Dayton Boots is a Canadian work boot manufacturer based in Vancouver, British Columbia, specializing in handcrafted, heavy-duty footwear. Founded in 1946, the company has built a reputation for producing durable logging boots, motorcycle boots, and engineer boots using traditional construction methods. Dayton Boots employs Goodyear welt construction and offers extensive customization options, allowing customers to specify leather types, sole configurations, and hardware choices to create boots tailored to their specific needs.
The company's commitment to quality craftsmanship and made-to-order production has established Dayton as a respected manufacturer in the heritage work boot market, particularly among workers in demanding occupations and enthusiasts of rugged footwear.
Dayton Boots was established in 1946 in Vancouver, British Columbia, initially focusing on producing work boots for the logging industry in the Pacific Northwest. The company's location in British Columbia, a region known for its forestry and resource extraction industries, positioned it to serve workers requiring exceptionally durable footwear capable of withstanding harsh working conditions.
Throughout its history, Dayton has maintained its focus on handcrafted production methods, with each pair of boots made to order by skilled craftspeople in the Vancouver workshop. This commitment to traditional manufacturing techniques has allowed the company to preserve quality standards while adapting to changing market demands beyond its original industrial customer base.
In recent decades, Dayton has expanded its customer base to include motorcycle riders, heritage boot enthusiasts, and individuals seeking durable, long-lasting footwear. Despite this broader market, the company has maintained its core production methods and continues to operate from its original Vancouver location.
Dayton Boots are constructed using Goodyear welt construction, a method that provides exceptional durability and allows for resoling throughout the boot's lifetime. The company employs traditional bootmaking techniques that have remained largely unchanged since its founding.
Construction Features:
Goodyear Welt Construction: Hand-sewn welt provides water resistance and enables multiple resoles
Heavy-Duty Hardware: Solid brass hooks and eyelets designed for demanding use
Full-Grain Leather Uppers: Thick, high-quality leather selected for durability
Leather Midsole and Outsole: Traditional leather sole construction with heel stacks
Steel Shank: Provides arch support and structural integrity
Optional Steel Toe: Available on work boot models for safety applications
Each pair is made to order, allowing for significant customization of materials, hardware, and construction details. The made-to-order process typically requires several months from order to delivery, reflecting the hand construction methods employed.
Dayton offers a range of leather options and customization choices, allowing customers to specify materials and construction details based on their intended use and preferences.
Leather Options:
Charcoal Nubuck: Durable oil-tanned leather with matte finish
Brown Oil Tan: Traditional brown leather with excellent aging characteristics
Black Oil Tan: Heavy-duty black leather suitable for work applications
Natural Chromexcel: Premium Horween leather that develops rich patina
Parade Gloss: High-shine leather for dress and motorcycle applications
Customization Options:
Sole Configuration: Leather sole, Vibram 100, Vibram 132, or other options
Hardware: Brass or nickel-plated hooks and eyelets
Toe Style: Plain toe or steel toe safety configurations
Shaft Height: Various heights available depending on model
Pull Loops: Optional addition for easier donning
The extensive customization options allow customers to create boots precisely suited to their requirements, whether for industrial work, motorcycling, or casual wear.
Dayton produces several core boot styles, each designed for specific applications while maintaining the company's standards for durability and construction quality.
Work Boots:
6408 CSA Work Boot 8": Eight-inch work boot meeting Canadian safety standards
9496 Steel Toe: Traditional steel toe work boot configuration
Logger: Tall logger boot with reinforced toe and heel
Motorcycle Boots:
6460 CSA Engineer: Engineer boot style adapted for motorcycle use
Service Boot: Mid-height boot suitable for riding and casual wear
Casual Boots:
Service Boot: Versatile boot design appropriate for various applications
Parade Boot: Dress boot with higher polish finish
Many models can be customized with different leather types, sole configurations, and hardware options to suit customer preferences.
Dayton Boots are built on traditional work boot lasts designed for durability and all-day comfort in demanding conditions. The company provides sizing guidance and accepts custom measurements for customers requiring non-standard dimensions.
Sizing Guidelines:
True to Size: Dayton sizing generally corresponds to standard US sizing
Width Options: Standard D width, with custom widths available upon request
Custom Sizing: Available for customers with specific fit requirements
Break-in Period: Allow 40-60 hours of wear for full break-in
Due to the heavy-duty construction and thick leather, Dayton boots require a substantial break-in period during which the leather will conform to the wearer's foot shape. The company recommends wearing the boots in short sessions initially to allow gradual conforming.
Proper maintenance is essential for maximizing the lifespan of Dayton Boots. The company provides care recommendations specific to the leather types and construction methods used.
Regular Maintenance:
Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris with stiff brush or damp cloth
Conditioning: Apply leather conditioner every 3-6 months depending on use
Waterproofing: Use appropriate waterproofing treatments for work applications
Inspection: Regularly check stitching and sole attachment for wear
Storage: Keep in cool, dry location when not in use
Recommended Products:
Oil or Grease: For oil-tanned leathers, apply conditioning oil or boot grease
Leather Conditioner: For chromexcel and other premium leathers
Waterproofing Compound: For work boots exposed to wet conditions
Resoling Services:
Dayton offers resoling services for boots returned to the factory, allowing customers to maintain their boots indefinitely. The Goodyear welt construction enables complete sole replacement while preserving the upper leather and overall boot structure. The company recommends resoling when the sole shows significant wear but before the welt becomes damaged.