With your help, one day I will popular enough that the girl that rejected me in high school will wish she hadn't done so. I have been told this is a very reasonable and healthy framework for orienting my entire adult life. Anyways, here's the links. BLKBRD: www.blkbrdshoemaker.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLTY0OTg2OTVmMDli Meermin: meermin.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLTJmOGQwYzJkMjVi Beckett Simonon: www.beckettsimonon.com/?rfsn=7785546.5a1e2d& Skolyx: www.skolyx.se/en/57-oxfords Bridlen: bridlen.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLWY3OWVhMTJhMThl CNES: www.cnes.co/collections/goodyear-welted Carlos Santos (Code 'DressWell10' starting 7/16/24): www.thenobleshoe.com/en-us/collections/carlos-santos-shoes My Shoe Care (You can buy anything from these links, too, not just the product associated with the link!) CHEESE WHEEL: amzn.to/4csPeuC Shoe Trees: amzn.to/48e5fD0 Boot Trees: amzn.to/48zsNCk Shoe Horn: amzn.to/3RDnpqM Horsehair Brush (Budget): amzn.to/3RCxQuF Horsehair Brush (Mid-Grade): amzn.to/3RvdWSq Conditioner: amzn.to/3Rzz0qU Cream Polish: amzn.to/3Rt08rC Cleanser: amzn.to/3VtzSzn Wax: amzn.to/3RDWJ9y Mirror Wax: amzn.to/3RATVKb Leather Dye: amzn.to/3GUArLB Sole Edge Iron: arterton.co.uk/products/the-sole-edge-iron?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt& Luxury Shoe Trees: arterton.co.uk/products/luxury-beechwood-shoe-trees?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt& Luxury Horsehair Brush: arterton.co.uk/products/horsehair-shoe-brush?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt& Thanks for tolerating my begging. Seriously, you guys are the best.
Guarantee you that she already does. Now you just need to send a postcard by mail with yourself posing like one of those french girls plastered on it and mention how she's missing out.
Looking forward to the chelsea boot review. Btw. what do you think of yanko shoes? They are also sold on skolyx and I have their chelseas and chukkas and I love them a lot but idk how high quality they are as I am no shoe expert, they just feel right. Nobody reviews them thoroughly so its hard to know.
You are a very funny fellow and (like me) a maniac about quality 😂 Good for you! Love your videos! Perhaps the girl who rejected you is already cursing herself! 😁😁Greetings from Argentina! 🤩
@@rschweri578 I am not intimately familiar with them, though to my knowledge they are a solid quality for the price. Nothing stands out immediately as super special, though I don't think you are going wrong in any way with them. Finding a last that fits you well is tricky enough, so if you feel really good in them, I'd say stick with them.
@@DressWell.Madaras Thanks for the advice, I've simply heard through many different ytbers that they are pretty high quality but none of them went into detail.
Thanks for the heads up on the Carlos Santos sale. I was able to snag the last V-front derbies in my size. Been waiting for a couple years to pull the trigger on them. Funny thing is, after I watched the vid and purchased, then I get the e-mail from Kostas. Had I not watched your vid, I may have missed out. Thanks again man!
That's awesome! Yea those ones are great. Their unique designs I think are one of the highlights of what make them such a great value. I'm not a huge Derby guy in general, but those V-Fronts look so cool. Glad you caught them!
Love the videos, even when I don't personally agree 100% with your assessments. Great presentation with clear explanation, and that's what matters most. Owning virtually all of the brands you speak about, you make me go back over the shoes for the finer points. Keep up the great work.!
This is my second video of yours that I watched. The first was the Allen Edmonds review. You have earned my subscription from the child labor drop😂😂😂😂.
I’ve just stumbled across your channel and wish I had would’ve done so sooner! Amazing production, really engaging as well as very informative. The video alerts are now set and I’m anxious for more!
I own a pair of Carlos Santos black oxfords and they are a beauty. they're also the shoe that fits my feet the best. You have by far the best videos my friend. Keep it up!
Sorry to inform you & everyone watching but Meernin’s customer service has not improved. It’s horrendous. I recently had issues regarding the purchase of suede loafers. 2 months later & no less than ten emails exchanged this issue has yet to be resolved. This is an extremely unprofessional company. It’s a shame.
I'll second that. I ordered a pair of dark brown calf E oxfords. There were visible defects which was a scuff near the vamp and poor milling of the sole. Here was their answer: "The scuff near the tongue and the stitching at the bottom are characteristics of hand-crafted construction, not defects. The uneven sanding and rougher areas on the sole are common with Goodyear-welted shoes and do not affect their performance or aesthetics once worn." Us consumers are not dumb, Meermin. I know it doesn't affect "performance" of the shoe when I wear them around the office. I don't expect them to perform like basketball shoes or hockey skates. Poor craftsmanship and lack of QC is what it is. Instead of treating the customer well, or at the very least acknowledging the poor milling, you give us this BS answer. Not impressed and will not be buying from them again.
