It’s worth calling Crown and asking Chris for advice. He will try and help you. I drove down to the factory before I ordered (I only live an hour and a half drive away). Chris measured my feet in multiple places and is modifying a last. I didn’t know it but I have quiet chunky feet so the regular narrower shoes wouldn’t work for me. Laughably all my life I’ve wondered why I don’t fit a size uk9 properly when I’m a smidge over 8 1/2. Too wide even though they don’t look it. So will see how my hand stitch buffalo in blue ink fit in a 9 weeks or so. All the best.
I appreciate the suggestion, crown seem to be a company who cares. Sadly being in Australia, a call is challenging, and an email seems a bit complainty. By the same token, ignoring the problem isn't the solution either. Appreciate your push! Best of luck, getting a shoe that fits properly is quite the experience! Haha 😆 I find most of us don't know until we know. Let me know how they fit!
I have a pair of their white calf sneakers. I wore thinner crew socks when breaking them in, then wear no show socks after they are broken in. No more blister issues when I did the break in this way. The pro is definitely good quality material and very robust soft insole/outsole. I prefer these over my common projects because the Crown insole/outsole is much more comfy for me. CP outsoles are just too thin for me. I personally really wouldn’t wear these bare feet without socks. Best part for me is break them in once, I can keep on getting them resoled potentially indefinitely. I have quite a few shoes in my rotation so I can probably go at least 4-5 years without resole. I should be ordering another pair in shell cordovan from them soon.
Its lovely to hear a good experience with them! I am glad that they've broken into your feet! I'm working my way there, and this gives me a bit of hope. I dont typically go bare feet either, it is more just me trying every way I can think of to get them to be comfortable! I do love the materials and you're right they're going to last 10x longer than other sneakers. Just want to wear them lol.
I’m really surprised it is taking you this long to break them in. Are you sure you have the right sizing? I am 8E on US brannock size, or 7 G fitting in UK sizing. For reference, I wear 6.5 for Crockett and Jones Boston Loafer. Originally, I made a mistake and ordered Crown in 7.5 G fitting, but they were 1/2 size too large. I ended up exchanging them for 7 G fitting, or 1/2 size up from CJ. No issues after the exchange. Crown’s customer service was really helpful during the entire experience. I even spoke to Chris, their owner, on one of the calls. He is a very nice guy that seems to really care about providing awesome customer service. If you are really having issues with blisters I would recommend to give them a call and see what they can do for you.
Its an interesting question. I appreciate that Crown's customer service has been outstanding from anyone whos had to speak with them. And you're right its a good idea to speak with them and something I intend to do. In saying that, its been 3 years so its gross negligence on my part and I don't expect them to be able to fix anything. I've purchased some inners (which are awful so far) to see if raising my foot up helps with the ankle blisters, but the length/ width seems to be what I'd consider a good fit.
Thanks for sharing this! I had two pair of original Greats that were too high in the sidewall / foot opening area and rubbed against my ankle bone. I tried every insole type and thickness under the sun. Nothing worked for me and I parted ways with them. This is what holds me back from trying Crown. I’m very happy with my Common Projects and M.Gemi sneakers, which have a lower height. I hope you’re able to modify or sufficiently break these in, they are great looking sneakers!
Thanks for the comment. I remember Greats! They were huge in the 'early' days of the white sneaker revolution. Though it saddens me to hear you tried insoles and it didn't work! That looks like my next step, so I'm hopeful they work for me. Sounds like Crown might just not be for you. As you say, plenty of options out there, if not at the same level of quality and construction. These things are a piece of artwork.
Since these are leather shoes, I'm wondering if adding leather conditioner would soften them up. Basically add conditioner around the ankle area and wear them. I have Lucchese boots and that's usually the procedure when stretching them out. Sometimes you can get it done in store with mechanical intervention but I prefer doing it by wearing them so the boots fits like a glove.
