Are Allen Edmonds Factory Seconds Worth 50% off?
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- čas přidán 1. 03. 2018
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Allen Edmonds shoes are in the mid-high price tier of dress shoes but they also offer a "Factory Seconds" option which is a great discount if you're price sensitive but looking to get into this brand. Let me know if you have any questions as I deep dive!
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Does anyone know if ae will recraft eBay used purchases, or Nordstrom rack purchases?
Great question!
AE will recraft any Allen Edmonds shoe provided that 1) the shoe upper is not damaged beyond their ability to recraft 2) the shoe is recraftable (contains to shoes that are Goodyear welted; not cement constructed). Check out allenedmonds.com for more info.
yes.
Evidently there are people posting videos of buying used AE shoes on Ebay, then sending in for recrafting. AE will recraft any AE shoe so long as they are recraftable from design, yet they will only work on AE shoes. They don't usually inquire about where you bought the shoes.....
Yes. If you pay for recrafting, they'll do it (for AE shoes, of course)
So I work for Allen Edmonds and there are a couple things I want to correct you on
Firstly, there is no "cost saving" technique making a factory second. A factory second is a shoe that was meant to be a full price shoe. Our shoes are made by hand, so when mistakes get made, those shoes get sold as factory seconds. But absolutely no difference in the way they are made or cost to make them
Secondly, the sole of the shoe has no baring on whether or not it will become a factory second. We offer both Danite and Leather soles for both. It just happens that the factory second they had in your size was a fifth ave that was made with a danite sole. In a full price shoe, you get the option of sole types for all of the shoes in our classics collection
Third, you said the leather sole lasts longer, that's false. The danite lasts significantly longer than leather because rubber holds up better to weather and water than leather does
Fourth, the insole also holds no baring. It's just that every now and again we change the way our insoles look. I know that we just designed a new one again that's a dark brown and just says "Allen Edmonds: Port Washington" that will be going in all of our shoes. So you got two shoes made during two different periods
Other than that, everything was pretty accurate. Factory seconds are random, but they're normally pretty minor mistakes. I've had a pair that was just double stitched on the inside and that's it. Changed absolutely nothing about the shoe but was enough to fail the quality test and be sold as a factory second
Zach Clawges sir factory store is cheaper than regular outlet and when AE sale comes ?
umm i think he was talking about the leather insert being different. it really looked different on camera. you didn't explain this.
forth paragraph matey, insole is the insert you are referring to :)
Excellent, couldn't have said it better myself. The mistakes on seconds are minor and a scuff on the leather is not a defect as it can just be polished. People really need to learn to polish their shoes!!! :)
@@spudgun3014 yup it's there. Better check my glasses.
Danite last much longer than leather. Plus, you can drop $425 for a perfect shoe and after your first scuff it’s basically a second quality immediately.
Allen Edmonds seems to have sales pretty often, where first-quality shoes are discounted down to ~$200-250, sometimes as low as $150. So if you're patient, you can get a great deal without going through the gamble of factory seconds.
My suggestions from my recent 5 month travels with AE and dress shoes exploration: 1) Go to an AE store and try on 3 different styles (different lasts) to find your perfect size and fit for each. The 5 last doesn't fit all feet and can be tricky if you have a higher instep/wider foot. 2) Never pay full price for a AE first shoe. AE has several sales a year that discount the price reasonably (still expensive). 3) If you have your size, don't be afraid of eBay for shoes. You can score great deals on shoes that have very little wear. 4) Factory Seconds are a gamble, but seem to pay off for most people. Sometimes the defects are very minor, some defects are really bad (large dents in the toe box).5) If you order from AE, inspect the shoe for defects (firsts) and ensure the fit is good before leaving the house. Stay on carpet and wear them for 1/2 day to decide if you need to return them or not. Once the soles are scratched, they will likely not accept returns. 6) Invest in shoe trees for each pair and store in shoe box if you don't have a secure place for your shoes. 7) If you are new to high quality dress shoes, I recommend starting with the AE Cap Toe oxford in black as your first pair. These will go with formal suits and can be dressed down. Second, I suggest the AE strand in walnut (more casual). Beware of Shell Cordovan (expensive and addictive :). Also, if you want a different shoe, look at Alden. They make great shoes too and are made in the USA. Good luck.
john alterio Thank you for your comment, Mr. Alterio. I've been considering getting into quality shoes and your information on AE is a great primer!
john alterio thanks for your comments! Just a quick question, when are some big sales for AE? I know the Rediscover America is a huge one, and there's perhaps a one during summer?
