Great Video. The Ottawa Split Toe is a better match for the Indy boot from the Grantstone lineup. It does have the split stitch, but otherwise, the form is pretty similar.
The Ottawa is my preference from Grant stone “moc” lineup as well. Would probably take the Field boot over the Brass boot…just don’t care for the brass boots toe shape/stitching. But to each their own. I’m glad there’s something for everybody.
@@spazmurdock I disagree, but you’re entitled to your opinion! Minus the split toe, I think the Ottawa is a better comparison. The last is similar (shape and volume) and most of the Ottawa makeups have a studded or leather sole. The Brass boot is a better comparison to something like a Red Wing Moc IMO.
100%. I don't know why Weston chose the Brass Boot for this comparison. Especially since his biggest downgrade of the Brass Boot was that it was too work-boot-like to be in the Alden league. I bought a pair of Ottowas in November. Best pair of shoes I've ever owned.
He cuts them open and talks about the quality of materials in an almost $700 pair of boots. Are people mad their purchase wasn't the best in terms of value? That just sounds like they should be mad at themselves for falling for the marketing, and at alden for providing lackluster value.
Based on this, I would've chosen Parkhurst's Niagara boot as the best Alden Indy alternative. It looks as good if not better than Alden. It's built and priced the same as Grant Stone. I'm frankly shocked that it wasn't in this comparison. Or even Beckett Simonon boots.
Got me a pair of the Grant Stone brass boots in chrome excel 8. They are absolutely fantastic. I've only worn them 3 times since having them and have gotten many positive comments.
No Parkhurst Niagara is insane. It’s literally an Alden Indy with fewer eyelets and better materials. Also, the dude’s wondering why the Grant Stone doesn’t fit in the lineup while GS literally makes a dressier moc toe.
The Brass Boot is not a dress boot, but the Grant Stone Ottawa is (and is the best comparison with the Indy). Brass is a beast that, after two years of wear, STILL remains stiff in the upper.
Fully agree! I have a pair in the earth suede; I've had them for over a year and wear them 3-4 days a week. They still look great, are very supportive, and the suede is holding up well. Also, mine does have a leather heal stack -- interesting that the ones in this video don't.
Thanks for the comparison. I keep hoping to see a close look at the Thursday Diplomat with lug sole that came out recently. I wonder where it would fit on this list?
Very clever. Thru the Alden lens, Alden wins. Loved the Alden hat! There were enough choices in the grid to help people see what functions dictate which looks. Thanks!
I’ve had a lot of boots and still do including some you have here but my Alden Indy’s without a doubt, for me, have been the most comfortable boots I own… The last they use (true balance) is perfect for me and the ones I have, have a 360 welt with the rubber commando outsoles…. They are expensive but I wear them more than any other of my boots… Love them!
Great comparison. Have you considered reviewing the GS Ottawa boot as a dress moc toe? I'd be curious to see how your ranking would turn out then (although that is more of an Alden Tanker rival)
I think the grant stone Ottawa boot would have been a much better comparison to the Indy. I have both boots and the Ottawa checks all the dress moc toe boxes.
I love this series! I'm an American living in London. For the next round, I'd love to see a Moc Toe British Invasion. Joseph Cheaney & Sons Richmond II, Loake Anglesey (which would definitely be a good budget option), Crockett & Jones Indiana (which seems like it's just begging to be included), Grenson Donald, and if you want to cut open some crazy expensive shoes, Church's Havant and Edward Green Cranleigh. There are some great shoemakers here in the UK. They definitely veer more towards dress boots rather than work boots, so there could be a solid Alden alternative in this bunch. Definitely something much better than the Wested Indy.
Put me down as another vote for Parkhurst Niagaras. I got a pair in weathered henna specifically as an Alden Indy substitute and am more than pleased with them. Look damned near identical, very comfortable and I don't think there are any cardboard components.
Why do you refuse to review Parkhurst? Their Niagra boot is a fantastic Indy alternative. Does Parkhurst refuse to pay you so you won't have them on your channel?
He won’t review Truman or Oak Street either. Between the three of them, that’s pretty much the big three when it comes to newer heritage style boot makers, so it’s bizarre to not have seen any of them on this channel.
Well done, very cool video. I own a pair of cap toe Alden colour 8 cordovans that I absolutely love as a dress boot, it is just so achingly beautiful with jeans, chinos, dress pants, whatever, and almost every colour trouser matches well. But I've lusted over the Indy boot for years, though I know I'll probably never get a pair, unless I stumble across a steal on the used market. In the end, its one of the most handsome of all of the classic American boots, the design is absolute perfection from the 270° welt to the sweep of the mic oe stitching, the rake of the upper, the perfect stitch line, it's an unassumingly elegant and understated design that has few peers in the whole boot world. It0s also an incredibly versatile design that will never go out of style and that you can wear with just about any casual outfit. In the end, Alden's real USP are their designs, someone there in the heyday of that brand had an incredible eye.
