My Allen Edmonds Collection 2020

This video was uploaded May 11th 2020, and somehow got deleted, so I'm re-uploading it. This video highlights my current personal collection of Allen Edmonds shoes, including the costs of acquisition.
Music Credit: KZbin Audio Library

[@CobblerBob]

This video was uploaded on May 11th 2020, and somehow got deleted, I have NO idea why. I sincerely apologize if you’ve already seen it.

[@TXCrafts1]

Hello Mr. Powers good to see you again. I was wondering if there is a way I can send you a PM? I might have something that will interest you and I want to send it to you.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Hahaha I just re-watched it but it was still enjoyable. What’s interesting is that someone posted a picture of the Hastings the other day on Reddit and I didn’t recognize them even though I had seen this video before.

[@codybyrd870]

How about an update?

[@TheFragranceLounge.]

Hey brother, we need a new full collection video !

[@TheFragranceLounge.]

@@codybyrd870 Absolutely!

[@stephencarbonaro5462]

Nice collection. I walked into an Allen Edmonds store one day and got measured. I always wore a 10 or 10.5, because it was the only shoe size I could get my foot into. To my surprise the associate looked up at me, and said you have a 9.5 EEE foot. She brought out a pair of 9.5 EEE Strands in walnut. At first my thought was, my foot is never going in here, I need at least a 10. There is no way...boom foot goes right in. I stood up and realized the importance of proper sizing immediately. The level of comfort was unlike anything I've ever felt before. I walked out of there with the strands at full pop. I cant find 9.5 EEE in a good quality shoe anywhere. So I stick with Allen Edmonds. I just purchased my 3rd pair. Bond Street in mahagony. Absolute beautiful shoe. The other is the mercer street loafer in dark brown. Now I have an addiction. And an empty bank account.

[@crakzor]

Same I usually wear 10-9.5 but I have 3 AE shoes in 8.0 haha

[@baberoot1998]

Those walnut Park Avenue's...are beautiful! And of course...the walnut Strands...are always gorgeous. Great collection.

[@CobblerBob]

THANK you!

[@lucioaguilariv9910]

Admirable collection, Robert! Allen Edmonds has become one of my favorite brands, especially when finding a good deal on them. Your sweet eBay finds have peaked my interest in the world of shopping vintage and finding nice things in the single/double digits.

[@joshuasteele4498]

Lucio Aguilar IV I’ve found many great deals on the Poshmark application. I don’t think I’ve paid more than $60, including tax & shipping for any of the AE’s in my collection now. Be willing to make an offer and engage in some haggling - it works out more often than not!

[@leslieschwab3044]

I just received my Madison Park walnut in size 13eee from ordering on sale from Allen Edmonds online. They were $425 for only $112!, and 1st quality!

[@arthurkurtz2448]

Wonderful collection, and superb explanations of terminology, Robert. My favorite is the Walnut Strands...I have a pair, and feel great when wearing them. By the way, your protective sole application and skiving are approaching perfection! Stay safe in these most-challenging times.

[@CobblerBob]

Arthur Kurtz - thank you!! 🙏🏼

[@SPNKr16]

Those different trees with the small heel, no knob, are designed to be traveller's trees. More portable. It's noted as such in the old Allen Edmonds catalogs, I believe 1980s and 1990s.

[@CobblerBob]

That's interesting... I didn't know that!

[@robertthorn9560]

I have the opposite problem, I wear a 8.5 B width, hard to find but I came across a pair black Park Avenue never been worn for 150.00, fits me like a glove. I'm hooked on AEs, love their craftsmanship and timeless look. Thank you for your videos explaining the styles and lasts....keep them coming!

[@philschiavone101]

Bob very good. Now check out the warehouse sale. They have some stupid prices on close outs and belts. Get that black Gator belt for $135. You also need to get a nice light linen or seersucker suit. They are made for those Derby shoes you have.

[@CobblerBob]

Phil, a pair of dark chili Saratoga (loafers) are in a UPS truck on their way to my house as we speak!! 👊🏼 I’ll do an unboxing video.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Robert Powers Oooh those would be your first pair of AE loafers, right? Looking forward to the video.