My best advice is to sign up for their email updates and create an account on their website. This will send you updates when sales become available. They have big sales usually twice a year, but smaller sales throughout. Check it out on allenedmonds.com
The 2018 Anniversary Sale starts tomorrow (4/6) and goes through the 23rd. I got a brochure in the mail and it looks like a good sale on across their line of shoes/clothes and accessories.
They just had a great sale on factory seconds a couple weeks ago. Just as I was getting the hankering to spend my tax refund...
I've purchased both retail and factory second and I will go for factory second from now on. 98% perfect for half the price. Great shoe, great company.
Having just received a pair of Allen Edmonds MacNeil 2 (factory seconds) barely worn once or twice which I bought via eBay, I just discovered this video and The Kavalier. I paid $80 for them, and was concerned about some of the photos the seller posted showing finish and stitching flaws. I reasoned, if I really didn't like them, I could probably sell them for the same amount or even more (the seller hadn't done a very good job of presenting and selling on eBay).
In person, I'm delighted! Imperfections in the sole edge finish were covered and perfected with one coat of Fiebing's dye. Hydrating with mink oil, cream, and shining, the blemishes are almost impossible to find, and will disappear further with use, time, and shining. These imperfections are very manageable with just a little effort and knowledge. Only careful scrutiny of the shoes would discover them. On the other hand, these factory seconds have full leather soles -- I prefer the Danite soles for all weather, frequen NYC walking.
Nonetheless, $80 for almost perfect Allen Edmond's is not just a deal, it's a steal! Loving my two other AE first quality pairs of shoes, Firenze Italian loafers and Globetrotters, for the past six years, getting a new job in insurance, it was time to step up to something dressier. Now that I've experienced AE Factory Seconds, I'm definitely open to paying $195 to AE for seconds, and when they've done their job (and I've done more of mine), full price for first quality!
That's a great find! Seems like there is a lot of great stuff on eBay when it comes to AE
I love AE. Got two pair from eBay (they may have been seconds, but I couldn't tell) for about $125 each. New without box, just to get familiar with the brand. They are wonderful, of course. A real step up (shoe joke). Thanks for the vid.
Bobby Reed If they came with the original box, check the style number. Any style number ending in an "S" is a factory second
What is really great is when you have a family member who works for AE and can hand pick a pair of seconds for you and then get an extra 30% family discount!!
Factory 2nd's are TOTALLY worth it! It was a roll of the dice at first but after about 10 pairs (now 16) I've found that most of the stores will tell you what's wrong or even send me pics when I ask!
That's a hell of a collection!
Thanks, it's only brand I have so far! AE's are so comfortable!
DJ PC Baby! Qqqq
DJ PC Baby! tell us what shoes are in your collection.
I'm looking to purchasing ae seconds, but where can I purchase these seconds.
Found some sweet Allen Edmonds at goodwill yesterday for $10. Felt like I was robbing the place
Where is this place
If only was the right size
Found a pair new in box on their auction site. It was a lot more than $10, but less than half of the $400 retail price.
@@maccollectorz I found a pair at a retail store for free.
Felt like I robbed the place. Actually I did
@@60zeller 😂😂
Great video Kavalier & the additional comments by Zach at AE. Allen Edmonds is my go to shoe & I wear them all the time. I've built a collection over the years. I love the Park Avenue, Fifth Avenue, Strand & StrandMok. They are all made on the 65 LAST that seems to fit my foot perfectly and incredibly comfortable. All are balmorals with an escalating range of brogue. From business to casual, it's a great range that just plain works & look awesome. As to soles, I have leather on most & Dainite (on my Strandmoks). But I also have a couple pairs with the leather/rubber sole (V-Tread tap sole), which is a great combination & completely recraftable.
I've bought both 1st editions & a few factory seconds. The mild blemishes on the seconds are completely unnoticeable after a few wearings. Not to mention AE runs some great sales during the year if you want those originals.
I have about 10 pairs in each variations and I will say, the blemish versions are VERY close to they’re regular versions and well worth the cost savings!
I have a pair that I bought when I was 21 and worked at a shoe store. I still have them. I am 58 now and they look like new. I wear them all the time and to this day I get compliments on them. Allen Edmond's is simply the best men's shoe out there.
J Z Wow, a shoe you wear occasionally?
A shoe I wear once a week. hey are the best.
Thanks for this review. I own multiple pairs of AEs but none are factory seconds. This gives me the confidence to go ahead and order a pair of those. It's tough to overlook that 40-50% drop.
You've really got me rethinking AE 2nds, Kav. Thank you for the video. I've been looking at some Massimo Matteo's Tan Oxford Wingtips that are moderately priced at $159.....yet seem to be getting stunning reviews in terms of quality and comfort. I'll look at the AE 2nd's again...but will probably still go with the MM's this time around.
