The Best Minimalist Sneakers 2022 | Allen Edmonds, Koio, Common Projects, To Boot NY, Oliver Cabell

Koio: thekavalier.re...
Greats: thekavalier.re...
Crown Shoes: thekavalier.re...
Oliver Cabell: thekavalier.re...
Beckett Simonon: thekavalier.re...
Allen Edmonds: thekavalier.re...
Cobbler Union: thekavalier.re...
Idrese: thekavalier.re...
Goral: thekavalier.re...
To Boot NY: thekavalier.re...
Artisan Lab: thekavalier.re...
Jak Shoes: thekavalier.re...
Ariat Two24: thekavalier.re...
Moral Code: thekavalier.re...
Paul Evans: thekavalier.re...
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For reference, I am 6’4 usually 190lb. Typical sizes of clothing:
Wrist Size: 6 1/4 in (15.875cm)
T-shirts: S
Long sleeve shirts/button downs: M
Dress Shirts: 15.5 x 35
Pants: 32 x 34
Dress Shoes: 12
This video is not sponsored. Contains Affiliate Links.
Edited by Ashley Saldanha

[@george5737]

The price for the Paul Evans is outrageous, especially for a company that started as a ‘direct to consumer’ one

[@internati0naled974]

I've got 4 pairs of PE shoes, monk straps and tassel loafers. Never paid retail for them, always got them 40% off. As of late, I noticed they no longer do 40% off sales. So it seems they've been gaining more popularity over the years.

[@neophoenix5281]

The shape of artisan lab is sooo beautifull 5:18 😍😍

[@OniTheWolf]

Very informative video! I’d like to add “Good Man Brand” as a competitor in this “Made In Italy” minimalist shoe comparison. I compared them to some Greats at Nordstrom when recently looking for sneakers, and ended up going with them over the Greats. Despite the $20 premium, the sneaker looked more sleeker and felt better quality-wise compared to the Greats (which were also good, don’t get me wrong lol). I also think Good Man Brand goes on sale during Nordstrom’s half year and annual sales.

[@trizzi4008]

Congratulations on 100k! Thoroughly deserved!

[@The_Kavalier]

Thank you Adi!!

[@balkee42]

Just snagged an older pair of Greats with the navy strip on the back.

[@earlmcmanus194]

Good choice.

[@ivanchunghk]

Artisan Lab is hands down the best shoes for the value! US included!

[@pattgsm]

Sneakers are about street and attitude. If you want to wear sneakers w/ a suit, go for it $60 - $300 it’s still a sneaker. With that in mind Allen Edmonds Park Ave sneaker w/ the option to customize the upper and sole can absolutely pull off suited styles. The Oliver Cabell are NICE. And the CP silhouette and its competitors is probably the the most aesthetic looking sneaker to date. However, unless it’s a rugged boot no way am I wearing $200+ for mundane activities like running errands and walking the dog. Converse, Vans, NB. If I want to dress down a suit I’m reaching for loafers. If I’m gonna dress up jeans I’m reaching for loafers. If I’m gonna have active fun I reaching for a sneaker under $160. But that’s just how I roll 😂. As always, fantastic review!

[@ChefSidorov]

I've bought the exact same pair of Paul Evan's sneakers for $88 back when they had loyalty point discount system and their preorder discount:) about 2 years ago. Absolutely love them. Great videos man! 🙏🙏🙏

[@JuanRodriguez-ev5cf]

Love this series of comparison. I swear it's made it so much easier for me to buy stuff that is affordable to me but it's quality!! Please don't stop this video!!!!! They are awesome

[@jeffanco9367]

I grabbed a pair of J.Fitzpatrick sneakers through Massdrop last summer. The leather quality is much better than my Greats or Beckett Simonon. Cost was about $130.

[@matthewhughes5509]

I recently purchased a pair of Taft white minimal sneakers. I am absolutely loving them.

[@markbellamy532]

It would be interesting to hear which you retailers you think will survive the Covid 19 catastrophe! Speaking of which, your videos make me look forward to non-grocery/pharmacy shopping again. Thank you.

[@iamhallo68]

I love your videos great content every time and the amount of time and detail put into each video I just looooove it! I have a couple Koios they are amazing!

