Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Review: Black Cap-Toe Dress Shoes | Kirby Allison
Вставка
- Опубліковано 3 сер 2024
- In today’s video, we’re going to review the Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Black Captoe Oxford in Calfskin. Recognizing us as one of the leading authorities on luxury men’s dress shoes worldwide, Allen Edmonds has graciously agreed to give us access to their entire collection of shoes to review for you on this UA-cam Channel.
BRAND OVERVIEW
Allen Edmonds is one of the few remaining “great American shoemakers,” still making their premium leather dress shoes here in the United States. Allen Edmonds makes an excellent Goodyear welted leather dress shoe that, if properly polished and resoled, can last a lifetime. And there is no surprise that the Park Avenue is easily Allen Edmond’s #1 selling dress shoe. And for $425, it is a pretty good value. I always say that if someone is looking to invest in a high-quality leather dress shoe, they need to be at Allen Edmonds or better. Allen Edmonds also routinely runs sales where this shoe can be purchased for less than $300.
SHOE INTRODUCTION
Immediately, you can see the classic proportions of the Allen Edmond Park Avenues. A plain cap-toe oxford, the Park Avenue is the most formal style of business dress shoe one can purchase. Incredibly versatile, they can be worn during the day or evening, casually or formally. The shoe features a soft, round toe and classic proportions. The Allen Edmonds Black Captoe Oxford is a very conservative shoe, even within the spectrum of this black captoe oxfords.
DESIGN
The Allen Edmonds Park Avenue is a beautiful, elegant, traditional design. It features a three-piece pattern and construction (toe cap, vamp, and back quarters), with elegant single, double and triple-stitching that gives the shoe additional visual detail. The shoe also features a traditional, round toe shape for which Allen Edmonds is famous. The Park Avenue is further differentiated as one of only a couple styles from Allen Edmonds with six-eyelets, which is a design feature for which they are known, and which elongates the shoe silhouette.
MATERIAL
The Allen Edmonds Park Avenue in Calfskin is made from full-grain, open pour calfskin. This is an important prerequisite for any well-made leather dress shoe because it means that the leather is genuine leather and not some cheap, corrected-grain stuff found on less expensive shoes. The genuine leather used in the Park Avenues is one of the reasons they cost more than many of the less expensive, but similar, dress shoes out there. The open pore structure is what allows the leather to be polished and to develop a beautiful patina over the years. Corrected grain leather, which does not have an open pore structure, cannot really be polished because the leather does not absorb polishes. They are prone to cracking and inevitably look worse over time, as opposed to better.
CONSTRUCTION
Allen Edmond is best-known for their full 360-degree Goodyear welted construction, which allows leather dress shoes to be easily resoled without compromising the integrity of the shoe. The welt is a thin strip of leather that is sewn to the insole. The outsole is then stitched to the welt. This allows the outsole to be pulled off and replaced without damaging the construction of the shoe. Goodyear welting also allows a much thicker, longer-lasting leather outsole to be used.
AVAILABLE FINISHES
The Allen Edmond Park Avenue in Calfskin comes in six finishes. For a full review of all these finishes, look at our video review of the entire Allen Edmonds Park Avenue collection.
AVAILABLE SIZES AND FIT
Another great feature of Allen Edmonds, aside from the quality of their shoes, is their incredible range of available sizes. All of Allen Edmonds shoes can be purchased from sizes 6 to 16 and nine different widths. Allen Edmonds generally fit “true to size” and because of how ubiquitous they are, are often the benchmark for sizing. If you have any questions on sizing, Allen Edmonds has an extensive network of stores where one can try them on. But, of course, they can also be purchased online with a customer-friendly, 90-day return policy.
AFTER-CARE AND POLISHING
Because the Park Avenue’s are made from full-grain, open pour leather, we recommend polishing the leather with higher-quality shoe polish, such as the polish we have on Kirby Allison’s Hanger Project. It is important that the leather is fed frequently with polishes that do not contain silicones in order to condition and nourish the leather to prevent it from cracking.