Just forget the moctoe stitch on the vamp and get a Grant Stone Diesel boot. Or you can get a norwegian split toe (which looks almost the same as a moctoe) in a Grant Stone Ottawa boot. Like this you can get better quality than Alden but still get a sleek design. You could also go the Parkhurst Niagra boot that is a little bit less quality than a Grant Stone ( but still better than Alden), it looks more or less the same as a Indy boot, and out of the 3 it has the most comfortable last (IMH).
Can't speak for the other brands, but J Crew's Kenton Pacer is regularly discounted to around $205 and I was able to nab them for $150 before Christmas which makes them a huge value grab imo.
Dude, you cannot possibly be unaware of Parkhurst or their Niagara boot at this point. Why haven't you added it into this mix? It has literally everything you would want style wise and build wise. Parkhurst is a highly regarded brand in the space and easily affordable enough for you to add to this mix. It has also been requested on every video in this series. Why haven't you reviewed it yet?
Because clearly Parkhurst hasn’t paid him to make a video about it yet. That’s how it works for his channel, pay to play. There were some good threads on Reddit discussing it and how much he charges to have a boot video made about their brands.
First, great video and great breakdown of each boot! My only critic IMHO, if the idea was to pick an Alden alternative, I would have expected an alternative. We already know that Alden is the gold standard for the Indy look, otherwise why title the video: Indy Alternative Showdown. Ending on a positive note, I do appreciate what you do to showcase boots and their value on how they are constructed.
I agree with the other commenters who are saying that the Ottawa is the Grant Stone model you should have picked. Yes, they are split toes but apart from they are still much closer in style to the Aldens than the Brass. All the positives you mention about the Brass would apply to the Ottawa, and they would score better in terms of semi-dressiness and similarity to the Alden last.
Been following the whole series as been after the Aldens for a while. All things considered, I bought them yesterday. You cannot get the Crews in the UK, or Grant or Edmund and there is only one shop in the whole of the UK that have the Aldens. I’m a 10.5 UK in “expensive” boot lasts (11 is everything else, trainers etc) and the 11E Aldens fit like a glove. Super happy, if a little lighter in the wallet! See all the Pankhust comments. Looks great. Unavailable to buy anywhere. Agree that a shoe you cannot buy should not be on the list.
You absolutely can buy the Parkhurst, but they are made in small batches. So wait a month they’ll have a new batch out. They had numerous variations of the Niagara for sale over the course of the last two months.
Unfortunately all pages go to a 404 for me for Niagra, so if there are making batches they have not bothered to setup a coming soon page. The shoe is not on their site in any shape or form and post to the UK is a zillion pounds. So, still happy with my Aldens, even though I agree the Niagra's look great.
@@DavidParkinson As I already stated they are currently sold out, so no there won’t be any listed on their website. I regularly buy clothes from the UK, so I feel your pain on international shipping.
Buy your Allen Edmonds during the holidays and pay between 244-299….absolutely great fitting boots. I own several pairs, and a grant stone in burnt earth, which is a good boot as well.
Really had me going with the sponsor bit. I agree Alden makes the best Alden boot lololo Surprised you didnt include Thursday Diplomats instead of Grant Stone but it was your first Grant Stone review so you are forgiven. Still waiting for Parkhurst, Oak Street and Truman to be reviewed and disected. All hail the mid-tier boots
I got the J. Crews shortly before your first video and the leather seems to have a corrected grain finish. There are a couple of spots where the finish has rubbed off, on the ankle and on the tongue where the eyelets rub. I don't know if it's just my pair or what, but I would not rate the leather that highly. I'd be happy to send some photos.
I'm going to try to show you and others what you miss in your sort of reductive analysis of Alden. First I'm in my 70s and have worn a lot of business shoes, casual shoes and boots throughout my life. Had my first pair of work boots when I was 8 yrs old... and many pairs since. A boot is a system. Each part has a function in context with the rest in order to achieve the goals of the boot. The Indy boot is an orthopedic boot built on a patented orthopedic last, designed to keep your foot in a healthy anatomical position. It has a wide toe box giving space for bunions or other deformities, and it narrows down at the instep and heel to produce a tall, long and firm heel cup. Other parts of the orthopedic system include the cork midsole, the well designed metal shank, and the Thomas heel. Cork, which seems to be missing from many of your favored boots, is buoyant, elastic, and water resistant. It is also very durable. A cork footbed molds around your foot to give orthopedic support and comfort. It's one of the reasons Indy boots "break in" in a matter of days or a couple of weeks. And stay comfortable over the life of the boot. And let me reiterate, cork is very rugged and does not break down easily. The Indy boot metal shank is made of tempered steel, properly contoured and triple ribbed for strength. Way to many boot makers use a thick piece of leather or wood for the shank. Simply cannot compete with a properly designed metal shank for arch support and long lasting comfort. The Thomas heel (the curved front of the heel) adds rear and midfoot medial support. Good for any foot, but especially for people with excessively pronated feet. This is why people love their Indy boots. Quick to break in, very supportive regardless of foot issues, and the orthopedic properties force you to walk correctly, making it possible to work all day in them very comfortably. And they are NOT overly heavy. Heavy boots are not good for your ankles, legs and lower back. That's why it's important for any boot maker to achieve the goals of the boot, at the least possible weight. I have arthritis now, and no longer wear any shoes other than my two pair of Indy boots. They reduce significantly the pain in my feet, legs and back. Since I live in Portland, no one cares when I wear them to the Symphony. Alden Indy Boots are better engineered than any other boot. Period.