[@zachmitchem2801]

Absolutely love a good leather sneaker. Thanks for taking one for the team and trying every brand! Also congrats on the 100k! 🥳

[@superseiyan]

Are these types of shoes (flat footed and I think no padding/cushion?) ok for the heels and Achilles?

[@kongmw]

I wanted to add a quick note on TBNY that is their shoes are frequently on sale, so it’s definitely worth waiting for one. I have a pair of their Chelsea’s that I got on sale a couple of years ago, not sure if actually worth the full retail.

[@davidn8245]

Picked up some Crown Northampton white sneakers and couldn't be happier. They are so comfortable and well made. Really appreciate the reviews and your informed opinions. Definitely helped when it came to make my purchase.

[@adrianrodriguez61]

What’s your take on the Ecco Soft 7? I am a big fan of your channel, I find your content very informative and helpful.

[@DavidSaintloth]

I picked up 3 of the acemarks and they are super lux. Also have 3 pair of Jak's from Portugal. Outstanding as well.

[@homosapien5156]

So under 200 dollars which would be the best Allen Edmonds, greats, Oliver cabell, Beckett and simonon or artisan lab ????

[@mr0moon82]

I would stay away from Oliver Cabell, I ordered a pair of Low 1 last week after watching this video. However the pair I received was made in Spain not Italy and they did not have Margom soles. The shoes also came damaged with a cut in the leather near the tounge. I contacted Oilver Cabell for the false advertising and damaged shoe and was told I can return the shoes if I pay $8.99 for return shipping.

[@spbynum]

Pro Tip: Allen Edmonds are releasing Goodyear welt sneakers later this year. I’d hold out for those.

[@rogerhuston8287]

Thanks!

[@mation21]

Where did you see this information? id like to find out

[@spbynum]

Elijah A the associates at my local AE store told me.

[@unholyrevenger72]

@@mation21 He doesn't specifically say GYW but just welted kzbin.info/www/bejne/ombHd4GqbM6GsNk

[@mation21]

@@unholyrevenger72 Thanks! really appreciate this info. Just wish they would say when these will be released

[@Ayobami001]

I'm trying to figure out what a "Marde"sole and "color ways" are. You must have used those terms 20 times each. Great video, thanks!

[@drhreigns3045]

Love the longer videos !

[@rogerhuston8287]

1. Nice call out to Elegant Oxford. 2. Wide is not D. Wide isn't really E. Wide is EE or above. 3. The only sneaker that can go that wide I found is Allen Edmund's Porter. But you have to get the E and remove the inner sole. It has two padded inner soles, one built into the shoe so it is still comfortable.

[@wendhynovizar3926]

Some brand considerations for your next low sneaker round up: Archibald SF-01(Collab with StyFo, they have Kangaroo leather which is interesting). Good Man Brand Legend Low Sneaker ($200, but frequently on sale for $135 or even lower on Nordstrom). Rancourt also has some Low Sneaker particularly with Bison leather. Berwick 1707 sneaker is very interesting as they are available for 99 GBP and Made in Spain with Margom sole, you can only order it from AFPOS though. You should also check out other sneaker lineup from Allen Edmonds. Their Brisbane or Perth is Made with Vibram sole, and Cooper lineup is Made with Margom sole.

[@nzpianoguy]

My single favourite style channel - sincere congratulations on 100K subscribers.

[@DEXVD]

For future vids would like to see you cover Spier Mackay MTM sport coats and shirts.

[@Ikari777]

Agreed brother! I think you would be blown away at fit they can provide (if you can get to Canada or MTO with tweaks since you know your sizing without going to store) and the value they provide in that space!

[@smody121]

Have two pairs of To Boot NY, the Ranger and Colton models. Both have extremely premium leather that I can create a beautiful soft shine with renovateur and saphir polish, keeps the leather very supple. Will layer on one or two layers of wax for weather protection and you're good to go. The Colton model is by far the most comfortable sneaker I've ever worn, the inner lining is exceptionally soft, but will mention it has a touch of arch support in the inside by the waist of the shoe. I mention this as more flat footed people may find this a bit uncomfortable actually, so trying them on at a local Nordstrom is highly recommended for fit and comfort.

[@doublewides]

Bought a pair of Crown sneakers following one of your sneaker review videos. Awesome, awesome sneaker. Thanks for the info and advice!

[@mtnslyr]

Just purchased koio via direct link from ur description, I hope I like it. Thanks for introducing the brand.

