10 Brands of Men's Dress Shoes to Avoid in 2020

As you know from this channel, we are all about quality, craftsmanship and investing in shoes that can be refurbished and worn for years and years. After years of working on shoes, we have compiled our list of 10 brands that we think you should avoid in 2020 and beyond...unless quality improves. These brands, as a whole, lack quality in materials, craftsmanship and the ability to be refurbished over and over.
Here are a few of the brands we think you should consider:
* Beckett Simonon - www.beckettsimonon.com/?rfsn=...
* Apoint - www.apointbrand.com/collectio...
* Thursday Boots - thursdayboots.com/collections...
* Meermin - meermin.com/
* Allen Edmonds - allenedmonds.com
* Loake - sold through outside retailers (in-store & online)
Looking to have your shoes refurbished? Check here:
www.potterandsons.com
Looking for the BEST shoe creams, soaps, waxes, brushes, shoe trees...and much more? Find it all here:
www.potterandsons.com
INSTAGRAM:
/ potterandsons
/ southernpolished
Video edited by: Ashley Saldanha

[@balooo2863]

Thank you for this. I grew up poor and my mother would always say “ poor people cannot afford cheap clothes”. She took us to the second hand store and understood how to pick quality. Lessons I never forgot.

[@DittoMike1]

Your mom was completely correct. My grandmother told me you purchase the best shoes and accessories you can afford. She also said " if they wear cheap shoes or their mother has silver plate flatware, they will cheat you in the divorce settlement". I digress.

[@balooo2863]

@@DittoMike1 Sorry for the bitterness left by the cheap flatware dude.

[@robgoodsight6216]

I absolutely agree. When I buy shoes I look at the sole, weight...leather...once bought your investment needs to repay you in time.

[@DittoMike1]

Hey Ty, nah no bitterness, just her wit... lol. However her wisdom was spot on I literally have shoes I purchased 30 years ago that look and wear wonderfully.

[@dscrappygolani7981]

Smart mom. My regards to the lady. No, I didn't grow up poor. In fact, we are comfortably off. But we didn't get to be where we are by stuffing our closets with cheap junk either. Your mom gave you the most valuable gift of all; common sense.

[@stomachfat]

10. Cole Haan 1:00 9. Bostonian 2:04 8. Aldo 2:30 7: Florsheim 3:20 6. Steve Madden 4:38 5. Kenneth Cole 5:18 4. Calvin Klein 5:47 3. Johnston & Murphy 6:52 2. Joseph Abboud 8:00 1. Stacy Adams 9:11 I'm going proper shoe shopping now that I'm 30; I realized I need proper shoe education now that I'm invest a bunch : )

[@andrehb]

thanks dude

[@ah5721]

I had a pair of womens madden shoes for 5 years. I wore them often for church and nice events. However they did fall apart.

[@qazmko22]

Thanks..!!

[@iserved8840]

No not Stacy Adam

[@SnD340]

Lol So any dress shoe from macys/Dillard's. They are pretty much claiming that you should only buy top handmade high quality leather as the base standard haha. Cole Haan are well over 100 dollars and is very expensive for the average folk. You are insisting to not buy that shoe as it's a waste of money. Instead buy a 300-400 dollar dress shoe?

[@jyobaccio1]

I am so happy I found your site! I have had huge issues with shoe buying for 20 years!

[@mlambm]

I obviously don't wear men's shoes but I still love your videos. It is so rare to see craftsmen at the top of their game who enjoy what they do. I also appreciate your honesty. Keep up the good work!

[@pjposullivan]

That top ten in short: 10. Cole Haan 9. Bostonian 8. Aldo 7. Florsheim 6. Steve Madden 5. Kenneth Cole 4. Calvin Klein 3. Johnston & Murphy 2. Joseph Abboud 1. Stacy Adams

[@yankeedoodle6293]

Peter O'Sullivan thank you for saving me time. Happy new year!

[@johnw9177]

Peter O'Sullivan sadly, I've owned 6 of these 10. Most aren't in my closet now. But, for some reason I still have a pair of Cole Haan whole cuts. I wear them rarely, and honestly now that I think of it, they should be donated this week.

[@samle1801]

@@johnw9177 Hold on, Trenton and Heath did mention the brands are bad now but it doesn't mean their old goods were. Check your stuff, it's the quality that counts. Oh, on a side note if they're Cole Haan....

[@davidlindsey436]

Thank you!