Great content! I have tagged a pair of CNES oxfords that I want. I will use your link when I pull the trigger! I’m so glad that I stumbled upon your channel! Keep it up!
lol you're one of the best channels on youtube I've subscribed to. I wish I would have discovered you earlier. Now I've spend ~1500Euros on C&J and the lining is already wearing off after ~30 wears. Pretty disappointed from the quality.
Love your content so far and the chapter titles are hilarious you got a new sub. Btw I wore Beckett Simonen beaumont loafers. It took 5 months from the time of ordering to crafting, delivering and receiving them. They fit my feet perfectly and were beautiful. However they only lasted a half year of regular wear before developing a hole at the toe cap and the outsole needed replacing. A local shoe and leatherworker quoted me repairs that cost more than the loafers themselves. Not sure if I'll get Beckett again, although it's hard to find loafers that fit well!
Thank you! Sorry to hear. I don't know how long ago that was, but they do have a 1-year warranty that might cover that. They definitely should last for at least a year or two under normal wear conditions.
I've bought a bunch of Blkbrd shoes and I'm very happy with them. I've also just bought a pair of Meermin soft calf loafers and they were perfectly comfortable from the start.
Love your background in the mountains, but are you wearing your luxury dress socks hiking there? I would be so anxious about prematurely developing holes for wearing $30 Il Regalos on rocky trails!
I got my TLB Mallorcas and I love them aside from slight heel slip. It should go away once I start to wear it more and the underside becomes more flexible. Or so I hope. If I go half size lower it may be too tight. I went with what size they recommended based on foot measurement which also is the size I always wear.
Few people talk about GEOX and I’ve sworn by them for years. They make just about every kind of shoe and while they don’t presently have leather soled shoes, but I use another brand for more formal occasions…unless it’s raining, then it’s GEOX.
Thank you for all the informative content you make! I just found your channel a few days ago and ive already watched almost all the videos youve uploaded. Do you know if the materials that bridlen uses across their different lines are the same? in other words, do the blakes use the same grades of leather and such as the main line? I have black oxfords from Beckett Siminon, but i was thinking of ordering a few pairs of blakes from bridlen to round out my collection.
Thank you! I actually have a Bridlen Main Line review in progress, ETA about 3 weeks. I'd love to cover their Blake at some point as basically the cheapest-but-still-good-quality stitched shoes in the world. I don't know about the leather. A commenter once said the Blake line uses leather from more local Indian tanneries, presumably a bit cheaper than the premium leather for their Main/Founders line. I have not verified this, though. I also am not sure I would be too worried at $111, unless it was cosmetically dysfunctional, which I'd be surprised to see from them. They are pretty transparent and good people. I suggest just shooting them an email and they'll probably be happy to share!
Dude, you are hilarious. Been watching your channel almost since it's inception. Always a good watch. BTW, it's not pronounced as 'gemming', like previous gem. The 'g' is more like how you say 'game' or 'girl'. I am also a bit of a shoe nerd like yourself.
Lol you like to mentioned “A company from India” on most of your videos. But anyway, this is really a good informations. I also like the video where you gave us details on best stitching at low prices vs expensive, not so great stitching.
Great content! If you need inspiration for a new short video, may I suggest something about the "number" fold tie? What does this mean? What are the difference between a 3 fold tie and a 7 fold tie? Thanks!
Meh, they are kind of ugly. I like Thursday in general, but all good boot companies tend to fall flat when they make attempts at dress shoes. Grant Stone is very highly regarded for their boots, but their dress shoes are just not great. Dress shoe design is a very different animal that rugged/casual boot design. I'd stick with BS, BLKRBRD, or Bridlen over Thursday for both Blake and GYW - and around a similar price.
I believe you are not an AE fan, but I am having been to their factory to see them made. The 5th Ave with dainites are frequently on sale for $250. At that price, I think its a great choice.
I am probably not, but this channel is a place for everyone and anyone to share their thoughts and opinions, whether or not they align with my own. I always appreciate you sharing yours. Thank you!
I've had a pair of Carlos Santos wholecuts since December, and have worn them 4 times, but the wrinkles on them look like they've been through a war. Might have been unlucky of course, but the leather on them is probably the worst out of any oxfords / goodyear shoes I've owned.
My opinion on the open channel thing is that I had a pair of Meermin shoes and you see the stiches pretty soon after wearing them, it still looks better, even worn in, than a open channel, but does it really add durability?
I think it does. It may or may not add to the longevity in a significant way, though definitely a little simply as a function of providing more protection to the stitch than an open channel. The longevity will depend on how the channel is made during production, the quality of the glue, the quality of the sealing, etc. Ultimately the value of a closed channel I would say is at least equally, if not more so, related to the craftsmanship it represents rather than the durability. It's a sign of quality.
