[Initial Impression] Alden x Standard & Strange Earth Lords
Disclaimer: I had these for about 2 months now and am just now getting around to this post.
Acquisition
While I was waiting for some olive waxed flesh boots, I found out about reverse earth chamois. It was beautiful. Looking around the internets, I found several versions. I waffled between picking them up locally at Brick + Mortar or online via Standard & Strange. I opted for S&Sfor a couple reasons. I could return them, plus their version had brass eyelets. B+M only offers store credit. Ah well.
Bought Feb 1 2019, delivered Feb 4 2019
- Alden x Standard & Strange Earth Lords
- Barrie last
- Reverse Earth Chamois
- Lined
- Commando sole
- 9 brass eyelets
- 270 degree storm welt
- Size 8.5D
Sizing
These are my first actual purchase of the Barrie last. It fits snug but pretty well. I followed the traditional "go down half a size from your brannock." I am a 9D Brannock and the 8.5D seems to fit just fine even with thicker socks.
Some other sizes, if curious:
- Aberdeen - 9D , which fits JUST right.
- Grant - 9D which is on the roomy side, but not too much. 8.5 was too small.
- Trubalance - 8.5D is just right for my Indys.
- Snap - Brooks Brothers exclusive, the 9D is my absolute most comfortable fit.
- 2030 - 8.5 fits correctly, but sometimes can feel cramped
- Iron Rangers - 8D
Impressions
I never got a pair of shoes in the Barrie last because honestly, I didn't like it. They just seemed too wide looking. But now that I have them, it isn't quite as wide as I thought. It could be because I'm used to my Wescos and Indys at this point. I really do enjoy look of them when I look down at my feet.
The reverse earth chamois is oily and supple, but firm. It's got some variety in it, with some areas being rough and immediately transitioning to smoother. I've heard folks say it has brown undertones, but it looks black to me. It wears like suede.
I took these on a trip to Europe after wearing them a handful of times. The leather is tough for feeling so soft. There has definitely been some break in near my ankles. After wearing them on the plane for about 12 hours, my ankles were wanting some freedom.
My only complaint is the 9 eyelets, no speedhooks. They are a little bit of a pain to get on and off.
Thanks for reading!
Posted Apr 8, 2019, 4:56 AM UTC