Side by side
Grant Stone vs Carmina
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
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