Wilshire

The Wilshire represents Frank's Boots' approach to combining work boot durability with dress boot aesthetics. As the company's number one selling casual/dress boot, it bridges the gap between professional work footwear and heritage fashion, incorporating traditional bootmaking methods with customization options typical of Pacific Northwest boot manufacturers.

The Wilshire employs stitchdown construction, a method that provides durability while maintaining a cleaner appearance appropriate for dress boots. Frank's Boots manufactures each pair by hand in their Spokane facility using classic tools including nippers and lasting pliers. The construction methods prioritize durability and professional-grade performance while maintaining handcrafted quality standards.

Standard construction features include a 430 Mini Vibram sole, rolled top, celastic toe, and Dogger heel. The boots incorporate higher heel and arch support designed to balance body weight for maximum comfort during extended wear. The stitchdown construction method, similar to that used on White's Cruiser boots, allows for a cleaner visual profile compared to other work boot construction techniques.

Frank's Boots constructs the Wilshire using 7.5 to 8-ounce full grain water-resistant leather. The standard leather option is Brown Domain, described as a high-end dress leather with substantial heft. Domain leather provides the smooth, polished appearance appropriate for dress boot applications while maintaining the durability required for work boot use.

The company has evolved the Wilshire's aesthetic from a dressier leather selection toward a more rugged appearance. One option is Whiskey Rebellion leather, which features pull-up characteristics and develops patina through wear. The boot is available with upgrades to alternate dress leathers or work leathers, allowing customers to specify leather type based on intended use.

Sole options include the Vibram 430 Oil-Resisting Mini-Lug Full Sole, providing traction and oil resistance for work environments. Logger heels are available as an alternative heel option for enhanced traction. The company offers limited-edition leather colors for made-to-order builds, expanding customization possibilities beyond standard leather options.

The Wilshire is available with extensive customization options, allowing customers to choose their last, sole, heel base, height, and leather to create a customized boot. This level of customization reflects Frank's Boots' emphasis on custom fitting and personalization, offering more online customization options than most handmade boot manufacturers in the United States.

Customers can select from multiple leather types including dress leathers and work leathers, with the option to specify limited-edition leather colors. Leather modifications require coordination with the company through email to confirm availability and compatibility. The customization system operates within certain limitations, though the range of available options remains substantial.

The Wilshire is available through Frank's Boots' direct sales and authorized retailers including Baker's Boots and Carter's Boots and Repair. The Custom Wilshire through Baker's Boots is priced at $595. In-stock configurations, such as the Wilshire 6" Natural Stain on Heel, carry a regular price of $614.

Pricing varies based on customization selections, with upgrades to alternate leathers and sole options affecting final cost. The made-to-order nature of custom builds requires lead times typical of handmade boot production.

The Heritage Quality Goods x Frank's Boots collaboration produced the Maxon Boot, a design that builds upon the basic Wilshire boot lineup. This collaboration demonstrates the Wilshire's use as a foundation for special edition and partnership projects.