In this Undandy shoes review, we take a detailed look at this new custom men's shoe brand.
Can you really get a decent shoe, much less a custom one, for under $200? Undandy is company aiming to fill that niche in a crowded market of direct-to-consumer footwear.
This article is intended to give you a thorough review of quality, fit, style, and value of Undandy so you can make an informed decision.
Undandy Custom Shoes
Undandy is in the custom shoe business. It's import to understand “custom” is different than “bespoke.” For our purpose here, ‘custom' means you can specify elements of the shoes – suede vs. smooth leather, leather color, laces color, etc.
‘Bespoke' means, generally, that you can do all that- but the shoe is built around a last modeled after your foot. It's quite time-consuming, and supremely expensive.
Related: 3 Types of Suits – Off the Rack, Custom and Bespoke
Undandy has different model lasts you can use, but they're not building anything specifically to your foot.
Each of their lasts is named for a special date. For instance, the “15” last is named for Frank Sinatra's birth year. Cool, huh?
How do I order?
Visit their website and create your own. They've got some samples you can use as inspiration, and that's a great place to start.
I would suggest having a general idea of what you'd like, though, as a site with nearly limitless options can result in analysis paralysis pretty quick!
I'd also suggest visiting on your laptop or desktop as opposed to your mobile device, as the resolution for the shoes isn't super crisp.
I also found the UX in the ordering process a little clunky. For instance, I had to click-through a number of steps in order to make sure I'd had my shoes engraved or to add in shoe inserts (read on to see why that's important!).
But, as a newer company, I'm sure they'll work out the kinks.
What did I choose?
Desert and Chukka boots are great casual alternatives to
But, I've shied away from purchasing a pair in the past because I've always found the shape to be rather clunky. And, with narrow ankles, that model really doesn't offer the support I need.
That said, looking at the customization options for Undandy, I got the idea to make an updated, Italian-inspired version. We took a classic grey chukka (no bright green custom shoes for me!) and put them on the 15 last – long, elegant, refined.
I usually wear a 10 in dress shoes, but considering the long last, I sized down to a 9.5. The shoes from Undandy arrived after about 3 weeks.
They were indeed long, elegant, and refined. But, they were too long.
I had a significant amount of room in the toe box – likely due to that longer last. I was able to quickly and easily contact them directly via email and we were able to work out a good strategy.
We could size down to a 9 in the 15 last, or we could keep the same size but switch to a shorter, rounded 48 last. I chose the latter.
I'm glad I did. In the end, ended up working out very well for me. They certainly look great, don't they?
Undandy Review
I think a great way to evaluate a pair of shoes is by addressing the four critical success factors that friend-of-the-site (and resident tall guy) Jon Shanahan from The Kavalier uses:
- Quality
- Fit
- Style
- Value
Let's start from the top…
Undandy Quality
On the exterior, better than expected. Many high-end leather good (shoes included) have a rich, buttery smell to them when they're new.
Many low end-end leather shoes have an acrid, chemical-like stink to them that lingers for a few days. These have neither- which I'm okay with.
The suede is soft and surprisingly nappy. The smooth leather on the reverse/interior is quite pliable. It's a bit thin, if I'm honest. The heel appears to be stacked and nailed together, but they may have used a little glue for reinforcement.
The stitching is super clean and very well done, without loose threads around the interior sole welt or the even the tiny brown exterior threads.
The holes for the laces are punched cleanly through the leather, and the laces are tight. They really are very well made.
A major red flag pops up, though, when you look inside. Remember when I talked about adding shoe inserts? Here's why you'll need them.
As you'll notice, the footbed is really only padded on the heel. The insole is leather, but it's so thin you feel like you're walking directly on the outsole.
I contacted Undandy to find out if this is intentional. Bizarrely, it is. But the addition of the insert alleviates that problem.
The insert is likely a pliable foam (not a gel insert), but it's perfectly fit to the last and size you choose, quickly conforms to your foot, and results in a pretty comfortable ride.