I had to stop watching but for a good reason. You are doing the most to keep us entertained, and so it's my duty to mention that I like your videos the most out of all the shoe reviewers I currently subscribe to. Dude, you did not need to crawl under the rock :-D suppose there was a scorpion under there. Also, you titled the timeline; who does that the way you did??? LOLOLOLOLOL
Thursday has dress shoes in their lineup, though the variety is pretty small. They have one style of loafer, double monk straps, full brouge and half brouge oxfords, and 2 different cap toe oxfords with no brogue. One of the cap toes is about $165, goodyear welted, and more american in style and the other is $180, blake stiched, and more italian in style. I have a pair of the blake stiched in a medium brown and they are decent for the price. The leather is definitely not stiff like meermin but my biggest issue is that the leather has become a bit splotchy looking after 1 1/2 years. I’m not quite sure if it’s the leather choice or Thursday’s QC. The leather started with varied lighter and dark coloring so I believe it is due to that. The solid shaded leather will probably not do this but I do not have another pair to compare it to. Overall pretty decent for the price, but if I get another pair from Thursday, it’ll likely be the goodyear welted model.
Always entertaining and informative to watch your vids, even for us Europeans (if a company does not have shipping from inside the EU, it is simply a nogo, as import fees in total are easily 100% of purchase price plus shipping combined! The 200 dollar shoe plus 40 dollar shipping is thus a 480 dollar shoe). So, I require two things to be intered in a shoemaker: 1. Shipping from inside the EU and 2. rubber soles. No Vibram or Danite rubber sole? Forget it. Save the sales pitch for the beginners. ANd so, I will now check out Noble Shoes, but no rubber sole version? No thanks.
Thank you for the comment! I try to be inclusive of my international audience, though ultimately I don't speak much to shipping fees/duties/import fees only because I am very unfamiliar with how that all works over there and would probably do more harm than help to try and do so.
@@DressWell.Madaras You are doing just great brother and I am sure your entertaining and informative style will get the subs with time. You are a fresh take on the subject of men's style!
Make a video on brands that have wide shoes and 13 (US) and over sizes. Nobody covers this….I sit through great reviews only to find out these brands max out at 11 or 12
BLKBRD is a great brand. I struggled finding a last that I liked the fit. Their pricing is incredible for hand welted shoes which is better than good year welted (IMHO). Disagree that BS is the best for first time buyers. Blake stitched shoes are not as good as GY welted. CNES makes an amazing shoe. And if you step up to their handwelted line you wont be dissapointed. Carlos Santos is one of my favortite brands. They do great patina work and have an upgraded line if that is your jam. I think TLB Mallorca should have been included. Their Main Line are ~$350 US and are spectacular.
Agreed on TLBM. Honestly the video was originally planned to be something more like Under $300/$325 and went through a couple changes during production, so TLBM's Main Line was not included only for that reason - not because I think low of them. I think very highly of their product. I plan at some point to do videos like this for other price brackets, so they will make their way in at some point. What do you think is best for first time buyers?
@@DressWell.Madaras Interesting question on what is best for first time buyers. While their are less expensive options, I think TLB mainline is hard to beat. $350 USD which includes free shipping and one free size change. Plus Toni sends you and email on your first order to make sure you order the right size the first time. I've tried 40+ different brands in the past year and none is more impressive than TLB. I have not had a bad experience with any brand other than fit issues (which isnt their fault). I'd buy more from TLB if they offered Patina options.
@@mtbokor1969 Great thoughts. For me, priority for first-timers (aside from being a good value to begin with) is being able to freely change sizes, as I think that is where most people end up with a regrettable first-purchase as far as dress shoes go. Honestly I wouldn't even argue that TLB is not the best option, as I think they are a pretty good case if someone is looking to spend that kind of money. I just remember feeling pretty rough about spending around $350 (plus more on shoe care) on my first pair of nice shoes, even though I knew it had to be done. I think many people buying there first pair, probably in their early-mid twenties, would feel similarly. I think BS appeals to a more comfortable price point while still having ease-of-return/exchange, even though they are obviously lower-grade than TLBM. They retail at $220, though nowadays seem to almost always have a sale running for $170 - $200. I am speaking with reference to the U.S. consumer, Dress Well's primary audience. Internationally, BS loses that edge a bit. I would question whether a first-time buyer would even be able to fully appreciate TLBM to the extent that it makes sense to spend the extra money. I certainly would not have - though I might have even been frustrated at the break-in period, not yet understanding that a stiffer leather that requires break-in is part of a quality shoe. Plus the fact that a first-timer buyer is likely to wear through the uppers of their first pair faster, making mistakes as they learn to walk in them, proper shoe care, etc. Good wine is only worth only as much as one has the experience to appreciate it. The messaging in my videos is always a fine line. Videos like this I try to telegraph true and accurate information that teaches a deeper understanding of how to asses value in shoes, but also keep it accessible to those who are buying maybe just their first few pairs, or are simply unfamiliar with the international market and shoes broadly. Is Hand-Welted more valuable than Goodyear Welted? I believe so and for a variety of reasons - some more abstract. For many people watching this video, to delve into 'why' may cause more confusion than help. I assumed most people just want to be sure that Hand-Welted is not something that is particularly worse or different in a potentially regrettable way compared to Goodyear Welt. I picked on BLKBRD a bit too hard and should have given them more credit. They are really doing something quite special. I am not as familiar as I'd like to be with their product, so I'll have to reach out to them at some point. They are clearly on a path to be something really great. I never thought poorly of Carlos Santos, though they just kind of flew under my radar until recently when I started really looking critically at their products. Beyond being great all around, the patinas I think are really what elevate them from a good deal to a uniquely great deal. I look forward to make a dedicated video on them. I'm in love with the Chelseas I've got. I always appreciate your comments. You are far more experienced and knowledgeable than I am in this market and I respect your insight.