[@ibuprofen303]

I got my second pair of Primark Plimsoles yesterday, so I too, am building my collection.

[@CobblerBob]

I've never heard of Primark, but Awesome!

[@edf2953]

Nice collection of AE’s Bob. Neat special effects to the video at the end!

[@theedgeofbreakup5192]

Hey Robert, great video! I’m new to the dress shoe crowd and learning plenty. I usually wear a 12 in most everything. Are these true to size?

[@CobblerBob]

I would advise getting fitted on a Brannock device by a good professional shoe fitter. The Brannock is the metal shiny foot measuring thingy most stores have. I know many men that have worn one shoe size their whole adult life, only to find out that they are not actually that size. Knowing your true Brannock size is a good start. For example, I am an 11.5 in length, with my right foot being EE width, and my left E width. My ball length is 12 to 12.5. I have normal width heels and standard arches and instep. Then you will just have to try different brands. Some brands like Allen Edmonds have Facebook groups and blogs online on Styleforum where folks have posted which model shoes are made on which lasts, and how they fit. Every shoe is made on a Last. It's the form that gives the shoe it's shape. Some makers, like AE, tell you which models are made on which lasts. Start with styleforum.com and the Allen Edmonds Enthusiasts Facebook group if you're going to buy Allen Edmonds. Also consider scheduling a time to go to an Allen Edmonds store for a professional fitting if you're considering buying their shoes. AE has sales pretty often so get on their email list.

[@georgestonier7886]

Thanks for all your videos, always educational. Any chance you can do a video on shoe lace patterns? I’m a simple crossover guy but love the Bar look. Thanks 🇨🇦

[@CobblerBob]

I did one that covered a little of that! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mITGc4CLjd-jqac

[@WH6FQE]

I lost my mind this week and ordered 5 pairs of Allen Edmonds from Dabondo1. I am starting to think I may have a problem that may need professional help, lol. My favorite is also the walnut Strand.

[@CobblerBob]

LOL!

[@telecasterbear]

Today I found and bought eight used pair of Allen Edmonds shoes. Four pair of Walden, two pair of Randolph, one pair of Sheldon, and one pair of Harrison. Six pair have the original soles and heels. Two pair have the heels and half soles replaced. $80.50 including tax.

[@CobblerBob]

Wow! Score!!

[@zedaxm]

that's a superb and elegant collection Sir :)

[@joshuasteele4498]

Nice collection! I’ve become a huge fan of the Sanford’s. They just fit so well for me. I also appreciate your observation about the width options. I prefer a 9 1/2 C over any other. D’s are fine, but the C is best. It’s just enough that I feel it. To go with a “narrow” from most others is too tight. I’m very thankful that AE continues to do what they do in offering a very high quality leather shoe, in a host of styles sizes and widths. Of course there are better! One could say that even about Edward Green or St Crispen. So what? You could have 4 pairs (perhaps 5-6 if the sale is good) of AE’s for the price of one pair of theirs - and be able to rotate a whole week’s duration of wear.

[@liljuanito123]

My favorites were the walnut strands and the oxblood Mcallisters

[@CobblerBob]

Luis Sauceda thank you! Those are my fav’s too

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Hi, Bob. The oxblood McAllisters were my favorite because I also want a pair, LOL. Although first I want to get a pair of medium brown Park Avenues and a pair of brown loafers for my rotation of shoes I can’t still wear 😂😂😂.

[@danielluna7588]

That's a great collection!

[@marlonaguilar816]

Hey Bob. When are you doing another shoe collection video? 2023?

[@CobblerBob]

Hmm... I wonder if my collection is different enought to warrant doing a new video? I've thought of doing a suit/sport coat collection video. That collection has become pretty nice!

[@drshockter2158]

Allen Edmonds quality control is awful. I ordered 2 pairs of the same shoes and took both of them back. They didn't look even remotely like the picture or the one on display in the store; and they were scuffed up. I think I'm done with this brand.

