Packer

Chippewa's Packer boots are constructed using premium leather uppers with Vibram outsoles and include features such as non-tarnishable brass hardware and removable footbeds. The boots are available in both men's and women's versions, maintaining traditional construction methods while incorporating modern comfort and safety features.

Packer boots earned their reputation on the Western frontier as American settlers reached the Rocky Mountains while journeying from homes in the East. Men responsible for the safe transportation of pioneering families once their wagons reached the massive barrier of the Rockies became known as "Packers" by the pioneers. These individuals unpacked family belongings from wagons and transported supplies via pack animals through mountainous terrain.

The packer boot represents one of the four major variations of the historical cowboy boot, with the lace-up style being common on the American frontier. The design was originally created to meet the demands of packers in the Pacific Northwest, where boots needed to endure the rigors of outdoor work while providing comfort for extended periods of activity.

The Packer boot features a pointed toe and stacked heel specifically designed for sitting in stirrups during horseback riding. The tight lace-up design provides ankle stability necessary for scrambling over rocky terrain on foot. Modern versions feature a narrower, pointed toe that fits into stirrups more effectively than traditional work boots, while the riding heel delivers traction on both steep and flat ground.

The higher cut and sturdy laces offer enhanced ankle support and protection, making the design suitable for various outdoor activities including hiking, riding, and industrial work. The construction combines the functional requirements of a work boot with design elements optimized for mounted activities.

Chippewa Packer boots are manufactured in the United States, continuing the company's tradition of American production established when Chippewa was founded in 1901 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. The boots are constructed using traditional methods combined with quality control processes developed over more than a century of bootmaking experience.

The construction process involves hand-assembly techniques where skilled workers cut, stitch, and finish each boot. The Goodyear welt attachment requires specialized machinery and training to execute properly, ensuring consistent quality across production runs while maintaining the repairable characteristics that define the construction method.