ALLEN EDMONDS VS CARMINA: PROS, CONS, 1 CLEAR WINNER AND 3 HELPFUL INSIGHTS

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[@Cuffss88]

Such a good comparison between two great shoe makers. Preston, thank you so much for showcasing the pair of Carminas ive donated. You’ve made them look incredible. Carmina all day

[@claytonberg721]

Absolutely. Seeing this I'd prefer the carminas but frankly both pairs had me drooling on my keyboard.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Thank you so much for your donation. These will go to a good home.

[@forbanch]

@@TheElegantOxford The shoes look amazing. Who do you offer them to after restoration? As great as they are I will never afford a $400 pair and I am a working guy haha

[@mbshoedoc]

Wow what a kind donation!! 🤯👍

[@Spring-ni4vq]

What a kind donation, What a beautiful comparison between two great value for your money shoemakers. Cannot thank you both of you guys enough.

[@mikeblast7507]

I won't argue that more craftsmanship goes into the Carminas, they are great shoes. That said, I'm not sure what that extra craftsmanship gets you. The hidden threads don't stay hidden for long, and the additional stitch density in the welt may look a little nicer on close inspection, but they don't make the shoe fit or wear better, and the aesthetic advantage is marginal. I won't even argue that overall, all things considered, the Carminas are arguably a slightly better shoe. In sum, if you have the extra money and like the Carminas, buy the Carminas. If you can't justify the significant premium you pay for the Carminas in terms of dollars or value, buy the AEs. Either way, I'm sure you'll be quite pleased.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hey, Mike! Great comment. I agree with you

[@theylive2749]

Something never brought up is customer service. AE is one of the best out there. Carmina is one of the worst. AE’s recrafting service and Carmina’s attitude towards customers keeps me with AE.

[@tomm7301]

Your review was dead-on, Preston! I’ve owned AE’s for over 40 years, and I love the brand. But I recently purchased my first pair of Carmina’s, and I was blown away by the quality and great looks of the shoes. I’m still an AE fan, but they clearly need to do something about their apparent quality control issues.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Carmina makes incredible shoes, there’s no denying it.

[@ericday4505]

You know Tom there is something clearly going on at Allen Edmonds that have made their shoes seem a bit less than what they once were. I cannot put my finger on it but they seem to have fallen off just a bit.

[@TatekeTekle]

I just buy my 1st AE double monk strap As you saied they have a quality control issue, I change one time for minor thing and then when I come home I found a lot of defects but keep it, I am afraid to buy next AE shoe

[@joewelnack3283]

A&E has changed ownership several times and are on the way to mediocrity. If you buy them always wait until the go on "sale"; these shoes are still a relatively good value.

[@darensamuels5208]

I am a loyal Allen Edmonds guy. They have a few quality issues from time to time, so I have returned a few over the years. But, generally, they are great shoes and the sale prices make them a great value. Also, I like a more traditional American style rather than a European style. The Allen Edmonds really fit me well and match my personal style. Also they are sturdy and least for many years.

[@evilspock4714]

Allen Edmonds for everyday, Carminas for some days and John Lobb for THOSE days.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I get what you mean!

[@nodieusa]

I actually take the opposite approach. My nicest Carmina's and C&J often, AE in between and Beckett Simonon every once in a while. My higher dollar pairs can take more use and I drop the cost-per-wear price every time I wear them. My cheaper shoes will last a very long time, probably never need to be resoled, yet I still get to enjoy wearing them.

[@evilspock4714]

nodieusa Anything Allen Edmonds or higher are Great quality shoes.

[@drzaius844]

I don’t know - I got my first Carminas on Friday, and I am in love. So much more comfortable than anything I’ve worn before. They are practically bespoke if you find the right last. I am now shopping the “outlet” on the reg, I want nothing but Carminas LOL

[@JorgeDLeon-oo3kf]

Take it easy Scrooge McDuck

[@mbshoedoc]

Well done man. AE is a solid buy especially on sale and they look great...until you line it up beside a Carmina. Carmina just has such a refined elegance and sophisticated last design...they are gorgeous shoes. I have both, enjoy both but if you can afford it...Carmina!

[@jrodriguez1930]

Yeah I have all AE's because I get them on sale. Even got a few great factory seconds that you don't even notice the defect. If carmina ever does a sales I am there.

