Grizedale

The Grizedale builds upon Crockett & Jones' heritage of military boot production, with its Goodyear welted construction dating back to the company's manufacture of 3.5 million pairs of officers' boots during World War I. The design represents a modernized interpretation of the Ross boot from earlier collections, replacing the padded collar with a traditional dress boot shaft for a more classic silhouette. Priced at $840 USD, the boot is positioned in the company's Main Collection as a premium weather-resistant option for heritage footwear collectors seeking authentic British craftsmanship.

The Grizedale utilizes Goodyear welted construction, a method Crockett & Jones has specialized in since its founding in 1879. The boot is built on Last 228, a medium round toe last with generous toe depth that was originally produced in January 1954 specifically for country walking shoes and boots. This last gained broader recognition in 2015 when Crockett & Jones used it for the Radnor in Black Calf that appeared in the James Bond film SPECTRE.

The upper is constructed from dark brown rough-out suede treated with wax to provide rugged character and water resistance. Between the outer leather and lining, a waterproof membrane interlining provides protection against wet conditions while maintaining breathability. The half leather lining balances weather resistance with comfort and ventilation. A half bellows tongue, made from contrasting grain calf, ensures water cannot penetrate through the lace area during use in wet grass or shallow streams.

The boot is finished with a Vibram cleated rubber sole, specifically a Commando sole pattern that provides traction on varied terrain. Initial wear typically requires a break-in period due to the firmness of the sole. Antique brass eyelets and heavier-than-standard laces complete the hardware specification. Each boot weighs 2.5 kg.

The Grizedale's primary material is rough-out suede, with the flesh side of the leather exposed as the outer surface. The wax treatment applied to this surface enhances the leather's natural water resistance and creates a rugged appearance that develops character with wear. Crockett & Jones describes this as their "toughest ever, breathable yet sturdy" rough-out suede boot construction.

The waterproof membrane integrated between the outer leather and lining represents a key performance feature. This membrane works in conjunction with the bellows tongue and reverse storm welt to create a comprehensive weather protection system. Unlike surface treatments that can wear away, the membrane provides consistent water resistance while allowing moisture vapor to escape.

To maintain optimal water resistance, the manufacturer recommends an annual application of dubbin to the rough-out suede. This treatment darkens the leather and reduces some of its rough texture, while replenishing the water-resistant properties. The leather is particularly well-suited for autumn and winter conditions, though the boot is designed for year-round wear.

The Grizedale is styled as a plain-front Derby boot with a high leg shaft. The design evolved from Crockett & Jones' earlier Ross boot, with the key modification being the replacement of the Ross's padded collar with a more traditional dress boot shaft. This change gives the Grizedale a cleaner, more classic appearance while maintaining the rugged construction suitable for outdoor use.

The boot is intended for demanding outdoor conditions and country wear. Crockett & Jones specifically mentions use in wet grass and shallow streams as design targets. The combination of cleated sole, waterproof construction, and durable leather makes the boot suitable for activities requiring both weather protection and traction. Due to its outdoor-oriented construction, Crockett & Jones recommends wearing the Grizedale with heavier weight socks.

The Commando sole provides substantial traction but requires an initial break-in period. The sole's firmness during early wear gradually softens as the rubber flexes with use. The substantial weight of 2.5 kg per boot reflects the robust construction and weatherproof features.

The Grizedale is available through Crockett & Jones retailers and the company's direct channels at a retail price of $840 USD. The boot is offered in men's sizes ranging from 6 to 12, including half sizes. As part of the Main Collection, the Grizedale represents the brand's standard product line featuring European leathers and traditional construction methods, distinguished from the Hand Grade Collection which requires up to 10 weeks to manufacture and the Shell Cordovan Collection.

The dark brown rough-out suede version represents the primary colorway available at launch, consistent with the boot's positioning as a practical country boot rather than a dress shoe. Stock availability varies by size through authorized retailers.