What Is The Best Penny Loafer In The World? | Kirby Allison

[@hermanrombouts276]

Been following your web site for some time now as I love quality in shoes and apparel .Living in the Scheldt Estuary .The Netherlands during the war. My little village was liberated by the British Army, Gloucester Regiment.Our house was totally flattened.I was one of the kids who were temporary adopted by a Belgian family in Brussels.He was the shoemaker for the Belgian king.After my stay with this Wonderfull family ,he made a pair of Bordeaux red loafers for me..This made me so happy and I walked in them for many years.Henceforth I love great shoes.Kirby ,You have a great platform : Thank you ever so much. HR.

[@alangordon8190]

Beautiful shoes. People leaving comments comparing with the likes of AE and Alden really do not know what they are talking about.

[@downingbethune8758]

Agreed. Wishful thinking on their part. AE and Alden are a better value, but they certainly aren't on par with EG.

[@alangordon8190]

@Bravo Luca 'Your Just'? I would suggest you go away and try and learn to speak the English language correctly. Why is it obnoxious to pass comment? Baffling.

[@alangordon8190]

@M L I take your point and don't disagree. Of all EGs I wouldn't personally go for Penny Loafers. The quality of craftsmanship is top notch which is the point I was trying to make (not very well!) in my first post.

[@stuartbritton7408]

That's because there sure are a lot of Yankee Doodle dandies out here, and they only see the American world and can't accept anything being better than American. Their Nick's boots are mighty fine, though, but they are only work boots, made and used for roughing it out in the wilds of Yankee doodle dandy country.

[@jamxtube]

When it comes to being well dressed, one thing I'm sure we should all strive toward is gaining a good understanding of our own aesthetics. That is to say, as men who want to dress well, I should think we'd want to satisfy our own sense of beauty, at least, as much as any consideration for propriety. That being said, I'd like to share a situational irony. I recently completed my shoe wardrobe. Practically speaking, I have everything I want. My collection was completed with two pairs of boots; John Lobb Tudor Chelsea boots and Crockett and Jones Chukka boots. I made myself a commitment to the necessary investment that would result in the shoes I truly loved and wanted. When it comes to penny loafers, however, I was surprised. Though I've looked at practically every iteration of the penny loafer, I find very few appealing. Edward Green makes a beautiful suede loafer. But I only know of three makers of, specifically, penny loafers that I find attractive. J.M. Weston makes a penny loafer that I find balanced and decent in appearance. Other than the pairs I own, the only other maker who's penny loafer I find attractive, without reservation, is John Lobb's Lopez Penny Loafer. Ironically, the penny loafer I find the most aesthetically pleasing is the $100 G.H. Bass & Co. Weejuns. Specifically, I own and love the Logan Flat Strap Weejuns. I own two pairs, one in black and the other pair in wine. I honestly find these shoes to be the most attractive of all penny loafers made. Now, I'm no fan of the leather coating undoubtedly applied to cover up inferior quality leather, simplify care and extend the life of the shoes. I'm sure all of the higher quality loafers are much more comfortable. Still, I'm happy with my Weejuns. I've asked myself, '...am I just attached to them because I've worn this brand of shoe since I was 15 years old?' No, I actually find them to be the most attractive. I wear penny loafers as a casual shoe only on weekends during the spring and summer. Once in a while I think about the John Lobbs, but I'm honestly happy in my Weejuns. I do, however, fantasize that one year, for some commemorative reason, they'll come out with a version made in calfskin or full grain leather. Or, even better.., Horween Shell Cordovan!

[@Tommy_ZM]

I just purchased these exact shoes from Edward Green (with matching belt). I also just got the Edward Green Banbury in snuff suede. These shoes are incredible. Anyone looking for loafers, derbies, or chukka boots should order from EG. If it’s an Oxford, I’d go John Lobb Philip ii’s but I’m sure the EG competitor is great too. Thanks for the review Kirby

[@jadktimeless2831]

Mister Kirby Allison, You Should Try The 180 Loafer By JM Weston Made In France Since 1891 And The Modele Was Created In 1946 Whit More 200 Formes By The Son's Founder Eugène Blanchard.The Purpose Is The Perfect Loafer For Ever And He's.❤

[@Nathan-pp5lj]

Just some tips when buying from Edward Green. They always recommend you get sized at one of their fitters, so don’t ever guess your size. Non stock sizes that are custom made for you are not returnable. UK sizes are typically one size larger than US sizes but Edward Green sizes are 1/2 size larger than US sizes. C & D are narrow widths, E is standard, F & G are wider. Lastly, English lasts are typically on the narrow side so their G width is typically like an E or EE US at best. Remember, always get fitted first at a store!