Shop Hanger Project: www.kirbyallison.com
RELATED VIDEOS
VIDEOS TO WATCH
BERLUTI KNOT • How to Tie Dress Shoes...
$50 EBAY CHALLENGE • Allen Edmonds $50 Ebay...
PRESIDENTIAL SHOE SHINE • Presidential Shoe Shin...
BLOG www.kirbyallison.com/blog/
FACEBOOK / kirbyallisonoffical
TWITTER / kirbyallison_
INSTAGRAM / kirbyallison
FAQ’s www.kirbyallison.com/customer...
Hashtags: #Review #AllenEdmonds #ParkAve - Навчання та стиль
Why is everyone giving Kirby a hard time for the idea that he could be compensated? He said he is not, which makes sense, because in AE's eyes the Hanger Project is still a small company without significant market power. But it would be fair that HP get compensated for it, given the time put into making these videos and the marketing he is giving their shoes. Also, so what if AE is not his favorite shoe brand? It is not a contradiction to recommend a shoe as a solid product while preferring something else for oneself. Best personal favorite and most recommended should not be the same, as people have their own quirks and preferences that wouldn't apply to everyone. Simmer down, people.
Its crazy how one commenter asked Kirby if he liked Allen Edmonds a year or so ago and he said he wasnt "fond" of them, but now hes giving them glowing reviews
He's full of shit.
I would like to see that video. Hopefully I can come across it.
@@kirbyallison9596 fair enough..its obvious that Allen Edmonds are your practice shoes for polishing demos, shining demos etc, and that you dont see them as being adequate enough to actually wear at this point ...i dont see anything wrong with pitching AE's as a decent entry level men's dress shoe, as long as you arent overselling them in the interest of advertising profit.
Full of shit yet again. You have three shoe reviews on Allen Edmonds alone - not to mention reviews on G&G and Saint Crispins. Why do you lie?
I appreciate that Kirby is not such a snob that he would look down on AE's. I have a few pair myself and they are good. I work with what I got as I'm sure many who watch this channel do. Realistically, not many people can or would spend $5,000 on custom made shoes. Sure, it would be great but $5,000 goes a long, long way towards college savings for a child or paying for extra curricular activities. Unless you are very wealthy, spending that kind of money on shoes is irresponsible, even if they are hand crafted by an artisan who learned his craft from his grandfather on a small farm in a remote village.
The unbelievably awesome tie your wearing overshadowed the shoe's your reviewing. I have the park Avenue's and love them. Thanks for another great vid!
Thanks Kirby. Solid Review. I have several AEs that I am very happy with and the content you have developed has really helped me find the shoes I need and want.
Awesome to hear you got your hands on the whole collection! Looking forward to the reviews!
Just bought a pair of PA's. If you are new to the dress shoe experience, make sure you go in and get fit. I am a 7D in all of my other shoes, (mostly athletics) but 7EEE in AE Park Ave. I never would have believed it. Bought a pair of 7D PA's on eBay and the vamp wasn't even close to closing. Horrible fit, sent back. The 7EEE fit perfectly, very comfortable, look great as the lacing is closed just perfectly. Shout out to Kyle at AE store in South Coast Plaza, southern CA. Took his time, great experience.
Allen Edmonds does deserve the recommendation as a first pair of shoes. Kirby rightfully speaks more highly of the shoes he reviewed in the last couple videos, but a $600 shoe is often meant for enthusiasts. These shoes cost $200 less, but still have it where it counts. They have leather, cork, and a full welt. AEs still deserve a positive review- anybody looking for more in their shoes is going to be watching Kirby's other reviews that point out nuances that a work pair of shoes doesn't need. As for QC, I bought a new pair and a nearly new pair a couple years ago and they're still my favorite. Anything really serious is covered by the 90 day return.
