BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
A stylish pair of dress shoes can make all the difference. Nothing feels better than a new pair of shoes, especially great shoes at a fair price. Two prominent brands stand out in premium footwear: Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York. Both are a great option for dress shoes. They offer various styles, materials, sizes, and craftsmanship. This review will thoroughly compare these two brands, exploring their leather quality, style variations, comfort, fit considerations, pricing, and overall value proposition. Whether you’re a seasoned fashion enthusiast or someone looking to elevate their style game, this review will help you decide which brand best aligns with your preferences.
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The materials used in high-quality shoes are critical. This is where brands like Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York shine. They each take a unique approach to creating some of the market’s best dress shoes. However, both are hand-cut and sewn by skilled artisans.
Allen Edmonds is an American brand deeply rooted in the tradition. We see a focus on sourcing only the best materials. Despite being based in Wisconsin, Allen Edmonds extends its search for premium materials beyond the U.S. borders. This dedication to quality ensures that each pair of shoes is good-looking, durable, and capable of withstanding the test of time.
On the flip side, To Boot New York brings Italian shoe flair and impeccable craftsmanship to your doorstep. Known globally for their exquisite leatherwork, Italian craftsmen are at the heart of To Boot New York’s operations. They create a beautiful shoe that is stylish and exceptionally crafted. The Italian approach to shoemaking is evident in their products’ luxurious feel and finish. This makes To Boot New York a name synonymous with quality in the world of men’s fashion.
Stylish dress shoes must have the right construction. Simply put, they need to hold up. Both brands have leather uppers and leather or rubber sole designs, which add to their durability and comfort. Edmonds and To Boot’s heels are stacked leather, extending their life significantly. However, Allen Edmonds might have an edge over To Boot in durability and construction.
The attention to detail in constructing Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York shoes is remarkable. Every aspect is carefully considered, from the stitching to the cut and shape of the leather. This level of craftsmanship makes investing in a pair from either brand a wise choice for anyone looking to add a touch of class and sophistication to their wardrobe. However, we must address one key difference in the construction: the Goodyear welt or the Blake Stitch.
Goodyear Welt
What is a shoe “welt?” The welt is the strip of leather or plastic that runs along the edge of the leather “upper” of the shoe and attaches the sole to it. Allen Edmonds offers a “Goodyear” welt, as opposed to the “Blake Stitching” offered by To Boot New York.
Goodyear welts combine high-quality leather or rubber with cork foot beds (in the sole cavity) to create a breathable, malleable footbed. This is for better quality and comfort. For details on why a Goodyear welt may be better, see here: What is a Goodyear Welt?
Blake stitching involves sewing the leather upper of the dress shoe to the sole from the inside. The sole is thinner, which makes it more flexible and gives the shoe a thinner profile for a more “Italian style.” The outsole (the bottom part that touches the ground) is one piece of leather, which makes it easier to break in. What Is Blake Stitching?
Blake Stitching
In summary, both Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York excel in their commitment to high quality and superior leather. Whether you lean towards the classic American elegance of Allen Edmonds or the modern Italian sophistication of To Boot New York, you’re guaranteed to get a beautiful pair of shoes that stand the test of time and style.
Edmonds and To Boot NY present their unique interpretations of classic men’s shoes, whether through the lens of American heritage or the vibrant flair of Italian style. Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York meticulously craft each pair of dress shoes with attention to detail, ensuring every stitch contributes to the final masterpiece. However, both offer classic Oxford designs in the same price range, making a head-to-head comparison easy. After years of owning Edmonds, I lean more towards To Boot New York. What changed?
Rumor has it that Allen Edmonds started outsourcing materials and labor a few years ago, and various styles, like the Park Avenue and Fifth Avenue cap toes, were made in different workshops—and not necessarily in Wisconsin. This is claimed online but not confirmed. I have also started favoring Italian shoe design, and maybe you will see why in the photos and descriptions I provide.
To Boot New York is not without criticism, either. Their Blake stitching has been criticized as insufficient for a brand that charges over $400. Again, it comes down to what you are looking for. Do you wear shoes every day for work? Then a Goodyear welt from Edmonds is your choice. Maybe To Boot NY is your first choice for a higher-end Italian shoe style in a mostly durable dress shoe.
Cap-toe Oxfords deliver classic style. Unless you have a suede cap-toe, this design means business…and not “casual.” I own the Connors Cap-Toe Oxford from To Boot New York and Allen Edmonds’ best seller, The Strand. Both have medallion-style “broging” emblazoned on the cap toe and gorgeous stitching throughout the leather uppers.
Allen Edmonds launched The Strand design in 1983, and it’s been the American go-to “brogue” since. I love this walnut color with blue and grey suits and slacks. This design is a long-time favorite among professionals. It hits the sweet spot between a formal and casual shoe. The walnut color also works great with jeans. I recommend one full-size down from your favorite sneakers.
The Connors Cap-Toe from To Boot in burnished brown is a sartorial choice for business and semi-formal wear. Made of soft calfskin leather, it is one of my favorite things to wear with suits. These are hand-painted after construction to offer a unique “burnished” look. The design finishes in a slight point at the end, as do most Italian designs. I recommend one full-size down from your favorite sneakers.
The Park Avenue from Allen Edmonds might be the first dress shoe you should buy. I love the Chilli, a color Allen Edmonds has made famous in many of its shoe designs. It is similar to Cognac, yet this version is their Dark Chilli.
