BLKBRD Walburg 5-Eyelet Chukka Boot

Walburg 5-Eyelet Chukka Boot

Model

About

The BLKBRD Walburg 5-Eyelet Chukka Boot is a handcrafted chukka boot manufactured by BLKBRD SHOEMAKER, an Indian footwear company specializing in hand-welted and Goodyear welted shoes. Part of BLKBRD's Boot 2.0 Premium Collection, the Walburg features storm welt construction and is crafted from Horween Chromexcel leather in natural finish.

The boot combines traditional handcrafting techniques with premium materials, requiring more than 40 hours of production time and involving over 100 different operations performed by skilled craftsmen in Agra, India. The Walburg is designed as a versatile smart casual boot suitable for various occasions, from business casual settings to evening wear.

Design and Construction

Specifications

| Specification | Details || ------------------- | -------------------------------- || Construction | Storm welt, hand-welted || Last | Triumph || Toe Profile | Round || Upper Material | Horween Chromexcel (Natural) || Sole | Dainite rubber || Heel | Stacked leather with rubber topy || Lining | Full leather || Insole | Leather with natural cork filler || Sizes Available | EUR 39-47 (UK 5-13, US 6-14) || Price | ₹19,800 (~$240 USD) |

Construction Method

The Walburg employs storm welt construction, a specialized technique that provides enhanced water resistance compared to traditional flat welt designs. Storm welt construction features a wider welt that extends upward around the junction between the upper and midsole, creating a protective seal against moisture infiltration. This construction method maintains all the benefits of Goodyear welted shoes, including resolability and durability, while offering superior weather protection.

Each boot undergoes hand-welting construction, a labor-intensive process requiring skilled craftsmen with over 25 years of experience. The construction involves more than 100 manual steps, with each pair passing through the hands of 12 different craftsmen during the manufacturing process.

Last and Toe Profile

The Walburg is built on BLKBRD's Triumph last, which features a round toe profile. The last provides a broad-toe shape that accommodates various foot shapes while maintaining an elegant silhouette suitable for smart casual wear.

Sole and Heel

The boot features a Dainite rubber sole, known for its durability and weather resistance. The outsole is complemented by a stacked leather heel with a combination rubber topy for enhanced grip and longevity. The construction includes a full leather insole with natural cork filler, providing cushioning and moisture absorption.

Materials

Upper Leather

The Walburg's upper is constructed from Horween Chromexcel leather in natural finish. Chromexcel is a premium pull-up leather manufactured by Horween Leather Company using techniques and formulas developed nearly a century ago. The leather undergoes a combination tanning process utilizing both chrome and vegetable tanning methods, resulting in soft, supple, and durable characteristics.

Natural Chromexcel does not receive artificial dyes, resulting in a beige-tan color that varies from hide to hide. The leather is hot-stuffed with a proprietary blend of natural oils, waxes, and greases, providing water resistance and preventing hardening over time. This process contributes to the leather's distinctive pull-up effect and aging characteristics.

Lining and Interior

The boot features full leather lining throughout the interior, providing comfort and durability. The construction includes a leather insole with natural cork filler, which molds to the wearer's foot over time for enhanced comfort and support.

Sizing and Fit

The Walburg is available in European sizes 39-47, corresponding to UK sizes 5-13 and US sizes 6-14. BLKBRD follows standard UK sizing guidelines and offers personalized sizing consultation to ensure proper fit. The company provides sizing guidance through their lasts guide and offers custom sizing options for customers requiring specific accommodations.

Pricing and Availability

The BLKBRD Walburg 5-Eyelet Chukka Boot is priced at ₹19,800 (approximately $240 USD) and is available directly from BLKBRD SHOEMAKER through their official website. The boot is part of the company's Premium Collection, reflecting its positioning as a high-quality handcrafted product.

Care and Maintenance

Due to its Chromexcel leather construction, the Walburg requires minimal maintenance. The final step in BLKBRD's production process involves applying Neatsfoot Oil, which is the recommended conditioning product for ongoing care. Regular application of leather conditioner every few months helps maintain the leather's hydration and enhances the natural aging process characteristic of Chromexcel leather.

The boot's storm welt construction and quality materials make it fully resolable, allowing for extended service life when properly maintained. The handcrafted construction and premium materials are designed to provide years of wear with appropriate care.