Not everybody can afford bespoke shoes. Allen Edmunds' shoebank features factory seconds. This is where I buy my dress shoes.
@@kirbyallison9596 Even when I was doing better financially, I typically purchased factory seconds. Spend ten minutes outside in Tucson, AZ, and there will be no difference between first and second quality.
@@kirbyallison9596 fake kirby allison account?
Good job Kirby! I will end up with one of Allen Edmonds come spring time!
I enjoy the channel but let’s be honest and forthcoming that this is not a true review. This is more in-line with that of an advertisement. AE has been experiencing some QC issues lately and I would have liked to hear that in this “review”. I still enjoy and own several pairs of AE footwear just have had to be a little more mindful as of late.
Jeremy Garner i respectfully disagree with you completely and categorically. Allen-Edmonds shoes are fantastic, and they can last decades if you take care of them. The last seven presidents from Barack Obama to Ronald Reagan were inaugurated in them, and they are the standard of American luxury that all gentlemen have come to know. It is a cult brand that has been passed down over the last three generations from grandfathers, to fathers, to sons. Allen-Edmonds made the boots for the GIs that invaded Normandy in World War II. It is truly a legendary firm that makes legendary products there a cut above any other consumer product I can think of. If you don’t know, now you know.
Jeremy Garner Also, a little known fact… Perhaps some insider information if you will - I’ve been told that Allen-Edmonds recently had a massive “cap-ex” On their 100-year-old factory, increasing its physical footprint and it’s technical capabilities. During any major project like this, QA and QC can be temporarily disrupted. However, from my understanding the incidences you are speaking of have diminished substantially.
I’ll chime in that in late 2017 I had many quality issues with newly acquired AE shoes - some major, some minor/bad luck. This year (December 2018) I bought two pairs and they were flawless.
I’m a small sample, but based on my experience, AE had a rough patch, but is now getting back in the groove.
I also own several pairs -- 11 pairs to be exact -- of Allen Edmonds that I purchased about 9 years ago, including the Park Avenues. Each of the loafers that I purchased in that group of shoes had bowing issues. It was terrible! A complete waste of money. Many AE customers had the same kind of issues. It was during this period that AE had incredible growth and expansion. Because of this, there was the speculation that AE couldn't get their employees trained fast enough in producing shoes. Who really knows? Anyway, I also own well over a hundred pairs of shoes. I'm not sure why I own so many; I just like shoes. Today, even as a bit of an older guy, I prefer the more elongated shoes that I find with Magnanni, Mezlan, and even with To Boot New York, as examples. I just think a European look is a little more aligned with today's looks and fashion. When I want to wear a shoe that looks a bit more American, I prefer Aldens. There're definitely more expensive but the quality is exceptional. I live in Orange County California where there's an AE store at South Coast Plaza Mall that's close to me. I stopped in a couple of weeks ago while I was shopping just to see what they had. I'm not impressed. Their shoes looked a bit outdated and they also looked like old man shoes. I'll pass on any more purchases of AE shoes. There is simply to many great shoes to choose from. And from a variety of price points, as well. Also, I'd like to mention that I think to many guys put emphasis on keeping their shoes for years and years and decades and decades. I find that strange. Styles and people change. Just buy new shoes -- that's my motto! However, I do have a 15 year old pair of AE Manchesters that look as good as the day I bought them. Terrific video! I really enjoyed it!
I have a pair of walnut colored Park Avenues. They are well made. I like them.
I will be getting a pair! Tremendous value.
After experimenting with quite a few cap-toe oxfords, I would suggest that a man looks to the Consul by Church’s. I promise you won’t regret it. Just make sure you get the fitting right.
I thank you for your opinion and review. I own one pair of AE, looking for my next. This is as good of a shoe that I can afford.
Great channel and great content. Really appreciate your perspective. Are the Alden 9062's $157 better? Thanks again for the content.
I love Allen Edmonds I have a pair and they are great same pair for over 35 years and still hold a great shine and well built . and they have size for small feet ..