[@mbshoedoc]

@@naegleriafowleri2230 I have both AE and Carmina. AE is the better value but Carmina is still the better shoe. I'm not really impressed with the independence collection since the last shapes are the same. To me this is where Carmina shines. Not in leather quality or construction (although that is generally better) but it's the sleek elegant last shapes. I have gotten my Carminas off eBay to start to determine my fit etc and that has been a fantastic deal for me. You have to be patient but that's the best place to start. I still love my Strands and McAllister, Cornwallis and Liverpool but I'm working on a custom patina Carmina Jodhpur right now and it's just reinforcing my opinion that it's the nicer shoe. But that's all it is..just my opinion. Can't go wrong with either brand really.

[@mbshoedoc]

@@naegleriafowleri2230 I just said AE is the better value and I have about 15 pairs of them. Still like my Carminas better. I think I have given AE plenty of support. You seem to be taking things a little bit too seriously. You can prefer your independence collection and I can prefer my Carmina. It's not something to argue over 👍

[@louiscyfer6944]

i got some ae for 147 each. can't justify the price difference for carmina. if i am going to spend 500, I'll get the rozsnyai made to measure, it far beats the carmina.

[@mbshoedoc]

@@louiscyfer6944 I got my Carminas for $147...eBay is the best 😏

[@fepatton]

Those Carminas are gorgeous. I wish they had a better selection of widths. I can buy a pair of AE in 10.5E, any last, and know they will fit me perfectly every time. Shoe comfort is very important for me, and the width is key. And of my six or seven pairs of AE, I think I paid full retail once. :-) Great video!

[@TheElegantOxford]

This wholecut pair does come in wide but it’s only one of a few that does.

[@TheEurostyler]

Nice review as usual. I have owned the same Carmina for about 4 years now and re-heeled once. Time for a second pit stop at the cobbler soon. They aged very well and are very comfortable. Loved the sleek design that still offers a roomy toe box. If anything, as it transpires from your evaluation of the welt, I would have preferred a slightly chunkier heel for wider stability.

[@jackeddemon]

Thank you for this video. Some you tubers are in denial about Carmina being a superior brand

[@carlossdez]

I absolutely love your channel, it's beautiful to find people that have passion for what they do and the talent to communicate in such a way. I truly hope that you can keep growing your subscribers and helping people get a second life to their shoes.

[@MikeF055]

I know this is an old video that probably will not get many more views, but as for Allen Edmonds-I was in the US Army and suffered a major injury to one of my feet. Allen custom made each shoe to fit the foot for no charge, all I did was send them an outline of each foot. Best pair of shoes I have ever owned since my injury. With tennis shoes, I have to buy two pairs, throwing away the one that I cannot wear.

[@justsomeoldguy3839]

I don't own a pair of Carmina's yet, but I have been wanting to add a pair of whole cuts to my shoe collection. I love to look classy, so I think the Carmina's is exactly what I was waiting for. Thanks for your review, very honest and unbiased.

[@voltaire-325]

Great vid Preston. Both great shoe companies. Your point about Allen Edmonds going on sale regularly is the biggest factor. I imagine most AE enthusiasts wait for sales that they know will come. That is when I buy a new pair of AE's. Thus, Carmina's are far more expensive. Making these shoes incomparable for me. I believe AE's are your best value for money.

[@TheElegantOxford]

That’s true for me as well. Carmina’s are a little our of my price range.

[@loveflying4488]

@@TheElegantOxford carmina has an outlet section on their website, which has good discounts. Can get shoes in the $300 range. I check to see availability regularly.

[@joaquin-jacknava2696]

They both are great shoes. You really can’t go wrong with either. Thanks Preston

[@TheElegantOxford]

That’s true!

[@carlcolvin8320]

The American Oxford is what I have been looking for. The shine on the toe looks good . Being an U S Army vet. We would spitshine the entire shoe front to rear , with them being black of course most of used Lincoln Polish with ice cold water and follow up with just a tab of Nuetral polish and finish until you could read the newspaper in the reflection. I have not heard of your shoe polish before but will give it a try.

[@jimmcfarland579]

Great video Preston. now if the shoes looked like that when they actually came out of the box you could add another $100 to the bill lol. You made those shoes look better than the factory

[@TheElegantOxford]

Thanks, Jim! A shoe shine can make a huge difference!

