The Traveler Chukka is a chukka boot handmade by Blaise Boot Co., featuring 270-degree hand-welted all-leather construction. Created by Blaise Goldman, a welder and fabricator who began bootmaking from dissatisfaction with existing footwear options, the Traveler Chukka represents his approach to building boots that are hardwearing, comfortable, and aesthetically appealing.
The boot features 270-degree hand-welted construction, a technique where the welt spans roughly three-quarters of the boot's perimeter. This construction method uses all-leather materials throughout. The design is built on a custom last that Blaise developed based on another successful last he had previously used, with the goal of creating a versatile boot suitable for all-around wear.
The Traveler Chukka is made with Grease Trap Grey Nubuck leather, a material that develops character through use. In workshop conditions involving welding sparks and daily wear on concrete floors, the leather has been observed to age by fading rather than darkening. Over time, the material develops texture and color variation that contributes to its worn appearance.
The sole material is notably tough but requires a substantial break-in period. After six months of daily wear in a fabrication workshop environment, the sole reportedly maintains considerable stiffness, indicating high durability alongside extended break-in requirements.
The boots have undergone real-world durability testing through daily workshop use. This testing environment includes extended periods standing on concrete floors, exposure to weld spatter and sparks, and the general demands of fabrication work. The boots were designed to meet these challenging conditions while maintaining a clean, stylish appearance suitable for wear beyond the workshop.
Blaise Goldman is described as an artist, designer, and craftsman who works as a welder and fabricator by trade. His journey into bootmaking began with curiosity and dissatisfaction with available boots on the market. As an amateur bootmaker, he challenged himself to create boots with specific desired qualities. After numerous failed attempts and many hours of work, he produced his first successful pair of boots and has continued making and wearing his own handmade footwear since that time. His stated aim is to build boots that combine durability, comfort, and visual appeal.
"Blaise Boot Co.". Blaise Goldman Official Website. Retrieved November 28, 2025.
"The Best Boots I've Made Yet". Patina Project Community Review. Retrieved November 28, 2025.