Wingtip Oxfords are versatile, stylish shoes that never go out of style. The style dates back to the 16th-century Scottish Highlands. Holes were punched through the leather so water could pass through, allowing the shoes to dry faster. My favorite wingtip from Allen Edmonds is this William Wintip Derby in blue suede. This design is a new shoe from Edmonds and is the most comfortable “dress shoe” I own. You can’t beat suede for comfort and style.
The Avelino Wintip from To Boot New York is a new addition, and I love its look and feel. This Cognac color is slightly different from typical dark brown dress shoes. This is a more formal-looking shoe. Wear these with suits or slacks of just about any color. Cognac is dark enough for navy but light enough for mild blue and light grey suits and slacks.
Finding the right fit and comfort in a dress shoe is crucial, especially for those who are on their feet a lot or prioritize comfort alongside style. Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York are well aware of this, so they’ve gone to great lengths to ensure their footwear doesn’t just look good but feels good, too. This focus on comfort and fit is a game-changer for anyone looking for a pair of dress shoes that won’t leave their feet aching after a long day.
Allen Edmonds offers Width Options
Allen Edmonds offers a range of sizes and widths, catering to almost any foot size or shape. This variety means you’re more likely to find a shoe that fits your foot like a glove, minimizing discomfort and the need for extended break-in periods. The brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its fit trial testing, allowing you to walk in the shoes and gauge their comfort level before making a final decision.
On the other side, To Boot New York also emphasizes the importance of a perfect fit, providing a selection of sizes and paying close attention to the nuances of shoe width. Their Italian shoes come equipped with cushioned insoles and are designed with supportive arches, offering an extra layer of comfort that ensures your feet are well taken care of throughout the day. This focus on creating a comfortable wearing experience sets To Boot New York apart in men’s shoes.
To Boot Procida Loafer – Cognac
Both brands understand that a comfortable fit is non-negotiable regarding quality dress shoes. The use of high-quality leather not only contributes to the shoe’s durability but also its ability to mold to your foot over time, enhancing comfort with each wear. Whether you’re drawn to the classic appeal of Allen Edmonds or the contemporary style of To Boot New York, you can rest assured that comfort is a top priority.
For those navigating the busy streets of New York City or simply looking for shoes that can keep up with their lifestyle, Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York offer solutions that don’t compromise on style or comfort. With their extensive range of sizes, fit trial testing, and commitment to using good quality materials, finding the perfect fit is easier than ever.
It’s essential to consider not just the style and comfort but also the price tag and overall value you’re getting from your purchase. Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York, both esteemed in men’s fashion, offer unique takes on what constitutes a quality shoe. Both companies offer excellent customer service and occasional discounts off of the retail price.
However, they also present similar price ranges that beg the question: Which brand offers the better investment?
Allen Edmonds Shoes since 1922
With its proud Made in USA label, Allen Edmonds appeals to those keen on supporting American craftsmanship. Their shoes are a testament to the tradition of quality shoe-making with materials from across the globe, including premium leather from Puerto Rico and The Dominican Republic. This commitment to craftsmanship and quality materials, the brand’s heritage, and the prestige of owning an American-made product presents a compelling value proposition.
On the other hand, To Boot New York brings the exquisite craftsmanship of Italian shoes to the forefront. With designs that blend contemporary trends with timeless elegance, To Boot New York’s offerings are a nod to the meticulous work of Italian artisans. These shoes are not just a piece of fashion but an investment in Italian craftsmanship known for its luxury and durability, promising a value beyond the price point.
When comparing the two, it becomes clear that the choice between Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York isn’t just about the price range but about what values and aesthetics you prioritize. Allen Edmonds caters to those who value traditional American craftsmanship and the legacy of a brand that has withstood the test of time. Conversely, To Boot New York appeals to the fashion-forward individual looking for the luxurious feel and innovative design that Italian shoes are celebrated for.
Ultimately, deciding where to invest hinges on what you value most in a pair of dress shoes—the heritage and Made in USA label of Allen Edmonds or the contemporary flair and Italian craftsmanship of To Boot New York. Both brands stand as paragons in their own right, offering beautiful shoes that promise to elevate any wardrobe with their quality, design, and craftsmanship. The real investment is choosing a brand that aligns with your personal style and values, ensuring that every step you take is in shoes that look good and feel right.
After wearing Allen Edmonds and To Boot New York dress shoes, I will own a mix of both. I’ve always rooted for products made in the USA, so I was hoping that Allen Edmonds would take the lead in this head-to-head comparison. They are great shoes that will last long but take longer to break in.
The Italian craftsmanship and style of To Boot New York have also won me over. I love the “burnished” paint designs and the color contrast stitching. The Italian shoes from To Boot New York have an undeniable charm that blends beautifully with any wardrobe, making them my go-to pair for formal and casual events.
Both companies provide rubber soles and good leather quality. Both are easy to shop online, but check out discounts at Nordstrom Rack. These brands balance hardened Midwest craftsmanship and Italian Style and sartorial design.
To sum up, if you’re in the market for a new pair of dress shoes and weighing your options between these two prestigious brands, you cannot go wrong with either. If you are purchasing your first dress shoe, go with a Mahogany or chili-colored Cap-Toe From Allen Edmonds. Once you break it in, it will offer comfort and long durability for an everyday dress shoe.
For those seeking a combination of contemporary design, comfort, and lasting quality, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better choice than To Boot New York. Whether it’s the elegant To Boot Connors Cap Toe or their best loafers, investing in a pair from To Boot New York is a decision you’re unlikely to regret.
