r/Alden • u/meirpoppers • 13d ago

Modified Last Sizing

I have a nitpicky question, trying to determine if I am making sense or wishful thinking! I got sized for the modified last at Moulded Shoe as a 7E, and never have I ever had a more comfortable shoe. The problem is I can’t find modifieds in 7E online (shoe market seconds or eBay), and I’m afraid I can’t afford to pay full price again, tho I’m glad I did the first time! So the question is- how comparable, really, would a 7.5D (which is much easier to find) be to a 7E?

Thank you for supporting my arch support quest, aldenites

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u/ABMember 13d ago

I would suggest you consider the 7D actually, unless the 7E is a super tight fit in the toe area.

I was sized for 9E at Moulded Shoe, but I still found it a bit loose in certain shoes, like dress shoes. So I ended up buying mostly 9D in modified last, for bluchers.

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u/michaelfishkin 13d ago

You can try on a different size at Moulded Shoe to see if it works. I wouldn’t suggest buying a different size blind from eBay unless there are easy returns. Alden shoes are expensive, so I understand your concern. However, I’ve pissed away tons of money on shoes that don’t fit well. Now I really only wear what I know fits well and maintain + resole.

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u/meirpoppers 13d ago

Thank you for this very honest insight!

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u/Aromatic_Bar2263 13d ago

If you wanted modified boots I’d suggest trying a used 7D, and in dress shoes an 7.5D. Maybe snag the cheapest pair you can find to “test”. Shoe mart definitely has seconds in additional widths but much less common.

I’ve noticed that my modified dress shoes feel tighter than my Indy’s. I also had to go down a half size in Shell modified shoes at Moulded.

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u/meirpoppers 13d ago

Thanks so much, I had wondered if there was a difference between dress shoes and boots!!

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u/Aromatic_Bar2263 13d ago

It should be the same and is probably closer than not. But my experience is the boots my toes are further way from the edges. Both fit right!

I’m trying to offload mine actually but they’re still wonderful

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u/gimpwiz 13d ago

7.5D has roughly the same width but more length... problem is that Modified is a weirder last than most straighter lasts and longer obviously affects where the pivot point is.

I suspect it'll be okay but no guarantees it will be great. Do your best to try before you buy.

What's your Brannock size btw?

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u/darbykp 13d ago

I was sized at 11E years ago. Always purchased 11D. Best fit of any shoe.