Hey Jessup hope all's well mate. I just wanted to give an update on my sneaker journey. Basically due to what I consider really bad quality control, I have now dropped Crown Northampton (CN) and refunded the new pairs of shells, due to them being somehow differently constructed to my first pair in a way that caused me real pain while wearing them. I still have the first pair and they are still comfortable, so I have no idea why the new pairs were so different. Anyway, I have now purchased a pair of GORAL MELLOR II in Mastrotto Adrio Bianco white leather with gum sole and wow... the difference to me is dramatic. The GORAL are far better looking (imo better than common projects) than CN, far more anatomical and far more comfortable than CN, while still being "made in the UK" to a very high standard. Yes the quality of materials is a bit less in some areas than CN (eg: no oak bark counter), but Goral have said they will also do custom orders where you can request shell cordovan and different colour cup soles. I highly recommend giving them a try. :)
Hello, thanks for the comment and the update. As sad as it begins, I'm glad that you've got a good outcome for your soles! A real shame about the negative experiences with Crown. It seems there aren't few. I'd 100% be into Goral next, as I agree they seem the true logical successor to the promise offered here. Sadly I don't really want to spend more $$ on more sneakers when the $$$$$$ pair I have aren't serving me well. A shame. I'd get a pair just to review to be like "here look better" - or i hope. lol.
Jessup, do you think if you sized down half a size you'd have a better fit? There appears to be a fair bit of extra leather and empty space in the rear end of the shoe. Not sure if you went up half a size but I found the shoe to fit much better at True to Size which is how I also size my crockett and jones harvard
Its an interesting thought, I've been considering it a bit and it is possible that a half size (my normal C&J size) might have been the right call. But looking at my foot pattern in the footbed (its quite a clear footprint) and then feeling the shoe itself I don't think so. I just put them on and there really isn't the space. They're actually really comfortable if I don't have to move at all haha, if that helps.
Jessup thanks for the update. I notice you still don't mention anything about trying an orthotic leather insole which I thought id mentioned in a previous comment. An orthotic insole raises your foot and provides greater comfort and less chafing. Please go to your local shoe store and try one they usually cost around 12-15 usd
Hi mate, yes I haven't forgotten! It's a strategy that I hope to employ to get them comfortable. Without them on hand I hand got round to purchasing one. Will do so now!
@@jessupsaysFrom my conversation with Chris the owner, they also can offer custom measuring by shipping some equipment to you and keep a copy of your footprint for future purchases. But it’s only for people have very special needs, and there’ll be extra fees. Only online shoe store who does that as far as I know.
Thanks for sharing. I know they're very willing to make customisations. I guess all I'm doing is sharing my experience as I try figure that out. And as you say custom is expensive to a pair of sneakers that are already extremely expensive, right?
I love your videos ✨ since you own a variety of expensive leather shoes, I would love to see a video on your shoe care. Like how you care for them exactly, which products you use, your routine and that sort of stuff. Keep up the good work 👏
Thank you so much. I truly appreciate the comment and love. Alright, I will think about how to make it in a way that makes sense and is different to the 000s of other shoe care videos! Thanks for the suggestion! Look out for the video soon!
@@jessupsays the rubbing of the ankle and Achilles. From experience, anytime I've worn that design from other brands, it rubs. If I'm paying $400 for shoes. None of those problems should exist. Which is a shame cause they make beautiful shoes.
From my experience I have a feeling these have to soften up! Maybe just wear taller athletic socks with them for a week or so? Won’t look as cool, but maybe that would prep them for a nice summer?
Dude. I've tried every type of sock. From no-show to Darn tough. And only the Darn tough have made a difference. Sock-less also can be okay but its 50:50. The weekend I was talking about, it was with Uniqlo Crew Socks. I am hopeful that they'll come around, but its blisters or insanely hot feet.
Shoot! I thought for sure a thick pair would make them cooperate! That stinks they have been this much of a struggle. Do the forums talk about others struggling with the shoe to make it comfortable?@@jessupsays
Right. Such a pain, but its my pain to bear! I've had people comment on other videos about similar issues. But haven't looked at Forums. My guess is there isn't that many in the wild so not a lot of feedback. But again I haven't looked lol. It is what it is! Hopefully they break in. The counter is no joke.
I have several pair of crownnorthampton sneakers, I don't have your issue of blister,s zero! It can happen also with dress or country shoes, because of the stiffness and durability of the leather, because of the super durable construction. And because of that doesn't means shoes are bad, is a characteristic of the quality! do we prefer made in china by child plastics shoes because are soft? to me absolutely not.
I agree with you points completely. I would still choose to support Crown over anyone. Plus, as you say, they're stiff because of the choices of materials. Its not a bad thing.
I do wear socks? And I want to wear no socks sometimes. That's my prerogative as a person who spent big money on these shoes. But I can confirm to you, no matter how thick the socks. They are the same.
