Do you think some hand stitching going across that area would reinforce the leather to prevent a rip? You know making a "X" pattern over the bad area from one side to the other?Unfortunately the ripped a bit where the V lacing area finishes which could lead to a big rip in the vamp area (Not in this picture)
After conditioning and trying them on. Which means they're more dry than I expected and that is a weak spot which don't make them suitable for wear. I will keep them as display only I suppose which annoys me a bit but no point in wearing them and risking to break them or create a big rip.
Those are super nice shoes...would LOVE to own them for my Husband! The sewing a X over and across the area you point out regarding the small tear, it should work! It worked for a pair of shoes we had with a similar issue.
You're starting to look like our home...shoes in every closet and three shelfs in the basement, several air tight containers as well. I would recommend you get shoe trees and conditioner for all of those. Extend their life.....About 2 years ago, the extent of my shoe collection was a pair of sketchers sneakers and some 20 year old Teva sandals. I decided to splurge on some Allen Edmonds McTavish.
Once I knew about quality footwear, I got a little carried away shopping at thrift stores.
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Super nice...those suede ones are very nice. Do not see too many brown suede that look that good and certainly look to be true vintage as well.
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Alden 403 Moc Toe Boot - Brown Chromexcel - $680 The classic "Indy" style Alden Boot in the classic Horween brown Chromexcel. 
Grant Stone Diesel Boot Dark Olive Chromexcel - #395 Goodyear welted, Horween Chromexcel, classic good looks. 
Himel Bros. - The Ross Mk. 1 Leather Jacket Classic D-pocket motorcycle/aviator style jacket. I believe they are from the 30s or 40s and unfortunately, far too small for my 13D feet. I wish I could find something similar in my size.
I am keeping this picture so the next time my wife complains about my modest collection I will present this as evidence that she need be happy as things are and not like the above pic!About 2 years ago, the extent of my shoe collection was a pair of sketchers sneakers and some 20 year old Teva sandals. I decided to splurge on some Allen Edmonds McTavish.
Once I knew about quality footwear, I got a little carried away shopping at thrift stores.
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I bought a pair of Thom McAn recently and they needed some love. I'll show you the seller pictures and pics after the cleaning.
After:
I was using a mix of Glycerine and water for other leather shoes and two drops went to the left shoe heel. I haven't bothered to clean it.
Unfortunately they're too narrow for me so the gap in the lacing area looks horrible. They'll end up in the classifieds I guess. I have to sell some of the shoes I've bought and restored but are too small for me. I love bringing back to life old shoes but I wish I could be sure of the fit before buying! Measurements don't tell the whole story.
Rubber heels on vintage shoes as beautiful as they look compared to modern ones which are boring are always rock hard and have lost rubber properties. They'll need to be changed if someone plans on using these shoes.
Yep...you are correct on the size and how well he cleaned them up. DRATS! so small....hahaha but if I had them I would keep them no matter what. Those are part of "shoe history"....
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