I was wearing my wested indy boot yesterday. I wear them when we have meetings. wait strike that I alternate my dress boots so this time it was the wested indy. Last time it was my old mula. I have 7 that I alternate. Old mula with leather sole, old mula with rubber sole, wested indy, Portland leather, A dress one that rock roster had for a short while forgot the style name but it has a leather welt and it is not the one you cut in half, Georgia boot, and Carolina boot
Westin, one other thing Alden should use a 360 welt on all their Indy boots… I agree that 3/4 welt looks bad…. And agree 100% that the GS’s are the best for the money…. Have two pair of them and they are excellent boots and really well put together…. Quality through and the through…
What about the Ottawa? (From Grant stone) That one looks more like the Indy than the Brass boot. & @ least on my pair the clicking is really good for being from a wild animal. I can only find one little scar from when the Kangaroo was alive.
Several of the Grant Stone Brass boots have full leather stacks. They provide options for different preferences. But i also agree with another poster that Ottowa boot would have done well here (and that Parkhurst's Niagra boot is another solid alternate).
Random question on shoe cork. Wouldn’t hot cork be a better choice for an outdoor boot? I would think it being impregnated with rubber would make it more water resistant over a cork sheet that might trap some water.
I appreciate your objectiveness. Alden Indys are a rip off on the many levels you’ve shown us but, as you’ve shown us, they continue to be the best looking moctoe dress boot.
I personally have no problem with sponsored videos (his or any others) as long as it is mentioned upfront. The only people who benefit are us! We get to see what’s inside a boot. It’s the only way it happens. If he cuts a boot in half, then it is up to US to decide if it is worth it or not. Just ignore his “opinion” and make a decision for yourself what is important! As for “paying to play” it is unfortunate that a small maker like Parkhurst isn’t given the chance. That, I agree, is not right.
I’ll be trying the Allen Edmunds. The reason for this is simple for me. I have a very difficult time finding boots that fit me and they are made only 30 minutes away from where I live so I can try them on. Also, they are on sale this time of year.
always been curious about plastic coating on leather.. how is one going to hydrate the sneaker leather if the plastic is there? Is the conditioner not going to work since it's sitting on top of the plastic coating?
I just saw the video of the Danner Mountain boots, and thought it might be interesting to try and look at the paraboot avoriaz as a comparison to them.
I struggle with calling the Alden a dress boot with that lousy looking welt and especially the bright white ultra-fake moc stitching. Among those boots you have compared, the one that looks more dressy is the J Crew. I understand you are looking for an Alden alternative though. I like the look of Alden, except for that white stitching and undyed welt. I know that this boot comes in lots of variations depending on which retailer is offering. I still haven't found one that is very "dressy."
Would you consider doing a rundown of the best boots for big narrow feet? So hard to find good quality, good looking, sturdy/functional boots that are actually available in size 15! Impossible for me to find them in stock to try on too so looking for boots has been a real challenge.
you mentioned Wested leather co, and i checked their website they have quite a few different leather jackets some of them reproductions of famous movie jackets like the Indiana Jones, supposedly 95 percent made in england with prices from 185 to 500 bucks. prices seem ridiculously low for made in britian, something doesn't seem right, anybody else notice this?
John Doe has two different style of dress moc toes that could be worth looking at. Plus you can get them in black shark leather which would be cool to see cut in half.
So satisfied and legit laughed out loud that you stuck to the "Thanks for our sponsor, Alden". Im sure Nick and Chris from FGP appreciated it! 😂 Nice wrap-up!
I'd love content on outdoor or hunting focused boots. I'm in Montana, very cold and lots of snow. Waterproof and insulation is important. Quality of leather is less of a concern...
Wish you had my Texture mock toe boots in your list. I genuinely think it would be on top of this list I'm most categories. Fantastic boots at a great priced..... Do come from Indonesia and takes 4-5 mths to deliver... Fantastic boots!!!
Nice video, although in fairness to Grant Stone, you should have used their Ottawa boot in the Indy comparison because it is the most like the Alden boots. Better, even. Still, it was an interesting video.
For people over in Europe, Yanko in collaboration with Skolyx(Online Retailer) make quite a nice moc-toe dress boot. Although its sold out in most sizes at the moment.