[@petermichael2990]

Clear, concise, professional presentation. Nicely done. Thank you.

[@TheElegantOxford]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@joeheinecke5134]

New to the Elegant Oxford. Not only do I really admire your skill but I have learned a great deal in the process. I can't wait to hear your review on the Meermin Linea Maestro. I recently ordered a pair and I am really excited to hear what you think. I like that you give straightforward reviews. Keep up the great work!

[@JonMatthias]

Wonderful content. I'm hoping to get my hands on or feet in some Carminas soon

[@TheElegantOxford]

You’ll love them!

[@walterworrall]

I just got my first pair of Carmina oxfords today. They are well worth the money.

[@UncleRaab]

Man! Those Carminas are SOOOOOOO elegant.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Someone donated them too! I’ll find these an excellent home.

[@claytonberg721]

In Canada Allen Edmonds is a tough brand to find in brick and mortar locations. In Calgary the only place that is authorized to sell them is O'Connor's. Twice a year they'll have a few models on for $250 CAD but never the park avenues or something like that. For whatever the reason even nordstroms and saks don't carry them. I nearly bought a pair of wing tip blucher AE's seconds but after shipping and before import taxes they were going to go for $275 CAD, which was getting to be a bit much for damaged stock. I opted instead for a pair of Miles and Louie wing tip bluchers for $175CAD all in which I know will be defect free and are built as well as AE in my limited knowledge. The point being in Canada Both Carmina and AE are priced fairly exotically so you may as well opt for Carmina. There are AE sales, but they won't be deep sales and they won't be the stock you want. In Canada the brand that is easy to come by with great quality is magnanni. They are everywhere, all the big chains and most of the independents. There's always a sale and always lots of stock. Unlike AE in canada magnanni shows up in nordstrom rack and saks off fifth. I found a nice pair of black oxford magnanni in my favorite local menswear shop for $125 CAD which is cheap as chips. Often you can't get rockport at that price.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I hear good things from Magnanni! Thanks for your comment!

[@randallrg75g2]

I can relate to this, Canadian myself from Montreal and yeah... Very rare to find Allen Edmonds unfortunately, we have Harry Rosen downtown, they carry several brands but price is 400$ minimum up to 2500$ approx.. Its just crazy

[@claytonberg721]

@@randallrg75g2 Never have I ever found anything at Harry Rosen at a decent price. The closest was a pair of samuelshon trousers on the final day of their winter clearout sale, 55 percent off after all deductions coming to over $130 and that's before hemming, which they wanted another $20. I got the same pair (albeit different colour) from my favourite local shop for $95, tailoring included. Shop around your local menswear shops is my advice, look for magnanni. Harry's will sometimes put their store brand shoes on clearance for good prices but they couldn't or wouldn't tell me who they were made by, and if it was a blake stitch or just glued. Also I wish I could be in montreal when samuelshon puts on their factor sales events.

[@randallrg75g2]

@@claytonberg721 The shoe sales person didn't know if the model was blake sitch or just glued? are ou kidding me? thats unacceptable for the premium that people pay up there. The management should train them on their in-house brand and the few other brands they have at least on their floor ... they should know also which type of calf leather is it... I mean, that's just basics... there's no way around it, thats how you explain to a client the difference from a 50$ pair to a 1000$ one... I'm speechless

[@nikhilsrl]

Nordstroms in Toronto used to carry a few commong AE models like PA, Strand etc couple of years ago. Now they don't. Even when they used to carry the shoes, those used to cost a fortune as they added the duties. I ended up purchasing my AEs from eBay.

[@armedferret]

I have a pair of oxblood carlyles I snagged off the shoebank for a song. Got them well under 2 bills, and no regrets. That said, this year marks my step-up into Carmina more and AE less. Been sticking with AE for a good while now due to being a B on the brannock.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Good find with the Carlyles! You’ll Carmina as well! Thanks for watching!

[@arthurcatalanotto1151]

Hello, I too wear an Allen Edmonds B width; and am getting ready to make my first Carmina purchase. If you made the step-up to Carmina, may I ask which last worked for you? Did you have to go the custom route? Thanks.

[@billdaniels1767]

Preston, like you, I also have a wide foot. AE 8.5EEE fits like a glove. I can wear a 9.5 in other brands, but it just doesn't fit like an AE. That being said, I'll be visiting Carmina next time I'm in NYC to see if they have a last that fits me.

