Review: Fratelli Rossetti double monks

These Fratelli Rossetti double monks on Yoox arrived yesterday and while I think they’re a decent deal for the money and would like to keep them, I’m sending them back.

As I suspected, these definitely run a bit large. I’m typically a size 10.5D in most Allen Edmonds shoes (like the Strand), but ordered these in a size UK 9/US 10. To me, they fit more like a US 11. While they sort of fit, they’re a bit wide and my heel slips about a quarter-of-an-inch when walking in them. I think this is due to the elongated toe.

I do like the look of them a lot. The elongated, plain toe looks pretty sleek. The leather quality feels pretty smooth, however, I didn’t think it felt “tough” like the Allen Edmonds shoes I own. Definitely no breaking-in period would be necessary.

For those looking for a tight fit who have kinda-sorta skinny feet, I don’t think you’ll find it with these shoes. You can’t get the buckles past the second hole. While walking in them, it didn’t cut into my foot at all, which was nice, but it also didn’t feel secure on my feet. If you’re a guy with slightly wider feet, they might fit OK.

I’m no expert on stitching or construction, but I felt like it was below that of the Allen Edmonds Mora I used to own. The stitches around the vamp and straps felt kind of rough. Not terrible, mind you, but nothing super-refined either.

I believe the shoes are Blake stitched (not sure if it’s “rapid” or not). The interior was pretty comfortable, even to wear barefooted. If that’s important to you, then this shoe provides a comfy interior for bare skin.

My takeaway: If you have slightly wider feet, then these will work out for you. In terms of length, you definite want to size down 0.5 size, if not a full size. The $250 price tag isn’t bad and feels like a fair retail price for these, although I’d probably consider other shoes (non-double monks) instead before purchasing these myself. In comparison to other double monks, I definitely like the Moras better. But I doubt you’d find a comparable double monk for the same price.

Some would suggest you save up an additional $100-$150 and get something of a higher quality. If that’s an acceptable alternative for you, then I’d agree. I was pretty close to keeping these up until the heel slip while walking, fortunately that’s not a decision I have to make.

So, these are back off to Yoox.

(ADDING: Sorry for the poor photography. I’m shooting this at my office on my cellphone.)