[@tarun9710]

Such a great video, the number of likes and zero dislikes says it all❤️

[@CobblerBob]

Thank you sir. Just wait though, the dislikes will unfortunately come =/

[@Fulano.de.Tal.]

Need not worry, KZbin updated its policy to no longer show dislikes.

[@chicago9458]

Woooooow what an amazing collection

[@CobblerBob]

Thanks a lot, I appreciate it!

[@chuckboyle8456]

Really outstanding video, thanks. Full attention to detail with great emphasis on correct descriptions & definitions. What brand and size of heel savers are you using, I couldn’t stop the video fast enough to get the name?

[@CobblerBob]

Chuck Boyle - thank you! They are Guard brand. I get them from eBay seller Nordshoe

[@chuckboyle8456]

Robert Powers...Thanks Cobbler Bob for the product & source information, greatly appreciated!

[@paulkissiah4729]

You got some nice ones

[@joshuarozario5654]

Awesome Bob!

[@MrDucatiti]

Thanks for sharing. Bartlett's aka glorified Strands are on sale now for less than $100.. better leather than the traditional AE's

[@jeffreygoss8109]

Must have missed the Kirby Allison review.

[@Heywoodthepeckerwood]

Nice collection.. I can’t afford so many. I seem to have an addiction to guns and watches. My wife couldn’t handle another expensive collection.

[@CobblerBob]

LOL! I recently got into watches, and into things that go pew pew too a year & a half! I totally understand.

[@Heywoodthepeckerwood]

@@CobblerBob good. They are both a whole new world of fun. Good luck.

[@paulmlemay]

I really like the walnut shoe. Not boring. I'd just sand and polish the edges. Respectfully submitted.

[@MrRizzoU]

Im thinking about getting the macneil, and I noticed you have a number of 3E shoes, are your MacNeils also 3E? Most of my shoes are also 3Es as well.

[@CobblerBob]

Billy Rizzo yes, my MacNeils (97 last) are 3E too. They don’t honestly fit quite as well as the 65 last shoes. They don’t fit bad, but just not as comfortable as the Park Aves, Fifth Aves, Strand, etc. I think the 97 last has less room for my pinky toe, and is flatter in the forefoot therefore less room around the tip of the foot. I also think the centerline of the point of the toe is farther inboard and affects the fit, where the 65 last has the center point of the toe a tad farther outside. I know I have a very wide forefoot, and I think I have a relatively high instep. On the Brannock My right foot measures at an 11EE, and the left around a 11.5 E, but I cannot wear an 11.5E comfortably on the 97 or 65 last.

[@arielguzman9336]

Hi I’ve never bought a pair of dress shoes. I want AE for my first pair. I’m thinking of going for that really popular timeless Oxford toe in black. Is that a good pick? Ps Im size 9 in Nike and adidas but I think I should go down half a size for dress shoes

[@CobblerBob]

Ariel, I apologize for missing your comment. I don't know where you live, but if at all possible, I would DEFINITELY go to an actual Allen Edmonds store and get fitted. Once you buy a couple pairs from the store, then you'll know what size and width fits you, and you'll be able to buy them online easier. AEs are made on a series of "Lasts". Shoes are grouped into different lasts. Go to the AE website and look up "All About Lasts". As far as which style to get, it's ultimately up to you, but if I were starting out with none, I think I'd get 2 pairs right away if I could: a black pair of Park Avenue cap toe Oxfords, and for the 2nd shoe something like a walnut pair of Strands or Oxblood McAllister wingtips. The biggest disadavantage to your 2nd shoe being a walnut Strand is that it is a very memorable shoe, and it is not one I would want to wear every day. It may be smarter to get a Oxblood or brown McAllister wingtip 2nd, or maybe a chili or brown Fifth Ave?

[@joefagan6244]

You take good care of your shoes.

[@stevenjm12]

Sounds like an addict!

[@GatorAidMedical]

Respectfully - I think you are going for quantity over quality here. You made multiple comments throughout the video about how some lasts don't fit properly, some sizing issues here and there. I think you should consider settling into a last that fits you amazingly, rather than always chasing the best ebay deal. If you have to alter shoes with insoles to make them fit, or just live with anything less than perfection in a shoe, it's not worth it. The advantages of buying them new is the return policy, for sure.

