Using the centuries-old method of pure vegetable tannage and hand finishing, the single
tannery still producing genuine shell cordovan today is indeed practicing a rare art. The
tanning process takes a full six months to complete and produces leather that is soft,
supple, and very durable. Alden’s classic patterns take on a unique character when made
from genuine shell cordovan. Shell cordovan is leather for the old school shoemaker. High volume production methods and short cuts are powerless to bring out its qualities. Cordovan demands the measured pace of hand shoemaking and patient finishing. But the reward for the painstaking care is considerable: cordovan responds to careful workmanship with unmatched luster. By virtue of long experience, Alden stands as the acknowledged master in working and finishing this special leather into extraordinary footwear.

Over time, the patina in Alden’s genuine shell cordovan shoes will only improve,
deepening with each polishing and showing to full advantage the especially rich
character of the leather. As durable and comfortable to wear as they are beautiful to look
at, genuine shell cordovan shoes truly are Alden’s Masterworks.