[@johnw9177]

Sam Le 😂. In not saying that because of this video. I noted how the shoes wear over the past 2-3 years, and they just don't stand up to my others. I like the color, and the style. But, for the price no way I'd buy them again. If the leather was holding up, I'd keep wearing them. I take excellent care of my shoes, and rotate about 15. I probably wear them once every other month now, if not less.

[@anthonygardner400]

One of the reasons that your channel is exploding is because you share your honest viewpoints based on great expertise. That’s a huge value to all of us. Another great video - thanks! Hope you had a nice holiday season!

[@talboyovGY]

Don't know how I ended up being recommended this channel but I love it. I never imagined shoe repair could be so interesting, subscribed now

[@bassjunkieone]

Thank you for sharing this! I always see several reviews online and no one ever shares the business names. But to me that's the most important point of the review so thank you guys!

[@imnotdon3765]

Y'all went out on a limb here. I really appreciate your honesty and taking a chance. It needed to be done. You just elevated yourself a little. Cheers

[@TrentonHeath]

My dad once said, “greatest comes from those who take chances.” Sure hope he was right. 😀

[@lokmanmerican6889]

Elevated a lot in my opinion!

[@joesepulveda3155]

@@TrentonHeath did you mean greatness comes from those who take chances LOL

[@TrentonHeath]

Joe Sepulveda haha...yep, typo.

[@BarqueCat2]

As a woman, we've had to deal with the concept of "disposable" shoes for a long time. It is often easy to justify buying a nice looking pair of shoes by trying to correlating price with quality - especially with names that we grew up associating with quality. Keep up the great work, gentlemen!

[@TrentonHeath]

You are spot on, Jennifer! Thank you!

[@jamesmcinnis208]

We are not "a woman."

[@ChristineMBond]

"If you want to buy Calvin Klein, buy their underwear - not their shoes "😂

[@erickrosales2590]

I bought their shoes 2 years ago and the bottom of the heel ripped. Never again!

[@billriddle9215]

I was a fan of Calvin underwear for years because they lasted so long..now I'm getting into softer fabric for tender tissue...I feel alive after trying satin and silk mens sexy underwear'.

[@chedelirio6984]

TBF that and jeans was where they made their name for the mass market public, so yeah.

[@map3384]

Out of college in the mid 90s I sold Florsheim when they were still made in the USA. They were beautifully made. Still have a pair of Cordovan Lexingtons I bought way back in 1996 which sat in stock for two years. I couldn’t believe they were shutting down their production here and laying off hundreds of skilled professionals. Same goes with Johnson and Murphy, Cole Hahn, and Bostonian. Even todays Timberlands I regard as junk. In 1990 I bought a pair of their classic Chukka boots with Gortex. Still have them today, resoled three times. They were made in New England. Today I buy Allen Edmonds and Red Wing.

[@MichaelScottPerkins]

I used to polish my "Sunday shoes" i.e. dress shoes, with my Dad when I was a kid, but as I grew up and started wearing nothing but sneakers, Dr. Martens, and mostly casual one-time wear boots and shoes, I haven't polished a shoe in... 30+ years. Well, I recently became addicted to this KZbin channel, (Ha ha!!!) so, I ordered some stuff from Potter and Sons: Saphir Renovateur, Creme 1925, Medaie, D'or 1925, Avel leather soap, a horse hair brush, some shoe trees, and a small soap brush. I still do not own any nice shoes, but last night, I sat down with my old trust pair of pretty busted up brown Dr. Marten's, and I followed a Trenton & Heath shoe shine video, and guys... even though my crappy Made in Vietnam Dr. Marten's were not exactly world class leather to begin with... these damn thing look amazing!!! It was a lot of fun. It was very satisfying to watch them come back to life, and even look much better than when I first bought them 20 years ago. My only regret is that I don't have another pair of dilapidated shoes that I can polish up and restore. Great products, great videos, and great help! Thanks guys!

[@TrentonHeath]

Michael Perkins Thank you so much! We really appreciate that. It can become addictive, so we hope you enjoy your new hobby. 😉

[@jeffu3724]

I actually enjoy cleaning and polishing shoes. Why not? You get something that looks much nicer than before you began :) But, becoming a lost art, I'm afraid.

[@joshuallewellyn7369]

If you've got the time and a foot that fits into an off the rack pair of shoes - scour the thrift stores, you can often find shoes for as little as $5. Have them refurbished by your local shoe repairer. Easy way to save $150 or more off new. Yet still have totally new soles plus all of the vintage charm.