[@FKY66]

Bill Daniels What’s the verdict? I’m in the same boat as you and want to buy carmina, but don’t want to risk getting the wrong size.

[@shoemanfu]

@@FKY66 I'm going to wait until I can visit the store. I have a workshop planned whenever COVID is gone.

[@scotts4125]

Great vid Preston. I'm the guy that sent you the nubuck email. I wish I was a EEE. Seems AE has more stock available. I'm an EE and they don't have as many styles on sale. I usually wear an 11 EE but in AE it's 10.5 EE. Hen's teeth! Those boots you did in the last video were amazing as well.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hey, Scott. EE is much harder to find. I am technically a EE too but EEE works fine for me.

[@adam__smith]

Very nice review, thanks. One thing that would influence my preference is the number of lace holes. I greatly prefer five rows over six.

[@angelalane8660]

HI, PRESTON! Hope you've been well! Those Carminas are gorgeous, if I were a Man, that's what I'd wear! 😂 But there's a guy I know that likes dress shoes, kind of a crush 😉. I'd buy him a pair of Carlisles, for sure... Love your videos, Preston!!! 👞💼🎩💯 🌻🌻🌻

[@leedavis7508]

Carmina has Ladies shoes too.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hello, Angela! You’re my number 1 fan! Hope you are well. Zelda sends a kiss. Carmina does make women’s shoe too. Need to get Juana a pair.

[@djtaylorutube]

@@leedavis7508 They do and I've ordered a pair of boots for my wife because she was frustrated that men can buy really well made, beautiful shoes and her options are all too often "vegan", I.e. plastic or overpriced, glued designer stuff which is neither practical nor durable. She doesn't know, they're still being made, can't wait for her reaction.

[@JohnwFOC]

I wish I could fit in Carminas. My feet are to wide. Great review by the way! Another great video!

[@TheElegantOxford]

I feel your pain! Thanks for watching!

[@gregoryrobak456]

Although it costs more, so that may be a limiting factor, you can MTO any pair to your size specifications with Carmina. They have a yearly MTO sale I believe where cost is reduced.

[@JohnwFOC]

Gregory Robak Thank you for the information! I think I might just do that!

[@jski718]

I prefer the AE's. They're less formal, more versatile for business casual and better dollar for dollar.

[@TheElegantOxford]

You can’t go wrong with Allen Edmonds

[@22busy43]

Carlyle was my first pair of AE, and I was hooked. 12 pair later they are still my favorite pair.

[@TheElegantOxford]

It’s a great pair! Mine are oxblood

[@baberoot1998]

I love Allen Edmonds shoes, (I own many, many pair), but those Carmina's...are simply gorgeous.

[@ianarn]

Both are nice! Hard to tell the difference with black leather at both these price points so I’d go with the cheaper pair depending on comfort. For lighter coloured leathers and shoes and boots in general my maker is Edward Green.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Edward Green makes legendary shoes. Have you seen my recent video where I dye and shine a pair?

[@JHTenor]

I love AE for their timeless American lasts/designs.

[@bg147]

Nice work. I like both but prefer the more traditional look of the Allen Edmunds. The Carminas are a bit too flashy for me. Insightful video.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Thanks for watching. Can’t go wrong with Allen Edmonds

[@stephaneducroquet2617]

Hi Preston, thanks very much for the top notch quality content you provide. Would be interested to get your view on Carlos Santos as well (main line & handgrade). Have a cap toe oxford in "new wine" (close to what is now called "wine shadow"), with a mix of brown, burgundy & mahogany and definitely love them (retail at 375€, and got them in outlet at 230 €).

[@TheElegantOxford]

I have a video on the Carlos Santos field boot. Check it out. Love them!

[@DCMetroGecko]

Bravo, Preston!

[@TN-cr2nv]

Great video. I have been eyeing a pair of Carminas and am happy you compared them to the AE's. Very informative, objective comparison. Hope you can look at some other brands soon. One in particular I am looking at is Cobbler Union out of Atlanta. They also seem to be in this price range and have some of the finer touches like Carmina. Keep the videos coming!

[@TheElegantOxford]

Glad you liked the video!

