Side by side
Beckett Simonon vs Grant Stone
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.
Grant Stone
54 positive (74%) · 11 mixed (15%) · 8 negative (11%)
Trust + time weighted: +63%
AI summary — not a quote
Grant Stone is widely regarded as a high-value "step up" brand in the heritage footwear community, frequently cited for finishing and quality control that exceeds entry-level competitors like Red Wing and Thursday. While it is transparently manufactured overseas, users often compare its quality to premium brands like Alden and Viberg but at a more accessible price point. However, recent price increases have sparked some debate regarding its status as a "starter" boot.
Pros
- Superior finishing and quality control compared to entry-level heritage brands.
- Excellent value, especially when purchasing factory seconds or during sitewide sales.
- Extensive sizing options, including hard-to-find EEE widths.
- High-quality material components, such as Horween leather and vegetable-tanned midsoles.
Cons
- Reports of a very long and difficult break-in period for some models.
- Recent price hikes have reduced its perceived value as a budget-friendly entry option.
- The Floyd last can feel excessively long or high-volume, often requiring significant sizing adjustments.
Top excerpts
Grant Stone and Alden have EEE in stock for many makeups
Grant Stone
Get a pair of casual boots from Grant Stone. They're a good step up in terms of finishing compared to Red Wing, and while their lasts are definitely not as good as e.g. Alden's, I still prefer them to other options under $400.
I am an 8 in Red Wing and Grant Stone, and a 7UK in Carmina.
Grant stone break in is indeed super long