Alden Color #8 - Just in Shell Cordovan or also Calf?

[Mike147]

Does anyone know whether Alden Color #8 is available in calf as well as shell cordovan? It's a great color - seems like it goes with just about everything. A few of my colleagues wear #8 at work with different colored suits, dress pants - can't say the same thing about brown...

I've never actually owned a pair of shell cordovan leather shoes - planning to stick with calf for now... It's simply a matter of cost. Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Mike

[LeatherSOUL]

Color #8 is Horween's term for that color of shell cordovan. It has nothing to do with Alden. If you want something in calf, it would be some sort of burgandy.

[JLibourel]

Yep, I'm wearing my #8 shell cordovan belt at the moment. Alden never had anything to do with it. It's strictly a Horween designation.

Skip Horween is a member of this forum. I just wish he'd post sometimes.

[Teacher]

Skip Horween is a member of this forum. I just wish he'd post sometimes.

Really? What's his screen name? Given some of the debates and speculation that take place here, he might be professionally wise to stay out of it.

[JLibourel]

His name is "Skip Horween." He's only posted a couple of times, most recently in June 2005. At least I presume that's the REAL Skip Horween.

[Mike147]

so Leathersoul... in terms of color.. how will a burgandy made by alden compare to #8? i can't get #8 on my last... maybe from anatomica in paris on the modified last? do they have a website or catalog?
thanks

[LeatherSOUL]

If you're looking for burgandy calf or #8 cordovan on the modified, you're out of luck in the US unless a dealer can make a special request to Alden for you. Japan would be your best bet if you don't mind paying $800 for a pair. How about the Hampton last? It's pretty close to the modified.

[Mike147]

I'd be open to that... Just consider that I wear 9.5 3E in the Modified and have a very thick orthotic... I only wear the modified last at the moment - since I began wearing this last, I've found that my AE's just don't give me enough support across the arch - not comfortable!

If the Hampton is roomy enough and provides the same kind of support, then I would definitely give it a shot. If I could get foot balance heels put on it - all the better... At one point, Alden customer service recommended that I try the Barrie last - told me it has the most 'room' upfront of all of the Alden NE lasts... Any thoughts on that?

Do you ship?

Mike

[LeatherSOUL]

Mike,

You're lucky to be able to go to the Alden Shop on Madison. They have an excellent selection of styles (and widths). Check them out and maybe try a Hampton in 3E. I'm curious to see how it works for you. Let me know!

Tom