Finding a versatile, timeless, and stylish shoe doesn’t come easily. Fortunately, Allen Edmonds has made this a breeze with its variety of classy shoes. With over 90 years of experience in crafting the world’s finest wear, there’s no doubt that the American brand knows what a perfect pair of a shoe should and feel like.
Here’s a review on Allen Edmonds products and information on the detail and care that goes into making each stylish pair.
About Allen Edmonds
Allen Edmonds is a shoe manufacturing and retail company based in Wisconsin. First established in 1922, the company was founded by Elbert Allen and his wife who thought of manufacturing a shoe that could flex as someone walked.
Although his friends thought this was an impractical idea, Elbert was determined and partnered with an Ogden shoeman to create men’s shoes that would revolutionize the footwear industry.
His success was based on getting the best leather and working with excellent craftspeople. After his death in 1946, the sons took over and helped manage the firm. In 1980, the company was purchased by John Stollenwerk; he intended to expand the international market for its footwear.
The enthusiastic marketer expanded the company’s shoe collection and was able to reach out to a young population. Allen Edmonds as a shoe brand became a household name in the US and throughout the world.
After some years, the company acquired distribution right to a Germany’s premier manufacturer of children’s footwear. They also bought a Maine shoe company and began creating genuine handsewn shoes for both men and women.
The company offers a moderately expensive brand of shoes that are worn for a long time and are repaired instead of being replaced. Allen Edmonds offers services like recrafting, replacing heels and soles, rebuilding a pair of shoes, creating a new cork base, and reapplying the finish. The leather shells are supplied by the Horween Leather Company.
Allen Edmonds products are available at over 60 stores across the US. You can also view their products online at AllenEdmonds.com.
Top Products at Allen Edmonds
Allen Edmonds has a variety of men’s dress shoes to choose from. From the company’s 212-step handcrafting process since the company’s formation to the newest introduction of shank-less cork heels in 1930, the company has continued its commitment to recrafting styles which boast of excellent craftsmanship.
According to the company, you should not think of a pair of Allen Edmonds shoes as just another purchase, but rather as a lifetime commitment to shoes that are durable and classy for years to come.
Here are some top products that stand out when it comes to quality and fit.
Park Avenue Cap Toe Oxfords
The Park Avenue cap toe oxfords are the most iconic pair of shoes from Allen Edmonds. It’s the reason why this shoe has been a best seller for more than 30 years. This oxford dress shoe has a versatile, yet timeless design. You can wear it with formal or semi-formal attire.
It’s essential to note that the Park Avenue oxfords have been worn by several presidents during their inauguration. The upper is made of premium calfskin leather while the inner has a full leather lining. Its durability comes from the sole that is made of single oak leather, and its recraftable design makes it a winner.
The pair is also available in different widths in case you’re not sure of your exact shoe size. The length of the Park Avenue dress shoes run true to size but could be narrow for some people. An extra width would provide a comfortable fit.
Dundee Chukka Dress Boots
Dundee is one of the renowned walking cities, and it’s no wonder, the company named this pair after the city. The shoe offers unrivaled utility, comfort, and a refined style, something you won’t find with most men’s dress shoes.
The upper and lining are crafted from Cordovan leather. The boots also have an elegant ox blood finish which gives the pair a timeless appeal and physical durability. You’ll love the double Redenbacher leather sole with combination heel, which provides extra comfort while walking.
Strand Cap-Toe Oxford
The strand cap-toe oxfords are Allen Edmond’s President favorite style. He first came across the version of the shoe back in the 90s where he bought a classic cap-toe brogue. Once he became the CEO, he made sure that the strand cap-toe oxfords were introduced in the timeless classic collection.
These shoes have a striking medallion and a variety of decorative perforations that complement its design. With the cap-toe oxfords, you get refined elegance and class. It’s a great pair that adds personality to a laid-back styling.
The Warwick Shoes
This particular pair derives its name from one of Houston’s frequented and famous hotels. The Warwick shoes provide a comfortable style that is celebrated year after year. With a single monk strap design, the shoes feature a framed trimming and sculpted arches. If you’re looking for fine footwear, you’ll love the fact that Warwick shoes are created from fine European calfskin.
The Leeds Derby Shoes
Your footwear collection isn’t complete without a pair of Leeds Derby shoes. These shoes provide a sense of elegance and simplicity, which make them a style classic.
Although they may appear simple in appearance, they have been crafted from the luxurious cordovan leather. Unlike their previous version, the new Derby shoes feature some tweaks for added contemporary charm.
You can now get a shoe with intricate arch saddle stitch and a stylish silhouette, an aspect that will draw your attention. For a comfortable fit, the manufacturer has added more room under each upper. Moreover, you can wear these shoes with anything you can think of whether chinos, casuals, or official pants. This versatility feature is something that makes the Derby shoe attractive.
Grayson Tasseled Loafers
Every man needs a pair of loafers for those casual days where your feet need a break. While these loafers don’t interfere with the original design, they have little details that make them stand out from other loafers in the market. The lined calfskin leather uppers and hand-raised stitching make the Grayson loafers a winner when it comes to exceptional footwear.
The Player’s Shoe
Finding a class wingtip brogue is now easy thanks to the Player’s shoe which now boasts of a modern touch. The shoe is a new edition to Allen Edmonds collection, and it was created as a gift for the competitors in the 2010 PGA championships.
It’s a versatile pair as you can wear it with anything. The calfskin leather upper gives you a subtle, stylish sense.
Prices of Allen Edmonds Shoes
The prices at Allen Edmonds are not for anyone on a budget. Most classic shoes range from $150 for an SFO dress loafer to as high as $420 for a Park Avenue cap-toe oxford pair. The best part about this shoe company is that most of their dress shoes are available on sale from as low as $140.
With these shoes, you don’t get another pair, but you’re guaranteed of quality and durable shoes.
Criticism of AllenEdmonds.com
While it was difficult to find negative comments about Allen Edmonds shoes, there were a few people who complained about the comfort. Some people thought that the uppers were made of quality leather, but the soles although durable were ugly. The leather was also stiff and took time before they could fit right.
There have been complaints of Allen Edmonds not honoring the prices posted on their website. Most customers complained of getting an email response a week later after purchase informing them of canceled orders.
However, in response, the company admitted this mistake and refunded the money to the affected customers. They were also offered a 40% off their future purchase of regularly priced products on AllenEdmonds.com.
Although the shoes were a little stiff at first, they had a great fit after a week, and the arch felt right. Also, most people who went for the Wilber shoe got a right balance of comfort and fit.
Customer Support at AllenEdmonds.com
Allen Edmonds has a section of frequently asked questions on their website. You can also talk to one of their members via 1-877-817-7615. Their mission is to make your shopping experience hassle-free and pleasant. The company’s call center hours run from 8.00 am to 7.00 pm from Monday to Friday and from 10.00am to 5.00 pm on weekends.
You can also send an email to Allen Edmonds customer service at eservice@allenedmonds.com. You’ll need to send your first, last name, and your email address.
Final Thoughts
Allen Edmonds is a reflection of enduring style and timeless elegance. Their products though expensive for people on a budget are unsurpassed in value, quality, and craftsmanship. These shoes are an excellent choice if you dress up often and need to look sharp. Allen Edmonds shoes blend well with formal business attire.
Also, they are a perfect choice for those casual days where you don’t need to a formal look. The wingtip brogues can go well with your jeans and khaki. You can never go wrong with a pair of Allen Edmonds shoes, and this is one of the companies that still manufactures men’s dress shoes that depict the brand’s dedication to tradition and quality.