I'm an AE fan, with over 25 pairs of AE boots and shoes and I'm sticking with AE. Aesthetics, comfort, width, variety, quality.... AE does it for me. However, aside from 2 shell pairs, I've never paid 495 bucks or even anything above 350 for calf AE and that includes Higgins Mill, Hamiltons (my personal all time fave boot/shoe), Williamsburg, Landon and the Daltons.
I enjoyed this video, but if you do another Alden Indy comparison, you should include Parkhurst’s Niagara boots. They would seem to compare favorably. Parkhurst’s take would seem to be superior to Indy’s at a significantly lower price.
Love these videos Weston, but gotta be honest, I was conflicted on this one. Looking at how well GS did on the categories that include build quality, finish, value and materials, it was surprising to see how low it finished. That being said, you made a valid rationale for why you would rank Alden at the top, given it was the impetus for this "Showdown". Still, I would have a difficult time not ranking the GS at number two given the overall quality and finish. I don't think you can find a better boot for the price. YMMV.
What would you pick to take and have resoled and made to be the perfect indy alternative if price wasn't a budget because I've seen alot of videos of brand new indy boots being rebuilt because they just aren't perfect to begin with.
Just a thought on this.... I bet that if you measured from the mid-sole to the top of the toe box you'd find that all these boots are roughly the same. The primary separation would be in the amount the upper is curved. This would be why the Alden has a "sleeker" look: it's curved more, and that gives it the more dress -styled look. But then the question becomes: is there a difference in the amount of leather used in forming the uppers? My bet is Alden is using a bit less leather than the others - another bit of a shortcut / cost cutting effort. (Ie, if they use a little less leather in each upper they maybe get an extra pair of boots out of each hyde.) But the only way to confirm would be to take apart some uppers and compare measurements.
If you revisit this series, I'd love to see the Parkhurst Niagra, Luos Jiet, and Beckett Simonon Gallagher enter the fray
Great Video. The Ottawa Split Toe is a better match for the Indy boot from the Grantstone lineup. It does have the split stitch, but otherwise, the form is pretty similar.
split toebox is too different imo. as. a big fan of the indy style i would buy the brass boot
The Ottawa is my preference from Grant stone “moc” lineup as well. Would probably take the Field boot over the Brass boot…just don’t care for the brass boots toe shape/stitching. But to each their own. I’m glad there’s something for everybody.
You forgot to include what looks to be the closest Indy alternative in terms of aesthetics, which is the Parkhurst Niagara.
Yes, most of these don’t even come close to the Alden in style.
The Ottawa is the Grant Stone boot to compare to the Alden Indy. Brass is a different style boot.
Not a fan of this particular style, but I do like the Grant Stones in both build quality & aesthetics as the best of the lot.
I think if you subbed out the Brass Boot for the Ottawa, Grant Stone would’ve blown this out of the water.
The split toe makes it different enough from the Indy that it would get dinged for the same reason.
@@spazmurdock I disagree, but you’re entitled to your opinion! Minus the split toe, I think the Ottawa is a better comparison. The last is similar (shape and volume) and most of the Ottawa makeups have a studded or leather sole. The Brass boot is a better comparison to something like a Red Wing Moc IMO.
Agree the Ottawa is almost identical to the Alden. The ONLY difference is one inch of stitching in the toe!
100%.
I don't know why Weston chose the Brass Boot for this comparison. Especially since his biggest downgrade of the Brass Boot was that it was too work-boot-like to be in the Alden league.
I bought a pair of Ottowas in November. Best pair of shoes I've ever owned.
this is what i was coming to say! I bought a Ottawa pair for my "indy" like boot
Hats off for tripling down on the Alden being overpriced, despite the heat you’ve received. Great to see you standing up to what you believe 👌
looks like narcissism to me
Better than delusional patriotism
He cuts them open and talks about the quality of materials in an almost $700 pair of boots. Are people mad their purchase wasn't the best in terms of value? That just sounds like they should be mad at themselves for falling for the marketing, and at alden for providing lackluster value.
Based on this, I would've chosen Parkhurst's Niagara boot as the best Alden Indy alternative. It looks as good if not better than Alden. It's built and priced the same as Grant Stone. I'm frankly shocked that it wasn't in this comparison. Or even Beckett Simonon boots.
Got me a pair of the Grant Stone brass boots in chrome excel 8. They are absolutely fantastic. I've only worn them 3 times since having them and have gotten many positive comments.
Wearing the J Crew Pacer right now. Have had them for a year and they still look great and feel awesome on foot!
Parkhurst Niagra. You should include it. Very sleek boot.
No Parkhurst Niagara is insane. It’s literally an Alden Indy with fewer eyelets and better materials.
Also, the dude’s wondering why the Grant Stone doesn’t fit in the lineup while GS literally makes a dressier moc toe.