One thing I noticed, that blemish you said around the heel where the blade hits, is actually not a blemish. That’s the welt that was sewed all the way around. So, when you send your AE’s to be recrafted they disassemble the welt from that notch near the heel. Dainite soles outlast leather soles through a multitude of reasons, majority being salt from snow eating at the leather over time. Again, love to write that article for you!
Excellent that you've posted a video about AE. Factory Seconds are the exact same shoe as the full price shoe, the only difference is the blemish aspect of the final product. AE doesn't make a separate product such as that of an outlet store. Also, don't overlook their Clearance shoes, which are brand new "firsts" that they are discontinuing. They sell these at a similar discount as the factory seconds. On top of that, they're made in Port Washington, WI and they take in 70,000 pairs per year for recrafting. This is old school American Made craftsmanship that most guys just don't explore. I got into AE because I grew tired of buying "throw-away" shoes, and I've never turned back.....
Great insight Lou, thank you!
great video idea! would love more allen edmonds videos
I have three Mainstee belts, black, brown and burgundy and love them . Great video
I live in Wisconsin where those shoes are made and there's factory store attached to the factory which is north of Milwaukee. Some good deals to be had there.
I pulled the trigger and just ordered 2 pairs of Allen Edmonds shoes. I'm sold! Got a Factory Seconds St John's Double Monk Strap Cap Toe Perforated Brogue for $249. it has the leather sole and is Goodyear welted. I also bought from their clearance section. I wanted something I could alternate between casual or dressy. So I bought the Shane Slate Suede shoe which is calfskin, a wingtip and is also Goodyear welted. Snatched it for $197. I am so ecstatic and can't wait. My poor feet got tired of shoes that hurt and are not breathable. Thank you Kavalier for your invaluable information!!! I am learning a lot!
Most of "differences" pointed out out are due to the shoes being different models rather than factory seconds. the Fifth Avenue can be had new with a number of different soles which also cause the differences in the inseam noted. The rubber vs leather soles and different insole aren't "cost savings" as noted as the factory seconds aren't made to be seconds but rather different models. The slightly different leather colors are due to these being hand crafted. That Walnut color especially tends to vary. These aren't outlet shoes. The scuffs are the only reason they are seconds.
That said, factory seconds are a great bargain, but I've also had luck shopping the Allen Edmond sales (Direct from AE).
I have purchased two pairs of AE seconds and am totally pleased with both pairs. One pair is a walnut Sanford that had an extra discount and wound up costing me $76.50, the other pair are Nomad penny loafers that were $104.00, both pairs have extremely minor flaws that can only be seen when holding the shoes in front of your face.
Dear Kavalier, thanks to this video, I just purchased two pairs of factory seconds shoes, a Greene St. (reg. $425) & a Park Ave. (reg. $395), for $249 each brand spanking new... both qualify for the recrafting service. saved over $320!! Thank you Kavalier!!!
The return and recrafting service sounds a wonderful idea. Thanks man.
It does cost 125 bucks,
I own a couple of AE, never used it
I have about 5 pairs of factory settings. Two fifth avenues that I’ve had for about 5 years (chestnut and black) that have been perfect out the box, rubber soles. The Chelsea boots I got are great, but I had to have the plastic bit behind the heel replaced because it squeaked. $40 at the cobbler and they’re perfect. The rest are fine, no noticeable blemishes.
I love your shoe comparison they look so good quality I'm looking for a pair in black for my workwear but these are so contemporary & will match with a lot of the outfits I wear
AE is my favorite brand. You can always find great deals in the clearance section.
Gene Shnayder where can i purchase ae seconds?
Hi! Nice review.
I have been buying new and "factory second" shoes from Allen Edmonds for, wow, 30 years. I have never seen lesser quality footbeds in my "factory second" shoes. I have also never seen a lesser finish applied to those shoes.
I have many of my original shoes. They have been factory refurbished, some 3 times. The shoes are always polished and well-maintained, but they are worn, walked in, sometimes run in, but loved.
I do feel that Allen Edmonds shoes are some of the best available. Even though hey have removed the leather liners in some of my shoes so I no longer select them, I still buy their top of the line dress shoes.
I hope they maintain and improve their quality. I want to buy only their shoes.
I really look forward to the video comparing Allen Edmond 2nd and Beckett Simonon. I’m about to buy another pairs, and debating between the two.
They always have 2-3 deals per year so you almost never have to pay full price unless you need some now. I have owned both firsts and seconds and there is usually a small difference between the two shoes when you buy seconds. One pair I had to send back because the shoes had a noticeable difference in the width of the top leather piece. I ended up getting a pair of bourbon firsts for the same price on the same exact shoe so I went with those instead. 4 pairs and all are still in consistent rotation.