[@lilolmecj]

Michael Perkins I have always enjoyed the process of shoe care...I just find it hard to find the time sometimes. I still use Kiwi for the most part for my black and brown shoes. There is nothing quite like having an Oxford that looks sad and half an hour later it looks new.

[@Kid-Baxter]

They have lasted you 20 years! They are not crap...

[@midnightalley4586]

For the first time someone actually got the entire list right. My compliments to you for being a team of professionals.

[@TrentonHeath]

Thank you, Saul! We appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed.

[@allnighter2011]

The list is spot on... I used to buy 1-2 pairs a year from these brands (Cole Haan, Bostonian, Aldo, Florsheim, etc), and they look fine for the average Joe, though a bit plastic looking, and they are comfortable with all of those foam insoles, but they fail within months or a year at most, not to mention the leather loses shape, gets scuffed etc... then I bought my first pair of Allen Edmonds... and only then I realized the huge difference...and its not just the look... the leather feels hefty, solid, stiff in a good way that it holds its shape, even how it creases is different from those shoes... it shines much better when polished, and I have had the pair for over a year now and it looks and feels like the day I bought it, robust well built and holding itself together firmly... so yeah if you can afford the upfront investment...get few pairs of AE and they will last you for years... not to mention they can be resoled... in fact they come out cheaper on the long term because you don't have to buy a new pair every 6 months or one year... also you can get great deals during sales or some gently used pairs on ebay or elsewhere...

[@jlore6344]

Thanks for adding the list of recommendations too. I have AEs and have been interested in Thursday but did not know of these others. Gonna check em out. Thanks,

[@erosendaul]

This video just came up on my feed at the perfect time! I have a pair of Aldo that I bought 10+ years ago and have worn just about every work day in the last 10 years. They are the most comfortable dress shoe I've ever owned and they are still in great shape. Stopped the other day to pick up a black pair, brought them home and compared the quality and it's like night and day. I put them right back in the box to return them.

[@kevinandrachelrichards9087]

aldo 10 years ago was probably still bought from quality italian suppliers, like some of the other brands mentioned. Today, it's all cheap cheap, cheap cheap.

[@allanfoster6965]

This video shows what the difference is between a company and a brand.

[@charmainet5955]

Love your recommendation of Meermin! Was surprised to see they offer classic styles for women too and I got a pair of loafers. Been looking for quality ladies loafers for ages that don't break the bank and I always found myself scouting brands making men's shoes and taking the smaller sizes. Please do a video on quality women's shoes.

[@gringo2900]

Meermin IS a bullshit here in France

[@surfrookie1]

Thanks for the information gentlemen. Happy New Year!

[@yankchef4067]

Thanks to you guys I now have a collection including Allen edmonds, ariat, magnanni and di bianco. Keep it up!

[@TheLmori3]

Great video. I agree with all of these! You guys need to do a "peek inside our shoe closet" type video. We'd love to see which pairs you guys DO own and hear you talk about why! I think that would be interesting. Love your channel ♥️

[@genegillis2068]

Enjoyed this posting and appreciate your honest comments!

[@drowningflamingo]

Happy 2021! I’d love to see a video of shoe brands you DO recommend

[@hollygolightly8048]

“Kenneth Cole.....if you’re looking at them, skip over them: Save your pennies.” Lol......Love it!

[@newlifegman]

I had bought a Kenneth Cole watch for $250 on sale from the mall back in 2008 and whatever material they used for the band deteriorated within a year and I never had the bands fixed. They are selling there name more than a quality product. That's bad for business

[@highoctane2012]

Quick list: 10. Cole Haan 9. Bostonian 8. Aldo 7. Florsheim 6. Steve Madden 5. Kenneth Cole 4. Calvin Klein 3. Johnston & Murphy 2. Joseph Abboud 1. Stacy Adams

[@Cmez872]

highoctane2012 many thanks for the list

[@christophercamp4174]

Loving these videos. Learning so much. Thanks.

[@coachcleats13]

Oh my gosh!! I've owned all of those brands at one time or another, but I'm happy to say I've graduated to Beckett Simonon and haven't looked back!!

[@saxguychris]

I'm young, working on my Master's degree, still trying to work my way up in the economy, and own some cheaper Florsheims and a pair of Moc-toe Abbouds. At first, I was kinda curious because I thought there's no way that those shoes are cheap; granted, I barely wear these shoes except on special occasions. After watching your guys' videos, as well as Kirby Allison's and Elegant Oxford's, I've gotten into shoe care and am now starting to understand more about quality shoes. I started using Saphir Renovateur and will soon invest in their other MDO products, especially their creme polishes, in order to protect my current "investments" and make them last even longer; not only that, I plan on investing in a good pair of shoes in the future. Thank you guys for what you're doing. I love learning new things whenever possible. Cheers from California!