@@DressWell.Madaras You are too kind in your cooments about my knowledge. I agree that BS or even Meermin ( good return policy) are a more palatable entry point for a first time buyer. You could argue that BS bc they are blake construction is the best choice since blake tend to need less break in out of the box. So many great brands doing awesome things at various price points. I look forward to more videos for you.
Could you be so kind and please talk about Melvin &Hamilton shoes? They seem to have gained some popularity but I haven't been able to find any good reviews about them. Thanks in advance!
They don't appear to be particularly high quality in terms of construction and materials, but they definitely have unique designs that I don't really see anywhere else.
@@DressWell.Madaras you know what You made me go 600 pound in the red for a pair of Yearn x Arterton Balmoral Oxford. I was holding off from impulse buying Yearn shoes pretty well like a few months, why did you have to make that review
Initially, I found him annoying. After two minutes I was laughing out loud. Then I was learning about shoe construction and why the companies he recommends are good+ quality for decent prices.
With your help, one day I will popular enough that the girl that rejected me in high school will wish she hadn't done so. I have been told this is a very reasonable and healthy framework for orienting my entire adult life. Anyways, here's the links.
BLKBRD: www.blkbrdshoemaker.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLTY0OTg2OTVmMDli
Meermin: meermin.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLTJmOGQwYzJkMjVi
Beckett Simonon: www.beckettsimonon.com/?rfsn=7785546.5a1e2d&
Skolyx: www.skolyx.se/en/57-oxfords
Bridlen: bridlen.com/?ktk=d1Zkc05OLWY3OWVhMTJhMThl
CNES: www.cnes.co/collections/goodyear-welted
Carlos Santos (Code 'DressWell10' starting 7/16/24): www.thenobleshoe.com/en-us/collections/carlos-santos-shoes
My Shoe Care (You can buy anything from these links, too, not just the product associated with the link!)
CHEESE WHEEL: amzn.to/4csPeuC
Shoe Trees: amzn.to/48e5fD0
Boot Trees: amzn.to/48zsNCk
Shoe Horn: amzn.to/3RDnpqM
Horsehair Brush (Budget): amzn.to/3RCxQuF
Horsehair Brush (Mid-Grade): amzn.to/3RvdWSq
Conditioner: amzn.to/3Rzz0qU
Cream Polish: amzn.to/3Rt08rC
Cleanser: amzn.to/3VtzSzn
Wax: amzn.to/3RDWJ9y
Mirror Wax: amzn.to/3RATVKb
Leather Dye: amzn.to/3GUArLB
Sole Edge Iron: arterton.co.uk/products/the-sole-edge-iron?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt&
Luxury Shoe Trees: arterton.co.uk/products/luxury-beechwood-shoe-trees?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt&
Luxury Horsehair Brush: arterton.co.uk/products/horsehair-shoe-brush?sca_ref=6795669.I48JeyCd6o&sca_source=top7-350-cmt&
Thanks for tolerating my begging. Seriously, you guys are the best.
Guarantee you that she already does. Now you just need to send a postcard by mail with yourself posing like one of those french girls plastered on it and mention how she's missing out.
Looking forward to the chelsea boot review. Btw. what do you think of yanko shoes? They are also sold on skolyx and I have their chelseas and chukkas and I love them a lot but idk how high quality they are as I am no shoe expert, they just feel right. Nobody reviews them thoroughly so its hard to know.
You are a very funny fellow and (like me) a maniac about quality 😂 Good for you! Love your videos! Perhaps the girl who rejected you is already cursing herself! 😁😁Greetings from Argentina! 🤩
@@rschweri578 I am not intimately familiar with them, though to my knowledge they are a solid quality for the price. Nothing stands out immediately as super special, though I don't think you are going wrong in any way with them. Finding a last that fits you well is tricky enough, so if you feel really good in them, I'd say stick with them.