Thanks for the review, Kavalier. I dig the dainite sole on my AE penny loafers and want to get that for new 5th avenues when I can afford them. I can polish them well enough to disguise or color match any blemishes on shoes they would actually sell, so it seems worth it for a guy like me to get the discounted ones. If the feel of the shoes are different, are both acceptable? If so, it is totally worth it, for someone like me.
Can't wait for the Meermin/Allen Edmonds comparison! /r/goodyearwelt has changed to team Meermin for the most part since the price increase and I almost always have an interest in the brands you compare/review.
Pyridius yeah...i feel the same way...Meermin = roughly the same quality for similar (or lower) price with more elegant/modern lasts...honestly AE has some catching up to do at this point...theyre definitely no longer alone at the top of their class
Yes, I purchased several factory seconds on AE's web site. I am pleased with them. One pair isa 5th Avenue and the other St. John's double monk strap. Both happened to be Dk. Chili which is a great shoe color. I am pleased with the factory seconds or sometimes F2 for shorthand. No issues. they are beautiful and after a few wearings. I forget they're seconds. Upon receipt, I re-hydrated them with Saphir Renovateur and the factory scuffs disappeared. Followed up with some Spahir creme polish, then wax - done! They look great and are a nice value. My simple take is with the discount, it pays for the matching belt plus a few bucks saved. The one caveat is if you return a pair of F2's, AE will charge you a $25 restocking fee. That's a risk I find worth taking when I'm saving well over a $100-$200 per pair.
I had to go look once you said they are now going for $425. I have a Park Avenue, A double monk and a Mcalister. I'm looking at other shoes as I don't want to come off as one brand in my rotation. Good thing I bought them when I did. All purchased under $400.
Good video. New to AE and just this week received my online purchase of my first three pairs.
One a first-quality lace-up longwing on sale at a retailer and two factory seconds from AE with an add'l. 30% off.
One fs model is the loafer/driver "Boulder" and only defect I could find are two scuff marks on the high outer lining of the inside exterior of one shoe. The second model is the "Surrey" derby with a gorgeous suede/nubuc upper. Only defect is a small 1/8" black dab/spot on the forefoot and which looks like could be from what was used to coat the outside edge of each sole.Very minor and something I may be able to remove with an ersaer.
No matter the quality, when purchasing online the fits are a little hit or miss (all three were different) but being a 10 1/2 3E I've discovered I haven't a choice in that matter. So, so far off to a good start with AE.
Also purchased three first-quality belts on clearance and they are all high quality and well made.
You hit it on the nose when you said “you have to accept they will get scuffed eventually anyway” I have bought the seconds and I am very happy with the purchase
This is amazing! I never knew this!!
Thank you for this video It was needed 😊😊😊
I have the fifth avenues as a factory 2nd. I have gotten a chance to do a direct comparison with the regularly priced version, so thanks for the video. I noticed a minor blemish in mine at the top of the hill. It’s not noticeable to the naked eye and I think I only noticed it because I was looking for a blemish. I hadn’t considered the insole so I am not sure there, but mine seems to be of quality material. I suspect that after 3 months of wear, the shoes are probably indistinguishable. I plan to get another pair in a different model later this year.
I own 65 pairs of Allen Edmonds mostly in the Dress Shoe styles. Clearly, Allen Edmonds is my favorite shoe company and because of that, I am also an AE Collector. Of the 65 pairs, 10 are Factory Seconds and they are wonderful. Each of the 10 have very minor blemishes. In fact most of the Factory Seconds' blemishes have such very minor blemishes that they are generally not noticeable. In addition, the Factory Seconds Team at AE are great and very helpful. So don't be afraid of purchasing any of the Allen Edmonds products. Cheers to all!
Having bought more than a dozen factory seconds from AE over the years, all dress shoes, I have found that they are a great deal. Some customers have found significant QA issues, there are lots of videos on them. I have found that the most likely defect is a slight scuffing on the leather, usually on the side of the shoe on the inside. There are a couple of mine that I own with a slight error in the stitching, not really noticeable.
Great video, thank you for going into detail explaining the difference in the two different shoes. I’m really interested in stepping up my game in purchasing Allen Edmonds, can you please provide insight as to where I can buy factory resells is there a website or anything that I can go to to save a lot of money?
Stumbled across this video, and wanted to add my two cents worth. When I first found out that my son was paying $400 for a pair of shoes, I thought he was nuts. He used to work for Coach as a store manager, but now works for Allen Edmonds. I've now bought and received AE shoes. With only one exception, they are all factory seconds. I agree with the below statement -- I've never heard of a sole difference, based upon full-price and seconds. My favorites thus far are my McAllisters. They are the most comfortable AE shoes I've owned. I've actually kept them on, and walked a half-mile or so with the dog. I am going to experiment with the re-crafting service, and will let you know how it works.