Please Look At the Luos Jiet Indiana Jones Boot, It looks IDENTICAL to an alden Indy and is offered in more leathers for 259$
The best value by far is the Parkhurst Niagara. Twice the boot for half the money. And exclusive to boot (pun intended) 😂
The Brass Boot is not a dress boot, but the Grant Stone Ottawa is (and is the best comparison with the Indy). Brass is a beast that, after two years of wear, STILL remains stiff in the upper.
Yeah Ottawa would have been better to compare here.
Fully agree! I have a pair in the earth suede; I've had them for over a year and wear them 3-4 days a week. They still look great, are very supportive, and the suede is holding up well. Also, mine does have a leather heal stack -- interesting that the ones in this video don't.
Split moc toes fall on a diferenty category. Beckett Simonon's Gallager should have been on the list.
Thanks for the comparison. I keep hoping to see a close look at the Thursday Diplomat with lug sole that came out recently. I wonder where it would fit on this list?
Very clever. Thru the Alden lens, Alden wins. Loved the Alden hat! There were enough choices in the grid to help people see what functions dictate which looks. Thanks!
I’ve had a lot of boots and still do including some you have here but my Alden Indy’s without a doubt, for me, have been the most comfortable boots I own… The last they use (true balance) is perfect for me and the ones I have, have a 360 welt with the rubber commando outsoles…. They are expensive but I wear them more than any other of my boots… Love them!
No Parkhurst Niagara is f-ing insane
Agreed. It’s better than all of them, INDY included
True! i want that boot so bad
I have the blue calf Niagara… and I’d agree
Thats a beautiful boot congrats@@heesoo18
Would have absolutely loved to see one of these. Parkhurst is such a fantastic brand
Another great video Weston!!! Another really good high quality contender is the Parkhurst Niagara boot.
Great comparison. Have you considered reviewing the GS Ottawa boot as a dress moc toe? I'd be curious to see how your ranking would turn out then (although that is more of an Alden Tanker rival)
I think the grant stone Ottawa boot would have been a much better comparison to the Indy. I have both boots and the Ottawa checks all the dress moc toe boxes.
I guess the split-toe disqualified it..? But I agree: It’s more dressy. (I personally don’t love split-toe, though - but that’s just me.)
Agree with other comments that Grant Stone Ottawa is the best comparison.
Also, as a left field choice you have the Loake Anglesey.
I love this series! I'm an American living in London. For the next round, I'd love to see a Moc Toe British Invasion. Joseph Cheaney & Sons Richmond II, Loake Anglesey (which would definitely be a good budget option), Crockett & Jones Indiana (which seems like it's just begging to be included), Grenson Donald, and if you want to cut open some crazy expensive shoes, Church's Havant and Edward Green Cranleigh. There are some great shoemakers here in the UK. They definitely veer more towards dress boots rather than work boots, so there could be a solid Alden alternative in this bunch. Definitely something much better than the Wested Indy.
Put me down as another vote for Parkhurst Niagaras. I got a pair in weathered henna specifically as an Alden Indy substitute and am more than pleased with them. Look damned near identical, very comfortable and I don't think there are any cardboard components.
I’ve got the Allen’s and they are insanely well made. Honestly, I think they are higher quality than my Truman’s.
Please do a review on the Luosjiet Indy boot. Looks very very close for 250$
1:20 get ready to be jarred out of whatever you were thinking about boots..
Why do you refuse to review Parkhurst? Their Niagra boot is a fantastic Indy alternative. Does Parkhurst refuse to pay you so you won't have them on your channel?
He won’t review Truman or Oak Street either. Between the three of them, that’s pretty much the big three when it comes to newer heritage style boot makers, so it’s bizarre to not have seen any of them on this channel.
Should the Thursday Diplomat be included in the Alden Indy Alternatives now, since they have a lug sole available now?
No
Well done, very cool video. I own a pair of cap toe Alden colour 8 cordovans that I absolutely love as a dress boot, it is just so achingly beautiful with jeans, chinos, dress pants, whatever, and almost every colour trouser matches well.
But I've lusted over the Indy boot for years, though I know I'll probably never get a pair, unless I stumble across a steal on the used market. In the end, its one of the most handsome of all of the classic American boots, the design is absolute perfection from the 270° welt to the sweep of the mic oe stitching, the rake of the upper, the perfect stitch line, it's an unassumingly elegant and understated design that has few peers in the whole boot world. It0s also an incredibly versatile design that will never go out of style and that you can wear with just about any casual outfit. In the end, Alden's real USP are their designs, someone there in the heyday of that brand had an incredible eye.
Just forget the moctoe stitch on the vamp and get a Grant Stone Diesel boot. Or you can get a norwegian split toe (which looks almost the same as a moctoe) in a Grant Stone Ottawa boot. Like this you can get better quality than Alden but still get a sleek design. You could also go the Parkhurst Niagra boot that is a little bit less quality than a Grant Stone ( but still better than Alden), it looks more or less the same as a Indy boot, and out of the 3 it has the most comfortable last (IMH).
