[chrstc]

Hello,
As you're based in England where AEs aren't exactly easy to find I'd definitely recommend Sanders shoes. Not as easy to find as they once were either but very well made for the price in my opinion. My Sanders Chukkas are amongst my favourite shoes and considering I have Grenson Masterpieces and EGs etc etc to compare them to that's quite a compliment I feel. I also have 2 pairs of Loakes and they aren't anywhere near as nice in my opinion.

If you're interested you can contact the company for a list of local dealers via:
https://www.sandersuk.demon.co.uk/

Or have a look at the ranges available here:

https://www.pediwear.co.uk/sanders.php

They are still a little more expensive than Loake L1s, though.

Another option might be the entry-level Alfred Sargents if you buy them through this store:

https://www.discount-shoe-sales.com/

Their prices are hugely discounted-You can save something like 40% on prices advertised elsewhere meaning that you could get a pair for £100 or so.

Hope this helps,

Chris.

EDIT: Sorry I forgot to add that, if you are able to get to Northamptonshire, many of the big names have factory shops that sell seconds or discontinued models at very reduced prices. Grenson sell perfects for between £50 and £100 from the English-made ranges, Church's and Crockett and Jones sometimes have some selected styles reduced right down to around £80 (although most of the shoes in the factory shop will cost twice that), Loake, Barker and Cheaney would also be worth visiting. If you contact these companies via their websites you can get details of all of the factory shops and their opening times. Usually a Friday is the best day to go as I think all of the factory shops are open then. On Saturdays some are closed. A visit to all the factory shops is a great way to spend a day!

 

[chrstc]

Hello,

Based on your criteria I think you can eliminate Samuel Windsor as all of their shoes are corrected grain.

Chris.

 

[chrstc]

Hello,

The Grenson Rushden range is made in India unfortunately and isn't up to much at all. You might check Jacksonshoes on eBay as they sometimes have fantastic offers on the Grenson Rose Collection shoes-made in this country to a very high standard and a totally different proposition. They used to sell them for £99 a pair at times.

I think you'll find the Sanders very good value for money.

The Barker is on a very square-shaped last that I find very unattractive in person but you might think competely differently. Do try and see an example of another shoe on that last before you buy, though.

Have you thought of mail order via the Northampton factory shops if you can't get there in person? You'll get much better deals from Barker and C&J etc that way. You might even get a pair of Barker Handcrafted collection shoes as a discontinued model from either the factory shop or the Regent Street store. The 396 last is great.

Hope that helps a little,

Chris.

 

[chrstc]

Hello,

C&J and Barker don't make a big thing about their factory shops but the best thing to do is just ring the main factories or email them through their websites. That's what I've always done anyhow.

The Barker shop does always have a large sale section right at the back with several discontinued models in it. Whether there is something that will suit in your size is an entirely different matter of course. Still, at least as you say you can try things for size there and then get in touch with factory shop to see what they have etc. If you can take a Friday and go to Northants, though, it'll certainly give you the best chance of finding what you want.

All the best again,

Chris.