[@dnsps]

My Grandfather was a boot maker (& shoemaker) in Hungary in the early 1900's. He made shoes and boots for Royalty before he came to the USA with my grandmother. There was no market here for hand made boots at the time, but they kept a Shoe Repair Shop in the family for decades. It is good to see your work. Live long and prosper, Don

[@corybuckles8492]

My first pair of real dress shoes were black, cap-toe Johnston & Murphy ones I got at the fine menswear store in my town. Very attractive, comfortable, and well built, they have stood up to a lot of wear for years without any issues and are still great shoes. I saw their logo in the Macy's shoe section one day some time later, and wandered over to see if there was a pair I liked in brown to add to my wardrobe. I pick them up and was surprised to find that they were direct-molded, plastic-soled crap. I hadn't realized when I bought my first pair that the brand only offered a tiny selection of decent Goodyear-welted shoes, and everything else they made was overpriced throwaways. Made me sad.

[@phil_matic]

When my father was growing up, he was very interested in fashion and loved the little things about brands such as how they were stitched together, and the quality of materials used. My mom was a very fashionable person growing up. I learned from both of them how to identiy quality clothes that looked good, and I spend way more time shopping through thrift stores or buying things online second hand based on their quality. The clothes I learned how to buy will last generations.

[@DJWerkz]

As a Brit living in the US I totally agree more, totally fed up with the low quality shoes in wide circulation and at high prices too!

[@TrentonHeath]

DJWerkz Definitely check out some of the brands we put in the video drop down. A lot of small, online brands are popping up. Most of these offer great quality at great prices.

[@DJWerkz]

@@TrentonHeath thanks, I actually subscribed to all the brands you listed so will receive email offers from now on. I will also be sending you a pair of my Loake boots for a re-sole in the near future

[@dannysunay8099]

I get the feeling that shoes in Britain still remain true to their heritage, quality wise. Is that the case?

[@summerrr1]

Danny Sunay That’s generally the case in England and Italy.

[@timbridges4246]

@@dannysunay8099 There is a trend of outsourcing manufacture. For instance Loakes have cheaper ranges made in India, but also more expensive ones made in England.

[@jimmeven1120]

I hope Rose Anvil is watching this--he's always on the lookout for something to cut in half.

[@bellesparks4374]

Thanks for this advice:)!!!

[@ahujeffrey]

Very useful and informative! Thanks!

[@13634landing]

Thanks guys for posting this video. New to your channel and I’m hooked. Good information! Cheers

[@Jdyke2059]

I have a pair of modern floresheims that are my "it looks like rain" shoes lol. Great idea for a video guys! Thank you, both! Joe D.

[@TrentonHeath]

Jdyke2059 Thank you! Haha...everyone needs some rainy weather shoes. Got some myself.

[@0scJohnson0]

Glad that they acknowledged how cheaply made designer shoes are.

[@theyounggentleman5470]

Show us how to stop squeaky boots.

[@TrentonHeath]

We definitely have a video coming for this subject! Haha...don’t get us started on designer shoes...except perhaps one.

[@TrentonHeath]

The Young Gentleman Depends upon where the squeak is coming from.

[@amanasd26]

It depends, because designers often have tiers of quality. Ralph Lauren for example, you don't want to mess with their Lauren or Polo lines for shoes but their Purple Label and RRL lines are of good quality.

[@gfbl]

@@amanasd26 agreed, some are made by edward green.With Brooks Brothers the higher end ones are made by alfred Sargent, Crockett and Jones and Allen edmonds

[@Sigkeeper1]

Thanks for the words of wisdom about the names of shoes to avoid. You about killed me when you mentioned on the front end about Cole Haan. I have 4 pairs of Cole Haan loafers that are all about 15 + years old and 3 pairs ( brown, burgundy and black) have been reworked locally. I think that I got these at Dillards. But, the last time I looked I began to notice that these same loafers had changed in terms of their construction. The newer shoes do not seem to be able to be resoled, or at least without destroying the shoe. On the good side, I have a pair of Alan Edmonds wing tips that my mother bought for me for $ 175.00 when I was 40 yrs old. I still have them in the closet in shoe trees and they still look great. I am now 69 yrs old and although I do not wear them regularly any more, it would be close to $400.00 + to replace them.

