalk-mileage phases of my career. While heavily cracked and with significant wear on their second pair of soles, they are comfy and handsomely patinated. I got some black ones to match several years later. Same last, same size, but they somehow just will not break in the same way. They fit but are not comfortable. I don't understand the materials deeply, but the impression in their look, feel, and wear pattern is "plasticky" vs "leathery." Despite not a huge number of miles - I only wore them through a couple years of public transit commutes - they need new soles, which delaminated at the toe. Every other leather sole I've had to replace wore through at the ball of the foot as its failure mode.
I am in the process of getting a (very) not so affordable pair of shoes, a bespoke pair from Perry Ercolino that will take the place of those brown AEs. In our kickoff appointment, Perry was able to accurately date the brown AEs to the pre-private-equity era. I asked him about off-the-shelf brands. He said, "Allen Edmonds used to be a solid choice, but these days I wouldn't bother." I actually asked him what he'd recommend in the $300-400 range. He suggested to keep saving until you have ~$700 and get Crockett and Jones.
Me too. I love Allen Edmunds
I think that the quality is still quite good. They work well and will last for years with good care.
Same. I don't need to wear suit for my job and I don't really care enough to spend more on dress shoes I only wear a few times a year.
@@jamesperry4470 i wear dress shoes once per week.
13:45 Raphael's response to trendy shoes is exactly the kind of thing that we come to the channel for.
I really like the walking shots of the shoes. The natural sunlight looks great!
Good video.
As someone from England, with an English taste in shoes, I invariably buy either Loake or Barkers shoes, both offer good quality at at perfectly reasonable prices.
My go-to choice for a business shoe is the "Arnold" Black Hi-Shine Men's Oxford Shoe from Barkers (£200, or $250). This is available (importantly for me) in different widths.
Handy Tip: for daily office-use, buy several pairs, and use them in rotation so they stay fresh.
Yes! Loake make excellent shoes. I have 3 pairs for normal wear, aswell as a pair of their driving shoes. They age very well.
Fully agree with that comment. Loake, and Barkers have been my go to shoes for almost 20 years and are easily available from stores as well as on-line. They age well and the quality control is excellent.
I really quite like this new format! The old one definitely works too, but especially for longer videos I would prefer the laidback feel of the new format.
For long videos, I would even do away with the background music to give it a more podcast-like feel.
Great video as always!
As always you didn't fell short on anything in this episode. Even the chapters per brand (down at the player buttons) is useful for reference.
For me, I finally went out to get Ace Marks. I ordered two pairs of them, from which one pairs already arrived. I never spent so much money on shoes, but it is definitely worth it. There has been no shoe in my whole life that fitted perfectly like these.
In other words I have been walking on terrible shoes all my life. But my life is not over yet.... The best is yet to come!
My wife: What are you doing?
Me: Just watching some other men try on shoes.
You'll be explaining that at a dinner party some day.
Awesomeness
Confessions priests wished they heard.
Much better than "Honey, my new 350$ shoes broke, turns out they're poop" or, the classic, "Honey, my cheap shoes just peeled. Never noticed they weren't leather, it was like paint or something".
😄😄😄
I can't believe I watched the whole video! I usually stick to a half hour or less, but their conversation in details a comfort of the shoe made 80 minutes go like 20 minutes. I hate clothes or shoe shopping with a passion. Now that I know what to look for I think I might enjoy shopping, a little. Great video and thanks.
Love the format. I really like in depth comparison videos especially in price categories.
Can't wait for the $300+ video!
I am happy with my becket Simonin cap toes, did not have color issues and even though I own better shoes I enjoy wearing them. Great value in my opinion. Great format! Would love to see $500-$700 shoe discussion in this dialog format. Thank you
When millions of people have lost their jobs the Gentleman's Gazette releases video after video on how to shop quality on a budget.
Man, you could be a textbook case for corporate social responsibility! Keep it up!
@@Clickerbarmicker I dont really get that vibe. This is a good video if u want general information about relatively inexpensive shoes (at least as far as quality dress shoes are concerned). Being interested in leather footwear isn't snobby just like being interested in any other hobby isnt snobby. Some people want good quality shoes for work. Other people just like a certain style. Plus not everyone has lost their jobs. Im not quite sure where you get the snobby vibe. Maybe I'm missing something
@@Clickerbarmicker Wait...what?! Where did you read this?
Put on your mask and hide in your basement is my recommendation.
How are you here ?? I thought i left your body dissolving in a bathtub in Hells kitchen
I wonder how my shoe maker would rank with you guys. The shoe maker is "Sapatero Manila". Their made to order starts at around the equivalent of 300 USD. They do have RTW at around 200 USD but they're primarily a MTO and bespoke shoe maker so there's little variety with the RTW.
