Reliving the glory days

I’ve worn these lightly over the past few months. Maybe only 10 times. Partly is due to fit and partly due to the heel. I only wear these in light office environments or to more dressy occasions like church.

The color 4 shell has become a little more lustrous and brighter after a few conditions and brushings. I conditioned these several times right after I got them and they seem to be retaining the moisture well. I only use the saphir cordovan cream.

The fit in this last is true to size. I’ve been measuring at 12C on brannock. These are an 11D and the ball placement feels wrong. The width is okay for me and the volume is about right, which makes me think that a D width in a larger size would be too roomy. This is a dressy last and has virtually no arch support. It’s comfortable but I do need a bit more support than it gives.

The style of these shoes is timeless and they’re built flawlessly. It’s clear why these shoes are so highly regarded and it’s earned. They’re on their second owner and doing great.

The leather sole is comfortable but very slick. It works great on pavement but struggles on most other surfaces. This is particularly problematic when worn with the heel. I like this shoe for dressier occasions but it’s only a matter of time before I slip on a polished floor.

The V cleat has been called a ‘suicide heel’ and for good reason. Once the steel cleat is exposed it slips across virtually every smooth surface. Especially if you work on tile floors or polished floors. It works on a on pavement or grass, but the leather sole struggles on grass. All in all this is a low traction combination that is hard to find uses for outside of the office and dress.