[@realleescoggins]

Excellent review. Now I need to buy a pair to add to my EG collection.

[@DG-qq6gz]

The Penny Loafer presented is an elegant and comfortable looking shoe.

[@wesleystacknik1920]

Kirby could probably describe a No.2 lead pencil and win the class prize. I'll bet he did!

[@andrewwohl11]

Outstsnding video Kirby!! Great information and well produced. Keep up the great work for all those appreciating craftsmanship, quality and tradition. Yes, costly but a true investment that yields enjoyment throughout.

[@Thunderbirdpele]

I cannot resist myself to buy one of this gorgeous loafer because of your review Kirby 😂

[@thesceptic1018]

I look forward to your videos and would love to hear your views on the EG Galway boot. BTW claims that standards at EG have fallen recently are completely unsubstantiated.

[@ianmedium]

Kirby, is the Lobb episode nearly ready? :)

[@Peter-lm3ic]

I personally prefer EG to JL.

[@karldelavigne8134]

@@Peter-lm3ic Don't confuse John Lobb Ltd with John Lobb (Hermes) Paris.

[@ianmedium]

Peter 99 Kirby has visited the bespoke Lobb not the Hermes one, should be fascinating! Oh, and I agree, I prefer EG over Hermes Lobb also.

[@ianarn]

I love your bespoke shoes but these loafers would work perfectly with your outfit!

[@lewiswilliamsjr1190]

How come they never say anything about best alligator or crocodile shoes

[@sadikahmed1987]

Fantastic shoes, fantastic brand. We only produce the best in England!

[@stricht8]

Overall a nice shoe but the vamp is a bit too short in my opinion.

[@emin1471985]

Dear Kirby, I have a question - I've been recently trying to find out how to clean the insides of the leather dress shoes, but unfortunately unsuccessfully. Could you please advise? Is it ok to use saddle soap or any other standard cleaning solutions (e.g. liquid ones)? I am mostly interested in getting rid of stains that appear on the insoles after wearing the shoes for a while. And my second question is if it is ok to use saddle soap on shell cordovan shoes? Or would you rather suggest anything else? Thanks a lot! :)

[@jadenjames1552]

you prolly dont care but does any of you know a method to get back into an instagram account..? I stupidly forgot the password. I love any tricks you can offer me!

[@dallasevan3847]

@Jaden James Instablaster ;)

[@jadenjames1552]

@Dallas Evan Thanks for your reply. I found the site on google and Im trying it out now. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@jadenjames1552]

@Dallas Evan It worked and I finally got access to my account again. Im so happy! Thank you so much, you saved my account !

[@dallasevan3847]

@Jaden James Happy to help xD

[@davehHH1]

I have this model. It's a great shoe. However, it needed to be broken in significantly. I had real pain putting them on. I could have probably sized up as shoes shouldn't feel like this straight away. Anyway, after a few weeks they now fit. I think it could be my high instep so loafers aren't great in general. I must say thought the shoe is of exceptional quality. I'm going to get another pair of edward greens and see if it was just this last I had problems with

[@scottc9151]

Hello! Love your videos - why do you not condone wearing loafers without socks? I just bought my first pair of quality loafers and want to provide the best care for them. Thank you!

[@senyang8251]

I love edward green loafers, while the in store service in london I would like to say NO. Sometimes I'd like to chat with staff in store and explore the whole brand.

[@frankrizzo7185]

Are the soles JR or something else?

[@jonathanmichaels8331]

Yes Kirby that’s all great - but if worn with socks - then what colour socks?

[@aaronsung6208]

Brown and blue are the best combo ima as they are compliment color.

[@desertknights5003]

Depends on the color of your pants if I'm not wrong

[@desertknights5003]

@@aaronsung6208 also green

[@aaronsung6208]

@@desertknights5003 yes. usually similar color to pants or shoes. But blue and grey almost always work imo.

[@111ImNumber1]

Thank you Kirby. EG indeed makes good shoes (though their quality has noticeably declined over the last 5 years). For the price they ask for, I think St Crispins would be a better choice.