Thanks for mentioning sponsor, just tells us how we come to the conclusion
Can't speak for the other brands, but J Crew's Kenton Pacer is regularly discounted to around $205 and I was able to nab them for $150 before Christmas which makes them a huge value grab imo.
Id say Grant stone beats Alden comfortably
Great review as always. I always look forward to the image and animated gifs overlays. Love that everytime!
Dude, you cannot possibly be unaware of Parkhurst or their Niagara boot at this point. Why haven't you added it into this mix? It has literally everything you would want style wise and build wise. Parkhurst is a highly regarded brand in the space and easily affordable enough for you to add to this mix. It has also been requested on every video in this series. Why haven't you reviewed it yet?
Because clearly Parkhurst hasn’t paid him to make a video about it yet. That’s how it works for his channel, pay to play. There were some good threads on Reddit discussing it and how much he charges to have a boot video made about their brands.
How much did Alden pay for this obvious 180?
I don't think Alden paid him anything to do reviews.
@@_Stay_Curiousmy guy, he says in the video it’s a sponsored post by Alden lol
@@Acalllll704There really can’t be any other explanation at this point. He also hasn’t done Truman or Oak Street.
HAHAHAHA you had me for a second on the sponsor
What about the Thursday brown diplomat? The original version is actually very similar because it doesn't have the big lug
First, great video and great breakdown of each boot! My only critic IMHO, if the idea was to pick an Alden alternative, I would have expected an alternative. We already know that Alden is the gold standard for the Indy look, otherwise why title the video: Indy Alternative Showdown. Ending on a positive note, I do appreciate what you do to showcase boots and their value on how they are constructed.
So wish I had those grant stones, I love how they offer wide sizes as well but just a bit too pricey for me now 😢
Buy second hand. You can get a really good pair for 150-200. I got my pair of Ottawas for that price and they were barely worn.
@@martinzendejas8423 do you mean the B-grades? I wanted to but wasn't sure of sizing and they are non-returnable and non-exchangeable
I agree with the other commenters who are saying that the Ottawa is the Grant Stone model you should have picked. Yes, they are split toes but apart from they are still much closer in style to the Aldens than the Brass. All the positives you mention about the Brass would apply to the Ottawa, and they would score better in terms of semi-dressiness and similarity to the Alden last.
Oh man Weston, you have to do a comparison on the Parkhurst Niagara boot.
Been following the whole series as been after the Aldens for a while. All things considered, I bought them yesterday. You cannot get the Crews in the UK, or Grant or Edmund and there is only one shop in the whole of the UK that have the Aldens. I’m a 10.5 UK in “expensive” boot lasts (11 is everything else, trainers etc) and the 11E Aldens fit like a glove. Super happy, if a little lighter in the wallet! See all the Pankhust comments. Looks great. Unavailable to buy anywhere. Agree that a shoe you cannot buy should not be on the list.
You absolutely can buy the Parkhurst, but they are made in small batches. So wait a month they’ll have a new batch out. They had numerous variations of the Niagara for sale over the course of the last two months.
Unfortunately all pages go to a 404 for me for Niagra, so if there are making batches they have not bothered to setup a coming soon page. The shoe is not on their site in any shape or form and post to the UK is a zillion pounds. So, still happy with my Aldens, even though I agree the Niagra's look great.
@@DavidParkinson As I already stated they are currently sold out, so no there won’t be any listed on their website. I regularly buy clothes from the UK, so I feel your pain on international shipping.
idk why I watch these. I don't own any boots and I never will lmao but I like how you compare them and tare them apart.
Enter *Grant Stone Ottawa*
Buy your Allen Edmonds during the holidays and pay between 244-299….absolutely great fitting boots. I own several pairs, and a grant stone in burnt earth, which is a good boot as well.
Really had me going with the sponsor bit.
I agree Alden makes the best Alden boot lololo
Surprised you didnt include Thursday Diplomats instead of Grant Stone but it was your first Grant Stone review so you are forgiven.
Still waiting for Parkhurst, Oak Street and Truman to be reviewed and disected.
All hail the mid-tier boots
damn grant stone be ballers. proven in their work that you so easily highlight. thx for the info!!
I got the J. Crews shortly before your first video and the leather seems to have a corrected grain finish. There are a couple of spots where the finish has rubbed off, on the ankle and on the tongue where the eyelets rub. I don't know if it's just my pair or what, but I would not rate the leather that highly. I'd be happy to send some photos.
This makes me feel really good about buying Grant Stone
Alden Indys are a really great boot. Only ones I'd put above them are probably Vibergs.
You had me goin real quick with the Alden sponsor 😂 I reallly like those Rhoads ones, might have to cop a pair!
I'm going to try to show you and others what you miss in your sort of reductive analysis of Alden.
