Honestly, it isn’t a ‘must’, but if you want your shoes to keep their shape better over many many years, it is certainly recommended. You don’t need to get the C&J shoe trees, just go on Amazon and get some decent cedar wood ones (approx. $25) They are significantly less expensive and will do the job just as well.
I have the exact same strange situation with the 348 last; a year ago I purchased the Edgware last 348 in size 6.5 E, the fit is So perfect that I decided to purchase the Hallam in the same exact size, but when I tried them on, I feel them a little roomie in the vamp and the heel... very strange because is exactly the same last and size... they should both to fit Perfect 🤔
Yes, that is a strange. I always thought it might have something to do with the type of leather once the shoes are worn in but as far as I’m aware the Hallam and the Edgware use the same type of leather.
Gniewko Kazmierski thank you for your comment! I don’t have experience with the last 341 but with the last 335 (Sky III boot), which according to the C&J website is very similar to the 341 in terms of its fit. It is definitely more generous and a little more comfortable off the shelf. I will be reviewing the Skye III boot as well on this channel :)
It depends on the brand. Usually F fits quite well. The ‘standard’ width on Loake for example is fine, but C&J are generally slightly narrower. Their standard width is an E. And other than on special order, most modes don’t come in F.
