These are so awesome. Bad luck with the Higgins Mill turned out great. Price aside, I actually like these better than the Higgins Mill because the sole, eyelets, missing that sitching on the panels and the color of the stitch welt.
Thanks. I think it worked out fine. Only thing I like better about the Higgins is that it works better in rain. But the Alden is better in every other way.
I just bought a pair of shell cap toe derbies from Moulded Shoe on the Modified last. It fits well for my spade shaped foot. You are absolutely right about the Barrie compared to the Modified. I had to actually go true to size on the Barrie because when I went 0.5 down, my toes were crushed, the heel was a bit tight and the shoe just felt short overall. I am glad you have pointed this out because it flies against common thought around sizing the Barrie.
Interesting. I noticed that too about the discussion about the Barrie, but my experience is similar to yours. It works for me 1/2 size down, but true to size also works most of the time for me. I definitely cannot get away with he Modified in my usual size.
Great overview of the modified last. I would like to add that I don’t completely agree with your stance that this last wouldn’t work for people with extra wide feet. I own a pair of LWB in 8.5 eee/ee on this last and absolutely love the fit and comfort despite having flat feet. I suspect they work for me because I have very flexible feet so I would add that the modified last can work for people with extra wide feet but would require further research and input by the consumer. In regards to the leather board issue, I do care and wish Alden used proper leather heel stacks for the price they charge.