First I'm in my 70s and have worn a lot of business shoes, casual shoes and boots throughout my life. Had my first pair of work boots when I was 8 yrs old... and many pairs since.
A boot is a system. Each part has a function in context with the rest in order to achieve the goals of the boot. The Indy boot is an orthopedic boot built on a patented orthopedic last, designed to keep your foot in a healthy anatomical position. It has a wide toe box giving space for bunions or other deformities, and it narrows down at the instep and heel to produce a tall, long and firm heel cup.
Other parts of the orthopedic system include the cork midsole, the well designed metal shank, and the Thomas heel.
Cork, which seems to be missing from many of your favored boots, is buoyant, elastic, and water resistant. It is also very durable. A cork footbed molds around your foot to give orthopedic support and comfort. It's one of the reasons Indy boots "break in" in a matter of days or a couple of weeks. And stay comfortable over the life of the boot. And let me reiterate, cork is very rugged and does not break down easily.
The Indy boot metal shank is made of tempered steel, properly contoured and triple ribbed for strength. Way to many boot makers use a thick piece of leather or wood for the shank. Simply cannot compete with a properly designed metal shank for arch support and long lasting comfort.
The Thomas heel (the curved front of the heel) adds rear and midfoot medial support. Good for any foot, but especially for people with excessively pronated feet.
This is why people love their Indy boots. Quick to break in, very supportive regardless of foot issues, and the orthopedic properties force you to walk correctly, making it possible to work all day in them very comfortably. And they are NOT overly heavy. Heavy boots are not good for your ankles, legs and lower back. That's why it's important for any boot maker to achieve the goals of the boot, at the least possible weight.
I have arthritis now, and no longer wear any shoes other than my two pair of Indy boots. They reduce significantly the pain in my feet, legs and back. Since I live in Portland, no one cares when I wear them to the Symphony.
Alden Indy Boots are better engineered than any other boot. Period.
I was wearing my wested indy boot yesterday. I wear them when we have meetings. wait strike that I alternate my dress boots so this time it was the wested indy. Last time it was my old mula. I have 7 that I alternate. Old mula with leather sole, old mula with rubber sole, wested indy, Portland leather, A dress one that rock roster had for a short while forgot the style name but it has a leather welt and it is not the one you cut in half, Georgia boot, and Carolina boot
Westin, one other thing Alden should use a 360 welt on all their Indy boots… I agree that 3/4 welt looks bad…. And agree 100% that the GS’s are the best for the money…. Have two pair of them and they are excellent boots and really well put together…. Quality through and the through…
What about the Ottawa? (From Grant stone) That one looks more like the Indy than the Brass boot. & @ least on my pair the clicking is really good for being from a wild animal. I can only find one little scar from when the Kangaroo was alive.
Several of the Grant Stone Brass boots have full leather stacks. They provide options for different preferences. But i also agree with another poster that Ottowa boot would have done well here (and that Parkhurst's Niagra boot is another solid alternate).
The Parkhurst Niagara would've probably beaten the Alden Indy at its own game.
definitely not. I agree with Weston depsite the cost and value, nobody does it better(looks) than the Alden Indy.
Random question on shoe cork. Wouldn’t hot cork be a better choice for an outdoor boot? I would think it being impregnated with rubber would make it more water resistant over a cork sheet that might trap some water.
Once it dries, it's the same as sheet cork, and water soluble.
I do wonder where Parkhurst or Jakkrabbits would stack up compared to the Aldens.
I appreciate your objectiveness. Alden Indys are a rip off on the many levels you’ve shown us but, as you’ve shown us, they continue to be the best looking moctoe dress boot.
I personally have no problem with sponsored videos (his or any others) as long as it is mentioned upfront. The only people who benefit are us! We get to see what’s inside a boot. It’s the only way it happens. If he cuts a boot in half, then it is up to US to decide if it is worth it or not. Just ignore his “opinion” and make a decision for yourself what is important!
As for “paying to play” it is unfortunate that a small maker like Parkhurst isn’t given the chance. That, I agree, is not right.
I’ll be trying the Allen Edmunds. The reason for this is simple for me. I have a very difficult time finding boots that fit me and they are made only 30 minutes away from where I live so I can try them on. Also, they are on sale this time of year.
Cool hat I used to love that bands first album. Gonna check in on em now
parkhurst would have been the most competitive.
Damn I ain’t watched ur channel in minute. Sad to see you haven’t grown more, keep up the great content.
always been curious about plastic coating on leather.. how is one going to hydrate the sneaker leather if the plastic is there? Is the conditioner not going to work since it's sitting on top of the plastic coating?
Great video!! Thank you for making a video on such cool looking moc toe boots!!
I want the upgraded pair your cobbler made on RAB!
Right now, the Allen Edmonds Carters are on sale for $329, rather than $495.
Just got myself a pair of the J Crew Kenton Pacer during the Black Friday craze for less than $170. Does that push it to #1 in the value ranking?😅
The Frye Walter is an Alden Indy look-a-like. Not high quality, but as high quality as the J. Crew boots, Thursday, Portland leather, etc.
