I really have no recollection of how I ended up there yesterday, but I found myself on DSW's website. While there, I discovered a double monk called the Bronx Dekimo. Here's the kicker... They're $70. They're sold out in a lot of sizes online, but I was able to find the right size locally. My impressions:
You can click on the image to view more angles and see the shoe on DSW's site.
Pros:
cheap
comfortable
look surprisingly good
Cons:
synthetic soles
may be prone to creasing (unverified)
goring on the inside to help slip in and out
round toe, but square-ish sole?
Obviously, this isn't a shoe for everyone. For what it is, though, it seems to be surprisingly good. And considering double monks are a bit of a specialty item, it may be difficult to justify spending hundreds on them for the limited use they will likely get. So in that regard, these Dekimos have found a sweet spot. That being said, on the the "pros".
First, there's the obvious price. These are $70 shoes. They not going to kill anyone's pocketbook. And for anyone in the DSW rewards program or that has a coupon, they'll be even cheaper. For people entertaining shoes like the Staffords that Joe recently pointed out, these are your kind of shoes.
Second, they're quite comfortable. They have a stacked (synthetic) sole that include a thin layer of sturdy foam that provides some cushion. The goring (though I'm not a fan of the look), also helps to create an easy fit that hugs your foot without squeezing it. There's also plenty of room in the toe box without sacrificing the shape of the shoe.
Lastly (and most importantly so many people), they're surprisingly good-looking shoes. Without flipping them over or peaking at the goring, there's no outward indication that this is a $70 shoe. And from eye level, even the most discerning viewers would have a difficult time telling. They don't have that unnatural uniformity of color that so many cheap shoes have, and the particular shade of brown goes with a lot of stuff. And for the people who consider square toes to be too trendy, you won't be disappointed here. Round toes all the way! All in all, it's a pretty snappy shoe.
Of course, they aren't perfect. So let's get on to the "cons"...
They do have synthetic soles. That expectable from shoes at this price level, and there are no pleasant surprises. At least they're not thick and chunky like some synthetics can be. And they will likely provide a more comfortable day if you're on your feet a lot. Still... they're synthetic.
Second, they may be prone to creasing. This is still unverified since I haven't worn them through a full day yet, but I noticed that the possibility is there. I'll follow up with more on this after the first wear.
Also, they have goring on the inside face to make slipping in and out easier without undoing the buckles. It looks rather Kenneth Cole-ish. At least some attempt has been made to cover it and it's only visible if you're looking between someone's feet. Still, I'll know it's there and I'm not a fan. Not a deal breaker, but something to consider. For the people that don't care, this is a non-issue.
Lastly, the shoe has a rounded toe, but the sole beneath it is a little bit square-ish. It's not noticeable unless you look straight down on it. Click the image above and follow the link to see what I mean. It's hard for me to even consider this a "con" since I've seen quite a few shoes (including expensive shoes) doing this lately. Still, it's there. Some may care. Some may not. Just pointing it out.
So there you go! a $70 double monk that doesn't look like it's a $70 double monk!
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