Originally posted 09/24/09
Shoes are like children, it’s very difficult to pick a favorite. All are loved and cherished for their unique qualities. That being said however, I can’t help myself. My current favorites, the pair I find myself wearing most lately are my Alden longwings in Genuine Horween shell cordovan color 8.
Why? The answer is simple; the answer is simple because the shoes themselves are simple. Simply said a classic style in a classic material and color, a shoe that transcends time and space. A shoe I may have worn in the sixties or seventies, which is just as relevant today. Not only are they a true-blooded American icon they also provide great comfort and support.
There is no other leather I know of that maintains the robust elegance and suppleness of shell cordovan. Add to that the beautiful way the color diffuses at the creases creating a vintage patina and you’ve got the makings of a favorite child.
Don’t get me wrong I love my EG’s, Corthay’s, AS’s and more but right here, right now I love my longwings most.
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9 Comments
Agreed! My longwings quickly became my fav. shoes.
Have you been hanging out with Mafoofan a lot lately?
Gentleman,
Shoes should be always classic….and comfortable.
I must say that these Long-wings are the most comfortable shoes that I have in my closet. Long after many pretenders come and go, they will be like good family members and friends…always there when you need them, comfortable to the end and not embarrassing to wear.
Did I mention how comfortable they are? I remember someone in a fashion forum – complained how comfortable they were…can’t make everyone happy I guess.
Best regards
Steve
Very well said, and I might add that the color 8 is classic as well.
Steven
Do people where these with jeans?
Jay
All the time.
Its a great shoe, a classic shoe, and perfect for this time of year, when you forst feel the chill in the air. Its a shoe that will take you through many falls and winters in comfort, style, and if treated properly, SHINE. Nothing beats the gleam that shell cordovan can exude!
Just picked up a pair of 975s, color #8. When I first put them on they looked pretty much like your photo: nearly (but not quite) black. After about an hour or two, as I got up from my desk, I noticed something: they had started to glow a tiny bit as the burgundy highlights began to show through. At first it was noticeable only along the creases on top, but then the change starting to occur along the sides too. I’ve seen pics of much older 975s and know that this process continues — over the months and years an array of colors continue to reveal themselves and to layer on each other — but seeing it first hand has been quite rewarding. I’m totally sold on Horween’s shell cordovan color #8 … and I love these shoes. One other thing: the 975, along with the 990 (Alden plain toe blucher, also in shell cordovan color #8) are the most comfortable ‘dress’ shoes I’ve ever owned.
Perfect shoe. Timeless, classic and there really is no substitute.