@@jessupsays hey while i can understand your point of "to each his own", i don't think its fair to judge a shoe based on its ability to be worn sock-less as all shoes are made to be worn with socks, or at least no-show socks. it's like saying just because you purchase a $4000 full leather jacket, you'd expect them to be comfortable even without wearing any shirt underneath.
As per my above comment. I wear them regularly with socks. Socks isn't the issue (it persist today). Regardless of thick or thin socks. Clearly my writing on this one wasn't clear enough on that point lol
@@jessupsays yes i've read your point on you wearing socks of all thickness (in fact i've read almost all the comments on this video because i've purchased this exact pair of shoes and wanted to know what to expect), i'm just specifically referring to your point where you expect that expensive shoes should have the ability to be worn sock-less. for what its worth, i think you got unlucky or perhaps your feet just doesn't suit the shape of the shoe which is a bummer no doubt given its price tag. i've had mine for a few months now and have had no issues although i did wear mine with socks always.
Yes that's a fair point. Re my desire, though I still do feel that way. Maybe I'm hoping for to much of a shoe that isn't really broken in. Genuinely glad to hear you're having more luck than I did! And others it seems. Thanks for sharing though, it's not a don't buy these it's a "be aware of this" based on my feet, view. They're still unbelievably good looking shoes either way 😆
It’s worth calling Crown and asking Chris for advice. He will try and help you. I drove down to the factory before I ordered (I only live an hour and a half drive away). Chris measured my feet in multiple places and is modifying a last. I didn’t know it but I have quiet chunky feet so the regular narrower shoes wouldn’t work for me. Laughably all my life I’ve wondered why I don’t fit a size uk9 properly when I’m a smidge over 8 1/2. Too wide even though they don’t look it. So will see how my hand stitch buffalo in blue ink fit in a 9 weeks or so. All the best.
I appreciate the suggestion, crown seem to be a company who cares. Sadly being in Australia, a call is challenging, and an email seems a bit complainty. By the same token, ignoring the problem isn't the solution either. Appreciate your push!
Best of luck, getting a shoe that fits properly is quite the experience! Haha 😆 I find most of us don't know until we know. Let me know how they fit!
Thanks for the reply mate. Enjoy the videos keep up the great work.
Finally, I found a real review that's not completely glazing CN.
Hahaha 🤣 fair and true. All I can be is honest from my perspective. Glad you appreciate it
I have a pair of their white calf sneakers. I wore thinner crew socks when breaking them in, then wear no show socks after they are broken in. No more blister issues when I did the break in this way. The pro is definitely good quality material and very robust soft insole/outsole. I prefer these over my common projects because the Crown insole/outsole is much more comfy for me. CP outsoles are just too thin for me.
I personally really wouldn’t wear these bare feet without socks. Best part for me is break them in once, I can keep on getting them resoled potentially indefinitely. I have quite a few shoes in my rotation so I can probably go at least 4-5 years without resole. I should be ordering another pair in shell cordovan from them soon.
Its lovely to hear a good experience with them! I am glad that they've broken into your feet! I'm working my way there, and this gives me a bit of hope.
I dont typically go bare feet either, it is more just me trying every way I can think of to get them to be comfortable!
I do love the materials and you're right they're going to last 10x longer than other sneakers. Just want to wear them lol.
I’m really surprised it is taking you this long to break them in. Are you sure you have the right sizing? I am 8E on US brannock size, or 7 G fitting in UK sizing. For reference, I wear 6.5 for Crockett and Jones Boston Loafer.
Originally, I made a mistake and ordered Crown in 7.5 G fitting, but they were 1/2 size too large. I ended up exchanging them for 7 G fitting, or 1/2 size up from CJ. No issues after the exchange. Crown’s customer service was really helpful during the entire experience. I even spoke to Chris, their owner, on one of the calls. He is a very nice guy that seems to really care about providing awesome customer service. If you are really having issues with blisters I would recommend to give them a call and see what they can do for you.
Its an interesting question. I appreciate that Crown's customer service has been outstanding from anyone whos had to speak with them. And you're right its a good idea to speak with them and something I intend to do. In saying that, its been 3 years so its gross negligence on my part and I don't expect them to be able to fix anything.
I've purchased some inners (which are awful so far) to see if raising my foot up helps with the ankle blisters, but the length/ width seems to be what I'd consider a good fit.
Thanks for sharing this! I had two pair of original Greats that were too high in the sidewall / foot opening area and rubbed against my ankle bone. I tried every insole type and thickness under the sun. Nothing worked for me and I parted ways with them. This is what holds me back from trying Crown. I’m very happy with my Common Projects and M.Gemi sneakers, which have a lower height. I hope you’re able to modify or sufficiently break these in, they are great looking sneakers!