Undandy Fit
The 48 last in the 9.5 ended up being the correct length for my foot. Undandy recommends sizing down a half size if you're between sizes, and I concur.
It's long enough to be elegant and refined, but not so long I trip over my feet when I walk. It's narrow and streamlined, which I really look for in most of my shoes.
I can get away with narrow to mid-thickness dress socks, but I do prefer a mid-thickness boot sock with these.
The height of the shaft is about four inches, and it hugs my ankles well – which was a drawback for many of the desert boot models I've previously tried.
Undandy Style
I do dig the styling on these guys. I think the 15 last, in general, is a little aggressive for many of us, especially if you work in a more conservative office environment. But the 48 last is spot on for chukkas.
Also, with literally thousands of combinations at your disposal, you can come up with some pretty out-there designs. As you can see, I kept it pretty conservative with my shoes.
But, if you want green, patina'd monk shoes with yellow straps? Go for it.
All in all, I was very pleased with how my attempt at a dressed-up chukka played out. They're refined, but something I can still wear to a Saturday brewery date.
The grey colorway is surprisingly versatile, and a welcome addition to the brown, black, and white kicks we keep.
Undandy Value
At $195 base price for shoes (my boots were $205), these are far from chump change for many of us. The inserts, which you will need, run you an extra $8.
But $200 is where I think, in the world of dress shoes and some boots, you start seeing some value for money. Here, I think a lot of your cost is going into the ability to build a unique shoe.
Recommendation
Of course, this is isn't a sponsored post. Undandy did provide the shoes so I could review them, but I'm not obligated to heap praise on them.
I do think, though, that Undandy is an interesting option if you've covered your bases with cap toes and wingtips and you're looking for a little more flair on your feet.
Their options are interesting, their customer service is fantastic, and you can even DM them on Instagram if you'd like more information. That's how I was able to get clarification on the footbed issue.
Three major pros:
- The craftsmanship is excellent-outstanding,even. I've seen $450 shoes with lower QC standards.
- The quick break-in time. The inserts start conforming to your foot almost immediately.
- In the world of custom shoes, $200 is actually quite a steal. Made-to-Order (MTO) shoes start at well over $700 USD, and truly bespoke shoes-with your custom last-can take five months to make. Some companies start at nearly $4,000.
Two major cons:
- The leather quality is okay, at best. I'd put it on par with a $150 shoe. They won't be falling apart on me anytime soon, but it won't be a shoe you'll wear for a decade.
- The issue with the inserts. I genuinely wasn't expecting that. So, do factor that in when considering a purchase.
To wrap it up, these won't be your everyday pair, but if you want something unique, Undandy is a decent place to start.
If you have questions, leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!
Leaning toward purchasing from udandy. Not sure about the quality of the leather. Any recommendations on quality oxford or saddle shoes that can be used for both casual wear and dancing?
The leather on my boots has improved and actually softened up pretty well. As I mentioned in the article, they’re not the most amazing shoes on the market-but for custom shoes, they’re actually pretty good. Having two left feet, I’m not much of a dancer, though.
This company is sketchy! Don’t order from them.
I ordered shoes months ago and they keep sending me emails saying they will update me with a tracking number/delivery date, but I have yet to receive either. I have asked that they refund my money and they have now stopped responding to me. If it wasn’t for pictures online of people unboxing their shoes, I would think that this company was completely fake. They do seem to be real, but are certainly not trustworthy. Don’t risk giving them your money!
Undandy.com – Extremely poor customer service.
When I placed the order, the delivery time mentioned was 3-4 weeks.
In the 5th Week, I sent them an email to get the courier tracking number, on which the customer service team of Undandy.com replied that due to low stock and high season it will take another month to deliver.
Now 4 months have passed, I am still following up with them, neither they are returning the money paid, nor delivering the order and not even responding to emails.
Please be aware and don’t trust this company.