@@DressWell.Madaras Thanks for the advice, I've simply heard through many different ytbers that they are pretty high quality but none of them went into detail.
Every time I'm seeing your vids I'm asking myself when your channel will finally blow up. You deserve it, keep it up!
Thank you for saying that!
WHY ARE YOU NOT MORE POPULAR!?!?! Your time stamp descriptions are beautiful.
Thanks for the heads up on the Carlos Santos sale. I was able to snag the last V-front derbies in my size. Been waiting for a couple years to pull the trigger on them. Funny thing is, after I watched the vid and purchased, then I get the e-mail from Kostas. Had I not watched your vid, I may have missed out. Thanks again man!
That's awesome! Yea those ones are great. Their unique designs I think are one of the highlights of what make them such a great value. I'm not a huge Derby guy in general, but those V-Fronts look so cool. Glad you caught them!
Love the humor of this style channel! Meermin Soho is actually a pretty decent store. Buy large to save your feet thought, very stiff.
Love the videos, even when I don't personally agree 100% with your assessments. Great presentation with clear explanation, and that's what matters most. Owning virtually all of the brands you speak about, you make me go back over the shoes for the finer points. Keep up the great work.!
This is my second video of yours that I watched. The first was the Allen Edmonds review. You have earned my subscription from the child labor drop😂😂😂😂.
The children yearn for the mines.
I’ve just stumbled across your channel and wish I had would’ve done so sooner! Amazing production, really engaging as well as very informative. The video alerts are now set and I’m anxious for more!
Thank you very much!
I own a pair of Carlos Santos black oxfords and they are a beauty. they're also the shoe that fits my feet the best. You have by far the best videos my friend. Keep it up!
Sorry to inform you & everyone watching but Meernin’s customer service has not improved. It’s horrendous. I recently had issues regarding the purchase of suede loafers. 2 months later & no less than ten emails exchanged this issue has yet to be resolved. This is an extremely unprofessional company. It’s a shame.
Did you do a chargeback?
@@CoffeeMadeMeSayHi, I’m not sure what that is, a refund?
I'll second that. I ordered a pair of dark brown calf E oxfords. There were visible defects which was a scuff near the vamp and poor milling of the sole. Here was their answer:
"The scuff near the tongue and the stitching at the bottom are characteristics of hand-crafted construction, not defects.
The uneven sanding and rougher areas on the sole are common with Goodyear-welted shoes and do not affect their performance or aesthetics once worn."
Us consumers are not dumb, Meermin. I know it doesn't affect "performance" of the shoe when I wear them around the office. I don't expect them to perform like basketball shoes or hockey skates. Poor craftsmanship and lack of QC is what it is. Instead of treating the customer well, or at the very least acknowledging the poor milling, you give us this BS answer. Not impressed and will not be buying from them again.
Great content! I have tagged a pair of CNES oxfords that I want. I will use your link when I pull the trigger! I’m so glad that I stumbled upon your channel! Keep it up!
Thank you so much!
lol you're one of the best channels on youtube I've subscribed to. I wish I would have discovered you earlier. Now I've spend ~1500Euros on C&J and the lining is already wearing off after ~30 wears. Pretty disappointed from the quality.
Thank you so much!
Love your content so far and the chapter titles are hilarious you got a new sub.
Btw I wore Beckett Simonen beaumont loafers. It took 5 months from the time of ordering to crafting, delivering and receiving them. They fit my feet perfectly and were beautiful.
However they only lasted a half year of regular wear before developing a hole at the toe cap and the outsole needed replacing. A local shoe and leatherworker quoted me repairs that cost more than the loafers themselves.
Not sure if I'll get Beckett again, although it's hard to find loafers that fit well!
Thank you!
Sorry to hear. I don't know how long ago that was, but they do have a 1-year warranty that might cover that. They definitely should last for at least a year or two under normal wear conditions.
Congratz very much on your personality and letting it show on the videos
I do love my Beckett Simonon boots. Been just over a year and I wear them so much
I've bought a bunch of Blkbrd shoes and I'm very happy with them. I've also just bought a pair of Meermin soft calf loafers and they were perfectly comfortable from the start.
this concept reminds me a lot of the iron snail! but im loving it for that! keep it up! 🎉
Thanks! Will do!
Love the video format and amazing content my friend. You gained a subscriber 🙂
Thank you my friend!
I love your unhinged energy!
Love your background in the mountains, but are you wearing your luxury dress socks hiking there? I would be so anxious about prematurely developing holes for wearing $30 Il Regalos on rocky trails!
Thank you! No lol. Sportiva Bushido II with trail running socks.
Saw the intro and was like, “are those the flatirons?”