To preface my comment, I have a small foot. I wear an 8 1/2 B shoe which is very hard to find...anywhere. In the late 1970s I worked for a company which had a subsidiary that sold the leather to Allen Edmonds. As such, AE treated us as employees and allowed us to order shoes directly from the factory. I ordered several pair.I was able to only get two pair. I still have one of them which has since been recrafted. Several years later, I found a shoe company locally that had two pair in my size. I bought them. Sometime in the early 1990s I was driving by an outlet store in Burlington, North Carolina where the Allen Edmonds outlet was having a tent sale. They had 13 pair of Allen Edmonds shoes in 8 1/2 B. I bought 9 of them. I call it the Emelda Marcos collection. They were mostly seconds at 1/3 the retail price at the time, about $100 each. My bill with tax was just short of $1000. I still have most of them. Some have been recrafted, others have been repaired, and still others have been barely worn. I've really never noticed a major difference between my factory seconds and first quality. At least one pair, after recrafting, the factory told me they could not recraft them again. Another pair, after recrafting had been pushed up in the back so they were too uncomfortable to wear again.
I have Allen Edmonds Factory Seconds in Shell Cordovan and these shoes are really, really great. With the 50% price difference on special sale, you cannot beat it at all!!!
Where I live, I am always finding pairs of Hartt and Dack's vintage shoes, both of which were at one point or another, some of the highest quality shoes Canada produced, and were for awhile owned by Church's. As one comment earlier said, a "factory second", particularly from Hartt, was a shoe that was found to not be the creme de la creme, and even back in the 1980s, when guys were paying $300 to $500 for a pair of these shoes, a factory second was still going for $150. In later life, when I worked a bit in shoe repair, I gained a real appreciation for these shoes, and it's part of why I like Allen Edmonds shoes; they are really well made. You can just feel the difference in your hands! Nowadays, most of the shoes I wear on a daily basis are between 30 and 50 years old. They are so well made, that if I buy new shoes, it's only because I like them, not because I need them. Great video on the shoes. I would have zero problem with buying their factory seconds, but I disagree on the leather sole point you make. I have never found that a composite material breathed as well.
I only own 3 pairs of AE shoes. One pair is a factory 2nd. I cannot really see what the problem is so I am happy about that. I wear an 11.5 narrow width so I am glad they make narrow shoes as well.
as always love your content, id like to have youre thoughts on suitsupply shoes
Useful video and well worth doing more along these lines.
Thank you Shane!
Love AE shoes. Had an older brother that wore them and I would hear him comment prior to me actually making a purchase. Currently have two pair of AE loafers that I've been wearing four or five years and both pair could stand reconditioning. But very good shoes they've been. You know AE quality when you compare them with the rest.
I really like your v neck pullover and your shirts , perfect combo , and the brown shoes is a killer on the bottom , I wonder what kind of pants you are wearing though.
That was a nice summary. I have five pairs of AEs and one of them was a factory second. The seconds seem fine. I'd get another pair from the Shoebank.
Rubbersole is a choice and not a cost reduction. People associate rubber soles with cheap dress shoes because in the budget price range the shoes usually have rubber soles. But if you opt for a rubber sole on mid to high-end shoes it will cost the same as their leather sole version. edit: Sometimes they charge extra for rubber soles.
great help. thanks.
I have the Hopkinson (I paid full $600 dollar price) and I love them, they are perfect in every way and the cap toe comes a little farther back then the park avenues which I prefer, they have worn nicely and are worth every penny.
I also bought a pair of Fifth avenue blems with the dainite sole and I will be resoling my Hopkinsons with that if I can when I send them in, thats how good they are.
Personally I use the Blem purchases for every day so if something happens to them its not as big a deal and save my full price versions for important meetings or occasions
Great info. Thanks!!!
These pair of shoes will be ideal for a professional job in an office environment & certainly for the kind off job you do& great for your travelling which you love very much
I have bought 4 pairs of factory seconds from the outlets and all of mine have leather soles. The imperfections are so slight it's barely noticeable. Definitely the route to go. I actually picked up a pair of black Carlyles this afternoon and got them for $175.00 compared to the normal MSRP of $425.00. With the factory seconds you can literally buy a new pair every month, and they are doing their semi annual sale the first week in April, so hope on it.
I have 8 pairs of AE shoes, some I have bought at full price at a store and some I have bought online from AE that are factory seconds. Some are up to 20 years old and still going strong. I have found no real issue with the seconds and any slight imperfections are not noticeable to the average onlooker.
