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
TLB Mallorca has quickly made a name for itself in the men’s shoe world by offering luxury, top-quality men’s shoes at an attainable price. Based in the heart of Mallorca, Spain, the brand brings Mediterranean charm to every pair of shoes it crafts. Its Artista line, known for its superior craftsmanship, offers some of the best dress shoes for under $400. TLB Mallorca’s meticulous attention to detail and use of high-quality materials are what set it apart. I ordered and trialed a pair of 106 Artista in Light Brown, and I will share what I experienced and learned with you.
Artista 106 in Light Brown
TLB’s shoes are made in Mallorca, where skilled artisans use traditional techniques to create each pair. A fundamental element of TLB Mallorca is the Goodyear-welted construction, which ensures durability and longevity. They also use premium leather from the famous French tannery Tennerie d’Annonay. This tannery has been around since the 12th century and is known for producing some of the best leather in the world. The high-quality leather adds to the shoes’ overall durability and luxurious feel.
The Artista line is an especially noteworthy type of shoe for its sleek design, elegant appearance and comfortable fit. The Picasso Last, for example, offers a slightly square-shaped toe and is ideal for medium-width feet. This last has a bevelled waist, meaning the shape has a slight hourglass figure. Choosing the correct TLB Mallorca last is important, depending on the width and shape of your feet. 
Whether you opt for a ready-made pair or customize your own, you can expect a shoe that combines style, comfort, and durability. Priced at $ 400 U.S., these shoes offer exceptional quality that rivals more expensive brands. TLB Mallorca is a brand worth considering if you’re looking for men’s dress shoes that combine Mediterranean charm, superior craftsmanship, and a competitive price.
Goodyear-welted construction is one of the standout features of TLB Mallorca shoes. This technique involves stitching a leather welt around the shoe, offering remarkable durability and a longer lifespan than Blake-stitched shoes. Their waist design is the narrowest in the industry at this price point, contributing significantly to their popularity. This method ensures the shoe maintains its shape over time, providing a snug fit that’s both comfortable and supportive.
The Artista line, in particular, is made with the Goodyear Welted technique, known for its solid yet lightweight construction. This high level of craftsmanship enhances durability and adds to the shoe’s aesthetic appeal. The Goodyear-welted technique involves multiple layers, including a cork layer that molds to your foot over time, offering personalized comfort.
Closed Channel Stitching
Moreover, the shoes feature closed channel stitching, where the stitching is hidden within the sole, adding a touch of luxury and protection from wear. This intricate process is a hallmark of high-quality dress shoes and significantly extends the life of the leather soles.
14 SPI = Stitches Per Inch
With 14 stitches per inch, the stitching on TLB Mallorca shoes is exceptionally fine, showcasing their attention to detail. This high stitch density improves durability and gives the shoes a sleek, refined look. Overall, the Goodyear-welted construction in TLB Mallorca shoes sets them apart, making them a wise investment for any men’s fashion enthusiast.
When it was time to choose my first pair of TLB Mallorca shoes, I chose the Artista 106 in Cuero, a Light Brown shade, crafted on the Picasso last. The closed lacing system classifies it as an Oxford dress shoe, but the lighter color and stitching make it slightly less formal compared to more classic Oxfords like a whole cut or cap toe. The 106 boasts leather insoles and a calf lining. It has real leather heel stiffeners. I also adore the decorative wingtip stitching on the shoe’s upper, miming a classic wingtip dress shoe minus the decorative perforations or “broguing”.
The Vegano Leather from the French D’Annonnay tannery is smooth and soft. The leather sole features the renowned TLB Mallorca closed channel design. The tight, narrow stitching demonstrates the handmade quality upon first glance. I chose this pair because the 106 in Light Brown is a versatile dress shoe. It is an elegant choice that pairs well with suits, slacks, or light-colored chinos.
Blind Wingtip Design
Ordering from TLB Mallorca was a fantastic experience. After placing my order, the owner emailed me to thank me and provided detailed instructions for measuring my foot. This required just a few minutes to draw the outline of my foot. He also asked for the sizes of other dress shoes I wear from different brands to ensure the perfect fit. I had ordered my usual size, UK 9.5 (equivalent to US 10.5), but I often wear different sizes depending on the shoemaker. For example, I wear a US 10 in Italian brands like Magnanni.
After reviewing my foot diagram and comparing it to my other shoes, Toni and his team confirmed my order of UK 9.5. When the shoes arrived, they fit perfectly, confirming the high level of personalized service TLB Mallorca provides. The shoes took about a week to deliver after we finalized the size and last.
This was the best service I have received when buying dress shoes online. The attention to detail and commitment to a perfect fit sets TLB Mallorca apart. The entire process, from ordering to delivery, was seamless and professional. This personalized experience makes a significant difference, especially when investing in high-quality men’s dress shoes.