[@davidalonzo1030]

This is fantastic information. Thank you.

[@igornyoman9840]

Appreciate the insights given you guys have worked on a million of shoes -- so I trust your experience, and judgement. It's a bold call on the 10 brands but we appreciate this type of educating vid!

[@TrentonHeath]

Igor Nyoman thank you very much! We try to be as honest as possible.

[@siguureinartraustason8564]

10. Cole Haan 9. Bostonian 8. Aldo 7. Florsheim 6. Steve Maden 5. Kenneth Cole 4. Calvin Klein 3. Johnston & Murphy 2. Joseph Abboud 1. Stacy Adams

[@TheMoneyMakingMentor]

Love the channel keep up the great videos

[@mightymikethebear]

I was sad to hear about Florsheims reduced quality. My dad worked for Brown Shoe Company in the St. Louis in the QC department. At the time BSC and Florscheims were part of the same company. My dad spoke highly of their brand.

[@felixmunoz184]

I really appreciate the honesty of this video my favorite video of 2020. Keep up the amazing content, would like a review and thoughts on Magnanni.

[@TrentonHeath]

Felix Munoz thank you very much!

[@silentsir2446]

I requested the Magnanni review months ago, and nothing. They did say they would do one, but nothing so far.

[@TrentonHeath]

silent sir Sorry! Lots and lots of videos to do...on top of the actual work we have to do every day to pay the bills. 😉

[@FMHammyJ]

As a former shoe salesman(at a independent, family owned men's wear store that's been in business for 95 years)...it was shocking to see how many of the brands on the list I used to sell. I always knew Aldo was crap, but not some of the other brands. Thank you for an informative video, gentlemen.

[@will0629]

Totally agree with you. Johnston & Murphy was my only dress shoe for over 25 years. I’ve moved my loyalty to Allen Edmunds due to JMs changes and value for the dollar. They make awesome shoes here in the states which for the most part are recraftable. Don’t forget to use your shoe trees and rotate what you wear! I have a pair of Johnson Murphy Aristocrats that I bought in ‘97 and had them redrafted by JM and they still look good.

[@Retarded_Cat]

Allen edmunds are good shoes

[@marlonquintana3466]

@@Retarded_Cat what are your thoughts on Warfield Grand shoes?

[@rotl9915]

thanks guys for your professional opinions. i appreciate this channel.

[@discowhistle]

Thanks for your views. Very useful.

[@FunkyD50]

I agree with all of this. As I have become educated in shoe construction, I’ve learned which brands are bad and which are worth the money.

[@denvercampbell3517]

this is good stuff guys! Love the channel

[@timmccarthy94]

Excellent. This needed to be said.

[@MsMiniDope]

A shoe cobbler is a dying art, impossible to find a decent one in my area.

[@davidbrewster1994]

AS A KID I SHINED SHOES FOR A REALLY GOOD COBBLER PLUS HE WAS A GOOD MAN( BILL WILSON) NOT ONLY DID I LEARN ABOUT WELL MADE SHOES I LEARNED HOW TO TREAT PEOPLE WHO DIDNT ALWAYS HAVE ALOT OF MONEY..MY DAD ONE DAY SAID U CANT HANGOUT ON STREET CORNERS U WORK FOR BILL NOW..WHEN I CAME HOME FROM M.C.R.D SAN DIEGO1971..I WALKED INTO THE SHOP BILL HANDED ME A PAIR(SHOES)AND SAID KNOCK THOSE SHOES OUT 4 ME,I SAID OK..BILL.CHICAGO!

[@MrKillerpics]

@@davidbrewster1994 How to use the Shift key: To use the Shift key to capitalize letters, press and hold the Shift key, and push the letter you want to capitalize.

[@warrenzhang9882]

So is bespoke suit tailor. I cant even find one in my town

[@suesmith5746]

@@MrKillerpics some people have only one hand that works. on a typewriter you could lock the shift key but on a computer unless you want to use your chin no caps. Or if it does lock you just get caps. how someone spells or types should not make it too hard for you to understand what they are saying. TROLL

[@MrKillerpics]

@@suesmith5746 No problem to understand what he said but it matters how it is said :* Maybe my comment was a little bit cheeky but I am no troll at all

[@elreyturey4076]

Watching you guys has made me realize that investing in high quality over brand is more important for the well being of my feet and pockets. Time for me to save money for a nice pair of sneakers, "dress shoes", and boots!