[@dan83to]

I absolutely appreciate the time and money that you have dedicated to another round up. Even though some of them are not my style, I am sure I will invest in a pair very soon and your recommendations have been very very useful and unbiased! Thank you very much Jon!

[@louiscyfer6944]

why do you say invest? investments are expected to increase in value. clothes, shoes do not qualify. a lot of youtubers use the word to try to make people spend money, but even they admit to misusing it.

[@DubbleM900]

Cobbler Union is more known for their dress shoes. Would love to see a review of those since they were brought up by Hugo Jacomet on Sartorial Talks and Raphael from Gentleman's Gazette had a pair in his collection as well. Speaking of Sartorial Talks, Septième Largeur was a French dress shoe brand that was brought up that sounds good.

[@A._.lizabeth]

I've been debating if I wanted to buy common projects for a while now and after watching most of your videos talking about comparable brands...I think I am gonna try Koio's! Great videos!

[@smelltheglove1726]

The more I learn, the more i'm finding out that there are plenty of solid sneakers out-there that are better value > Common Projects.

[@ryanlundstrom2855]

CP's are where it's at, always the gold standard. Looking forward to see what you have to say though!

[@sikeyy6881]

Ryan Lundstrom agreed. i reserve mine for nice events. give crown northampton a try though. they are my daily wears

[@TheGungunn101]

I love that there's a ton of competition in this space in terms of build quality and materials now, but I haven't quite found something that beats CP's silhouette. That's the only thing that keeps me coming back at this point.

[@JPS-sc1zn]

Ryan Lundstrom I agree, the CPs set a really high bar that no other brand can reach

[@sparkers70]

Crown still looks super nice for spring. Gonna have to make room in my shoe closet. 😬

[@73BLow]

Really enjoying your videos as I try to decide the next brand to try. I bought a pair of Greats and they are pretty good for the price. But, they don't compare in comfort to my A.Testoni. Sure, the Testoni's retailed for $525, but some discount site had one pair in my size for 70% off and I decided to give them a shot. Now they are my benchmark for comfort. You mentioned the comfort of the Crown Northampton, so I may have to try those. Would be cool if you did a pure comfort ranking regardless of price in an upcoming video.

[@jjohnson893]

Bullboxer. I know it's not the same level but I think they have a lot to offer. What do you think?

[@danielhakimi]

Skoaktiebolaget sneakers! Archibald SF-01 (the Styleforum Sneaker)!

[@westfieldartworks8188]

Big time congrats on 100k!!!!!! Very well deserved...let me tell ya...cheers!

[@M82RKY]

Great video mate👌 It's really difficult to beat Artisan Lab here in the UK, £130with loads of colourways, Margom soles, full grain leather, chrome free (what they claim). Best overall value for money white trainers in the UK.

[@ucheemenike4021]

could u make a video on how u take care of this sneaker

[@rezaakbari1773]

It looks like there is no fees for European buying the Oliver Cabell so now should i go with artisan lab or Oliver Cabell ?

[@ivanchunghk]

Artisan Lab all day. Their leather quality is superior. Also dig the slim silhouette.

[@custodiaforrest4144]

@@ivanchunghk even though they renewed their leather? also thinking about these two

[@ivanchunghk]

@@custodiaforrest4144 depends on what silhouette you're looking for. Artisan Lab is the closest thing to Common Projects, for almost a third of the price. Can't speak on the new Oliver Cabell's but the seem to be have more rounded toebox and thinner sole.

[@custodiaforrest4144]

@@ivanchunghk Thank you for the reply

[@MBisFrenchy]

Surprised 100k didn't come earlier with the solid unbiased reviews. Well done on 100K!

[@MBisFrenchy]

The AE shoes are 225 right now..... But they also are back to artificially inflating prices as Higgins Mill for reference are 425 as of 1/24/20

[@bheinatz1]

You gotta check out Magnanni's sneakers. I have had a couple pairs of their hightops for 3+ years now and they are incredible; flawless, no blemishes, leather and soles look almost brand new. Plus they have hand painted patinas. I always get compliments when I wear them. Their latest season has a nearly all white sneaker too... Gorgeous!

[@freewiremedia215]

To Boot New York is great. I’ve owned 3 pairs of common projects which I love the profile, but TBNY are great and I wear them pretty much every day. Great if you have a wider foot and super comfortable.