Watching from Boulder!
YESSSSSSSS
This was amazing to watch
Thank you so much!
You are very welcome!
I got my TLB Mallorcas and I love them aside from slight heel slip. It should go away once I start to wear it more and the underside becomes more flexible. Or so I hope. If I go half size lower it may be too tight. I went with what size they recommended based on foot measurement which also is the size I always wear.
Few people talk about GEOX and I’ve sworn by them for years. They make just about every kind of shoe and while they don’t presently have leather soled shoes, but I use another brand for more formal occasions…unless it’s raining, then it’s GEOX.
Thank you for all the informative content you make! I just found your channel a few days ago and ive already watched almost all the videos youve uploaded.
Do you know if the materials that bridlen uses across their different lines are the same? in other words, do the blakes use the same grades of leather and such as the main line? I have black oxfords from Beckett Siminon, but i was thinking of ordering a few pairs of blakes from bridlen to round out my collection.
Thank you! I actually have a Bridlen Main Line review in progress, ETA about 3 weeks. I'd love to cover their Blake at some point as basically the cheapest-but-still-good-quality stitched shoes in the world. I don't know about the leather. A commenter once said the Blake line uses leather from more local Indian tanneries, presumably a bit cheaper than the premium leather for their Main/Founders line. I have not verified this, though. I also am not sure I would be too worried at $111, unless it was cosmetically dysfunctional, which I'd be surprised to see from them.
They are pretty transparent and good people. I suggest just shooting them an email and they'll probably be happy to share!
I've bought a pair of blackbird harley boots thanks to you. For the price, its quality is punching way above its weight class.
Love your content. Can you do a video on loafers please
Thank you! I'd love to do a video on loafers. What would you like to see/hear/know about?
Wonderfully odd as always. You never fail to make me smile
Hahahaha when I heard blackbird I instantly thought SR-71 lmfao. I was like no way was I actually right 😂
where was this filimed? incredible scenery.
Boulder, Colorado!
Dude, you are hilarious. Been watching your channel almost since it's inception. Always a good watch. BTW, it's not pronounced as 'gemming', like previous gem. The 'g' is more like how you say 'game' or 'girl'. I am also a bit of a shoe nerd like yourself.
Thanks for the tip!
Lol you like to mentioned “A company from India” on most of your videos. But anyway, this is really a good informations. I also like the video where you gave us details on best stitching at low prices vs expensive, not so great stitching.
Great content! If you need inspiration for a new short video, may I suggest something about the "number" fold tie? What does this mean? What are the difference between a 3 fold tie and a 7 fold tie? Thanks!
What is your opinion on Thursday dress shoes?
Meh, they are kind of ugly. I like Thursday in general, but all good boot companies tend to fall flat when they make attempts at dress shoes. Grant Stone is very highly regarded for their boots, but their dress shoes are just not great. Dress shoe design is a very different animal that rugged/casual boot design. I'd stick with BS, BLKRBRD, or Bridlen over Thursday for both Blake and GYW - and around a similar price.
@@DressWell.Madarassounds es like a Grant Stone review is due
Accurate chapters.
Keep putting out the content.
The extent to which this channel pushes the BLKBRD shoe brand from India in every single video is curious to me...
Pretty sure bro is an Indian himself
Great vid, is that promo code for Carlos Santos still available?
Unfortunately not, though they do sales occasionally.
Iron Snail on steroids😁Keep it up, I enjoyed your video!
7:14 halo music! Sweet!
The chaotic energy 👌🤌
I believe you are not an AE fan, but I am having been to their factory to see them made. The 5th Ave with dainites are frequently on sale for $250. At that price, I think its a great choice.
I am probably not, but this channel is a place for everyone and anyone to share their thoughts and opinions, whether or not they align with my own. I always appreciate you sharing yours. Thank you!
Excellent video
Awesome, i hope you make more videos
Thank you, I will!
I've had a pair of Carlos Santos wholecuts since December, and have worn them 4 times, but the wrinkles on them look like they've been through a war.
Might have been unlucky of course, but the leather on them is probably the worst out of any oxfords / goodyear shoes I've owned.
Dang. Not a single one of these shoemakers sells a size 15. There is no hope here my large footed brethren. The search continues...
Email BLKBRD. They do custom upon request and might be able to do it with little to no upcharge: web@blackbirdshoes.com
Bridlen does a 15uk, but the selection is very limited (check out MOD last)
Anyone heard of Lluis before? They do dress shoes for ~$250 AUD (~165 USD). Seems too good to be true.
A long time ago I bought a pair of Florsheim Lexington Plain Toe shoes. I loved them. I tried replacing them but nope. Florsheim is junk.
This whole thing was unhinged and very entertaining
Keep grinding
Bloody hell.. mate you are an actor… 😮
Looks like Boulder, Colorado to me.
