The Pablo

The Pablo was created with simplicity in mind, taking a solid classic design and adding small, modern touches. The result is a versatile ankle boot suitable for both office wear and casual weekend use.

The 405 last that forms The Pablo's foundation was modeled after a vintage penitentiary boot, giving the boot its distinctive toe shape that blends American work boot aesthetics with Italian and European design influences. The design process involved creating a modern interpretation of classic boot styles while maintaining clean lines and functional simplicity.

The boot is constructed using the Blake Rapid Stitch method, a process performed with a worker-operated machine that results in fewer leather layers and increased flexibility compared to other construction methods. This technique allows the boot to be resoled while keeping a slimmer profile. The construction involves 153 individual steps performed by 14 master cobblers, following HELM's established manufacturing process.

The Pablo features Horween Rockford leather for the upper. HELM uses leathers between 2mm and 3mm thick, meeting their standard specifications for durability. The boot is fully leather-lined for comfort and moisture management.

Horween Leather Company, located in Chicago, supplies several leather types to HELM, including their signature Chromexcel. For The Pablo specifically, the brown colorway uses Horween Rockford leather, known for its combination tanning process that provides both comfort and durability.

The Pablo incorporates a YKK side zipper on the medial (inner) side of the boot, allowing for easy on and off while maintaining clean lines on the outer profile. The zipper runs from the sole to the top of the ankle, secured at the top with a pull tab.

The Fineline sole provides traction while maintaining a slim profile that complements the boot's streamlined design. The sole is combined with HELM's signature white midsole that appears on all HELM footwear as a distinguishing feature. This white contrast midsole sits between the leather upper and the outer sole.

The boot is classified as an ankle boot with medium shoe width. It is manufactured in the United States, consistent with HELM's production standards since 2012.

The Pablo is available in two primary leather colors: brown (using Horween Rockford leather) and black (using full-grain Balthazar leather). The boot is marketed as suitable for both professional office environments and casual weekend wear, reflecting its versatile design that bridges formal and casual footwear styles.