[@kongmw]

Gotta be early for the sneakers video!

[@kingkielbasa2991]

Great comparison video ! Would like to see a review of the Mark Chris Gianni sneaker.

[@Chokkan]

I love my Crown Northampton's. I got the Upton Wholecut in Horween No 8 Chromexcel Gum. They're really comfortable once they soften up. Out of the box, they're very stiff, which is understandable.

[@01sasha66]

Thank you for the time you spend doing your videos, it’s very informative. I have your heard about Oliver Cabell cheslea and dress boots? They look very good but I don’t if they are worth their prize as much as the low 1. Would you recommend these?

[@chrisp5526]

I know a sneaker company that resoles for an affordable price: OpieWay . Now, the sneakers are common project prices; but, it’s made in the USA, small company, small enough to speak to the owner, and get a custom shoe.

[@jonjonyew5519]

Hi! I’m trying to decide between Beckett Simonon and Koio. Which would you personally recommend?

[@Jose-rc3dl]

Hell yeah Brother, lovin these sneaker videos.

[@Galaxia405]

The Fredrik Risvik x Oliver Cabell is extremely worth the $$$. I was fortunate to pick up a pair from the 100 pair limited release and it's sooooooo buttery soft and comfortable.

[@richardb22]

Care to share the links to your previous shoe reviews in specific price points you mention in the first thirty seconds . Thanks

[@Anti-Taxxer]

Have you seen the Doek Court? It’s literally the only sneaker that I own (that’s not explicitly for exercising). It is a canvas sneaker, but it’s quite comfortable and has a nice vintage feel. You should check it out.

[@MBisFrenchy]

Thanks for bringing up if you are a 10 in AE 65 last you should be a 10 in certain shows. Sizing between brands is tough

[@seekrytayznman1]

Can you do a video kn the new minimalist Thursday Boots sneakers?

[@The_Kavalier]

☑️

[@omarkhan3768]

I just want to know what your annual budget is for clothes,.shoes and accessories for all these KZbin vids.

[@smelltheglove1726]

Companies send reviewers tons of free stuff, he has more than he can handle probably

[@davidfontenelle80]

Very informative. Thank you for the great video.

[@matthogan506]

Congrats on 100k! Any chance you’ll review Thursday boots new leather jackets?

[@joken64]

Hi, I saw this review before the Covid19 shutdown and as I live in Northamptonshire thought I’d give Crown Northampton a visit. Just got back from a fitting with Chris Woodford (owner) and am now waiting for the sneakers to be hand made. Crazy world; to see a review of locally (to me) made sneakers via a US reviewer (you - The Kavalier) recommended by another US reviewer (Brian Sacawa at He Spoke Style).

[@bruhitsme2601]

It'd be nice if you show you trying out all of those sneakers. It's easier to see how they look on an actual person.

[@kingarchnyc]

What about coke haan grand zero 2?

[@roderickmoppins2478]

How do you feel about new republic

[@archiesantana6230]

I enjoy watching your videos, cheers mate..... just wanted to know sizing of the Paul evans sneakers compared to Greats, is it same size to order?

[@gsotoaz]

I really digging this guy's videos.

[@TonyByte]

What is the sole he keeps mentioning and why is it special? Mardum, markham, marden? Can't understand or find it.

[@fartlighter82]

I just ordered $400 sneakers that wont be delivered for 5 months. Two months ago before the Covid-19 lockdown I didn't even know designer sneakers were a thing.

[@ijustmetyoucallmebab]

You should take a look at wolf and shepherd crossover leather sneakers. I bought the brown one months ago and O love it. Good quality leather and design and, most of all, it’s unbelievably comfortable.

[@MBisFrenchy]

Really liked you mentioned when shoes could be resoled. 300 gets a decent dress shoe which is resoleable why couldn't sneakers be if Wolf and Shepherd can resole their cemented construction shoes.

[@donwalutes5007]

What did you say you put on your paul evans shoes after you wore them in the rain. What products do you use in general on your leather shoes (cleaner, polish etc.) Thanks!

[@Crosswizz]

Crown Northamptons seems like the highest quality but you just cant beat the CP silhouette

[@maxloyd9682]

Between to boot New York and Paul Evans . Which one is the better higher quality sneaker? How does each compare to common projects since they cost almost the same ? And how much better are they then koio?