I've got 3 pairs of FS Allen Edmonds. First pair I returned, because they were sewn unevenly on the caps and it looked horrible. The second pair I got for 157$ (FS x Clearance) it also had nasty blemish on the cap-toe, but I decided to keep it due to low price and nothing else from that model in my size. Third pair I bought on eBay, and they were near-perfect, had just small creasing on the leather which smoothened with wear.
I generally recommend buying FS in Brick/mortar AE outlets. You can review a couple of pairs before buying.
Got my first Allen Edmonds last weekend. Sixth Avenue from Nordstrom Rack and they were $155 after tax. They were factory seconds and had leather soles. The blemishes were nothing that made the shoes look any less desirable. Contacted AE about refracting for future reference and they responded promptly with a yes. For the quality and price of seconds it is definitely worth it!
Good advice. You're right, it's an investment. I owned my AE for at least 20 years. $400 divided by 20 = $20/year.
Purchased 2 pairs of boots. Dalton wingtip new were danite sole. The Chapman combats were the factory seconds same rubber sole but saved some coinage. I enjoy the Chapmans because they're heavier and feel better made. I know that's weird enjoying heavier footwear.
Over the last five years, I've acquired around a dozen pair of AEs, some at their store, some at the outlet, two pair on Ebay, and I even score a couple for an amazing $2 at the local thrift. All have one thing in common. Whether a year old or many years old (I have a pair of AE boots from a thrift, discontinued in the 70's), they wear beautifully and are comfortable. Having personally compared my factory seconds to store-bought, a day or two after receiving them, the only noticeable differences (to my eyes) were a pair with slight light blemish in color, one with a small leather imperfection, and one with a loose sole thread. My store-bought AEs looked the same as the others by the end of a month. Are AEs at 50% off worth it? A resounding yes, they are. My favorite AE shoes? In order of preference, the oldest to newest. With age they fit like slippers. That says a lot.
I love your reviews and videos. I own a number of AE shoes, a couple of them are new, while the others are factory seconds. I have to say that I love both of them and there's not a significant perceptible difference between the two. Besides, you have the same great customer service! All of my soles are the same leather soles - I don't have any dainites. That said, if you can afford to buy the full priced ones, I'd agree with you - you can avoid any blemishes that might exist. However, if you're starting out, the factory seconds are the way to go! The best shoes you will probably ever own.
Thank you Anirudh, totally agree!
I have bought AE factory seconds from the factory online. I also have purchased first quality at a retail store. In both cases the shoes were beautiful. The seconds may have had flaws but I couldn’t tell and I would have paid full price for the shoes. Great shoes and I highly recommend. If you want to upgrade your shoe wardrobe AE is a brand to get. They feel better, wear better and look better than cheap shoes and will last many years with proper care.
Great information
Just got mine in the mail and factory seconds are awesome. Even if they were not what I was expecting, a return is charged $25 and I believe an exchange was free. I took the chance and I came out on top. I've never had a "good" dress shoe before and these are my first. Some quick questions on shoes with leather soles though. How do people up north keep the soles in good condition from snow and salt in the winter months? (I suppose rain as well). Is it alright to wear them in these conditions and just need to be wiped down after I get home? Or just wear a cheap shoe in the snow and change into other shoes once inside? Thanks in advance from the newbie
3 pair of AE factory seconds and couldn't be happier. On two of the pairs I'm not even sure why they were considered seconds. The other pair had a slight blemish on the side and it buffed out for the most part. This is the only way I would buy AE's personally, I don't see the logic in paying double. Their most definitely good enough for me. I've had them shipped and go to the outlet in Destin often when sales are going on. Great shoes!
I love my AE’s...I’ve never purchased a second, but maybe I will now. However, have you ever looked in the English brand Grenson? They’re a family company in Northern England making some very high quality/stylish shoes. I’d love to see a video on those sometime.
I got a pair of factory second Allen Edmomds McGregors and the stitching on the heel was off and not straight. No one would probably notice any issues. Still an excellent pair of shoes
Definitely worth the discount then!
You can also save big money on AE shoes if you watch their website for closeouts on old models. I bought a pair of black loafers and a pair of brown monks as closeouts. Nobody but an AE salesperson will know that you're wearing a discontinued model and they look fantastic anyway.
Agreed! Some of the vintage and ebay pickups are a great way to go to. Some real gems out there!
Nice job - concise, but thorough enough ... any chance you could review and/or compare Alden with Allen Edmonds? These are my two favorite American brands.
Good info. I buy used AE's on ebay. I didn't realize the Non- leather soled dress shoes were factory seconds. The sellers don't list them as such. Thanks.