[@DGFishRfine1]

If anything, I feel like EG has stepped their game up in the last five years. They've been answering challenges from Lobb's St Crepin line, G&G, and Vass. They've added a level of finish to soles and uppers which just wasn't present before.

[@Tommy_ZM]

St Crispins is literally garbage compared to EG, JL, or GG. You’re not comparing the same class of shoes. Your also completely wrong about the quality lol. Honestly this message is a shameless plug for a lower tier brand you own because you couldn’t afford EG

[@111ImNumber1]

@@Tommy_ZM I have nearly 50 pairs of EG shoes in my collection. I have collected them over the past 15 years. I know how their QC has changed over the years. So, keep quiet and learn, little boy

[@Tommy_ZM]

@@111ImNumber1 You just proved you don’t have a single pair with that sentiment (or you just have no idea how to judge quality… which a loser such as yourself probably can’t)

[@dane4453]

@@Tommy_ZM Paying over a grand for a shoe is nothing to brag about.

[@pedrocols]

And for us regular mortals you can buy Meermin.!

[@iaido01]

i would safe up and get atleast an Carmina or Carlos Santos. or if you really want a good English shoe, i would recommend Crockett and jones

[@stopreadingmyname94]

Hey Kirby! As usual great video with great content. I am a big fan of your channel since it introduced me to the world of shoe care and shining. I recently purchased a Saphir Medailledor in neutral color. However after a session of renovateur and pommadier when I apply wax on my meermin’s black captoe, I am unable to create the gloss finish, instead I see a rough matte coat to build up. Circular motion feels rough, I see a dry spot developing and I am afraid If I keep going I may damage the leather. Please help

[@blayne2029]

Would love to see a review of Ron White shoes. Thx.

[@useradmin2881]

@kirbyallison I’m between this loafer and the Croket&jones Havard II. Can you please do a review on the Harvard II.🙏🏼

[@iaido01]

i have the Harvard . they are amazing shoes. if it fits your feet it is going to be as comfortable as the EG. the difference? EG uses a higher quality leather that ages more beautifully than the CJ. the attention to detail especially the time consuming details are like comparing day and night. EG wins hands down

[@downingbethune8758]

For all those referencing Carminas and Allen Edmonds, those makers offer a better value because once you get to the price point of Edward Greens you're definitely in the margin of diminishing returns. One could even argue that Carminas are a better value than Allan Edmonds because for only $100 more you get a much better made shoe. EG is a better quality shoe than both Carminas and AE, obviously, but you pay a steep price for that diminishing margin of quality. It really comes down to your tastes and how much you want and are willing to spend on higher quality shoes. Check out Kirby's video "$400 Shoes vs $1300 Shoes" for an excellent breakdown of cost vs quality. As for me, I have wide feet so Carminas are out and AE and EG are in.

[@1525boy]

Does anyone here know anything about Silvano Lattanzi? How do his shoes compare to Edward Green?

[@raroshraj]

I’m not a fan of This new diagonal camera angle you have :( it makes you look insane

[@adamman8874]

Lol that's funny.

[@useradmin2881]

@@adamman8874 i was thinking the same thing.

[@coloradocolorado1527]

For me Crocket&Jones.

[@MrOzzy281]

Why not English calves?

[@paulrut1841]

I would like to see more suit fittings from joe hemrajani please

[@dane4453]

Great. But, it still is $1400.00. I just do not see the justification for the price.

[@kongmw]

These EGs look sleek. Although I prefer the Alden LHS Pennies.

[@sanantoniotonight5569]

Alden LHS!

[@mcspirit]

Bow out is a sign the shoes are too long

[@desertknights5003]

Mr Kirby I suggest that you put some music in the background of your videos .. good look :)

[@motorbikeray]

No to adding music in background! Please No!

[@cferdinandi]

Strong disagree. Distracts from the words being spoken.

[@DavakiDnD]

Honestly this channel is really dropping off for me. All the reviews are just shilling products. I'd like to hear at least one negative, unless you're telling me everything you review is perfect. When Kirby has a more informative content he interrupts the guest every two seconds. You can also tell when he's recited something, because when he hasn't he says "you know" every three seconds. Fix up Kirby, I'm not here to be annoyed.

[@yacovlevi]

He is doing a perfect job. Let's ne nice and appreciate what he is doing.

