Dayton Boots

In the 1940s, C.H. "Charlie" Wohlford managed the Lumberman's Social Club at 64 East Hastings Street in Vancouver. Wohlford had experience in both the logging industry and boot repair when he began repairing loggers' boots in the back of the club. He founded Dayton Boots in 1946, following feedback from his repair customers. The Dayton 64 logging boot, introduced in 1947, became popular with loggers.

During the 1960s, Dayton Boots expanded its range by launching the Black Beauty motorcycle boot, which gained popularity among motorcyclists. The company grew through acquisitions in the 1970s, including Pierre Paris & Sons and Leckie Boots.

In 2023, Dayton Boots underwent a rebranding and adopted the name Wohlford & Company.

Dayton Boots manufactures all products at its facility located at 2250 East Hastings Street in Vancouver. Production involves more than 200 discrete steps, including cutting, skiving, lasting, and welting. The production process features handcrafting by skilled workers who use traditional techniques.

Dayton Boots uses full-grain, oil-tanned leather for the uppers. The company employs both nailed construction and Goodyear welt construction methods in boot making. Each boot includes a steel shank for arch support as well as leather insoles, midsoles, and outsoles. Boots are designed so they can be resoled and reconditioned.

Dayton Boots produces several models, including the Dayton 64 logging boot, first released in 1947. The Black Beauty motorcycle boot was introduced in 1965 and features a double-sole design. In 1978, the company launched the double-soled Engineer Boot. The Service Boot, a versatile model, accounts for 50 to 60 percent of the company’s production. Each model is manufactured in a range of leathers and sole types, with made-to-order customization available.