I'm fortunate to have a store 20 minutes away so I've not been inconvenienced by the online QC issues so many mention. For those of us that need a non standard size/width there is not a better choice out there without going bespoke.
I like to hit the brick and morter as well.. I'm in NYC alot. I like to try on my shoes and check them for quality. I then have those exact shoes shipped.. I also have found some incredible deals on ebay where the sellers can post really good pictures.. The right images don't lie... I've been very impressed with the 2nd hands that I own.
Another great video, thanks! I’ve worn Allen Edmonds for years and love them. I can easily see the difference between a $500 pair of Allen Edmonds and much cheaper shoes. What really is the difference from say a pair of Allen Edmonds Park Avenues and paying $1,000, $2,000 or even going with a bespoke pair of shoes? Is the difference that noticeable? Thanks, and really enjoy your channel.
Kirby are you sure that you are not paid or compensated for AE shoe reviews? Because I find that most of your shoe reviews are of AE products.
I really like the brand, however as of late, QC has been slacking. There are a few minor issues on every pair, but I can live with that. Although it could've been better.
In the future, I also would like to have a black PA shoe. Nice review, keep it up.
Since I wear 13A, the AE Park Avenue is one of few the shoes that I can get to fit correctly. I'm in my shoes and on my feet for 12-16 hours per day. Lesser quality shoes just don't hold up.
I am a size 6 and very hard to find a great dress shoe , i love mine and lasted over 35 years .. they are they best for the price
Kirby, your passion for shoes in contagious. I really enjoy your channel. I have a video request for you. Can you please do a video comparing Allen edmonds-park avenue and cobbler union's Richard. Both of them are classic cap toed black shoes and are of same price. But it's hard for a novice like me to spot the differences. I would greatly appreciate if you did a video on it. Thnaks! - Silpi
Thank you, Kirby. Could you please list the browns from most formal to least formal?
With access to all of Allen Edmonds' shoe catalogue, I would love to know the difference between the Park Avenue (65 Last), the Hopkinson (201 last), and I just saw they had another cap-toe oxford on sale right now called the Exchange Place (1943 last). The Park Avenue and the Hopkinson both have 6 eyelets, and look very similar. Hopkinson is even more expensive than the Park avenue right now on their site ($530 vs $395). AND....The Exchange Place, which is a cap-toe with 5 eyelets is on sale now for only $147.00! That's an amazing price, and the last is the same as the Cornwallis, which I own, and I believe to be one of Allen Edmonds most beautiful shoes.
Hey Kirby, great content. I have plans to purchase my first pair of Allen Edmunds very soon. I wanted to ask, if I'm looking for a 'work-horse' shoe, should I look into good year welted over blake stitched for better durability? Thanks.
Greetings Kirby! I just purchased my first pair of AE Park Ave, and I must say, I believe this is the beginning of a long and beautiful friendship. I chose the "coffee" color because I think I'll get more use out of the brown as it's more versatile and can be dressed down or up depending on the occasion. I definitely want to get a black pair next. I was wondering what do you think of the Carlyle (plain toe) vs the Park (cap toe)? I tried on the Carlyles in the store recently and I really like the sleek look. I'm thinking black Carlyles for more formal occasions and brown Parks for all around dress shoe. What are your thoughts?
the main qc issues i saw first hand was with the Madison Park in walnut. There were several lines that appeared like there was stitching directly underneath the top layer of leather, the dye was not applied evenly and there was clear lines of where the dye was not applied up to the stitching. Minor issues but drove me crazy and I returned them.
Fair warning right now AE is having some serious quality control issues so it may take several attempts to get shoes which don't have scratches, finish issues, or stitching issues. I'm now getting my 4th pair mailed to me.
Kirby Allison Would you like to see the current condition of the shoes they have sent? I have the three original pairs still as I wait for the 4th coming in 3-4 weeks as it's backordered. Do you prefer Instagram DM?
