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It took me a second to think through the premise that $600 dollar shoes might make economic sense. My guess is that people who wear $600 shoes don't walk to wor
by galago 12y ago
It took me a second to think through the premise that $600 dollar shoes might make economic sense. My guess is that people who wear $600 shoes don't walk to work, or really walk much of anywhere, at least not in their $600 shoes. So, they probably do last longer and fulfill the social signalling or whatever other purpose said shoes fulfill. I don't think anyone wears's shabby old 9 1/2 year old shoes that originally cost $600. I suspect people usually wear $600 shoes so that others can tell that they are not price-sensitive regarding footwear.
- larrywright 12y agoI doubt it. People who want flashy shoes that people will notice spend money on more exotic brands, not Alden or Allen Edmonds. Shell cordovan is a bit unique amongst shoe leathers. It is valued by the people who wear it primarily because of the way it looks. Shell doesn't develop creases when you wear it, it develops "rolls". It also (at least in colors other than black, like Horween's famous Color 8), develops a patina that leather made from cow hide doesn't. It looks much better with age. I just sold my late stepfather's 40 year old shell cordovan shoes for $100. They have seen lots of wear over the years, but are in great shape, and look amazing because of the afore-mentioned patina. That is why people pay that much for shell cordovan.
- cmbaus 12y agoCordovan is not a fussy material. It is meant to be worn hard, everyday.
- hrktb 12y agoObviously they don't walk in damaging environments, but you should be able to repair the sole if it gets used. Another thing to consider aside from price and looks is that the design (how it is supposed to react on your walk) is fundamentally different from "cheap" snickers. For instance it's way more rigid and doesn't twist. For some it helps their walking, for others it's an hinderance.