They suck. Got my money and no shoes. They have promising a refund for two months.
ORDER # 3000087545 In Production
Order Date: November 29, 2019
This is the 5th month since my order. No shoes, not responding to emails or giving me a tracking number. Nothing. Very shocking.
I am in the same boat as everyone else that has been ripped off by this company.
I ordered in December 2019, It is March 27 and I have not gotten my order. When I email to inquire , as I have done every two weeks, I get the same BS rely that they will ship 2-3 weeks. They even said that they understand my wait, I will be getting a email from the CEO….. bs! Complete scam artists.
They said in Feb that they would refund my money but to please wait and that in 2-3 weeks my product would be delivered…. Another BS scam line!
When I finally had enough of being lied too, I told them I want have a full refund. They just sent me an email stating my buy is now non-refundable…..
I just got ripped off $420.00.
All i gotta say is that anyone that gives this scam of a company a good rating is a troll.
If you dont want to be ripped off, then stay away from this com
Hi Blayne,
Thank you for your review.
During the last quarter of 2019 we were faced with a very unexpected shortage of materials to craft our shoes which then caused extensive delays. We are sorry to hear we missed the mark in providing you with an exceptional service, which you deserve, and that you were impacted by this unfortunate experience.
After reviewing your order, I can confirm that your shoes have been delivered, and we certainly hope that you are enjoying your custom design. From all of us here, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to complete your order. Your trust in us is very much appreciated.
Kind regards,
Amanda
Customer Care Manager
Undandy dramatically dropped the price on a pair of non-customized shoes I ordered. I have not yet received the shoes. I emailed Undandy to request the corresponding price reduction. They said, no.
Guess I’ll have to return the shoes when they finally get here, and share with everyone else my customer service experience with Undandy.
Hello Rebecca,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us on our service. We are very sorry to hear that you are not pleased with our response to your reversal request.
Unfortunately, we are unable to apply the promotional discount to your order as it was placed a week prior to our promotion. We did, however offer you a discount code towards a future purchase in which you can take advantage of on any future promotional offerings.
We do offer a 24 hours cancellation period from the time of purchase in the event you change your mind. In your specific case, we were not able to apply that policy.
I would like to confirm that your order has been completed and crafted within our 4-week timeframe. We hope that your shoes have been well-received and that they are what you expected.
Thank you for placing your trust in us.
Kind regards,
Amanda
Undandy Customer Care Manager
Hello,
I ordered 5 custom made pair of shoes for my groomsmen for my wedding. I spent over 1,000 US dollars. First let me say I was so very excited to have this experience with my groomsmen but it turned into a nightmare. Every shoe that has arrived was mad much too long. I was very disappointed. I ordered a size 9.5 for my best man and the shoe was so big I couldn’t even fit it and I wear a shoe size 12 so the shoe size had to be at least a size 13. How embarrassing! I reached out to Undandy and they were very inconsiderate. They told me I couldn’t exchange my shoe because it was engraved. I do understand the policy but the only reason I wanted a refund or exchange was because the shoes were too big and couldn’t be worn. I was told there was nothing that could be done for me.
I now have spent over $1,000 for my groomsman and there shoes are too big and can’t be worn. I need help to either get my money back because the shoes should be considered faulty. If I order a 9 shoe size I should not be sent a size 13 shoe only for you to tell me they run big. If these shoes are suppose to fit like a glove you are doing false advertising. Your return policy is very bad. If you have a customer willing to spend money then you should take care of them and not treat them so badly.
I would love to get a refund. My wedding has already been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and we are all going through so much turmoil. The last thing I need right now is to be ripped off unfairly with shoes that were suppose to be custom made to fit. These shoes do not fit and they are not understanding we can never wear them.
Worst experience I’ve ever had especially considering I spend so much money. I am not rich ! I worked very hard for my money only to give it to you for shoes i will never be able to wear. Please help me
Hello Eduardo,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.
