At The Hand, we take immense pride in curating footwear collections that embody timeless style, exceptional quality, and artisanal craftsmanship. Today, we are thrilled to announce the launch of Alden at The Hand—a brand with a storied legacy in American shoemaking that has set the standard for discerning gentlemen for nearly 140 years.
The History and Heritage of Alden
Founded in 1884 by Charles H. Alden in Middleborough, Massachusetts, Alden is the last of New England’s original shoemakers. While many companies of its era pivoted toward mass production and sacrificed quality for quantity, Alden remained steadfast in its commitment to genuine-welted craftsmanship and orthopedically sound designs. The result is footwear that is not only rugged and durable but also visually striking and endlessly versatile.
Alden’s expertise in crafting shoes from Horween shell cordovan—a rare, supple leather prized for its toughness and ability to develop a deep patina—has earned the brand a loyal following among men who value true craftsmanship. Every pair of Alden shoes is a story of precision and tradition, from the hand-finishing of the leather to their robust storm welts that shield against the elements. These qualities have cemented Alden as a favorite of connoisseurs and adventurers alike, men who value footwear as dependable as it is stylish.
Our founder, Dennis, is one of those enthusiasts. A devoted fan of Alden since his early twenties, Dennis has long appreciated the brand’s commitment to quality and longevity. In fact, he still wears a pair of Alden Longwings he purchased 15 years ago, a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of these remarkable shoes.
In the photograph below Dennis proudly showcases this well-loved pair, which remains in impeccable condition—a reminder of the lifetime value of a thoughtfully crafted shoe.
With such a deep personal connection to Alden, Dennis is thrilled to bring this iconic American brand to The Hand in Amsterdam.
Introducing Our Alden Launch Collection
For our launch, we have curated a selection of Alden’s most iconic designs, each representing the brand’s enduring appeal and rugged sophistication. This collection features seven essential models to suit a variety of needs and styles. Highlights include the Indy Boot, famously worn by Indiana Jones, crafted in snuff suede with a robust build that handles both urban streets and rugged terrain with ease. The Leisure Handsewn loafer offers unparalleled comfort and flexibility, ideal for casual occasions. The Longwing, a true American classic, combines the richness of #8 Cordovan leather with timeless brogue details, while the Plain Toe Boot, originally designed for oil rig workers, brings minimalism and durability together with its storm welt construction.
For fans of classic dress shoes, the collection also includes the Plain Toe Blucher, available in both #8 Cordovan and black Cordovan leather. These versatile styles feature leather soles and storm welts, making them ideal for navigating everything from city pavements to formal gatherings. Rounding out the collection is the Full Strap loafer in #8 Cordovan, a refined slip-on that adapts effortlessly to any setting.
Each model has been handpicked to reflect Alden’s commitment to crafting footwear that combines tradition, utility, and timeless appeal.
Why Alden? Timeless Craftsmanship for Everyday Life
Alden’s true strength lies in creating shoes that are built to endure life’s demands without sacrificing style. Whether navigating rainy cobblestone streets or dressing for a smart-casual occasion, Alden shoes bring rugged durability to your everyday wardrobe. Their storm welt constructions and superior materials ensure they stand up to the elements, while their commitment to genuine-welted craftsmanship means every pair can be resoled, extending their lifespan for decades.
Dennis’s 15-year-old pair of Longwings perfectly exemplifies the longevity of Alden footwear. As someone who has relied on Alden for years, he can confidently attest to their ability to age beautifully, becoming more comfortable with time and wear.
At The Hand, we are proud to offer not only new Alden shoes but also original Alden repair services. Whether you’ve purchased your Aldens from us or elsewhere, our partnership with Alden means we can restore your beloved shoes to their former glory, extending their life for many years to come.
Accessories to Complete the Look
To complement your Alden shoes, we offer original Alden shoe trees, designed to maintain the shape and integrity of your footwear. We also carry cordovan-specific shoe cream to keep your Cordovan leather shoes in pristine condition, ensuring they age with grace.
For those seeking the perfect finishing touch, we’ve curated a collection of belts that match seamlessly with our Alden styles. And because the right socks complete the look, we’ve partnered with Pantherella to bring you an exceptional range of hosiery. For Alden shoes, we’ve selected slightly thicker styles that balance comfort with a rugged aesthetic, ensuring you look as good as you feel.
Visit Us to Experience Alden
The arrival of Alden at The Hand is more than just a milestone—it’s an invitation.
Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Alden’s craftsmanship or a first-time buyer, we welcome you to explore this iconic collection at our store in Amsterdam. The original repair service is open to everyone, so if your Aldens have seen better days, bring them in, and we’ll help you restore their original glory.
Please note, at the request of the Alden Company, we are only able to ship Alden shoes within The Netherlands.
We’re proud to share Alden’s legacy with you, and we look forward to seeing these exceptional shoes become part of your story.