I live close to a store I should be good right
Kirby, thank you so much for all your hard work on this channel; I credit much of my shoe shining prowess to your detailed tutorial videos. Question for you: does Angelus shoe polish contain silicones? I am in the process of converting fully over to Saphir over time, but I have a fair amount of Angelus left that I'd like to use up if it won't harm my shoes.
@@kirbyallison9596 It may have been Lincoln if it's the video I'm thinking of. But I may do the paper test just for fun as a comparison; I don't doubt that Saphir is better.
@@kirbyallison9596 Cream polish has made all the difference in my routine. I only use Saphir there! Thanks for all the insight.
Hello Kirby. What are your thoughts of the AE Park Avenue in a patent leather finish worn with a tuxedo or at a black tie event? BTW, I love the contents of your videos. Keep them coming.
Do you personally test the shoes for a few days or weeks to see how comfortable they are?
Kirby - I’d like to hear your thoughts on Wolf and Shepherd. They bill themselves as one of the most comfortable dress shoes. They’re also similarly priced to AE.
Living outside of the US, I never understand why people would buy a pair of Allen Edmonds. With similar prices, you can have other brands, such as Carmina, Cheaney or Alfred Sargent, which offer better craftsmanship (say, a thinner welt and a better balance), more elegant last (i.e., less chunky) and better QC.
It's a pride thing.. The "chunky" quality that you speak of is just something that we Americans seem to like.. IMHO. It's patriotic in a way. Allen Edmonds has been around since 1922 and we like to see our old companies, that make what we see as a good product, stay around and prosper. We have family and friends that work there.. They work at Horween as well.. It's a whole network. We see value there and we support it... It's the same reason that we ride Harleys.. Drive Mustangs.. It's not that we don't like those other brands but Allen Edmonds is one of those brands that we as Americans...... LOVE 🇺🇸
Allen Edmonds are my first true love 😜
AE has long been known for making some of the best valued dress shoes on the market and I've been a customer for decades. Unfortunately, they now appear to suffer from some serious quality control problems. I recently bought a pair of 5th Avenues, at full price, that are so flawed they probably don't even meet the standard for factory 2nds. I would still buy AE shoes, but not by mail. I would want to inspect the shoes before purchasing.
Hallo there,
I would like to ask if there are differences, apart the different last, between the “park avenues” and the “exchange place”. I mean differences in the construction of the soles, on the leather quality etc.
Thanks.
Great video. What are your thoughts on their “weatherproof leather?” AE says on their website it has a more closed pore leather. That’s good or bad? I live in a very rainy state so I am interested in their park avenue.
I wish he would have answered you. I have the same question.
Don’t understand why all the hate for AE. My very first ‘quality shoe’ was AE bought two years ago and it is still a significant upgrade from *cough*Aldo/Cole Hann*cough*. AE was considerably expensive for someone that was not used to spending more than $200 on a pair of work shoes. I remember admiring the cutting, color, stitching of the AE (don’t laugh) and was so happy to got it on sales. Of course, after the AE, I learned a lot more about shoes and was happy to acquire my very first Cleverley recently :) And yes, I fully agree with Kirby that AE is a good start that kicks off my interest in quality shoes.
They make the best quality/price shoes in the world.
Also, thanks Kirby, enjoy your videos, dressing well isn’t easy.
Hey Kirby, Please update the stock for alfred finishes for mens hangers and trousers!!
Honestly having a hard time with these. I typically Brannock at 13D and I know the recommendation is to go a 0.5 size down. I was given a pair of 12D's and these are very snug in the toe box (bordering uncomfortable and the 13D felt too big). The salesman assured me this was the correct size and they would stretch, but honestly I'm not sure. I've worn them around my living room a few times, but am very careful as I think I may have to return them. Any thoughts?
Kirby, what other shoe brand you would recommend other than AE within the same price range?
Should we look at brands that show a drop in quality over time? And are the products that are on sales of lower quality?
