I have been very happy with a Martegani I had special ordered through Francos. The normal width is a bit snug on my slightly D+ foot, but the special order fit great.
I received the following shoe
In the following leather (sort of a Balmoral version of the shoe above)
I have also been very pleased with Borgioli. The following is an amazing shoe.
I think Francos gets these made for them by Borgioli at a very nice price point. The problem is they don't stock a large number and I missed out on two pair becuase I didn't order quickly enough (like within the first month they went on line)
I have been frustrated by the inability to track down top of the line Borgioli (check out the website)
Some of these rival the best looking Santoni but I have had no luck finding out how to buy them. Borgioli sent me to some New York vendors who carry shoes made for them by Borgioli, but not the beauties you see on their website.
In the internet age, it is remarkable how primitive marketing and distribution remains for top end shoes...maybe they just don't need the extra business?
Anyway, check out the Martegani and Borgioli with Ron Rider at Francos.
And Ron, if you read this, I am still pouting at the lost Borgiolis. Last time I give my wife a Christmas wish list with something I really want!
