AE is a good brand but there are many other European shoe brands which also last a lifetime and may not cost as much as Allen Edmonds. The construction you are looking for is the goodyear welt. Once you find shoes which are made this way, you can trust that the leather is almost always good quality as well.
Bad leather with glued soles is the recipe for disappointment. Quality leather requires care but rewards you in the long run. Classic shoe brands also offer their shoes in various lasts. I have wide feet so knowing which last fits me makes it easier to shop online.
Here are two of brands to check out:
- Loake: I have two pairs from them and am extremely happy with them. Budget option out of the classic British brands but you can still send your shoes to them to get resoled or repaired. One of my pairs should be sent for resoling soon actually
- Carmina: Spanish and very high quality, not the cheapest though
and here’s a list of classic English brands from Northampton which are still made in England.