Ghillie brogues - why the dislike and resentment..?

[TheVintageLibertine]

Reading through this thread, it seems like a lot of complaints regarding ghillie brogues relate to the quality and comfort of what is available today.

My career requires a suit and tie everyday and I am often on my feet for four hours straight. Accordingly, I have become well acquainted with the qualities that make a comfortable and durable dress shoes over the years. My go to brand for daily wear is Alden, because they work for me and I am willing to pay a (very high) premium for shoes that look good, last a long time, and don’t hurt my feet. The philosophy behind this (or self-justification of the expense, if you prefer) is that the most expensive shoes you will ever buy is the pair you only wear once because they are uncomfortable.

Last time I was shopping for ghillie brogues, I really couldn’t find anything at a comparable price/quality to what I wear daily. IIRC, Loake and/or Cheany may’ve made them some at one point, but they didn’t have them in my size. I ended up getting some by “Thistle Shoes” which I find serviceable, but usually default to an old pair of buckle brogues for formal wear, normal full brogues, or walking boots, depending on the occasion.