Goodyear welting isn’t superior by default but per task. I’d much rather a Blake stitched loafer for instance. Whereas it sucks for boots.
I agree I don't think it's a huge deal either way, but I definitely prefer GYW for Boots.
My opinion on the open channel thing is that I had a pair of Meermin shoes and you see the stiches pretty soon after wearing them, it still looks better, even worn in, than a open channel, but does it really add durability?
I think it does. It may or may not add to the longevity in a significant way, though definitely a little simply as a function of providing more protection to the stitch than an open channel. The longevity will depend on how the channel is made during production, the quality of the glue, the quality of the sealing, etc. Ultimately the value of a closed channel I would say is at least equally, if not more so, related to the craftsmanship it represents rather than the durability. It's a sign of quality.
Was this filmed at snowbird Utah ?
Boulder, Colorado!
I ordered wholecuts from this company. I hope that I will like them
What was your bridlen size compared to Allen Edmonds and Beckett Simon?
UK7 US8 all around. Standard width D.
I too love Carlos Snatos
@@dsdf_fdp1858 Glad to hear!
I had to stop watching but for a good reason. You are doing the most to keep us entertained, and so it's my duty to mention that I like your videos the most out of all the shoe reviewers I currently subscribe to. Dude, you did not need to crawl under the rock :-D suppose there was a scorpion under there. Also, you titled the timeline; who does that the way you did??? LOLOLOLOLOL
Thursday has dress shoes in their lineup, though the variety is pretty small. They have one style of loafer, double monk straps, full brouge and half brouge oxfords, and 2 different cap toe oxfords with no brogue. One of the cap toes is about $165, goodyear welted, and more american in style and the other is $180, blake stiched, and more italian in style. I have a pair of the blake stiched in a medium brown and they are decent for the price. The leather is definitely not stiff like meermin but my biggest issue is that the leather has become a bit splotchy looking after 1 1/2 years. I’m not quite sure if it’s the leather choice or Thursday’s QC. The leather started with varied lighter and dark coloring so I believe it is due to that. The solid shaded leather will probably not do this but I do not have another pair to compare it to. Overall pretty decent for the price, but if I get another pair from Thursday, it’ll likely be the goodyear welted model.
Always entertaining and informative to watch your vids, even for us Europeans (if a company does not have shipping from inside the EU, it is simply a nogo, as import fees in total are easily 100% of purchase price plus shipping combined! The 200 dollar shoe plus 40 dollar shipping is thus a 480 dollar shoe). So, I require two things to be intered in a shoemaker: 1. Shipping from inside the EU and 2. rubber soles. No Vibram or Danite rubber sole? Forget it. Save the sales pitch for the beginners. ANd so, I will now check out Noble Shoes, but no rubber sole version? No thanks.
I have multiple models with a rubber sole on the store.
Thank you for the comment! I try to be inclusive of my international audience, though ultimately I don't speak much to shipping fees/duties/import fees only because I am very unfamiliar with how that all works over there and would probably do more harm than help to try and do so.
@@DressWell.Madaras You are doing just great brother and I am sure your entertaining and informative style will get the subs with time. You are a fresh take on the subject of men's style!
Exactly the video i needed
This guy is great
Make a video on brands that have wide shoes and 13 (US) and over sizes. Nobody covers this….I sit through great reviews only to find out these brands max out at 11 or 12
God, I want to hear your review of the park that you shot this vid in lol!
Thanks Bill!
Do you like paul evans?
Meh. Just seems generic and overpriced. Something you'd see at Nordstrom. Not awful, but no real reason to buy it imo.
It sounds like Beckett Simotton is the best bag for your money overall.
BLKBRD is a great brand. I struggled finding a last that I liked the fit. Their pricing is incredible for hand welted shoes which is better than good year welted (IMHO). Disagree that BS is the best for first time buyers. Blake stitched shoes are not as good as GY welted. CNES makes an amazing shoe. And if you step up to their handwelted line you wont be dissapointed. Carlos Santos is one of my favortite brands. They do great patina work and have an upgraded line if that is your jam. I think TLB Mallorca should have been included. Their Main Line are ~$350 US and are spectacular.
Agreed on TLBM. Honestly the video was originally planned to be something more like Under $300/$325 and went through a couple changes during production, so TLBM's Main Line was not included only for that reason - not because I think low of them. I think very highly of their product. I plan at some point to do videos like this for other price brackets, so they will make their way in at some point.
What do you think is best for first time buyers?
@@DressWell.Madaras Interesting question on what is best for first time buyers. While their are less expensive options, I think TLB mainline is hard to beat. $350 USD which includes free shipping and one free size change. Plus Toni sends you and email on your first order to make sure you order the right size the first time. I've tried 40+ different brands in the past year and none is more impressive than TLB. I have not had a bad experience with any brand other than fit issues (which isnt their fault). I'd buy more from TLB if they offered Patina options.