Thanks for the comment. I remember Greats! They were huge in the 'early' days of the white sneaker revolution. Though it saddens me to hear you tried insoles and it didn't work! That looks like my next step, so I'm hopeful they work for me.
Sounds like Crown might just not be for you. As you say, plenty of options out there, if not at the same level of quality and construction. These things are a piece of artwork.
Since these are leather shoes, I'm wondering if adding leather conditioner would soften them up. Basically add conditioner around the ankle area and wear them. I have Lucchese boots and that's usually the procedure when stretching them out. Sometimes you can get it done in store with mechanical intervention but I prefer doing it by wearing them so the boots fits like a glove.
Good suggestion! I've done that on the exterior a few times, but not internally. Worth a shot! I appreciate the comment!
Hey Jessup hope all's well mate. I just wanted to give an update on my sneaker journey. Basically due to what I consider really bad quality control, I have now dropped Crown Northampton (CN) and refunded the new pairs of shells, due to them being somehow differently constructed to my first pair in a way that caused me real pain while wearing them. I still have the first pair and they are still comfortable, so I have no idea why the new pairs were so different. Anyway, I have now purchased a pair of GORAL MELLOR II in Mastrotto Adrio Bianco white leather with gum sole and wow... the difference to me is dramatic. The GORAL are far better looking (imo better than common projects) than CN, far more anatomical and far more comfortable than CN, while still being "made in the UK" to a very high standard. Yes the quality of materials is a bit less in some areas than CN (eg: no oak bark counter), but Goral have said they will also do custom orders where you can request shell cordovan and different colour cup soles. I highly recommend giving them a try. :)
Hello, thanks for the comment and the update. As sad as it begins, I'm glad that you've got a good outcome for your soles! A real shame about the negative experiences with Crown. It seems there aren't few.
I'd 100% be into Goral next, as I agree they seem the true logical successor to the promise offered here. Sadly I don't really want to spend more $$ on more sneakers when the $$$$$$ pair I have aren't serving me well. A shame.
I'd get a pair just to review to be like "here look better" - or i hope. lol.
Jessup, do you think if you sized down half a size you'd have a better fit? There appears to be a fair bit of extra leather and empty space in the rear end of the shoe. Not sure if you went up half a size but I found the shoe to fit much better at True to Size which is how I also size my crockett and jones harvard
Its an interesting thought, I've been considering it a bit and it is possible that a half size (my normal C&J size) might have been the right call. But looking at my foot pattern in the footbed (its quite a clear footprint) and then feeling the shoe itself I don't think so. I just put them on and there really isn't the space.
They're actually really comfortable if I don't have to move at all haha, if that helps.
Jessup thanks for the update. I notice you still don't mention anything about trying an orthotic leather insole which I thought id mentioned in a previous comment. An orthotic insole raises your foot and provides greater comfort and less chafing. Please go to your local shoe store and try one they usually cost around 12-15 usd
They do provide arch support insole if you ask for it.
Hi mate, yes I haven't forgotten! It's a strategy that I hope to employ to get them comfortable. Without them on hand I hand got round to purchasing one. Will do so now!
Crown directly? I didn't know that. But I appreciate you letting me know!
@@jessupsaysFrom my conversation with Chris the owner, they also can offer custom measuring by shipping some equipment to you and keep a copy of your footprint for future purchases. But it’s only for people have very special needs, and there’ll be extra fees. Only online shoe store who does that as far as I know.
Thanks for sharing. I know they're very willing to make customisations. I guess all I'm doing is sharing my experience as I try figure that out. And as you say custom is expensive to a pair of sneakers that are already extremely expensive, right?
I love your videos ✨ since you own a variety of expensive leather shoes, I would love to see a video on your shoe care. Like how you care for them exactly, which products you use, your routine and that sort of stuff. Keep up the good work 👏
Thank you so much. I truly appreciate the comment and love. Alright, I will think about how to make it in a way that makes sense and is different to the 000s of other shoe care videos!
Thanks for the suggestion! Look out for the video soon!
This covers exactly my concern. Not getting these then
Happy to have helped! What part concerned you most?
@@jessupsays the rubbing of the ankle and Achilles. From experience, anytime I've worn that design from other brands, it rubs. If I'm paying $400 for shoes. None of those problems should exist. Which is a shame cause they make beautiful shoes.