[@CobblerBob]

Decatur, absolutely no offense taken. You’re not wrong, and as my wardrobe grows, and as my experience grows, I do “up the bar“. What was OK to me several years ago is no longer within my satisfaction. So even though some of the shoes in my wardrobe may not represent this philosophy now, as I move forward I do have higher standards and an more selective. Some of the shoes that don’t fit great, I do save for days where I will not be in them for a long time.

[@GatorAidMedical]

@@CobblerBob It broke my heart, but I had to sell some Walnut strands that didn't fit me in 11D. I also had to return two pairs of mctavish I recently bought on sale in 11.5D because those had too much room around the ankle. It's frustrating. I'm currently wearing some Thursday boots in roughout Canyon until I can go in store and find my perfect fit.

[@KL-ps6pp]

What’s the non-AE that you have? Thanks !

[@CobblerBob]

K L, I did a video on that too! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5-vZKyVaa94kK8

[@gregorythomas2674]

AE quality went down the toilet. Shame. Sold company and sold out what was a quality company. I have some older ones that are just amazing. Wouldn't touch a new pair.

[@CobblerBob]

I know what you mean. I've had several issues with shoes I've bought over the last few years. I'm hoping things improve...

[@Exec-eo1kz]

I have those shoe trees! Great deal for superior product.

[@CobblerBob]

Yes they are! Thanks for stopping by!

[@benjaminkenobi6925]

I liked your video

[@lindseystyles5232]

OMG, amazing. Beautiful. Does your wife complain how much you spend on shoes? lol

[@CobblerBob]

Lindsey, so sorry for missing your comment. LOL, not really, because other than the walnut Strands, I really don't spend that much on them, and that's spread out over several years. I don't drink or blow money on lots of other stuff either.

[@videoart344]

Hey body you are miraculus in your laboratory😮😅🎉

[@yacovlk7924]

Allen Edmonds are really good for a wide range of sizes but they do not have any elegance what so ever.

[@CobblerBob]

I see what you mean, they are distinctively American/British style, but I do love them.

[@edtollway3730]

Speak after me : daar-bee. Got it?

[@CobblerBob]

You’d be correct Ed if I lived in the UK. In the US it’s DUR-bee, just like I pronounced it

[@Stuart1969-f1j]

In 2020 AE was clearing out their navy Park Ave inventory. Believe retail was $395 at that time. Believe price I paid was $250-275. First pair had several small flaws in leather and also in welt stitching. I ordered 2nd pair hoping that they would be flawless as these were presented as first quality, not seconds. 2nd pair also contained flaws. I really wanted a pair of navy Park Ave since I could wear with several navy suits so I ordered a third pair...was pleased that this pair seemed to be without flaws, finally satisfied. That is, until I set both shoes on the coffee table in front of me and noticed that one of the shoes "rocked" from heel to toe. The other shoe in the pair did not "rock" but was flat on the table. Zero for 3 on AE quality of craftsmanship or quality control or both. Didn't have any issues with AEs I had purchased before Celarus purchased AE as I had previously purchased black PA, oxblood Fifth Ave, shell Cordovan Grayson tassel loafers, light beige tassel loafers (can't recall name), black Brookwood cap toe, Walden oxblood penny loafer, Boulder casual driving shoe in dark brown, and several others that I've retired out of wearing rotation. Still have sales catalogs from the 90s that display all of the current styles for sale along with the last used to build that particular shoe (if applicable) and in the very back pages were listed the sizes and widths available on each style shown. The current sales catalogs don't even show all the styles available, much less last, size and width available. Current owner has cut corners everywhere they could and don't appear to know where their market resides now. Real shame to witness an iconic American shoe manufacturer go down the tube like AE is experiencing. Check out all of the many shoe videos on YT that have deconstructed AE shoes and commented on their downward spiral in craftsmanship. I so wish this wasn't the case but sadly that's the reality. Just hope Alden maintains their quality and continues to exist.