Belgian Shoes are legendary. They are also some of the most absurd shoes money can buy. If you can swing it, you should definitely get a pair. Let me elaborate.
For starters, the design. You would think a bit too dandy, yet they work. Throw these on with denim and a sweater and you’ve got instant “old money” class. That is something a pair of sneakers cannot do. The comfort? Next level. It’s like walking on little clouds. These shoes, you see, are made inside out, and have a super soft sole. This process makes them super unique as far as shoes go. From a “pros” list, you can’t really do much better. These shoes have heritage, they look amazing, they feel amazing, they wear amazing, and are likely to be the most comfortable shoe you’ll ever wear. And did I mention they are unique? Not just in basic design, they also come in a limitless array of colors. No one makes shoes quite like this (though others have tried), and Belgian Shoes are, rightfully and thusly, tremendously sought after. So as far as good things to say about a shoe, Belgian Shoes ticks all the boxes.
Now the absurd. They cost $625. They are not meant to last a lifetime because of how soft and supple they are. You will eventually blow through these. They need to be worn a few times to mold to your foot, and then sent back to Belgian Shoes for a special, thin, rubber sole to be applied so you don’t ruin the soft leather bottoms. And they charge you $50+ for that, on top of the cost of the shoe (as if it were optional). And they don’t even tell you about this rubber sole situation; you sort of just have to know. Their sizing is a bit of a mess, and so you cannot order online. You have to call the store and discuss, pay for a few sizes, and keep the ones you like the most. Return shipping is, of course, on you. The sales associates? I mean, they’re fine, but by no means nice. You want these shoes? Then you put up with this nonsense. Oh, and most of the good colors in average sizes are perpetually sold out, and you need to go on a wait list to get them. And did I mention they cost $625? (And they raise their prices every year. I remember when they were $400.)
Still, there is a reason why these are so beloved. We here at TPL still recommend them. If you can stomach it.