[@samking4179]

not for $1,200.

[@FatihPekbas]

This was way too commercial. A more balanced review including some downsides would help credibility!

[@yacovlevi]

I thought it was a perfect video.

[@lulolee5325]

Looks like your gym shoe at your fancy hotel the Dorchester.

[@borutsiraj6086]

I get mad when someone uses a term investment on depreciating asset. Investments are stocks, bonds, index funds, ETF's... Let's do some quick math; $1285 invested in EG shoes over the next let's say 40 years what's the APY on the investment? Probably close to zero. Here comes the plot twist.. the same amount invested in some good growth mutual fund with 7% APY net or 9% gross over the course of 40 years will be worth $46,401.22. Still sounds as an investment?

[@ianskelly6911]

i would imagine he is referring to the fact that it is better to buy an expensive pair of shoes that will last arther than cheaper shoes you replace every 2 years.......

[@dane4453]

LOL. What?

[@fabiangenerao7367]

The Allen Edmonds penny loafer looks better and made better than that Edward Green shoes! To top it all, you can get an Allen Edmonds Shell Cordovan penny loafer for the Edward Green price!!!

[@karldelavigne8134]

AE quality is considerably lower than EG.

[@downingbethune8758]

I'm a big fan of Allen Edmonds as they are easily the best value out there and in fact have several pairs, including a pair of penny loafers. Having said that, AE shoes are not in the same league as Edward Greens in terms of materials and construction.

[@phillato]

Alden has the best loafers

[@fortimeless3299]

The Perfect Loafer Is 180 By JM.WESTON Made In France

[@minafouad78]

In fact a beautiful high quality industry.. but unfortunately poor design !. I like church's and sebago penny loafers design specially with the back heel cut and the polished leather..

[@adolfosky]

The shoe is great but without a brand logo this shoes look like any other shoes why do I want to spend the premium?

[@sebastiankalsnes9090]

The price is in the quality and proper production methods. If you want to show off, buy some garbage gucci's. Proper shoes are elegant, not flashy. Logos are detrimental to a gentlemans outfit. Furthermore, these shoes look nothing like any "ordinary" pair of shoes to a trained eye.

[@Peter-lm3ic]

Adolfo Segovia : I have a similar pair of EG loafers but what is outstanding is the quality of the leather which stands out from say C&J and others. The shoes are beautifully finished and take on a superb patina.

[@karldelavigne8134]

Because a gentleman is interested in quality, not in showing off a brand.

[@paulmcgee1867]

Logos! Oh dear

[@odettemichel3563]

Ahhh yes, grandpa shoes

[@ABC-rh7zc]

Misleading title. Overly commercial.

[@yacovlevi]

@@steventrosiek2623 There is no need for that kind of language.

[@watchGWW]

Those are really beautiful. While obviously next level, personally I don't yet see the value in paying over 2.5 times more than the Carmina equivalent. But who knows, could end up that far down the rabbit hole. 😂

[@iaido01]

leather quality/build quality/attention to detail/time consuming details/higher quality insoles and affcourse for the brand. Carmina is a good value for money, but doesn't come close to edward green/Crockett and jones handgrade and john lobb kinda shoes.

[@dane4453]

@@iaido01 Thanks for the commercial for Edward green. But, no, there is no justification for the price.

[@iaido01]

@@dane4453 their actually is. It is called supply and demand. After around the 700 ish their is not much differents in quality or comfort unless you go bespoke. The only main difference is buildquality. That being said people pay also for the name, because that name carries quality and it has proven themselves over time. Same for clothing brands like north face etc. If you want quality and not pay as much, i would recommend carlos santos/carmina/crockett and jones

[@dane4453]

@@iaido01 Thanks I have C & J. I just do not see the point in spending more for hand made if decent quality and comfort is still available in, for example, C & J.

[@ShaneLindie]

Very classic video.

[@S_F_R_]

2:05 What about the Crockett and Jones Sydney at 650$ or the Crockett and Jones Handgrade Crawford at 850$ ? Is the Edward Green worth the extra money ?

[@kojiattwood]

Yep.

[@dane4453]

Not really. Ask yourself this. Who will care what shoe is on your foot if they work and fit. Also, wait until something spills or takes a chunk out of you over $1,000.00 shoe. These clowns posting here claiming EG is worth it just wear those shoes to their bedroom and back.