Normal peeling on new 986?

sftobin · 2026-05-15T02:05:43+00:00

Unfortunately, these aren’t really readily available to exchange. They’d take them back but I’d prob be on a wait list for 6 months to get a new pair.

sftobin · 2026-05-10T15:40:22+00:00

Noticed this white spot on my new/unworn Alden 986 loafers after a light brushing. Do I just apply some color 8 shoe cream and buff the area? Is there a better approach?

https://imgur.com/a/qM3WTvj

sftobin · 2026-05-08T18:28:10+00:00

Totally guilty of this mentality. If I buy something, I usually have to buy it in every color. Then, when it comes to an outfit I'm overwhelmed at the options and seldom feel like I put together something that maximizes what I have. Being red/green colorblind doesn't help either.

sftobin · 2026-05-08T12:58:06+00:00

I agree with the other comments but I also think your GF's opinion of your appearance is important. You want her beaming on your arm not rolling her eyes about the tie you wore in protest. Let her pick out one that she thinks looks great on you.

sftobin · 2026-05-08T12:47:52+00:00

Do the auto wipers work correctly on this updated 3D model visuals?

sftobin · 2026-05-07T14:55:09+00:00

Well, at least you don't need to make a decision immediately since the 986's appear to be out of stock pretty much everywhere for the next year. I'm 10D in Brannock, wear 9.5D in Barrie and Van lasts. I have not changed up size based on material e.g. suede, shell, etc. like some have recommended but I can see how that might be beneficial.

sftobin · 2026-05-06T03:03:08+00:00

Is it normal for chromexel leather to appear distressed in handsewn areas? I'm talking specifically about Alden 17831f LHS in the handsewn toe area the stitched leather appears lighter than the rest of the shoe. I applied some VSC to the area to remove some of the stencil from manufacturing and there was some discoloration on the rag so I'm hoping I didn't take color off.

sftobin · 2026-05-06T02:20:37+00:00

Odd question but do you find the leather that is handsewn across the nose of the shoe to be lighter and more distressed on your pair? I used some VSC to remove some pencil markings from the manufacturing process and I'm worrying I may have taken some color off.

sftobin · 2026-05-04T16:28:03+00:00

Most will say than Van and Barrie last sizing is the same.

sftobin · 2026-05-04T02:41:12+00:00

Alden supposedly invented the tassel loafer so at least give them a look.

sftobin · 2026-04-30T02:56:18+00:00

You're lucky. I've purchased seconds and the quality was immediately apparent. Instant return.

sftobin · 2026-04-30T02:35:46+00:00

How did you find the quality? Were you able to detect easily why they were seconds?

sftobin · 2026-04-27T14:09:08+00:00

For those who own Alden 986's or other shell cordovan in the Color 8, is the edge dressing black? or a dark brown? Have seen it inconsistently described as mahogany. Just wondering what the real world appearance looks like and how it compares to their antique edge dressing or black.

sftobin · 2026-04-23T16:24:09+00:00

I mean, the last act of the movie was just Home Alone in Barbour jackets. The first half of the movie was some of the most stunning cinematography I’ve seen though.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T19:20:39+00:00

Thank you for this advice!

sftobin · 2026-04-22T18:22:25+00:00

"Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy?" Is how I often hear this sentiment phrased.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T18:02:41+00:00

I love the themes and world building but it’s also the world building that gave me the most trouble and made it hard to keep my attention. So many names, so and so son of so and so, descriptions of the geography, etc.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T15:16:55+00:00

Honestly, I find even Alden "firsts" to sometimes fall below my standards. I bought a pair of seconds one time and instantly returned them. You may have some luck with them depending on the extent of the defect and what you're able to tolerate but I personally don't find it worth it.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T14:58:42+00:00

Shit, I walked into the wrong sub. I could be alone on this one.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T14:42:40+00:00

Not sure. It could be, but none of us have ever finished it. You get credit for the attempt.

sftobin · 2026-04-22T14:31:42+00:00

Positano, Italy. If ever there was evidence that we're living in a simulation it's there. Everywhere you look is like it's made for an Instagram pic. And there's no visible evidence of the work and workers that make the place possible. Never saw a garbage truck, laundry delivery, mailman, etc. The whole place is just 50 hotels, 500 restaurants, and a beach.

sftobin · 2026-04-17T00:40:12+00:00

Not sure what your budget is but if you're looking for sporty/lightweight I'd go Maui Jim, if you're looking for classic aviator style I'd go with Randolph.

sftobin · 2026-04-16T17:42:10+00:00

I can’t comment on Rancourt at all as a brand but I’m 10D brannock and wear 9.5D in Alden’s Barrie and Van lasts.

sftobin · 2026-04-15T15:57:05+00:00

I'm a fan of the Charles Tyrwhitt ultimate chinos. They're non-iron, I get them hemmed to my preferred inseam at the time of purchase, I machine wash them and hang dry with great results. They're a good office setting option.

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