@Sunday Drive Yeah, even I didn't want to jump directly to bespoke when I ordered a pair. Those start at the equivalent of 500USD. I did find them because I was looking for mismatched sizes as my left foot is larger courtesy of an accident. The result is I got made to order as I didn't want to commit to bespoke before I knew how their shoes will wear over time. I love the look of the shoes but I haven't had them long enough to know how durable they are nor am I knowledgeable enough to judge the quality of leather.
I like both the conversation and the more formal presentations. The former is especially good in these strange days when many of us have a lot more time on our hands. Keep up the good work, men!
This was a really great video, very helpful and I liked the format as well - occasional longer videos is a welcome change, even though I appreciate your shorter videos as well. Stylish, elegant, with a great finish - I give this video 5 stars!
Over an hour of GG goodness?!?! What a good day!!
Over an hour of GG goodness?!?! What a good day!!
0
I found this really informative. I've really struggled with good formal wear and felt like I had to flee it at a young age, having bought suits in the as a teenager 90s.
Actually, I'm really enjoying the new format, it provides enough time to go through all the essentials and include all the pertinent details.
So informative, I have watched it twice, taking notes on the second pass. This is the best channel on menswear, by far. Real Men takes second, but follows closely. I like the conversational presentation style, especially with of the number of cutaways. Those short clips really make the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. Thank you, gentlemen.
Love the conversational style please do more!
I just wanted to say thanks guys. I enjoyed the casual style of your review. It's given me a couple of exciting new leads for where to source some nice attire. I always enjoy absorbing your style advice.
This was a great show. I noticed that both of the presenters relaxed towards the end of the show and it was the best that I have seen both of them while presenting.
Thank you gentlemen for this video. I was considering the Becket Simenon shoes but now I'm not so sure. I really enjoy your channel please keep up the good work.
This channel is my go-to place of reference for sartorial topics, and has been for many years. Thanks again for your great work!
I really like this video format for you guys. I put this on while I was folding and ironing some clothes and ended up just sitting down and watching haha. I'd like to see you guys do this again with some watches if you haven't done it already. Thanks for everything!
Hi guys, thank you for this new format which I think is fantastic and I found it far easier to follow it and take it all in, I appreciate all the hard work and long hours you must have put into this video ... regards from UK
I wish your reviews on the shoes would comment on if widths are available. This is a major issue for some of us (which has led me to be a heavy Allen Edmonds wearer... but I would love to see some options).
Really enjoyed this video! $200 is most I think anyone should spend on dress shoes if they live out in a rural area like I do. Based off my experience, I think the best dress shoes around the $200 range is no doubt Beckett Simonon!
Glad you made another video in this conversational format. My favourite so far!
Really love this conversation style video. The regular count down style presentation, in contrast, feels too prepared and generally feels like someone's trying to sell me something. Would love to see the same across different price ranges.
In store (at Loake) we tend to tell people to try one size DOWN, not up. Loake shoes occasionally size big.
I like your new review series. Very well-done. And the conversational format it good.
Wow, glad I didn't watch this video before I ordered some Beckett Siminon or I would have taken a hard pass with the issues you both had. It did take 3 months to receive and they were too big, took another month to get the second pair. Overall they look near perfect, symmetrical and all leathers match. My only small complaint is one shoe gets a little more creasing while the other has almost none so it is noticeable.
So hard to find a nice pair of oxblood shoes that are not just cheap Chinese shoes with get photoshopped pics. Def getting those. Great job guys!
Do these for suits, shirts and so on. Would like to see that.
love this video! would love to see more brands like santoni, carlos santos, herring, trickers, and Church's cheaneys. Great work as always my friend!
best,
John
Yes, we can see us doing that with more brands under $300 and over in the future if there is enough demand
Gentleman's Gazette hi I’m a big fan good content
Herring and Cheaney's are certainly solid choices for the sub-$300 price range and slightly higher. Carlos and Trickers are more expensive. And Santoni even more so.
Thank you for this video. I like this format a lot.
Super helpful video and very well produced! Especially that you don't judge a brand on a single pair alone really provided insights others channels don't usually do. More of the same please 👍
There's a brand from right here in Canada I've been dying to see a video on. They're called Hartt, priced around $300 CAD (so like $10 USD). Would be really cool to see you guys review Canadian brands like them, Spier and Mackay, and SixSox.
I really enjoyed this long format and the discussion around each shoe. Thank you for all the information!
I am so glad Preston mentioned the higher cut around the heel. I too, am slim. My ankles used to get so sore they would bleed. I never thought about it, just bought lower cut heels in shoes. Also, my fathers name is Preston and he was always dressed dapper. I am also a woman who appreciates a well dressed man.
Love this type of review but your videos are awesome, thorough and funny!
Thats was really an awesome, comfortable video, very informative on how you actually judged the shoes! Also your conversations is exceptionally smooth and very nice to watch, I love it!