That's not always the case. My mistake in the video, just an option for any of their models.
I've had nothing but good luck on all my Factory Seconds purchases. Absolutely worth it, and probably the best value in dress shoes, today. I've purchased 5 Factory Seconds shoes in the past year and in all cases they were all in new or basically new condition. 1.) Liverpool Chelsea boots ($250) no blemishes or scuffs, the only thing I noticed was one heel was SLIGHTLY longer than the other, I'm talking about 1 millimeter, and not noticeable when wearing them. I'm guessing when they inspect things like that during quality control, if the heels don't line up perfectly, they go to Seconds. Side note: These boots came in a NEW Allen Edmonds box (most Seconds come in a slightly different beige box than the new pairs which come in black box with gold foil AE logo) 2.) Mackenzie dress shoes ($147) These were part of their Whole-cut collection, which I guess didn't sell too well, because even NEW versions of this shoe are on clearance now for $157. These are GORGEOUS shoes. They seem to be of higher quality than their main shoes, because they come with dovetail heels and brass tacks. And, they're whole cuts! Only defect I saw is the stitch on the inside, as The Kavalier points out in this video, isn't perfect. Like, part of the thread sticks out a bit. You need to hold the shoe up close to even tell. 3.) Hale Dress shoe ($97!) Okay, there was NOTHING wrong with these shoes. I looked really close. These are new shoes. Stitching is perfect, no blemishes, no nothing. I'm guessing these were simply discontinued, and put for sale on the Seconds market. The only thing to tell these were Factory Seconds was that they came in the beige Factory Seconds box. Other than that, they are a new Goodyear welted AE shoe for under $100. A steal. 4.) MacLennan Dress shoes ($147), again part of the Whole-cut collection, these shoes are identical to the MacKenzie's I bought earlier, except they don't have a toe medallion. Same shoe, basically, but for only $147 I couldn't resist not getting them. Nothing wrong with these, either. I looked really hard, and found nothing. Later, I realized that the name on in insole, where the AE logo is read "Mackenzie" instead of "MacLennan." LOL. So, I've got the wrong style name on my insole. I bet these whole-cuts were being made in the same department, and someone simply made a mistake by stamping the wrong name on the insole, so they couldn't sell it as a brand new shoe. That's fine, I'll take it. 5.) Cornwallis dress shoe ($295) The most expensive Factory Seconds I have bought. Only $100 off regular price. Nothing wrong with these, either. One of them has a bit of that "stitch lift" problem at the end of the Goodyear welt, but it's really unnoticeable. I bet I could even take a pair of small scissors and cut off the excess thread myself, and you couldn't tell. Also, oddly enough these came in the regular AE black box with gold foil, as any new shoes do. These are the only Factory Seconds I ordered through the phone, because they weren't live on the Allen Edmonds website, instead they were listed on ShoeBank.com where you have to call the specific outlet store where they are located. This is cool, because you can ask the employee over the phone to look over the actual shoe that is being sent to you, and they can tell you if they see anything glaringly wrong with them. Also, the nice gentleman who I talked with over the phone threw in an old purple AE velvet shoe cloth, which they don't make anymore. I think the Cornwallis is one of the most underrated designs AE makes. These shoes are elegant and stylish. Okay, sorry for the long comment. If this information helps anyone deciding whether to buy Factory Seconds AE over a New pair of AE, then I'm glad to share my experiences. Basically, if I'm in the market for any specific style of AE shoe, I ALWAYS look to see if they have it in my size in Factory Seconds first. I don't see any situations where buying a New shoe over a Seconds shoe is worth the premium in price. The boxes are different (sometimes) and whatever "imperfection" the Seconds have I guarantee you'll put a brand new shoe through much worse the very first time you wear it. For me, it's a no -brainer. Factory Seconds all the way. I'm currently looking to buy a pair of Cordovan Dalton boots, and will probably go with the Seconds version. Hopefully since it's a boot, they send me them in the "new" box!
Hi, great video. Im planing to get my hands on one of AE shoes, but eu44 equal to us11 in other brand, however for the AE eu44 equal to us 10? Could u let me know which size your followed when you bought yours? I had a pair of thomas bird in eu44/us11 and it fit really well. I am not living in US.
I’m actually shopping AE boot seconds right now... I’ve found 2 different styles that will work for me that total cost with a pair of shoe trees is still less than 1 pair of full price boots!
I bought a pair of park city boots from the shoe bank, I am pretty pleased with them too. I can live with some blemishes for half price on a pair of really cool boots
I bought the Park Ave Factory Seconds. Only blemish was in the leather sole,... A couple small dents. Bought it for half price as well.