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

T N I have a pair of Cobbler Union Chelsea boots. They are very well constructed. Their prices are higher than AE mainly because AE is almost always on sale. I *was* able to save $100 on my CU boots because they sent me a time-limited voucher by email.

[@FehadBilgramiChannel1]

Absolutely great review, well informed, well structured and fair analysis. Do more please.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I’ll work on more! Thanks!

[@jamesturner3709]

With Carmina made to order you can choose any last with any style and have them made. I prefer the Forest EEE. Once you find your last you just order whatever you want with that last.

[@lsalibe]

Great video as always ..correct me if am wrong please .from what i know brands tend to put their highest quality in their wholecut range so to compare wholecut with normal cut is not comparing like to like so am assuming a wholecut AE would compete more fairly with a raival Carmina ,please note i've never own either so am only asking ..thanks

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

L Salibe I would say you’re correct. I checked the AE website and they only show two models of wholecuts and it appears they are not invested in it. Maybe that’s why Preston went with the Carlyle.

[@gordonarnold7465]

AWESOME VIDEO 👏 THANK YOU FOR THE GREAT INFORMATION 👌👍🙏✌️ YOU ARE THE MAN 👊 PEACE ✌️

[@roofchees9]

I'm not a fan of closed channel stitching. After you wear them for a while the leather covering the channel starts flapping around like extra skin and looks bad.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I’ve seen it happen too.

[@azlansharom7011]

Preston, Carmina offers good deals with their Outlet Shoes sections. It's not clear if they are seconds or end-of-line shoes... I'd imagine the latter.

[@stephenuter8844]

I got a pair of used Carlyles off Ebay for my wedding, I got them half soled and new heels put on.

[@arthour2924]

Used shoes for your wedding? I prefer a cheeper pair...but not used shoes.... You are unbelievable,man!!!

[@FKY66]

@@arthour2924 don’t be a deusche.

[@ekoller]

Can you discuss the AE independence line vs classic line. Independence line is being heavily discounted since they ended the line and I’m curious if you think they are actually better than the classic line.

[@FKY66]

For these two shoes, how does the sizing compare? I own three pairs of carlyles which I love, but my next purchase will be carmina. I’m just afraid about guessing in the size. Do both of these shoes fit your dad? Mind giving the sizes?

[@totalbliss1]

Carmina is the closest to a high end shoe as you could get imo. I have two pairs, a black derby simpson last and a dark brown single monk strap inca last. Both are awesome pairs and I really don't have the urge to buy a high end pair unless it's strictly for acquiring a shapely, art piece.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Carmina does make an excellent shoe. Thanks for watching

[@yvs0911]

very good review

[@solecellarz2881]

Solid review. Very detailed and well spoken.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Thanks for watching it!

[@deltasquared7777]

The superiority of Carmina styling can be seen a mile away by anyone who cares about style. It is in a entirely different class of shoe than the AE

[@drzaius844]

Thank you for this video. The Carmina / European last style is so much more elegant, it isn't even close, to my eyes. But, at $150 on sale, the AE is a bargain! How do you find out about AE sales? When are the Nordstrom yearly sales?

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Dr Zaius The big Nordstrom sale is their Anniversary sale around mid-July and lasts about a month, however Nordstrom will have specific AE shoes on sale various times a year. For example, the Park Avenue was on sale for $180 the last week of October 2019 and I jumped on that. I find out about these sales on Reddit, specifically r/allenedmonds and r/frugalmalefashion

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Dr Zaius The big AE sales are their Anniversary Sale that starts next month and lasts about a month, plus the Rediscover America sale in October. They have smaller sales throughout the year, though. Just subscribe to their email newsletter.

[@indo1712]

Can you do a polish video and review on a pair of Thursday Boots/shoes?

[@michaellyles8361]

Excellent review

[@AB-fm2bm]

Hi, what Carmine shoe last was used for those beautiful whole cut shoes? Love the silhouette!

[@TheElegantOxford]

The Rain last. It’s one of my favorites

[@hookamazooks]

Fantastic review looking honestly and clearly at two greats. Excellent work, I'd love to see more of this with other brands or even just other similar models. I'd also love to see a review of Loding shoes - they're known in France and have been making an appearance in Canada, and from what I can see are a contender against AE and similar brands.

