You’ve probably forgotten how many pairs of shoes you’ve purchased throughout your life. We’ve all invested hundreds, if perhaps thousands of dollars on shoes regardless of whether you’re an avid shoe-head or prefer keeping things basic. However, how much do you really know about the qualities that make a pair worth purchasing? What can you do to ensure that it lasts?
The purchase of shoes is something you do regularly that you might not be aware that you’re making a mistake. (Many people think that the quality of a pair of shoes is directly linked to its cost, but this is not the case in all cases.) In order to help you start on the right track we spoke to an expert that has built a profession by finding out the factors that go into the making of a good shoe (or as in this case boots). Nolan Walsh is the man behind Thursday Boot Company, a direct-to-consumer producer of boots as well as other leather products. The depth of his knowledge is unparalleled and his suggestions were valuable, focusing on general style advice and other niche aspects of the art behind footwear that you’ve not thought of.
Be realistic about its use and your LIFESTYLE
The first step to purchasing new men’s footwear is to figure out what you want from them. While style and comfort are equally important but you must also ensure that the footwear you’re purchasing isn’t in any way contrary to what you want from it. One of the primary things Nolan recommends to be looking for in a boot or sandal is a sturdy outsole that is able to withstand the conditions in which you’ll wear it. For instance, if often work in the open, a pair of shoes with a sole that is smooth is likely to be unsuitable. It’s better to choose a shoe with a thick outsole that has ridges. Also, if you’re purchasing the shoe that you will be using for exercises that are primarily focused on weightlifting, you might not need one for running even though both are good for fitness. In the end, regardless of what type of footwear you purchase, pay close particular attention to what the sole. It’s crucial in determining if the footwear will meet your requirements.
RED FLAGS
So, you’ve bought a new cool pair of shoes, or perhaps you’ve got a new pair of formal shoesthat you’ve picked. You’ve evaluated your needs and picked the one which meets your needs. You’re at a retailer, taking them off the shelf , or taking the box out of your purchase on the internet. What’s next?
Examine the shoes in detail. There are many indicators to look for to ensure that you’re not buying shoes that aren’t made to last or, more serious, damaged. When you’re looking to purchase footwear or boots that prominently contain some leather Nolan suggests that the easiest method to judge the quality of the leather is to rub the surface. “If it’s been painted over, you’ll feel that paint texture on the leather” Nolan advises, “Similarly, if the leather is dull, it is likely to be an unfinished split grain item.” This aspect is especially interesting because genuine leather isn’t flawless and clean. Over-finishing is detrimental to the long-term durability of leather or, worse, be used to disguise an inferior leather.
Then then, look over the outsole. For leather shoes and boots, Nolan advises you to have a serious, thorough examination of the welt (or specifically, ensure you’re purchasing a pair with one) it’s the lining that runs around the entire perimeter of a shoe’s outsole. There are several kinds, with Nolan’s business offering four distinct types of welts throughout their collection (goodyear stitchout, welt stormwelt, or veldtschoen). A shoe that has the welt will last longer, resist to water and most importantly, it allows it to be resoled. While you’re there, look at the outsole’s durability and flexibility. An outsole that isn’t flexible will not be very comfortable over the long run.
Finally, look over the structure in its entirety. Pay attention to poor glue, sloppy pieces of fabric or leather as well as the stitching. Poor stitching can cause it to break down much quicker than you would like them to.
Purchase the WARDROBE you already have
Are you having trouble deciding on the type of shoe you should buy? Nolan suggests keeping your closet in your mind. When asked if there was a particular reason that he’d suggest customers a lace-up shoe instead of, say or an Chelsea shoe, he responded, “I think it really is based on what’s in the closet of a person and the budget they have.” This is true. From the type of shoe you choose to the colour it’s available in it’s important to ensure you’ll be able to make it work by combining it with the wardrobe that you already have. Shoes and sneakers are typically everyday wear for the majority of guys, so spending the money for a pair that doesn’t match your current style will eventually make you unhappy. “Footwear can be the difference between the look of your wardrobe,” Nolan says, “so I’d suggest to my fellow shoe lovers to purchase styles that they believe will compliment their outfits, and that they’ll enjoy wearing for a long time.”
A stylish shoe could be the element that brings an outfit that is stunning or an outfit in general. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be able to select the perfect pair of shoes making sure your feet as well as your budget will be making the right choice.