Far is fair. Couldn't said it better myself. Such lovely shoes. A shame they're painful to wear
From my experience I have a feeling these have to soften up! Maybe just wear taller athletic socks with them for a week or so? Won’t look as cool, but maybe that would prep them for a nice summer?
Dude. I've tried every type of sock. From no-show to Darn tough. And only the Darn tough have made a difference. Sock-less also can be okay but its 50:50.
The weekend I was talking about, it was with Uniqlo Crew Socks.
I am hopeful that they'll come around, but its blisters or insanely hot feet.
Shoot! I thought for sure a thick pair would make them cooperate! That stinks they have been this much of a struggle. Do the forums talk about others struggling with the shoe to make it comfortable?@@jessupsays
Right. Such a pain, but its my pain to bear! I've had people comment on other videos about similar issues. But haven't looked at Forums. My guess is there isn't that many in the wild so not a lot of feedback. But again I haven't looked lol. It is what it is! Hopefully they break in. The counter is no joke.
my solution: thorlo padded socks. I wear them with all my boots, too, same reason :)
Great suggestion, I have a pair somewhere I'll give them a shot!
The veg tan leather is much stiffer and slower to break in than the standard calf leather.
This is absolutely true hahaha
Stan Smith fits the bill. Why pay more?
Tons of reasons! Haha 😂 how long do they last vs a leather sneaker. Plus I'm not a huge Stan Smith guy aesthetically? If you love them, then I'm glad!
I have several pair of crownnorthampton sneakers, I don't have your issue of blister,s zero! It can happen also with dress or country shoes, because of the stiffness and durability of the leather, because of the super durable construction. And because of that doesn't means shoes are bad, is a characteristic of the quality! do we prefer made in china by child plastics shoes because are soft? to me absolutely not.
I agree with you points completely. I would still choose to support Crown over anyone. Plus, as you say, they're stiff because of the choices of materials. Its not a bad thing.
Dude. Wear socks and you won’t get blisters. WTH?
Hahaha 🤣 I've tried literally every type of sock I own. The photo was from a day wearing Uniqlo socks
@@jessupsays You need to wear socks that cover all of the part of your feet that touch the shoes. Seriously it's that simple.
@@davidjoseph4459if you seriously believe having watched this video that I haven't tried that, I don't know what to say. lol.
How about you start wearing socks? No shoe maker make a sneaker to be worn sock-less
I do wear socks? And I want to wear no socks sometimes. That's my prerogative as a person who spent big money on these shoes. But I can confirm to you, no matter how thick the socks. They are the same.
@@jessupsays hey while i can understand your point of "to each his own", i don't think its fair to judge a shoe based on its ability to be worn sock-less as all shoes are made to be worn with socks, or at least no-show socks. it's like saying just because you purchase a $4000 full leather jacket, you'd expect them to be comfortable even without wearing any shirt underneath.
As per my above comment. I wear them regularly with socks. Socks isn't the issue (it persist today). Regardless of thick or thin socks. Clearly my writing on this one wasn't clear enough on that point lol
@@jessupsays yes i've read your point on you wearing socks of all thickness (in fact i've read almost all the comments on this video because i've purchased this exact pair of shoes and wanted to know what to expect), i'm just specifically referring to your point where you expect that expensive shoes should have the ability to be worn sock-less.
for what its worth, i think you got unlucky or perhaps your feet just doesn't suit the shape of the shoe which is a bummer no doubt given its price tag. i've had mine for a few months now and have had no issues although i did wear mine with socks always.
Yes that's a fair point. Re my desire, though I still do feel that way. Maybe I'm hoping for to much of a shoe that isn't really broken in.
Genuinely glad to hear you're having more luck than I did! And others it seems. Thanks for sharing though, it's not a don't buy these it's a "be aware of this" based on my feet, view. They're still unbelievably good looking shoes either way 😆
The leather looks like it's turning yellow. No longer the minimalistic sneaker that matches everything.
It is a bit. A fair call. It's still beige but it's not white anymore at all.
I’d never buy these shoes. They look super uncomfortable.
Hahahaha very fair
Try them first.
@@vaiospanagos7305 They are Made to Order
The moment you said vegan and ethical, I knew these shoes were doomed.
Lol 😂 I don't remember that bit
@@jessupsays Yep, nope I was making up things in my head sorry 😂
Hahahahaha 😂😂😂😂 fair enough