[@johannesekstrom7164]

Hello! Just started with shoe shining, but have a question regarding the products I found at home. I have a "Foam cleaner", a brush, and leather balsam. What is the difference between leather balsam and leather wax, if there is any? Reason I am asking is that I tried following your videos but after 5 layers of balsam I never got closer to the "glass shoe" effect. Any tips?? Just to add, great content man! Keep them coming!

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hello, balsam will not work. You need a wax polish to produce a high shine. Balsam is more suited to nourish the leather.

[@johannesekstrom7164]

@@TheElegantOxford Thank you very much! Appreciate the insight.

[@m.p.2482]

Hello Preston, great vid as always. You can make any shoe look like a pair of Carminas lol. I want your opinion on something if you can. Better value...recrafting a pair of AEs off Ebay, with excellent uppers but need a resole, that cost just under $100 or a brand new pair of say Beckett Simonon's that will still cost less than the recrafted AEs? Maybe this would be a good vid idea. Comparing the value prop and pros/cons of buying a used pair of a higher quality brand shoe against buying new from some of these very good DTC brands that are out now. Thanks again for the great vid and comparision.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Great idea for a video. I don’t own any BS so I can’t make a proper decision but depending on how good the pair of AE are, you might be better off with the AE

[@henrywest7217]

Very helpful. However, not the same hypnotic charm as watching you shine a shoe.

[@pattgsm]

2 great brands. AE on sale are great value and fair price for what you get but I wouldn’t pay full price for AE. They Carmina at full retail are about $100 more than full retail AE but a also fairly priced for level of quality. AE is a strong straightforward formal shoe while it’s Carmina’s fine details and more elegant lasts enters statement shoe territory.

[@marconda771]

I own a couple of carminas and really like them. I’d add to preston’s review that AE has an easier website to explore( even now than Carmina just launched their new site) . AE matching belts are more expensive than Carmina matching belts in regular price.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I don’t like their new website either. It’s not intuitive! Good to know!

[@aaronallen4647]

The only good thing about Alan and Edmonds shoes is the price tag to get them refurbished ones you feel like they might need a new stain stitch or re-fab, 150 bucks for them to be reconditioned is not a bad price

[@suleimanshaik]

Great review and thanks for sharing

[@twilight1973able]

My biggest problem with Carmina is just what you pointed out. I must have a EEE width in my shoes. The last I checked, that narrows me down to the Rain 3E last and the Forest 3E last. Which means I can choose about 3 styles of Carmina shoes. Unless I go for custom ordered which is a solid chunk of cash extra. Now, there are some shoe manufacturers like Adelante Shoe Co. that are bringing that option head to head versus AE, so I don't know how much longer they can ride on that train. The only other thing for me is that AE is still one of the few that make 3E shoes with Horween leathers as an option. Not just Shell, but others like my new Mctavish in Horween Dublin. Adelante uses some pull up leather, but it's not Horween.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I’m a EEE as well so I know your pain. $750 for a custom Carmina is a lot.

[@mgtowp.l.7756]

What About Comfort? You Did Not Say Say thing About Comfort... What Do You Think The Danish Shoes Ecco? I Can Tell You For Comfort They Are Great..Please reply..Thank You..

[@edwardscissorhands4007]

is mink oil safe to put on the leather bottom sole to condition and water proof?

[@ronaldhowell5831]

I think your knowledge of shoes are a nice upgrade.

[@jimgd4]

Due to lifelong Orthopedic problems and the need to put orthotics in my shoes, I went to Carmina's store locally at 45th St. in New York, hoping I could get fit with a quality pair of dress shoes that I could fit my orthotics into and wear comfortably. Instead, I was met by a pushy salesman who was just hellbent on selling whatever they had in stock. When I got home and double checked the Detroits he had sold me, I saw that my orthotics were in fact cutting into the sides of the shoes, and would in no time be damaging the linings. Although I could probably order a perfect pair of custom Carminas for myself, I can't trust this company anymore. I'm just taking these shoes back.

[@gdretired4385]

Like you, I need a wide width shoe. In fact, I am an 8 EEE. Allen Edmonds shoes look great, even on my feet.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I’m the exact size at 8EEE

[@melvin7591]

Nice video. What color is the Carlyle featured in this video? Thanks.

[@TheElegantOxford]

It’s black

[@joejoe0102]

Love the video. Very informative. Maybe one day Carminas...maybe one day

[@TheElegantOxford]

They are so worth it!