My name is Amanda, and I am the Customer Care Manager. Your review has been brought to my attention by my colleagues, and I very much appreciate the opportunity to resolve this matter for you.
On behalf of our team, I would like to say sorry for the unpleasant experience you have encountered with us so far. It is not our intention to cause any frustration, and we hope to alleviate any stress we have caused you as the planning of your wedding outfit should be nothing short of difficult.
We are sorry to hear that your Undandys did not fit you as expected. Our shoes are crafted according to European sizing, and it is common for sizes to vary per person as each individual foot shape and comfort expectations differ. Each pair is made to order, and not made-to-measure. As per our policy we do offer free exchanges and returns as long as your shoes are not engraved or worn.
In saying this, I will be contacting you by email directly as I want to provide you with a few alternative suggestions to ensure that you and your groomsmen are feel great and comfortable in your Undandy shoes.
I look forward to partnering with you on a resolution to ensure your experience with us improves from this point onward.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Kind regards.
Amanda
Undandy Customer Care Manager
Absolutely zero customer support. Ordered 2 pairs for my wedding in July on the 14th April, did not receive until 1st week of June, both custom and nearly 400 GBP, my groom pair arrived damaged after arranging a return i was assured by Cristian in the customer support team my replacement pair would be with me in time for my big day. so here I am on the 5th of August still waiting, my wedding photos are not the same with non matching shoes and no offer of compensation for the disappointment.
I would expect at a bare minimum to receive some update without the need to chase, but nothing.
Such a shame as the shoes are great, but steer clear of undandy to avoid losing either your money or sanity, terrible.
Hi,
I cannot understand how can you promote such a bad company. Its a shame. I ordered three shoes on May 5 2020 and did not received the shoes till now. I decided to cancel my order and they promised to refund me. But, I still did not receive my refund. Act ethically and promote good companies not companies such as this and do not even though you are getting paid to promote their service.
Thanks,
Akaash
We’re not promoting them or getting paid. We published an honest review (before ever hearing from any angry customers), and this page has become a place for customers to voice complaints because it’s the #1 search result for “Undandy review”.
If anything, this review has probably turned people away from Undandy, due to the comments section.
Don’t make business with this company. I make order about 400 Eur on June 10 with promising that will be deliver in 4/6 weeks. Now is end of August and I did not received even I’m not sure did they start producing my shoes or it is fake company. I contacted menu times customer service and received copy paste BS answer s that is in production and workshop manager will get in touch with me next week. Of course it never happened. I’m so regret that trust them. Nice web page nice pictures but I guess fake company for draining naive people money.
I suggest that you open a credit card dispute with your bank.
Yep, this company is slooow to send items. I ordered a pair of gloves first to test the company out and after telling me they would be delayed, offered a refund. I said no thanks, I’m in no hurry I can wait for them. Months later they came and I’m happy with them. So, when I found a pair of shoes and belt I like I took the gamble (I feel gamble is a good word for ordering items during COVID from non American companies overseas). I ordered them back in May and it’s now September… a little longer then I anticipated. My three email inquiries to the status of my order have all been promptly answered with the same response: “We’re working on them and will let you know when they ship.” Okay, that’s fine I knew they lagged at delivering but this is getting ridiculous! I ordered them back in May for an event on August 29 and didn’t get them so I was pretty disappointed in that. I’m pretty sure they will come eventually, it’s just I’m getting anxious going on the 5th month of not getting my shoes I already paid for. I guess I’m used to ordering from American companies that can get me my shoes in a week or two. Undandy: please get me my shoes soon I can’t take this anticipation! 🙂 If you order from this company just know you’re in for a loooong wait!
Finally got my shoes today and couldn’t be happier. The fit is spot on, craftsmanship on par with a $450 shoe and the look… oh YES – pure fire! Love em! Definitely worth the long wait. Customer service always got back to me promptly so I wasn’t really worried if they would come it was just a matter of when. Apparently there was a shortage of supplies around the beginning of the year which through off their supply chain.