Cordovan VS Calfskin for shoes & Boots

[Bruce Wayne]

Allen Edmonds has some Webgems on their site that are made of Cordovan. What makes it so special compared to their standard calfskin?

Thanx!!!
Charlie

 

[Flat Foot Floey]

Have a look here: Why Shell Cordovan?

I don't have any experience myself with this leather but the thread above gives a good impression what it is all about.

 

[flyfishark]

I have most colors of shell, but my favorite by far is ravello color Cordwainer Wrights from the 40s. The color is magnificent, the patina is wonderful, and the shell is thicker than anything I've seen today. That said, I still prefer calf or its related leathers (tame and wild) to shell. It's nothing against shell, just a personal preference.

 

[Isshinryu101]

shell = naturally shiny. My wife thought a pair of mine was patent leather at first glance.

 

[Grayland]

At one time, I owned 8 pairs of shell cordovan shoes and now own 4. While I've read many people talk about how bulletproof the leather is, my experience is that it spots quite easily when water hits. Literally, the water spots raise up a bit and may/may not go back down. I was always very careful when I wore my shell cordovan shoes and was pertrified I may ruin them.

 

[Tomasso]

I had several pairs, worn almost exclusively, in my school days as they were de rigueur where I went. I don't seem to wear them as much these days....same for maroon blazers and navy trousers.......