New drinking game. Every time Preston says tongue pad, take a shot.
I’m in
Been very impressed with the one pair of Meermin boots I have. My Thursday Boots and Beckett Simonon purchases have been disappointing however. Would love to see you examine Cobbler Union sometime.
Such a good video, very happy to see such a thorough review.
I have to say I only own pairs from a Meermin and Acemarks, but I've been looking at a few of these brands for a while (looking for a blake constructed shoe). I have to say the ratings you both gave seem pretty consistent with what I've seen and read about these brands.
I have both Meermin Linea Maestro and the Classic Collection. I would say there is a drop in quality in the details (usually small defects like seeing where the welt stopped, or a scuff that can usually be taken care of with some polish). With that said they are near unrivaled at this price point - though that might change with Justin Fitzpatrick's JF Line.
I'd also agree about Acemarks, I think they are a much better value if they can be found at a lower price. Scarosso seems like perhaps the best maker of blake stitched loafers at this price point.
Thank you so much for doing this review.
I have a pair Loake chukka boots and I love those! The construction and design is a very well done and I can recommend this brand for this budget. My only complain is that I can't drive confortably with those boots tied. The lining rubs against my leg and it can hurt a lot after a while. I just untie them while driving and thats it!
My next step maybe into Velasca. Both Loake and Velasca have great instagram pages that makes me think of passionate shoe makers.
Before I saw your channel I only used the military issued dress shoes for almost all occasions with different suits yes that also included the infamous the *"Four- in- hand"* knot
Also would love to see a guide to buying best quality preowned - probably still in that $300 range...
My florsheims hold up pretty well. Although, i no longer wear them for business since i left the retail sales industry. I only wear them for certain events when it's required. I guess it depends on usage and what you are comparing them to.
Extremely helpful video. You’ve really got me excited about Meerman and Carmina. I’m looking for a new pair of dark brown suede loafers and the hand welted shoes in this video from Meerman look really impressive.
Definitely do another one of these. The topic worked well with this format
Thanks for putting this video together Dale. Reminds me of training with M1, M14 and M16.
Years ago I owned a pair of Dexter black Oxford shoes. American and well made. Extremely comfortable and had good weight on my feet. They are no longer in existence. I owned them for 30 years and had them resoled twice in all that time. Eventually wore them out wearing them in rotation two to three days of the week. I haven’t found anything comparable in quality or comfort since.
Hey for affordable shoes, I don't care what the shoe snobs say, but Stacy Adams can be had brand new for less than $100, and despite the sole wearing through in about 6months, my Cap Toe Burgundy Monk Strap Stacy Adams (I believe the "Desmond?") Are still the most comfortable "dress shoes" I've ever had.
* Currently wearing a burgundy and black wingtip lace up that are nearly just as comfortable. (My feet swell & I'm on my feet 12+hrs. Fay
Could you do the same with 500 - $1500 pairs? Is a Crockett & Jones the same quality as an Edward Green or John Lobb? Thank you!
John Lobb > Edward Green > Crockett & Jones
I would like to see this format applied to Brooks Brothers and perhaps a revisit of their 1818 and Golden Fleece line. 🥂
Love a long format video! I grab a glass of bourbon and my latenight is set!
This is a nice change up from your usual content style, love it!
Wonderful video! Should review R.M Williams boots, here in New Zealand, they are almost a men’s wardrobe essential!
Good video, gentlemen.
I would enjoy a $300 to $600 version as well - hopefully including Mezlan, Carmina, Allen Edmond, Johnston and Murphy...
I wear a 13 eee, which is unavailable in most of the brands evaluated. Allen Edmonds had a big online sale a few weeks ago. I ordered a pair of walnut Madison Park wingtips in my size. They were originally $425: I paid only $120 with shipping, and they're first quality!
I think it’s also great to have the opinion of a Man born in the United States as compared with a man born in Europe discussing these shoes. I realize most of the good shoes are from Europe anyway but I think there’s a number of different subjects of men’s styles that hearing about the difference between the two continents and styles is beneficial. Given the fact that there are different styles in Europe between Italian and French and English of course.
Very helpful video as I look to purchase a few other pairs of Dress Shoes under $200 in the future thanks again! Are Blake Mckay good quality? They're shoes are around $100-$150 at best. Or maybe I can save up a bit and get a couple pairs that are even better? Excellent content as always!
Yes! This format is very cool! Keep it up please guys! Respect!
Thank you, gentlemen, for your honesty, and showing such a grand world of shoes from so many places. I found my favourite pair of boots in Canada, and shoes in England. Look forward to more of these types of series, as my lads shall be looking for updates. All the best.
Great format, maybe a score soley for quality without regarding personal fit or taste would be great
Agreed! Next time it might be wiser to send ill-fitting pairs back to get the fit right in the first place, THEN do the testing and tell us about fitting idiosyncrasies of brand xy in general. Preston's feet certainly demand a bit of fine tuning in that respect, as he stated earlier on.