TLB Mallorca’s diverse collections of lasts set them apart. By the way, a shoe “last” is a three-dimensional foot-shaped mold used to shape and fit the upper portion of the dress shoe. Additionally, they offer a fantastic customization service for those who want a truly unique shoe. For an extra $75, you can design your own personalized pair of TLB Mallorca shoes. Choose from different types of leather, a wide selection of colors, and specific sole designs. This allows you to create a pair that perfectly matches your style and needs. The online system for customization is user-friendly, making the process easy and enjoyable. You can select from a variety of colors, materials, and finishes to get exactly what you want. This personalized approach ensures that your shoes are stylish and unique.
Shoe Trees for Artista 106 Last
What makes this service even better is the attention to detail that TLB Mallorca offers. You can choose the type of leather for each part of the shoe, from the vamp to the toe. This level of detail ensures your shoes are tailored to your specific tastes. With so many options, you can design a pair that stands out while maintaining the brand’s exceptional quality. The ability to customize your shoes without sacrificing quality or craftsmanship is a major selling point for TLB Mallorca.
This customization option is perfect for a more exclusive and tailored experience. Whether you need shoes for a special occasion or simply want to add a personal touch to your wardrobe, TLB Mallorca’s customization service offers unparalleled options and quality.
Opening the box of TLB Mallorca Artista shoes felt like uncovering a treasure. These Oxford shoes with their closed lacing system exude sophistication. The “blind wingtip” design, devoid of broguing (punch holes), adds a touch of formality to the overall look. As I touched the Vegano leather upper, its suppleness confirmed the high-quality craftsmanship I had hoped for. TLB uses the French leather tannery D’Annonay for their dress shoes; you can feel the nearly 200-year history in their supple leather.
The leather soles were meticulously crafted, and the closed channel stitching stood out as a mark of luxury. The finishing includes beveled waists and fudge wheeling on the welt, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship. These elements collectively highlighted the shoes’ exceptional quality. The stitching, with 14 stitches per inch, is another testament to TLB Mallorca’s attention to detail.
This high stitch density enhances the shoes’ durability and gives them a sleek, refined appearance. I measured SPI, or “Stitches Per Inch,” at 14. This is a top rating, as luxury shoes should measure 12-14 inches. Each aspect of the Artista 106, from the supple upper to the expertly crafted soles, exemplifies the brand’s dedication to producing outstanding men’s shoes. Unboxing these shoes was a delight; their impeccable design left a lasting impression.
Cream Linen and Cotton Chinos
After wearing these shoes on multiple business trips, I can confirm their exceptional comfort. They felt broken after two wears, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The forefoot is generous, ideal for medium-fit individuals and those with broader feet. The light brown pairs effortlessly with light-colored suits or dress pants like gray or light blue, making them perfect for semi-formal attire. This is one of the best brands of dress shoes I have evaluated in the last ten years.
The quality of the matching belt mirrors that of the shoes, showcasing the same level of craftsmanship. I also highly recommend the matching shoe trees. Designed to fit the last precisely, they help maintain the shape and structure of your shoes during storage. The forefoot is generous, making it ideal for medium-fit individuals and those with broader feet.
These shoes have not disappointed in terms of versatility. They look stylish whether paired with business attire or more casual dress pants. The light brown is especially versatile, blending well with various colors and outfits. This makes them a practical addition to any wardrobe.
Every time I wear them, I am reminded of their exceptional quality and the meticulous craftsmanship that went into making them. The comfort and stylish design make TLB Mallorca the perfect shoes for anyone looking to elevate their men’s fashion game.
Taking care of your leather shoes is crucial to maintain their exceptional quality. To extend the life of your TLB Mallorca shoes, I highly recommend a consistent shoe care routine using Saphir shoe care products. Start with the Saphir Renovator, which is perfect for conditioning and rejuvenating the leather. This will keep the shoe’s upper supple and prevent it from drying out.
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Next, apply a shoe cream polish from Saphir. This product helps maintain the color and adds a layer of protection. Choose a shade that matches your light brown Artista 106 to keep them looking fresh. After applying the cream, let it dry for a few minutes, then buff it with a soft cloth to bring out the shine.
For the final touch, use Saphir wax polish. This gives the shoes a brilliant finish and adds extra protection against water and stains. Apply a small amount of wax with a cloth, let it dry, and then buff it to a high shine.
In addition to regular polishing, use shoe trees that match the last of your shoes. This will help maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Store your shoes in a cool, dry place and rotate them to avoid wearing them on consecutive days.
Following these care recommendations will ensure your TLB Mallorca dress shoes remain stylish and durable for years. Investing time in proper shoe care is practical advice for anyone looking to elevate their men’s fashion game.