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

My wide feet keep bringing me back to AE.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Me too

[@CrispyFrenFry]

Same with Alden. Does Carmina have a true EEE shoe at all (i.e., H width)?

[@bradle4162]

If I'm being totally honest. I prefer AEs. I feel Carmina has been having QC problems too recently, and AE has a much better fit range. Plus if sleekness is your thing then why not a Cobbler Union or Carlos Santos? The former has fiddleback waists and the latter is more affordable.

[@wotv7732]

I agree that Carmina has problems recently, although all of my experiences were amazing (it arrived in my door less than 24 hours, I live in EU). Carlos Santos' quality is pretty good (I own a pair) although they are still below Carmina in my opinion (hence the price range) while CU I do not have exprience with them yet. Aesthetic wise I just do not like AE. Cheers

[@MBisFrenchy]

I can only speak to 20+ returns for defective shoes to AE last year so I'm going to have to say AE definitely has QC issues.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Haven’t heard of quality issues from Carmina but I’ll look into it for sure

[@wotv7732]

@@TheElegantOxford it is in the styleforum, I read it a quite a bit last week or so, although as I mentioned before, Carmina has been fantastic to me

[@leonpse]

If Carmina offered different widths, I'd buy them, but my feet are too wide too. I have to stick with Allen Edmunds. In the old days, all shoes include sneakers were available with different width sizes. Also, Allen Edmunds has two stores in my locations, so I can try them out before buying.

[@intizoriamirshoev3142]

Very good!

[@petergriffinson1907]

what is the Carmina's EE width? On their site their EE width is a D. I need a US EE so does that mean none of their shoe will fit me?

[@marioedwardgonzalescopana4370]

Hello, Are CARMINA shoes still made in Spain?? or in China??

[@ardentdfender4116]

I kinda wonder how would you know if you have standard or wider feet for the shoe last. I guess you’d never quite know until you try on a shoe and it feels tight in the size. I’ve not had any issue I can tell from many the leather shoes I have. Yet some shoes do have a tighter instep and can feel bothersome when worn over hours just feels tight on top. Still it’s a curious thing to ponder and know either way tour feet width being standard or wider than normal for a shoe size.

[@onepoh4680]

Great review, I believe AE have better value if you get them on a sale but looking forward to buy a pair of carminas.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hey, Juan! Carmina makes a great shoe!

[@panamajay7377]

Even though I'm a Edmond Allen guy I seen a nice brogue pair of Florsheim and Ross discount store in my city for 40 dollars, I think it's a good deal what you think

[@TheElegantOxford]

Yes absolutely! Some vintage Florsheims are absolutely fantastic!

[@funnyman5017]

I have but one simple question not related to this video sadly, but how can I fix creases in a pair of Bates dress shoes for JROTC?

[@TheElegantOxford]

It depends what they are made of. If they are patent leather, there’s nothing much that can be done. If they are full grain or real leather, a shoe tree always helps.

[@kubilaytuncer3723]

Hello Preston, I hope you are doing well. I have a question for you. I find that most of the brands featured in this channel are sold the states only. When shipping them to europe, most shoes cost almost twice as much when you consider shipping and taxes. Unfortunately I can't afford that at the moment as a student. I find that most european brands in the "under 300 euros" price mark sell poor quality genuine leather with plastic finishes instead of good quality full grain calfskin with aniline finish. They crease and scratch very easily and once the finish is worn out it's impossible to shine them again. I have a hard time finding good quality shoes in europe under 300 euros. Do you have experience with any european brand that you can recommend? I'm looking forward to your response! I think you are doing a great job with your channel and I really enjoy watching your satisfying videos. Keep up the good work! Thank you!

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hey, Kubilay. Check out my review series on Herring Shoes out of the UK. They sell a $250 wingtip that’s good year welted and made with full grain calf.

[@anthonygardner400]

I have both of these shoes, and there really isn’t a comparison. Even before trying them on, simply holding them in your hands, you can tell which is better. Then, you slip them on your feet and feel the difference. Done. Carmina wins!

[@TheElegantOxford]

thanks for watching!

[@TheGungunn101]

Other brands to look out for are Cobbler Union and J. Fitzpatrick! They both fall within the same price point of Carmina and offer similar details like close channel stitching and sleek designs.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Thanks!