[@MobWithGuns]

My dad really never taught me fashion / dress to impress. But when he got older I realized he knew quality as he had old Florsheim or Johnston and Murphy shoes and shoe trees. Plus little things like YSL ties or London fog overcoat. I would have kept his shoes when he passed but they were too small for me.

[@AnAmericanComposer]

Bought a pair of Bostonian a month ago, Vibram outsole, and the sole crumbled within two days.

[@smdjuhurr9474]

Buy a pair of shoes from Velasca. Try them out. They are quality shoes. On my second pair🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@Blazerghost]

I have a Clark’sXBostonian olive suede Chelsea boot that is absolutely fantastic. I work at Nordstrom in mens shoes and unfortunately they don’t make them anymore. I can’t speak on Bostonian other than the ones I have though.

[@Hengel_Andrews]

A video on how to inspect a shoe for quality when you’re shopping is something that would be great.

[@grichl88]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHayn4RoqaZjrLc The first part of this video goes over things to look for.

[@dannysunay8099]

I doubt these guys can see if a shoe is cheaply made by looking at it. They have to take it apart!

[@MrJacobkoh]

They have recommendations on the video description.

[@vectorcruzusa]

@@dannysunay8099 you definitely can tell. I can even tell by looking at the heel block just from the side and the quality of the uppers

[@LTTang]

Haha. Other than my sneakers, I’ll be donating all of my dress shoes after watching this. Thanks. Let’s do a top 10 list for shoes to buy in 2020.

[@fredygump5578]

That's a waste! Don't turn them into garbage just because they aren't ideal for recrafting!

[@evilspock4714]

fredy gump He said donation not trashing them.

[@westfieldartworks8188]

I agree, would love to see the " to buy " list. I imagine it's coming up...

[@marcrodgers3517]

Long T. Tang , I gave them a list of shoes that I currently wear to review ... this was a really great video, I had to pass it onto some of my buddies so they know, it’s time to upgrade their shoe game...

[@drewjames8594]

Cant go wrong with a pair of Allen Edmonds. American made/Fully goodyear welted & recraftable.

[@nancygorham5908]

I appreciate your videos. Thanks!!

[@mslewis4919]

Thanks guys, this is great info!

[@will0629]

Completely agreed with you on Johnston & Murphy. That was my go to brand for years. My purchases over the last 7 years are very disappointing. I have a pair of Aristocraft which are over 30 years old and look and feel great. I had them recrafted just prior to Genesco discontinuing this service. I have since moved my allegiance to Allen Edmunds. Great shoes made in Wisconsin.

[@blakecrawford5101]

Man, some of these do hurt a bit... so many classic American brands seem to have fallen by the wayside. I still remember growing up in Arkansas in the 70’s and 80’s when I got my first pair of Florsheim penny loafers. Talk about saving up! Was quite the style at the time. In adulthood I’d say that 75% of my shoes are now Allen Edmonds. Once you learn their last system, it’s incredibly easy to find a solid fit. Even got married in a pair. Being a professional brewer I rarely get to wear them, but they are like collectible works of art.

[@mitigatedgalltv5747]

I love this video 👍🏾 thanks guys

[@simplycq7446]

Thank you for your video. Very informative.

[@henrybenrycat1]

As a Brit' it's good to see Loake mentioned in the worth buying list. Indeed, the pair of Loake grained brogues I was wearing today are English made and around 25-30 years old and still look great. But I also have more recent Loakes which were made in India and they are not to be recommended for the same reason you have guided your countrymen away from some long standing American brands. So it's caveat time: Loake shoes that are goodyear welted and made in England are excellent. They come in ranges including "1880". But Loake Design range is another thing entirely. I've actually had shoes from this range delaminate. I just hope they don't devalue the brand further by taking all production offshore.

[@davide.8176]

How about a top 10 of best shoes brands to buy.

[@scarabeo500gt]

Alden is the BEST shoe to buy "EVER" with Allen Edmond's second...Crockett and Jones are good English shoes/Boots....

[@boranbkk4270]

Crockett & Jones if you have an average size foot if slightly wider than average Trickers is a top brand. Both very old English brands from Jermyn St.

[@chrisf2454]

I have a pair of Alden Indy boots and they're my favorites. Most comfortable shoes I own. And the Chromexcel leather is gorgeous.

[@Houman7]

Berluti

[@TheGeorgiaGent]

Well, I was about to buy a pair of Johnston and Murphy, but I guess not. My old pair....still good.

[@shwndh]

Very nice recommendations in the info section!

