AE Park Avenues

[soccerguy83]

Ok I got these a few weeks ago and I am on my third wearing, second wearing outdoors. I ended up going with the 8.5E as I felt like the 8.5D was too tight. I am now thinking I made the wrong decision, they lace up tight; no gap, and they still feel loose now that they are breaking in. See “Shoes of the day“ thread for pics. I bought them from the shoe bank, wondering if it is too late to ethically return them. They have some wear on the soles, from wearing outdoors, and I have polished them.

What do you fine gentlemen think? If you need more pictures let me know and I can provide them.

 

[thebikingengineer]

You could always call Allen Edmonds, it would be their call after all. I had to exchange a pair of mine for a narrower and longer size, but I hadn't worn them outside and went through Nordstrom (great return policy there). One polish likely wouldn't be a huge demerit unless you bulled them to a mirror shine.

 

[avsmusic1]

I expect it may be too late to return them with the wear you're describing. However, it couldn't hurt to connect with them and ask.

If they do end up takign them back, I would ask about shell cordovan. They are going for $300 durring their sale right now

 

[jpakstis]

You could always call Allen Edmonds, it would be their call after all. I had to exchange a pair of mine for a narrower and longer size, but I hadn't worn them outside and went through Nordstrom (great return policy there). One polish likely wouldn't be a huge demerit unless you bulled them to a mirror shine.

I don't think the polish is the issue, but the wear on the soles from wearing them outside is. I once tried returning a pair I had worn outside and they wouldn't return them, but did exchange them, so you might be able to try that.

I notice a difference (small, but in some ways crucial) between their over-the-phone Shoebank service and in-store. I've actually been able to return pretty well-worn shoes in store (they loosened too much to be comfortable walking).

 

[soccerguy83]

I might call/email them I would be more than happy with an exchange.

Thanks guys!

 

[professorchaos]

Generally you should be certain shoes fit before wearing them outside or often enough to crease the leather. Also, I find that if a shoe is too small to be comfortable when it is new, it will never stretch enough to be comfortable.

 

[musicman1951]

Generally you should be certain shoes fit before wearing them outside or often enough to crease the leather. Also, I find that if a shoe is too small to be comfortable when it is new, it will never stretch enough to be comfortable.

+1

You may find help in a heavier pair of socks.

 

[strop]

Sometimes it seems to be a fine line betwen being "a little stiff" and "too tight". The former will improve. The latter not so much. Most of my AE have been just a little "stiff" but have been perfect after a few times out.