About
The AB-06 Service Boots are military-inspired boots manufactured by Addict Boots in Sendai, Japan. The design represents Satoshi Ishijima's interpretation of the M-43 military boot, featuring the company's CL-LW last with a low heel and narrow toe profile. The boots are handmade using Goodyear welted construction and are offered in horsehide and steer suede variants.
About
The AB-06 Service Boots are military-inspired boots manufactured by Addict Boots in Sendai, Japan. The design represents Satoshi Ishijima's interpretation of the M-43 military boot, featuring the company's CL-LW last with a low heel and narrow toe profile. The boots are handmade using Goodyear welted construction and are offered in horsehide and steer suede variants.
The AB-06 stands 6.5 inches tall and uses a Vibram 700 sole with single stitching at the edge. Each boot includes an extra leather insole to accommodate foot changes as the leather stretches with wear. The model demonstrates Addict Clothes' entry into bootmaking with emphasis on refined lasts and traditional construction methods.
Design and heritage
The AB-06 service boots follow the design of the M-43 military boot, adapted for contemporary wear. The CL-LW last creates an elegant narrow military boot silhouette through a constricted arch from heel to ankle. This last features the thinnest toe among Addict Boots' offerings and omits a traditional toe box for a classic form. The rounded almond toe shape and low heel maintain a low profile that accommodates both wide silhouette and slim pants.
Construction
The boots use Goodyear welted construction with single stitching at the sole edge. The Vibram 700 sole provides traction while an oak bark tanned heavy midsole and stacked low heel add structure. Japanese steel footbed shanks support the arch. Full leather lining with a cushioned insole runs throughout the interior. Each pair includes a removable leather insole that helps maintain fit as the upper leather stretches, particularly useful for enhanced walking comfort after the initial break-in period.
Material variants
Horsehide version
The AB-06H-CL-LW uses custom-made horsehide upper leather available in brown or deep brown. The horsehide is thick yet pliable and soft with an oily feel. The dye-finished treatment creates texture and color variation unique to each pair. A cowhide leather lining provides interior structure.
Steer suede version
The AB-06SS-CL-LW features custom steer suede from North American sources in mustard or brown. The suede follows a custom recipe specific to Addict Boots. Like the horsehide version, this variant uses cowhide lining and includes the extra leather insole.
Sizing
The AB-06 is available in US sizes 7.5 through 11 in D width. The boots run with a low instep and slightly long proportions. Sizing aligns closely with Alden's Barrie last and Red Wing Iron Rangers, with recommendations to choose one size smaller than Brannock device measurement for standard feet. Those with high insteps or wider feet should consider sizing up. For reference, a US size 8 in the AB-06 compares to John Lofgren size 8, Viberg 7.5-8 US, and Red Wing Iron Rangers 8.5 US.
References
"Addict Clothes AB-06H-CL-LW Horsehide Service Boots Brown". stuf-f. Retrieved November 27, 2025.
"Addict Clothes AB-06SS-CL-LW Steer Suede Service Boots". stuf-f. Retrieved November 27, 2025.
"AB-06SS-CL-LW Horsehide Service Boots Mustard". Addict Clothes Official Store. Retrieved November 27, 2025.
"Addict Service Boots Brown Horsehide". East West Apparel. Retrieved November 27, 2025.
