I just got these Alden Indy 403s from The Shoe Mart and paid full retail. There are a few things I’m not sure about, and I’d like to get some opinions from people who know Aldens better than I do.
The biggest thing bothering me is the piping/top-line binding, which doesn’t fully cover the material underneath and leaves a light, bare-looking spot along the top of the boot. I’m not sure if this is a flaw in the construction or just how the finish came out.
There’s also some pretty noticeable wrinkling around the ankle, open spots along the welt, and a few other finishing issues. I think the welt is just how they are done, but still?
I know Aldens are handmade and aren’t going to be perfect, but for what these cost, I’m wondering if I’m being too picky or if this is more in line with what you’d expect from factory seconds.
For those of you who own Aldens, would you keep these, or would you ask for an exchange?