All’s Well That Adwell

When I first saw a sample of this shoe I thought, “Wow this is a really “dumb” shoe.” In the “shoe business” a shoe of this sort is referred to that way. It’s not a negative connotation in fact I meant it as a complement. It’s basic, simple, a bit old fashioned, even orthopedic and yet it has a certain style and coolness to it.

Mama used to say, “Simple is as simple does”. So why mess with it? The Adwell by Church’s is not just a new model it’s a departure from the traditional English shoes we’re used to. “Old” is the new “New”.

Adwell in Ebony Bright Calf, with flat black laces and oblique toe box on 135 last

17 Responses to “All’s Well That Adwell”

  1. timekeeping Says:

    Nice!

    Is that a all leather heel? I thought Church’s uses a combination rubber-leather heel in their custom grade shoes.

  2. steven Says:

    Timekeeping,

    Thanks for your comment.

    The heels are leather with a full black rubber heel cap. The row of nail heads is new. I like it I think it adds a bit of interest.

    Steven

  3. Joe Frances Says:

    Steve:

    This is Ebony? It looks like brown. Could you elaborate a little on the color?

    Joe

  4. AJB Says:

    Horses for courses Steven, but I really don’t like those at all

  5. steven Says:

    Joe,

    Church’s calls the color Ebony. It is a very dark brown with a tint of oxblood in it. The flash probably effects the color in the image.

    Steven

  6. steven Says:

    AJB,

    Thanks for your comment. Not every shoe is for everybody, that’s understandable.

    Steven

  7. Joe Frances Says:

    Now you know that that “tint” of oxblood has got me wondering big time…….

  8. steven Says:

    Sorry to do that to you Joe :)

    Steven

  9. steven Says:

    The first pair of Church’s Adwell going to TX and the second to PA. Thanks guys.

  10. Speedmaster Says:

    Wow, the color on those uppers is deeeep! Beautiful.

  11. steven Says:

    Speedmaster,

    I agree and even more impressive in person.

    Steven

  12. timekeeping Says:

    Hi Steven,

    Thanks for the clarification. So the material used to “build up” the heel remains leather but the bit that touches the ground is now fully rubber. Reduces the chance of missteps on slippery surfaces, I suppose.

    Quite right that the new nail pattern is quite interesting visually.

  13. steven Says:

    TK

    That is correct leather heels with rubber cap.

    Steven

  14. Joe Frances Says:

    Steve:

    Sorry if I am belaboring the point about trying to understand this shoe, but how does it differ structurally from the Cranfield? The only difference I see is a six lace tie rather than a five, I presume there are others.

    Thanks.

  15. Michael Says:

    I wear Alden Modified last – must say that the toe on this shoe looks similar to the Modified. How is the fit compared to Alden Lasts? Trying to see if this would be an alternative to the Modified for me – I crave variety… Thanks

  16. steven Says:

    Joe

    This shoe is on a new last 135 while the Cranfield in on the conventional 173, like the Diplomat or Consul. The Adwell has a narrower waist on the sole which gives a snugger more supportive fin in the arch. The big difference is the shape of the toe box. The Adwell has a wider oblique shape to it. It’s not for everyone but I like it.

    You can have a look next time you come in.
    Steven

  17. steven Says:

    Michael
    Thanks for your comment. I think your comparison is valid the two shoes a have a similar look. Don’t forget the modified last is part of Alden’s foot balance collection and is made to accommodate certain fit issues although it has become a very popular last for other reasons.

    I think the Adwell while achieving a similar look may not have the same fit properties as the modified last. The only way for you to know for sure is to try a pair on.

    Steven

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