[@carlosc3768]

Great video, thank you! May ba a video about Meermin shoes? I believe they are a subsidiary of Carmina, are they not?

[@marconda771]

chato fernadez I don’t think so. I was the other day at Madrid and had the chance to visit both stores. Meermin shoes are attractive but quality construction definitely far away from Carmina. I really wanted to buy some meermin but after visit Carmina, I didn’t give them a chance.

[@kaikaichen]

To my knowledge, Carmina and Meermin were independently started by two different branches of the Albadejo family of shoemakers based in Mallorca. So while the people are (somewhat distantly?) related, the companies themselves are not.

[@alz300]

I like how the eyelets on the carmina flare out , beautiful shoe

[@TheElegantOxford]

It’s a beautiful detail

[@ethan5144]

Would love to try other brands other than Allen Edmonds like Carmina. However I have a narrow foot. Which most manufacturers do not make. I have read Cobbler Union has a narrow last such as the Louvre. Then Shoe Passion also has a narrow last if you choose the Italian and French last. Wish I had a average width foot. I think Carmina does a narrow width if you get a MTM but that is expensive.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Carmina’s custom shoes are $750 minimum so it is pricey. Having a narrow foot can be a challenge.

[@anshumanbhattacharya5020]

Wonderful informative video. Unfortunately none is available in India.

[@TheElegantOxford]

I think Carmina might shop to India. Not sure though.

[@REM977]

Can't explain why I like the AE better. Perhaps I'm just a traditionalist--plus an army vet. There's such a thing as too beautiful.

[@Nicool333]

I would love to see you guys do a comparison between one of these and Beckett simonon

[@TheElegantOxford]

I’m working on that now!

[@MNpicker]

AE FTW😎

[@WarBerJr02]

I am shining some old shoes now. These shoes have cuts, notches, and chips in the sole-edges. Could I use some sand-paper (about 420 grit) to smooth out the sole-edges?

[@TheElegantOxford]

Yes you could! Just be careful not to scratch the leather.

[@WarBerJr02]

@@TheElegantOxford Good to know. I think I am going to try it on some less expensive shoes first, though. I know my limitations! Or something...

[@fly-highslumsfoundation8306]

How can i buy

[@LastNineBreaker]

Spotted the SKX. Obviously a watch guy as well.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Good eye, it was my uncle’s and is over 40 years old.

[@angelophan]

Hey, Preston, you wear EEE in AE, how does that transfer to Carmina? I've read that their EEE is equal to US E. Thanks, brother, great vid!

[@TheElegantOxford]

I haven’t had a chance to try on a EEE by Carmina. I really want to. I’ll let you know what I find out.

[@jamesaldabo7767]

Esthetiquement j'opterais pour les Carmina ,j' aime le whole cut et qu'il n'aient que 5 oeillets mais pour mes pieds ils seraient plus confortables dans les Allen au bout un peu plus large et moins plongeant , le medaillon est sobre et la couture fine . En revanche le coup de pied plus haut du Carmina conviendrait mieux a mon coup de pied fort . Tres beaux souliers

[@VMui-hz4yk]

Nice Seiko SKX

[@urbandaniel100]

can we review archibald london?

[@BotchedInvestigation]

What about the fit and sizing of Carminas? I am a 9.5 D in US. What would my size be in Carminas?

[@TheElegantOxford]

You’d be an 8.5UK in Carmina

[@BotchedInvestigation]

The Elegant Oxford Thank you

[@BotchedInvestigation]

Oh do you still provide Shoe Shine services?

[@TheElegantOxford]

I do but since I am only a one man operation, I can only take on select jobs now. I do apologize for that.

[@donmac7780]

I would expect the Carminas to be the better shoe. Is it fair to compare a $500 shoe to a $300 shoe?

[@aa6355-r4m]

Before watching, Carmina all the way. For me, a shoe is more than just quality, although that’s important. It’s about the emotional feel of it; the beauty. Allan edmunds is very clunky to me. Carmina all the way. Such a beautiful elongated last.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Carmina definitely has a longer European last that many love!

[@GarrickVance]

If you happen to be in Spain already, Carmina's Barcelona store offers better prices than the US as well as VAT refund coming back to the US. Puts them neck in neck with AEs.

[@TheElegantOxford]

Hopefully one day I can visit Spain!