Alden

The first thing you notice upon entering this store is the heady scent of leather. Not just any old leather, mind you: That's shell cordovan leather that's been tanned for six months to achieve the ideal pliancy and durability. Though they're not flashy, these are handcrafted, high-quality kicks for the man who takes his shoes seriously. The brand's stand-alone store offers the full collection of dress and casual shoes, from dapper wingtips and monk strap loafers to ruggedly classic boots. The gleaming leather is hand-stained and polished, arrayed in rich shades of mahogany, caramel, and oxblood. These shoes have stood the test of time: many browsers are already wearing burnished pairs of their own from the brand. And the longtime sales staff is attentive and knowledgeable. This is footwear worth an investment.