Andanté Shoes Review: Premium Filipino Craftsmanship Worth Every Peso
Are you tired of shoes that fall apart after just a few months? Do you want footwear that combines style, comfort, and lasting quality?
Andanté shoes might be exactly what your wardrobe needs. This Filipino brand has been making waves in the fashion scene with their handmade leather footwear that promises both elegance and durability.
In this detailed review, we explore everything you need to know about this local brand that’s putting Philippine shoemaking on the map.
Key Takeaways
- Premium Materials: Andanté uses 100% full grain leather, the highest quality leather available, ensuring durability and natural aging beauty
- Handcrafted Quality: Every pair is handmade by seasoned shoemakers using traditional techniques that guarantee attention to detail
- Slow Fashion Approach: The brand focuses on timeless designs rather than following fast fashion trends, making each pair a lasting investment
- Breaking Period Required: Expect 1-2 weeks of breaking in time, which is standard for high-quality leather shoes
- Price Range: Products typically range from ₱2,790 to ₱3,500, positioning them in the mid-premium market segment
- Local Availability: Available online and at One Ayala Mall in Makati City for physical fitting and purchase
- Style Variety: Offers flats, loafers, heels, and mules in classic colors like black, chocolat, blush, and antique white
- Care Instructions: Requires proper leather care including conditioning and suede-specific maintenance for different materials
What Makes Andanté Special
Andanté stands out in the crowded footwear market through their commitment to slow fashion principles. Unlike mass-produced shoes that flood the market, this brand takes time to create each piece with careful attention to detail. Their philosophy centers on creating timeless styles that work with your existing wardrobe rather than forcing you to constantly update your shoe collection.
The brand’s aesthetic fits the smart, discerning consumer who values quality over quantity. Their designs are intentionally versatile and elegant, making them suitable for both professional settings and casual outings. This approach means you’re not just buying shoes but investing in pieces that will serve you well for years to come.
Quality Materials and Construction
The foundation of any great shoe lies in its materials, and Andanté doesn’t compromise here. They exclusively use full grain leather, which represents the highest grade of leather available. This material choice isn’t just about prestige; full grain leather offers superior durability, breathability, and aging characteristics that improve the shoe’s appearance over time.
Each pair requires a breaking-in period of one to two weeks with continued use. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s actually a sign of quality construction. Genuine leather needs time to mold to your foot shape, creating a custom fit that synthetic materials simply cannot provide. This breaking-in process is standard practice for premium leather shoes worldwide.
Popular Styles and Design Options
Andanté offers four main categories that cover most footwear needs. Their flats collection includes the popular Ballerine Flat, available in colors like chocolat, black, and antique white. The Mary Jane Flat adds a vintage touch with its classic strap design. For those seeking a more structured look, their loafers collection features The Modern Loafer in tan and other sophisticated colors.
The heels collection caters to those needing elevation without sacrificing comfort, while their mules offer easy slip-on convenience. Each style maintains the brand’s commitment to clean lines and timeless appeal, ensuring your investment won’t look outdated next season.
Pricing and Value Analysis
At approximately ₱2,790 per pair, Andanté positions itself in the mid-premium segment of the local market. This pricing reflects the cost of quality materials and skilled craftsmanship. When compared to imported brands offering similar quality, Andanté provides excellent value while supporting local artisans and reducing environmental impact from shipping.
The cost per wear becomes quite reasonable when you consider the longevity these shoes offer. Unlike cheaper alternatives that need frequent replacement, a well-maintained pair of Andanté shoes can last several years with proper care.
Customer Experience and Feedback
Customer reviews reveal mixed but generally positive experiences. Many users praise the superior leather quality and construction compared to typical Instagram brands. The thick, genuine leather receives particular appreciation from customers who’ve experienced disappointment with faux leather alternatives.
However, some customers mention comfort issues during the initial wearing period, particularly around the toe and heel areas. This feedback aligns with the expected breaking-in process for quality leather shoes. Most users report improved comfort after the adjustment period.
