"Using the centuries-old method of pure vegetable tanning 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 and supple, yet very durable. Alden stands as the acknowledged master in working and finishing this special leather into extraordinary footwear. Cordovan demands the measured pace of hand shoemaking and patient finishing, responding to such careful work with unmatched luster. 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."