I have treated these as a casual everyday boot and worn them around the house, out to run errands, and to the office. Very versatile, I felt I could easily dress them up or down.
The leather had natural striations that gave it great character from the start. The color 2 has great depth and warm red brown tones. As I broke them in the rolls developed beautifully and the shell formed to my foot to create a wonderful, personalized fit.
Trubalance is a larger, more generous last with more volume than a Barrie. I typically go a full size down from my brannock. I have owned at least a dozen pairs with this last and I think it is my favorite Alden last.
The leather is beautiful. The shoe is well constructed and durable. Only minor imperfection is the welt which is misaligned along the inside heel on both boots. This did not impact the integrity of the shoe and was purely cosmetic.
The outsole was double leather and took some getting used to as most of my Alden boots have a commando. They were comfortable and surprisingly durable but the lack of traction was sometimes a problem. The sole also limited my ability to wear the boot in inclement weather which was disappointing but the pair still performed well when up against occasional rain, mud or dirt.
Alden makes tremendous American made footwear. Their rare Horween shell cordovan offerings are very special. It was truly a pleasure to wear this pair over these last six months.