Breaking In Process and Comfort
The breaking-in period is crucial for Andanté shoes. During the first 1-2 weeks, you might experience some discomfort as the leather softens and molds to your feet. This process is completely normal and indicates authentic leather construction. To minimize discomfort, wear your new shoes for short periods initially and gradually increase wearing time.
Some customers recommend wearing thick socks during the breaking-in period to prevent blisters and speed up the molding process. The end result is a shoe that fits your foot’s unique contours, providing comfort that improves with time.
Care and Maintenance Requirements
Proper care extends the life of your Andanté shoes significantly. For leather styles, regular conditioning with quality leather cream prevents cracking and maintains suppleness. Suede varieties require special brushes and cleaners to maintain their texture and appearance.
The brand provides specific care instructions for different materials. Suede shoes need gentle brushing and specialized cleaners, while leather shoes benefit from regular polishing and waterproofing treatments. This maintenance investment protects your initial purchase and ensures years of wear.
Sizing and Fit Recommendations
Andanté shoes tend to run true to size for most foot types, but the breaking-in period affects initial fit. Some customers recommend sizing up by half a size if you have wider feet or prefer looser fits. The brand’s physical location at One Ayala Mall allows for in-person fitting, which eliminates sizing uncertainty.
For online purchases, carefully measure your feet and consult the brand’s sizing guide. Remember that leather will stretch slightly during the breaking-in period, so avoid choosing shoes that feel too loose initially.
Durability and Long Term Performance
The full grain leather construction promises excellent durability when properly maintained. Users report that their shoes improve with age, developing a beautiful patina that adds character. The traditional construction methods ensure that these shoes can withstand daily wear better than mass-produced alternatives.
The leather’s natural properties mean your shoes will breathe better than synthetic alternatives, reducing moisture buildup and odor issues. This contributes to both comfort and longevity, making them suitable for tropical climates.
Comparison with International Brands
When compared to international brands like Cole Haan, Sam Edelman, or Clarks, Andanté offers competitive quality at a lower price point. The craftsmanship rivals imported options while supporting local economy and reducing environmental impact from international shipping.
The brand’s focus on classic designs means they compete well with established international names without copying trends. This approach creates shoes that complement rather than compete with global fashion movements.
Sustainability and Local Impact
Choosing Andanté supports sustainable fashion practices through their slow fashion approach. By creating durable, timeless pieces, they help reduce the environmental impact of frequent shoe replacement. Supporting local craftspeople also contributes to Philippine economic development and preserves traditional shoemaking skills.
The brand’s commitment to quality over quantity aligns with growing consumer awareness about sustainable consumption. Each purchase supports skilled artisans and promotes responsible manufacturing practices.
Where to Buy and Availability
Andanté shoes are available through their official website and physical store at One Ayala Mall in Makati City. The physical location operates Monday through Thursday from 10am to 9pm, and Friday through Sunday from 10am to 10pm. This allows for personal fitting and immediate purchase.
Online ordering provides convenience but requires careful attention to sizing. The brand’s customer service can assist with sizing questions and care instructions for optimal shoe longevity.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
Andanté shoes represent excellent value for consumers seeking quality leather footwear without international brand premiums. The combination of premium materials, skilled craftsmanship, and timeless design creates shoes worthy of serious consideration.
These shoes work best for consumers who understand and accept the breaking-in process required for quality leather goods. If you prefer immediate comfort over long-term benefits, these might not suit your needs. However, for those willing to invest in proper footwear, Andanté delivers on their promises of quality and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Andanté shoes worth the price?
Yes, considering the full grain leather construction and handmade quality, they offer good value in the mid-premium segment.
How long does the breaking-in period last?
Typically 1-2 weeks with regular wear, though this varies by individual foot shape and shoe style.
Do they ship nationwide?
Yes, Andanté ships throughout the Philippines through their official website.
What’s the return policy?
Check their website for current return policies, as these may change based on purchase location and condition.
How do I care for suede Andanté shoes?
Use a suede brush regularly and apply specialized suede cleaners for tough stains, avoiding water when possible.
Are they suitable for wide feet?
The leather will stretch during breaking-in, but those with significantly wide feet might want to size up or visit the physical store for fitting.