[@davidwillsofthenorth]

Fantastic video! I haven't become the shoe gurus you guys are, but I have worked in shoe repair a fair bit, and I could not agree more with some of your assessments. Most of the shoes I wear now are over 30 years old because I can't even find shoes to match the quality of a Hartt, Dack's, Allen Edmonds, etc, from 30 to 40 years ago, and thank God, men's classic style is timeless.

[@corpsiecorpsie_the_original]

Video suggestion: the different foot shapes and the shoe shapes that fit them. Also, brands for wide feet

[@TASconfidential]

Good topic!!!! Best brand for wide feet? Allen Edmonds.

[@TheGconrad]

@@TASconfidential 12 EEE for me. I would have a better chance of finding Sasquatch than a pair of quality shoes in my size.

[@x2Dubz]

I wear 10.5 EE, would love to find a brand for me

[@corpsiecorpsie_the_original]

@@x2Dubz - Allen Edmonds for RTW. Tricker's G fitting might be ok. Lots of options for MTM or MTO.

[@ImDudePlayinADude]

I have Allen Edmonds at 14EEE. They were my first good pair, and I bought them online. They're actually too big. I had always worn 13eee, and found out I'm 14, but I guess not 14e.

[@nmoddentity8401]

I have a few J&M shoes. They were a good entry level dress shoe. Now that I'm more educated, I go mostly with Allen Edmonds and Beckett Simonon.

[@AJB_313]

This is so me. When 1st entering the professional world, J&M. Now I've moved on to Beckett Simonon. When you know better, you do better. I just hate the wait time for Beckett.

[@kirkodooley563]

Broke my heart with Floresheim, lol. Thanks so much for the knowledge, and there is no better advice I feel than by people who actually work on the product on a day-to-day basis.

[@rodmckinney40]

You just crossed out five brands that are in my closet thanks though for the knowledge and I actually agree with you

[@tonyvargas368]

I love my Ferragamo’s even more now. I’ve owned them over 12 years and they still look new. They were worth every penny.

[@rdc5470]

Agree with each of the brand on your list. Having used many of these brands like J&M, Aldo, Stacy Adams, Kenneth Cole, etc. I agree that they are just not well put together shoes. Was a little surprised with the inclusion of Joseph Aboud, but not having used their shoes, I was perhaps swayed by the impression I had of the brand from their clothing line.

[@menarussell]

Hellpful info. Thank you. I agree with you regarding many the brands I have looked at in stores. I had a pair of women's Nike Cole Hahn dress shoes years ago.

[@andrewfried3144]

As somebody who produces shoes I have to congratulate you guys. Your comments are right on

[@Larry-qz3es]

I still own a few pairs of Cole Hann and donated several pairs that I have not worn to a clothing place which helps men dress for a job and interviews. However, I stepped up my shoe game by ordering two pairs of shoes from Beckett Simonon and currently own three pairs from Thursday Boot Company.

[@oST0LENo]

You went from Cole Haan to Thursday and called that a step up??? Ohhhh Kay then 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@ivanvelinov]

Apparently you were so absorbed in your condescension that you didn’t notice that Thursday Boots were one of the recommended brands in the links below the video. Ooops.

[@leebog1914]

Wow! Every single selection is on my list already. No surprises here and in my shoe journey all these shoes are on my list. Again you all have verified what I already knew. Outstanding video!

[@showpan22]

Good video - great list!

[@johnym1]

Incredible content. Learn a whole lot. New subscriber.

[@zz424]

I never knew cobbling could be an entertainment show

[@The-Story-Assassin]

I have to agree about Stacy Adams. Bought a pair off of Amazon for $75. The return window closed after 30 days. However, after six weeks, the insoles had completely flattened out, and the toe cap started to pop the stitching and the sole was already wearing down on the toe. It was a whole lot of money spent on a pair of shoes for a month and a half wear.

[@dsb1763]

Sad say, but that seems like a lot of stuff today is made. Once pass the warranty or paid off, it falls apart.

[@justalott]

I just bought three pairs of Thursday boots shoes. Will be my first time having Goodyear welted shoes. I'm so EXCITED! All I've been buying in the past or Steve Madden or Calvin Klein shoes. What an eye opener!

[@robburden1841]

You guys are great. Thanks

[@firebearva]

This is the year I have decided to upgrade my fashion game, if that makes any sense to anyone LOL, so having said that thank you for the informative video. You have saved me from wasting money on substandard brands.