I have a question.
Hi Mr Allison, I need your suggestion please. I am getting a very good bargain on a pair of Allen Edmonds Park Avenue but the left shoe's toe cap has a dent on it. Do you think I can get that dent out with towel/iron method?
Any help is appreciated
Would like to see a review of the ae leeds
How is this compared to the more expensive version with higher quality of leather, or even the : Hopkinson Cap-Toe Oxford. Is it worth the extra price.
I love my Allen Edmonds shoes, and will probably buy more but after seeing in. HangerProject resoration project their heels are made out of cardboard, I was disappointed. When I use Kirby’s refurb on one of my pairs of AE I wilm switch to JR. i would have appreciated a balanced review (Kirby do not overly shy away from saying anything that omg might offens anyone), and also learn what is the next level up? Alden? i cannot justify $2,000 per pair but which cap toes are better quality? I still enjoy the channel immensely, just think it is losing a lot of bakue and appeal to only praise AR just because they lend you a set for review.
Kirby, I think the amount of hate in this comments section is undeserved. Nice video.
Cobbler Union, Paul Evans, Ace Marks? Any other brand that offer an alternative to AE at a similar price point?
What’s your thoughts on the Bond St offered by AE?
I hope that they continue to make all their shoes in the USA. I unfortunately picked up to examine a pair of Johnston and Murphy at my local store only to find that many were made overseas (China I think). So disappointing.
But the uppers of AE shoes are made in Costa Rica. They are soaled in Wisconsin.
Very upsetting really. How could they do that?
Yeah I was gonna buy Johnston but then I saw they weren’t American made
Can i ask why Cheaney City collection which costs 233£ arent better ?
They're nice, they look like my steel toe work shoes (which are mirror shined of course).
BTW, i'm not kidding. I've mirror shined my work boots. Thank you KA.
I could be wrong, but I’m pretty sure the comment about these shoes having a wooden shank a 7:07 is not correct. AE shoes don’t use shanks as far as I know.
With military discount these are under $250, not bad...
There are people who can't easily find well-fitted Oxford dress shoes because of the large gap between laces. They should make higher instep ones.
Park Avenue vs Fifth Avenue. I see the Fifth Ave toe cap has brogue. Fifth Ave cost less, why ? Lesser leather, lesser construction, lining counters ??
@4:02 I know it was clarified earlier, but don't even use the phrase 'genuine leather' as this term unfortunately, yet commonly, refers to the dregs in terms of leather quality.
when is this shoe on sale for less than 300?
I'm si new at this.. I can't see the difference between the Park Ave and the Bond St
its just the material inside the sole. bond st has more cushion in the sole. thats it. finishes are also different. they have mahogony and stuff.
7:07. This guy lives in 1999. Everyone removes shoes in the US/Canada
I have 4 pairs never an issue...
Kirby Allison AE is a great American Brand don’t understand the hate...
What does bench welt mean?
Goodyear welt
Are you wearing a brown suit?
Are you being compensated by AE to make this review?
I got a great offer on Allen Edmonds University shoes ; any advice to go for them or not
Damn, I love my AE shoes but this is one long advertisement and not a review.
I much prefer Alden
Many presidents wore this shoe
The allen edmonds Hopkinson is much more comfortable
The fit is a little better for me anyway. Leather softer as well
When you say genuine leather you mean real leather
I’m sure the shoe is of reasonable quality but they don’t look particularly elegant!
Kirby Allison for the price AE charge they are good value. GG are in a different league (I love their shoes) but you are paying nearly 3 times as much. I do think, Kirby, you should review Crockett & Jones - only slightly more expensive than AE but a really big step up in quality.
The cut a ways to shots from the side (not looking at the camera) is disconcerting and not good TV. Shift your gaze or just shoot head on. You will have a better video.
Kirby if you are not paid for the shoe review, why waste your time and resources with this brand? I would hope you are getting paid for something in addition to what UA-cam pays you.