I loved how went in detail about each brands.
Maybe for your next video maybe talk about different white shirts. Since there many shirt manufacturers but I don't know who has a best white shirt. Since I love a slim-skinny fit many companies I bought from are way too boxy for my body.
Try Express. For me their shirts fit almost perfect in XS
@@KaitouKaiju Express imo shirts that are very cheaply made. They are made with polyester and other cheap materials
Yes more videos like this please. maybe not as long, but definitely comparing brands for quality/price. please do another video with thursday boots.
I love the burnt honey Becks. That patina doesn't bother me. Possibly, if I were fine tooth combing them, sure, but as a shoe to the floor, looks great.
A very good and interesting video! I recommend the two English brands: Grenson and Barker
Awesome video gentlemen. Following your channel all the way from Guyana South America.
You should’ve made this during the weekend, you could’ve recommended that everybody go buy some quality Allen Edmonds that are usually $400+ for $100-200. I personally got some mocha short wings during the sale.
Liked the format, appreciate the candor. Would love to see a review of Idrese, which comes in at this price point.
Florsheim is low quality? Dang... I'm poor. I swear by mine, but I have a list of fitment complications (tall arches, wider feet, plantar fasciitis prone...) so they work wonders for me. And my oxfords were $130... My everything shoes. Would love to see a review that accommodates people in my position, as most dress shoes are very painful to wear or attempt to put on.
Yes. Like the format of the video. Please do more like this. Would like to see the $300 to say $800 review. Then do a price is no concern for shoes above $800. I think some people won't like the above $800 because the shoes will not be in the vast majority of peoples price range and the present economical. But I would like to see what big money can buy. Besides, I watch videos about Lamborghini and Rolls Royce cars that I can't afford. Keep up the good work.
Expected to see shoepassion more in depth here, I've seen you show some pairs before.
They have a US website now and the cost is above $300 if you buy them in the US, so they were excluded
@@gentlemansgazette I see, they have sales every season going well below that price so I never considered them a 300+ brand, but I can see how it gets complicated.
Look, I am a huge Allen Edmonds fan, I also own a few Edward Green’s. I do have to disagree with the assertion that Florsheim shoes were too low in quality to be included.
“That’s crazy talk good sir!”
No in all seriousness, they’re a fine shoe for the money. I own five pair and wouldn’t hesitate to purchase a sixth.
I've been curious about the current Florsheim Imperial line-up. They look to be pretty well made for just over $200, but everyone seems to immediately dismiss the brand.
Excellent format and seats. Please do continue this way.
Normally, I wouldn't watch a video this long. But I enjoyed the patient, thorough discussion.
Can you review or give me your opinion on Cobbler Union and J. Fitzpatrick?
I’d rather get slightly used Allen Edmonds. Just bought Park Avenues in Merlot worn 3 times to church by a 92 year old fellow for $70 dollars. They were asking $125 by the way. They are in wonderful condition.
I agree totally with the Beckett Simminon review. Still an Allen Edmonds enthusiast.
Absolutely love the conversational episode. You can’t beat a couple of gentlemen sitting down to converse in some fine leather chairs.
Great video. Can’t believe I missed this until now!!
I do like the format guys, great channel.
Just finished watching the video. I cast it to my TV. Great work, gentlemen. Looks like Meermin is the way to go for me.
I‘ve missed that video so far!
This format is amazing, reminding me when I and my best friend discuss about some new vintage/classic menstyle stuff we’ve just bought.
I’m totally agree with your shoes choices for this video as for the comments on these.
Please, go further with this kind of format.
Good job guys.
Sir Thomas Wilmington.
That is if the gentleman has a wife or girl friend- could come up with a women's shoe sequel and l am not talking of the horrible disfiguring stilettos, Louboutin, Jimmy choos - but sensible go to shoes, good lined winter boots for Canadian winters?
. For the well-dressed man. Love the channel guys! I love the Black, Burgandy and Brown cap toe and wing tip shoes! I enjoy wearing my pair of black and brown monk strap shoes too! Plus please yes more of this conversational format. Thanks! 😊
Sir: I listened to your video & your rating of Meermin. I viewed their website & found the nicest pair of loafers for under $150! No wonder you said in another video that Gucci loafers are not worth the money! I believe that I’ve bought a higher quality loafer than the Bass Weejuns that I currently own & I will have an even more distinguished look.
Yes right from the get go, love this format. Maybe push the chairs a tad bit further apart though.
I have been trying to find a more round dress shoe with not mich of of a pointee toe area.Thanks for the analysis!
If you where to continue this format or style I think try a background like a den, or wine club, or cigar lounge setting, just saying. I’d love that personally
Very cool format guys, loved this video. How about a new video on sunglasses?