Overall Impressions: The shoes themselves are excellent, but I was disappointed with the packaging upon delivery. There was a minor scratch on the leather, and the shoe box arrived severely damaged. Given the nearly $700 price point and the fact that these are considered investment shoes for long-term wear, I expected better packaging. There was no protective cushioning between the shipping box and the Paraboot shoe box, allowing the box to move around during transit, leading to scuffs and damage. I expected more attention to detail from Todd Snyder, especially for such a high-end product. That said, I understand that this model, particularly in varied sizes, is difficult to find and even harder to ship to the U.S. So while the condition was disappointing, I’m glad I found these shoes.
Fit & Sizing: The sizing guide provided is accurate. I wear a UK 6.5 (40.5 IT) in the Paraboot Chambord, but after researching, I learned that the Michael model fits differently—it's wider, while the Chambord is narrower. I decided to size down and ordered a UK 6 (40 IT) for the Michael, and the fit is perfect.
If you’re hesitant about sizing down, here’s a tip: when you first try them on, unlace the shoe and place your foot inside. You should experience a very minor heel slip when lifting your foot, which indicates the right fit. The laces will then comfortably secure your foot and prevent slipping. If the shoe fits too tightly or feels more like a loafer, you may need to size up.…