Any of them with a 4E/(WWWW)/4W width option?!
Would of loved to see Parkhurst in this group
I just saw the video of the Danner Mountain boots, and thought it might be interesting to try and look at the paraboot avoriaz as a comparison to them.
The white stitching on the “dress” boot seems hard to keep white when polishing/living life. How do you keep white?
I struggle with calling the Alden a dress boot with that lousy looking welt and especially the bright white ultra-fake moc stitching. Among those boots you have compared, the one that looks more dressy is the J Crew. I understand you are looking for an Alden alternative though. I like the look of Alden, except for that white stitching and undyed welt. I know that this boot comes in lots of variations depending on which retailer is offering. I still haven't found one that is very "dressy."
Completely off topic but question. You have any idea for a cheaper alternative to the whites farmer/rancher boot? Love them but out of my price range.
Would you consider doing a rundown of the best boots for big narrow feet? So hard to find good quality, good looking, sturdy/functional boots that are actually available in size 15! Impossible for me to find them in stock to try on too so looking for boots has been a real challenge.
you mentioned Wested leather co, and i checked their website they have quite a few different leather jackets some of them reproductions of famous movie jackets like the Indiana Jones, supposedly 95 percent made in england with prices from 185 to 500 bucks. prices seem ridiculously low for made in britian, something doesn't seem right, anybody else notice this?
Probably foreign materials, cut in 3rd world, simply assembled in England.
John Doe has two different style of dress moc toes that could be worth looking at. Plus you can get them in black shark leather which would be cool to see cut in half.
This was such a fun series.
Great comparison with an honest and seemingly "correct" conclusion!
So satisfied and legit laughed out loud that you stuck to the "Thanks for our sponsor, Alden". Im sure Nick and Chris from FGP appreciated it! 😂 Nice wrap-up!
I'd love content on outdoor or hunting focused boots. I'm in Montana, very cold and lots of snow. Waterproof and insulation is important. Quality of leather is less of a concern...
Wish you had my Texture mock toe boots in your list. I genuinely think it would be on top of this list I'm most categories. Fantastic boots at a great priced..... Do come from Indonesia and takes 4-5 mths to deliver... Fantastic boots!!!
I like the Alden 403
Nice video, although in fairness to Grant Stone, you should have used their Ottawa boot in the Indy comparison because it is the most like the Alden boots. Better, even. Still, it was an interesting video.
For people over in Europe, Yanko in collaboration with Skolyx(Online Retailer) make quite a nice moc-toe dress boot. Although its sold out in most sizes at the moment.
I love Grant Stone, they make high quality boots at a great price. The Brass boot isn’t comparable to the Alden Indy at all. Way different boots.
I laughed so hard at the Alden sponsor joke! 😂
this is great, would be keen to see a similar style comparison against the Danner Mountain Light boots with other similar hiking boots
Thursday just released lugged moc toes right before moctober and didn't even make the roster.
Have you done one of these for heritage boots? If not, I'd love to see that in the future
I'm an AE fan, with over 25 pairs of AE boots and shoes and I'm sticking with AE. Aesthetics, comfort, width, variety, quality.... AE does it for me. However, aside from 2 shell pairs, I've never paid 495 bucks or even anything above 350 for calf AE and that includes Higgins Mill, Hamiltons (my personal all time fave boot/shoe), Williamsburg, Landon and the Daltons.
I enjoyed this video, but if you do another Alden Indy comparison, you should include Parkhurst’s Niagara boots. They would seem to compare favorably. Parkhurst’s take would seem to be superior to Indy’s at a significantly lower price.
You left out the Thursday diplomats and the GS Ottawa’s.
Love these videos Weston, but gotta be honest, I was conflicted on this one. Looking at how well GS did on the categories that include build quality, finish, value and materials, it was surprising to see how low it finished. That being said, you made a valid rationale for why you would rank Alden at the top, given it was the impetus for this "Showdown". Still, I would have a difficult time not ranking the GS at number two given the overall quality and finish. I don't think you can find a better boot for the price. YMMV.
What would you pick to take and have resoled and made to be the perfect indy alternative if price wasn't a budget because I've seen alot of videos of brand new indy boots being rebuilt because they just aren't perfect to begin with.
Just a thought on this.... I bet that if you measured from the mid-sole to the top of the toe box you'd find that all these boots are roughly the same. The primary separation would be in the amount the upper is curved. This would be why the Alden has a "sleeker" look: it's curved more, and that gives it the more dress -styled look.
But then the question becomes: is there a difference in the amount of leather used in forming the uppers? My bet is Alden is using a bit less leather than the others - another bit of a shortcut / cost cutting effort. (Ie, if they use a little less leather in each upper they maybe get an extra pair of boots out of each hyde.) But the only way to confirm would be to take apart some uppers and compare measurements.