The Official Alden Thread for 2024 - Share Reviews, Sizing, Advice, and Photos.

[TheLawBeard]

Theyre honestly low key the most useful and versatile boots, I think. They just fly under the radar because they're simple. Don't draw attention but always look good.

Simple is underrated. I've been downsizing/streamlining my collection due to life changes and I'm finding myself gravitating towards more of the "understated" (as my wife calls it) look. Between that and focusing on fit it's becoming a lot easier to grab a pair and go.

 

[slows2k]

Simple is underrated. I've been downsizing/streamlining my collection due to life changes and I'm finding myself gravitating towards more of the "understated" (as my wife calls it) look. Between that and focusing on fit it's becoming a lot easier to grab a pair and go.

This 100%. A part of me still dreams of having each of their major offerings in both snuff and color 8, or a rare different leather that I think befits the boot/shoe, but I honestly just find myself actually reaching for these boots and snuff or shell LHS 95% of the time. I've sold a couple pairs recently and will be looking to move another one or two.

Distillation of my wardrobe in the last few years has really brought me a lot of pleasure, and the ability to focus on enjoying the very nice things I actually have instead of FOMO for ones I don't.

 

[TheLawBeard]

This 100%. A part of me still dreams of having each of their major offerings in both snuff and color 8, or a rare different leather that I think befits the boot/shoe, but I honestly just find myself actually reaching for these boots and snuff or shell LHS 95% of the time. I've sold a couple pairs recently and will be looking to move another one or two.

Distillation of my wardrobe in the last few years has really brought me a lot of pleasure, and the ability to focus on enjoying the very nice things I actually have instead of FOMO for ones I don't.

Abso-freakin-lutely. I'm getting down to four (maybe five) pairs of boots: black, brown, dressy, and a pair of natty shell. One pair of suede chukkas.

Cutting down on "dress" shoes is going to be harder but I'm trying to cut my collection in half. Maybe even cut it down by two thirds.

Turning it into "own less, but own better." Feels good though. Less time spent staring at stuff in the closet. More time enjoying patina.

 

[rob g]

Can anyone comment on the fit of Plaza vs Hampton? Particularly in regards to toe box & heel width, and instep volume. Thanks

 

[Shawnc]

Fantastic conversation @TheLawBeard and @slows2k. Quite insightful perspectives………

 

[CLH03]

Can anyone comment on the fit of Plaza vs Hampton? Particularly in regards to toe box & heel width, and instep volume. Thanks

Plaza hugs my instep better than Hampton, with a slightly longer and narrower toe box, for my feet. Hampton has a much roomier instep.

I would say both fit pretty much the same in the ball and heel, no noticeable difference there. Hampton is a good fit, but plaza is excellent for my low instep flippers. I take the same size in both.

 

[rob g]

Plaza hugs my instep better than Hampton, with a slightly longer and narrower toe box, for my feet. Hampton has a much roomier instep.

I would say both fit pretty much the same in the ball and heel, no noticeable difference there. Hampton is a good fit, but plaza is excellent for my low instep flippers. I take the same size in both.

Thanks, I also have a low instep so sounds like Plaza might work. Hampton fits me reasonably well, but the facings are kissing when laced up.

 

[AJ1]

Happy Monday SF!

Has anyone used the new eBay international service? from what I understand, sellers just need to ship to the eBay hub and eBay considers the sale complete from there. Seems relatively low risk but curious if others have used this service. Thanks!

 

[linafelt]

Finally coming back to Alden boots after several years. I had a pair of 403s that I loved and wore a lot. Then I sent them back to be refurbished by Alden, who completely ruined the boots!
Anyway, all water under bridge at this point, and I decided to open up the wallet for the new “Roy” boots from Alden Madison. The Roy boot was originally done by context clothing, of course, but they’re out of business and I guess Madison produces them on occasion now. I had tried a pair of context’s Roy boots back in the day, but it was a 10D and a little too long for me. Since Madison offered E widths, I decided to try 9 1/2 E and I think these will work.
Looking forward to breaking them in and putting some wear on them. I know the crêpe sole, and probably even more so the leather toe tap, will not be hard wearing, but I hope they last a decent amount of time. Esp given my last attempt at resoling Aldens!

A prompt update: I've been wearing these for the past three days, and I have to say that they are incredibly comfortable. The crepe soles really make a big difference. They will no doubt wear down pretty quickly, but to my mind the comfort factor makes it worthwhile. The boots are not cheap, but if you are looking for a "sneaker boot," these seem to me to be about as close as you get while still counting as "boots." No regrets!

 

[audog]

OMG....I CAN WEAR MY BOOTS AGAIN!!! After months of foot issues, and a reaction to a medication that caused my feet and legs to swell, I can finally fit into my boots again. I'm happy.

 

[sterlingindigo]

OMG....I CAN WEAR MY BOOTS AGAIN!!! After months of foot issues, and a reaction to a medication that caused my feet and legs to swell, I can finally fit into my boots again. I'm happy.

Good on ya dog!

 

[Vincent George]

OMG....I CAN WEAR MY BOOTS AGAIN!!! After months of foot issues, and a reaction to a medication that caused my feet and legs to swell, I can finally fit into my boots again. I'm happy. View attachment 2172239

Congrats, Dog! Wear in good foot and overall health.

 

[Hisheirness23]

OMG....I CAN WEAR MY BOOTS AGAIN!!! After months of foot issues, and a reaction to a medication that caused my feet and legs to swell, I can finally fit into my boots again. I'm happy. View attachment 2172239

Phenomenal news and what a way to announce it in those Natty CXL beauties!

 

[audog]

Phenomenal news and what a way to announce it in those Natty CXL beauties!

Natty is just my favorite of all Alden leathers, even beats shell.

 

[Hisheirness23]

Natty is just my favorite of all Alden leathers, even beats shell.

And now, it's even rarer than rare shell!