Side by side
Beckett Simonon vs Carmina
Beckett Simonon
14 positive (93%) · 0 mixed (0%) · 1 negative (7%)
Trust + time weighted: +88%
Top excerpts
Black Oxford, brown Oxford or derby (maybe brogue) and brown derby boot or loafer - Alden, allen Edmonds on sale are still decent, Thursdays on a budget, or Beckett Simonon all work.
Plenty of good brands out there. You can start at brands like Thursday, Helm, Beckett Simonon, Red Wing, Blundstone, Allen Edmonds and a ton of others.
Parent context: Just purchased 2 shoes from Beckett Simonon for $329. They normally go for $229 each. Only downside is they are made to order and I have read can be 6-8 weeks before I receive (if not longer). I don't need them now but wanted to give them a try because of the made to order and they appear to be high quality shoes and have read they give you good bang for the buck. Reply: They are worth the wait.
the best leather sneakers I’ve found for its price is the Beckett simonon ones which gives a deal for two pairs.
The best quality under $200 is going to be Allen Edmonds, Thursday, Beckett Simonon, BLKBRD, TLB Mallorca, and CNES.
Carmina
37 positive (76%) · 7 mixed (14%) · 5 negative (10%)
Trust + time weighted: +64%
AI summary — not a quote
Carmina is a highly respected Spanish shoemaker frequently cited as a top-tier option for those seeking high-end construction without the extreme price tags of elite English makers. The brand is praised for technical details like beveled waists, high stitches per inch (SPI), and quality leather, often positioned as a significant step up from brands like Allen Edmonds or Meermin. However, sentiment is occasionally split regarding their specific shoe shapes (lasts), and some users have reported rigid customer service policies regarding returns and defects.
Pros
- Superior construction quality including French binding, high SPI, and beveled waists.
- Excellent leather quality and clicking, with some users noting exceptionally soft leather on specific models.
- Strong value-to-quality ratio, often compared favorably to more expensive brands like Edward Green and Crockett & Jones.
- Availability of factory seconds (often via eBay) provides a high-quality entry point at lower prices.
Cons
- Polarizing shoe shapes; while many find them refined, some users find the lasts unappealing or 'terrible.'
- Strict and potentially expensive return process, with reports of fees even when users claim sizing or specification issues.
- The 'glossy' high-shine finish is sometimes characterized as a 'finance bro' aesthetic that may not suit those seeking a rugged or artisanal look.
Top excerpts
Carmina (Spain)
many of the European dress shoe makers make wider MTOs (e.g. TLB Mallorca, Carmina on some lasts, Edward Green, ...)
I am an 8 in Red Wing and Grant Stone, and a 7UK in Carmina.
I don’t love Carmina’s shapes.
My favorite chelseas are my Carmina and meermin