[@Samuel-dc2mq]

I live my Koio triple whits but my favorites are axel arigato clean 90s the quality of Koio with the freshest silhouette

[@adrianhurtado9216]

What an irony that some places outside US common projects are cheaper than koio ir almost any other brand, 410 for koios meanwhile 290 for CP in farfetch, greetings from México

[@calebkay7663]

Have you come across Uniform Standard's lineup? Would you consider covering them in your next round-up (whenever that may be)? Have been rocking CP Achilles Lows and Artisan Labs too, and while the Artisan Labs are a great alternative, the little details - like the suede on the inside where the heel is on the CPs - really make a difference for me. Getting a lot of heel squeak on the Artisan Labs.

[@knownaschaz]

Thoughts on Thursday boots entry with the Premier Low Tops?

[@sirjohndoeofpa3292]

Great sneaker video. What about casual boots such as Red Wing Iron Rangers, Chippewa boots, etc?

[@kwc7391]

At 70 years old, I have many of the casual Sneakers. I have Cole Haan, Black, Brown, and White. The leather is soft. AND not that expensive.

[@BuntaTypeR]

Love the summary!

[@baberoot1998]

Great review. Personally...I would like to see a review on Good Man Brand, and Frye's luxury sneakers, (specifically, the Brett, and Walker modesl). I know this is an old video, so I understand if no response is given. Regardless...this is a great review. (I have only recently gotten into the luxury sneaker market), so I am just now finding these videos. Thanks again.

[@YFree]

My Wolverine 1000 mile low sneakers are this style, and I think they are superior to everything listed here. Horween upper, stitched Vibram sole, the aesthetics are inspired by the boot, such as the triple stitching.

[@nikkiboyzopicar6872]

Kavalier’s the man 👍. Thanks!

[@ChefSidorov]

Congratulations on 100K!

[@albertperez9878]

Artisan Lab or M.Gemi? Any recommendations?

[@nicholaspreiss]

New Oliver Cabell vs Ace Marks vs Koio - which has better/softer leather uppers and which do regard as better value? Ashley Weston complained about Dorian's Oliver Cabells (OC) squeaking. I've noticed my OC GAT's squeaking slightly (but not from outside of sole) when walking on some surfaces...

[@absolvdd]

dont sleep on taft sneakers tho! crazy comfy and super high quality for around $200.

[@matthewsbernier]

Don't forget the Rancourts! Made right here in Maine.

[@syrah96]

I'll second your emotion on the Crown Northampton, I got a pair of Uptons and I think they are the best, also pulled a pair of Greats out a Nordstrom sale for CHEAP, cream colored with a blue accent on the tongue and heel, never saw them on the Greats site ?

[@martinp.9853]

Ace Marks for me but I'll try Paul Evans.

[@DVelez-wz3fe]

Extended review on Onism please

[@justalott]

As a size 15 only Greats and All Edds have my size. As more of a cheapy, my decision was made for me.

[@antoineceron2924]

Not sure why, but I don’t find those Crown shoes very aesthetically pleasing, just my opinion of course.

[@jazzrockr]

One thing I noticed about To Boot's minimal sneaker was that the soles were quite heavy. Is that intentional? Unfortunately, I want the To Boot quality leather upper, but the soles leave me worried about being unable to lift my foot to be able to drive and function (as someone with a neuromuscular disease). Almost like SB Dunk Pros (for those into that stuff) or pairs of C1rca skate shoes for those who had them back in the day that were similarly bottom-heavy. I'm grateful I'd only bought an older pair on eBay for $70 minus shipping and handling.

[@epicjas0n]

Can you review the Good Man brand "edge" sneakers? They look very similar to Common Projects and are on sale for $140 right now. I'd love to see an in depth review on these.

[@alexnw6050]

Would actually love to see you review cobbler union oxfords.....I've been very happy with my navy whole cuts.

[@vladimirart758]

The Adidas ss are made 4 this style

[@JAY-rahd_GI-benz]

Holy shit is that JAZZ AT THE PAWNSHOP in the background ?!

[@titone14]

This will be my first pair of shoes for that kind of money, but cant decide between the Oliver Cabell or just go with Koio? I want to make the best possible decision. Thanks!!

[@idrese4427]

Edgar Palma Murillo Message us on insta! We’ll take care of you : ) @idreselabel

[@allyjhughes]

What about Artisan Lab?