[VincentC]

Considering shoes are for walking on dirty streets and will get dirty i dont think people should get too precious about shoes.

As far as im concerned Loakes are great shoes. Ive got a pair of 771b shoes. I dont even think they are Loakes best.....1880's are arent they? But my 771b are excellent and comfortable out of the box. I sometimes dont want to wear them in case of ruining them and getting them dirty.

People should try mentioning the style of their 1880's to give me tips on what to buy. Ive mentioned mine are 771b

 

[VincentC]

The 771s area are a great shoe. They are built on the 3625 last and are the closest thing around that is reminiscent of what was once popularly known as a 'Como' during the latter mod days in Britain. It's a shame that they are only available in 'polished' finishes though. An unpolished calf that could take a natural high shine, as all Loakes seem to do most splendidly, as others have pointed out, would be nice.

If you are happy with the 771s you should investigate the 026 lasts in the 1880 range and the 3525s in the Shoemaker collection. Shoes to try are the Exeter, Durham and Thames the latter sadly now discontinued but still available if you search for them.

It's also worth pointing out that Herring have a rebadged version of the 1880s at a slightly keener price and a supposedly even finer calf! I personally have two pairs of Richmonds which I am particularly fond of.

Exeter, Durham, Thames i will keep an eye out for. Im not to precious or is it pretencious when it comes to wearing shoes. As long as they look good and are comfortable that is my main worries.
Ive got a pair of clarkes derby type shoe that i wear mostly and they cost about £25 and i have to say they are so comfortable. I am trying to wear them out before wearing my 771b Loakes again. WHich ive only worn about 10 times in 5 years.