Church's Ryders. Worth it?

Cheverian

Hi Everyone:

I have just received a very small windfall but enough to buy a new pair of Ryder IIIs for a discounted price. With some notable exceptions, I have managed to obtain most of my desired Bond related clothing and footwear. The Church's are a miss for me so far. That said, I am an almost daily chukka wearer (just picked up the Loake Trappers which I adore).

I'm curious about your experience with the Ryder IIIs and welcome any and all suggestions.

Thanks.

Paul

The Bond Vivant

Absolutely go for it! They are extremely hard wearing, comfortable and can be worn casually. I wear mine regularly, and they just get better with age.

Peppermill

I have had some issues with my Ryders, but I love them nonetheless. I wear them a lot and love their look. I am not sure how they compare to other chukkas but I am planning on buying a pair of Loake Kemptons to compare. If you can score a good deal, go for it. Are they worth twice the price of a pair of Loake's..... not sure.

James Boldman

I was going to buy a pair of Ryders, and then I discovered Thursday Boot Company. Less cost and great quality, I wear chukka's every day and have 5 pairs of these.

Llafyks

Here's my reply to a similar topic last year:

I've got a pair of the CR3s also a pair of the S&H Holborn chukkas and picked up a pair of Church Desert boots (in very dark blue). All similar shape and rounded rather than pointed toe.
I tend to keep the CR3s for best and wear the other two regularly. Both very comfortable;with the Church DBs just shading it comfort wise ajb007/smile
I have had the Loake Kempton (in leather) for several years now (again very comfortable) and just picked up a pair of C&J Tetbury (at last!), not worn in anger yet.
As far a wear/quaility goes, my CR3s are like new after 5yrs, Loakes still going very strong and the Holborn probably showing the most wear.
In essence I think you get what you pay for, but mine get a fair degree of rotation and with the Tebury now in the equation it should help to extend the life of them all!
Mind you I have cedar shoe trees for them all and clean them every time after wearing.

CommanderB

I've worn mine to death, including foolishly in the rain, and they just keep on going. They're really very comfortable, and at least for me, required no break-in at all. I'd say go for it!

BCFDRay

I thought they were the most uncomfortable shoes I’ve ever bought and seriously debated selling them. Fortunately, I didn’t because after they were broken in, they are fantastic!

Cheverian

You sold me. I pulled the trigger on them today.

Cheverian

These just arrived and I couldn't be happier with them! Extremely comfortable out of the box.

Thanks to all who recommended I take the plunge.

Peppermill

Congrats! Wear them in good health.