@@mtbokor1969 Great thoughts. For me, priority for first-timers (aside from being a good value to begin with) is being able to freely change sizes, as I think that is where most people end up with a regrettable first-purchase as far as dress shoes go.
Honestly I wouldn't even argue that TLB is not the best option, as I think they are a pretty good case if someone is looking to spend that kind of money. I just remember feeling pretty rough about spending around $350 (plus more on shoe care) on my first pair of nice shoes, even though I knew it had to be done. I think many people buying there first pair, probably in their early-mid twenties, would feel similarly. I think BS appeals to a more comfortable price point while still having ease-of-return/exchange, even though they are obviously lower-grade than TLBM. They retail at $220, though nowadays seem to almost always have a sale running for $170 - $200. I am speaking with reference to the U.S. consumer, Dress Well's primary audience. Internationally, BS loses that edge a bit.
I would question whether a first-time buyer would even be able to fully appreciate TLBM to the extent that it makes sense to spend the extra money. I certainly would not have - though I might have even been frustrated at the break-in period, not yet understanding that a stiffer leather that requires break-in is part of a quality shoe. Plus the fact that a first-timer buyer is likely to wear through the uppers of their first pair faster, making mistakes as they learn to walk in them, proper shoe care, etc. Good wine is only worth only as much as one has the experience to appreciate it.
The messaging in my videos is always a fine line. Videos like this I try to telegraph true and accurate information that teaches a deeper understanding of how to asses value in shoes, but also keep it accessible to those who are buying maybe just their first few pairs, or are simply unfamiliar with the international market and shoes broadly. Is Hand-Welted more valuable than Goodyear Welted? I believe so and for a variety of reasons - some more abstract. For many people watching this video, to delve into 'why' may cause more confusion than help. I assumed most people just want to be sure that Hand-Welted is not something that is particularly worse or different in a potentially regrettable way compared to Goodyear Welt.
I picked on BLKBRD a bit too hard and should have given them more credit. They are really doing something quite special. I am not as familiar as I'd like to be with their product, so I'll have to reach out to them at some point. They are clearly on a path to be something really great.
I never thought poorly of Carlos Santos, though they just kind of flew under my radar until recently when I started really looking critically at their products. Beyond being great all around, the patinas I think are really what elevate them from a good deal to a uniquely great deal. I look forward to make a dedicated video on them. I'm in love with the Chelseas I've got.
I always appreciate your comments. You are far more experienced and knowledgeable than I am in this market and I respect your insight.
@@DressWell.Madaras You are too kind in your cooments about my knowledge. I agree that BS or even Meermin ( good return policy) are a more palatable entry point for a first time buyer. You could argue that BS bc they are blake construction is the best choice since blake tend to need less break in out of the box. So many great brands doing awesome things at various price points. I look forward to more videos for you.
Could you be so kind and please talk about Melvin &Hamilton shoes? They seem to have gained some popularity but I haven't been able to find any good reviews about them. Thanks in advance!
They don't appear to be particularly high quality in terms of construction and materials, but they definitely have unique designs that I don't really see anywhere else.
@@DressWell.Madaras Thank you very much! Your reply is much appreciated!
It's a matter of time until you're at tens or hundreds of thousands of subscribers.
Thank you for saying this!!!
hilarious chapter list
Fantastic video!
Thank you very much!
Beckett Simonon is awesome!
This is Dr. Mike RP of the well
Dressed world.
What a compliment!
I'm not as fat as I look either 😂
Papa bless! (Family)
Wow and I thought $300. was a lot for a pair of shoes.
Why did you crawl under that huge boulder?
I wish most of these didn't have the gross square toe on the wholecuts. Deal breaker for me.
good to see you crazy MF! You have a big comedic talent - you are hilarious!
the weird jumping around in the woods is just not for me.
Yes😅
Subscribed
these are peak timestamps
Bro Blackbird was developed by Lockheed 🦅🦅🦅🇺🇸🇺🇸
🚀🚀🦅🗽LOCKHEED MENTIONED🗽🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅🦅🦅🦅🚀🚀🚀🇺🇸🇺🇸 RAHHHHH🦅🦅🚀🚀🗽🗽🍔
@@DressWell.Madaras you know what
You made me go 600 pound in the red for a pair of Yearn x Arterton Balmoral Oxford.
I was holding off from impulse buying Yearn shoes pretty well like a few months, why did you have to make that review
@@keki4578 Are they good though?
@@BothellPlaysMusic I can answer in 5-6 weeks
You are well funny ^^
Initially, I found him annoying. After two minutes I was laughing out loud. Then I was learning about shoe construction and why the companies he recommends are good+ quality for decent prices.
🧑🏫 include this emoji in your next video, not sure what it is but I think you'll find a way
Bs video