[@TrentonHeath]

firebearfl You’re welcome! Best of luck on your new higher quality shoe journey! 👍🏻

[@talesis1]

I still have a pair of Cole Haan that I bought back in 97 when I worked for them and I must say the quality of their show is in the toilet compared to the quality of their shoe 23 yrs ago. Great video and new subscriber here.

[@kyledalrymple1987]

i bought a pair of Kenneth Cole dress shoes back in 2009 and they still look new after continuous use over the years

[@geraldfields6276]

Great video guys. The last pair of dress shoes I bought were Johnson and Murphy, the year I retired, 2004. I actually got them at a J&M store. However, since I retired I have not worn dress shoes but twice. I am now a New Balance guy.

[@datashed]

Florsheim is a brand I haven't thought of in years. When our last locally-owned department store went out of business back in '97 or '98, they still had their Florsheim sign up, and that was simply what you bought if you wanted quality. The two guys who ran the shoe department went on to start their own standalone shoe shop, which lasted until 3-4 years ago. Disappointed to hear that Florsheim has gone down the tubes a bit. So many of the once-great names have done the same.

[@lolkthnxbai]

Jus gotta keep an eye out on the second hand market, I managed to snag some pairs of Goodyear welted double leather sole Florsheim's and they're still fantastic. You wouldn't think they're well over 30 years old.

[@Teeveepicksures]

Like many old brands, they USED to be fantastic. The 90s saw many luxury makers create low market products (for the poors) so someome in the suburbs can say they're wearing Armani...Exchange. I still have Brooks Brothers suit jackets that my grandfather wore in the 60s that are still in impeccable shape. If you find a good tailor and dry cleaner, your well-made clothes can be handed *down* to your Grandkids instead of being thrown *out* at Goodwill.

[@kjvwarrior777]

I use to wear nothing but Stacy Adams back in the 80's, even then, I always considered them one time wear.

[@bryantmormon9596]

Thanks very much for the information

[@williamkazak469]

I bought Church's years ago and they have lasted me. I would prefer a rubber heel, however. Since the original owners have sold the brand, I have not needed any more so I have no experience with them. Very nice video. Boots to avoid might be a great topic considering that we need something in the Midwest to keep us dry and stylish during the winter.

[@ericrickert3045]

Thanks for this list! Agreed with all, but I admit that I have never bought Stacy Adams (not actually classic styling). Cannot go wrong with Allen Edmonds and Cobbler-Union. It is good that you are pointing at the elephant in the room and calling these brands what they, unfortunately, are/have become--makers of throw-away shoes. A man will save money by buying a few good AE shoes instead of buying 10 from a cheap brand that will not last.

[@clint7312]

When I was first getting into dress shoes maybe 2-3 years ago, I thought cole haan was luxury. While I haven’t upgraded yet from them, I learned quickly through research that their quality (my shoes among) them just aren’t at what they were. Looking forward to stepping up to some better brands in the future.

[@TrentonHeath]

Clint W We’ve both been there ourselves. Before we got into the shoe business, I thought Cole Haans were the greatest. Then I saw their quality, and I was quite disappointed. Enjoy them and then gradually grow to other brands.

[@kennethconnors5316]

you guy did me a big favor , keep the info coming

[@dvnnyv6325]

These guys really dissect, analyze, and know their shoes!

[@diegohelib2061]

I love all your videos. There is something soothing and insightful about shining your own high quality shoes. Who needs yoga? Get shining. Regards from Mexico.

[@felixmunoz184]

Viva Mexico

[@TrentonHeath]

Thank you, Diego! We appreciate you watching us from Mexico! 🇲🇽👍🏻

[@chuckbuckbobuck]

I shine my shoes I wear for the day every night. U R right there is something almost meditative in doing so. Been doing it since I left the Marine Corp 30 years ago--it's a skill they taught me!

[@chuckbuckbobuck]

@Green Giant O-raw! and 1 more for the Marine Corps! 1/6 Camp Lejuene 1982-85!

[@JoeHala]

After watching these videos for the past few weeks I’ve realized what crap I’ve been buying for a 30+ year career. I honestly never paid attention other than shine and comfort. I just threw them away after a year or two. A convert now. Thanks for the education guys.

[@TrentonHeath]

Joe Hala glad we can give a little insight.

[@charlesjohnson3853]

Just found your channel and love the feedback... very much appreciated. Thanks

[@cnoevo99]

Thanks guys for this great video! Very helpful a do exactly what I was looking for on the search for a quality pair of shoes. What are your thoughts on Ralph Lauren Purple label shoes ?