In a stroke of REALLY good luck, I found these Alden for Brooks Brothers 662 tassel loafers on Ebay for a STEAL. $39 BIN. In my size. I couldn’t say no. I have a serious tassel loafer problem. And that problem is that I don’t own every option available. We’re getting there…
The listing said that uppers are in really good condition (they are), but that they’ll need to be resoled in the next year or so. Well, we’re there, and I’m ready to send these in for a resole.
This time around I’m going with B Nelson in NYC. They get rave reviews on StyleForum, and their prices are comparable to Alden. What really made me choose B Nelson is their turnaround time. I put these in the mail on 10/9, and based on what I’ve read, I’d be surprised if they aren’t back on my doorstep in a week. So far, the process has been really easy. I chose the ‘Standard’ resole package, as I don’t need shoe trees or flannel shoe bags, but did opt for the upgraded JR sole and heel re-craft. Much nicer leather soles and heels.
As I mentioned above, they have been packed up and on their way to NYC. I’ll report the ‘after’ when they get back…I do love the before and after stories.
Anyone have any experience with B Nelson? Let’s hear it…
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There is a terrific thread on Badger & Blade from some years ago detailing the comparison in experience between B. Nelson and Alden. The consensus was while Alden is the original, B. Nelson is equally qualified with remarkable work.
Interested to see the results!
Benny’s right there in ATL will do just a fine a job without the wait.
Eh? Never been impressed with Benny’s (especially with high end shoes). I live in NYC and B. Nelson is the real deal.
The Shoe Mart in Norwalk, CT, will put any Alden sole you want on. I had a true Alden Commando put on my original Plain Toe Bluchers. It took about 2 weeks for the turnaround. B. Nelson did a pair for me and I was less than thrilled. I wish you luck with these and can’t wait to see how they turn out.
I’ve done dainite sole installations on a pair of Indy boots and Michigan boots. Really happy with the results.
Any idea if they resole the Cape Cod bit loafers? Alden no longer services them and I took them to a local cobbler and I wasn’t very happy with the result.
I’m sure you he’ll resole those. The Alden Cape Cod loafers I was told aren’t made there in the factory in MA. I assume they outsource those to a factory in Maine.
Was going to ask the same about my Cape Cod’s. Consensus is that Benny’s is subpar?
B. Nelson soles last forever but are boardlike. This defeats the cork lining. These soles also click like women’s high heeled shoes when walking on stone or oak floors, like marble in a church. Great if you like tap shoes. I hate spending the extra money for Alden resoles, but I have nerve damage between the balls of my feet, so it is worth it.