For the money, AE are probably your best option to obtain full value for the investment. The calf leather used is one of the finest used in the industry. When looking at Cordovan leather shoes, a finer shoe than AE cannot be purchased; only a more expensive one. The Cordovan leather used by AE is sourced from Horween Leather Company (Chicago). Horween supplies the Cordovan leather used in more expensive shoe manufacturers of foreign origin (Italian, Hungarian, German, etc.). The quality of an AE is very good and consistent. The QC department is good but can be improved upon at times. To be fair, the equipment used in the manufacturing process may need updating and/or more regularly schedule maintenance. I'm surmising at the cause of the inconsistencies I have noticed in my buying experience. As far as customer service is concern, AE definitely goes the extra distance to satisfy and accommodate the customer's concerns. Great company that exhibits the great American spirit of producing great quality products at a fair and affordable price.
I've traveled throughout Europe and I own several shoes produced by Ferragamo, Hermes, Boss, Brioni and the like. AE is definitely a better value. Remember: You can't buy a better shoe, just a more expensive one. Thank you Allen Edmonds!
Love the brand.I have six(6) pair and counting.Wear them with pride and satisfaction.Great video 👍
This video explains why factory seconds have rubber soles, I bought a pair recently (other brand). I don't mind the small errors too much from what I've seen. Rubber soles work well in my wet country.
Wondering if you have any experience with Taft or Undandy. Both have shoes around the same price as AE factory. I was considering Undandy as theyre made to order with your own designs.
After seeing this video I checked out AE's site and picked up a clearance pair of Hale's in walnut for under $150. I love those shoes!
That is great to hear! Hope you enjoy for many years!
The Kavalier I’m lucky enough to have an AE local to me. I went in to get sized. Makes a huge difference to wear excellent shoes. New shoes, so comfortable. Wasn’t expecting that from a dress shoe. Keep up the good videos.
I have a couple 2nds and they are fantastic.
I have not experienced Allen edmonds factory seconds but I'm interested. At that price point u really can't beat it. Most people with an untrained eye won't even notice any blemishes. I currently own the fifth avenue an strand both were bought brand new.
I have bought a few factory seconds it is a good deal expect some times they do have serious issue and there is no way to know untill you get them. I had to actually return a pair one. And they may be charging a restock fee on returns.
One pair had the color was off of what it should be and did not look as nice, i was very disappointed but kept them. Got chukkas and I have a hard time getting my left shoe on, have to force my foot into it even after 2 years but it is a nice shoe and could not beat the price.
Allen Edmonds are my favorite because they have wide widths but never buy full price Allen Edmonds only Factory Seconds and clearance.
Got AE for 118$ at Nordstrom rack as my first good quality leather shoe and I love it. Got a couple of compliments highly recommend👍
I have ae shoes and boots...both excellent...highly recommended the long branch boots
I bought my Fifth Avenues in Oct 2016. It was their anniversary sale, so the Fifth Avenue was on sale for $245. Cedar shoe trees and the entire shoeshine kit were each 50% off. I was satisfied with my investment as I was able to get some great value right out of the gate. I went to the actual store at Biltmore Fashion Park. They keep your size information in their database, so anytime you want to try on shoes you're interested in, call them with a couple of day's notice and they can have anu shoes you want in your size to try on for your visit.
No joke when I tell you that last summer at Disneyland, a woman was trying to figure out who's shoes I was wearing while ai waited for mom. It was just before closing and I wasn't even standing by a light pole. Now that's attraction!
Love Allen Edmonds, have Park Aves and Fifth Aves and Strands soon!
I just managed to fine a pair of AE in pretty decent condition for $5 at a thrift store, couldn't believe my luck.
Amazing! I am sure a little TLC they'll look as good as new!
Will buy for $10!
They have a lot on sale right now, even the non seconds. Have you tried their boots?
AE's clearance sales are often times excellent with discounts on some shoes in excess of 50%. Last night I picked up a great looking chukka in the coffee color for under $200.
I used to buy seconds when AE had a true outlet in Manchester, VT. I would try on a shoe at Nordstrom and the call my guy in Vermont. At that time, seconds were identical to a new shoe with undetectable blems. Not the case anymore. So I don't risk it. Still, best shoes in the world.
Do u think it would be better to get factory 2nds or a new pair from one of the other brands that are online that you talk about?
I just purchased a pair of Murphy Johnson shoes off of ebay at a very large discount. I looked through several hundred pairs before pulling the trigger. These were only worn once and supposedly cleaned and disinfected. However, i will see actually how good they really are.
I have 2 pair of Allen Edmonds seconds. One has a very slight variation in color from shoe to shoe. Easily fixed with shoe polish. I have yet to find anything wrong with the second pair.