Ludlow Boots

Built on the John Lofgren 120 Last with a 6-inch height and plain toe design, the Ludlow Boots feature Goodyear welted construction and Shinki Hikaku Horsebutt leather. The model represents John Lofgren Bootmaker's approach to heritage footwear with Japanese craftsmanship combined with historical American military inspiration. The boots retail for $1,055.00 and are available in Timber and Black colorways.

The Ludlow Boots draw their name and inspiration from Lieutenant Augustus C. Ludlow, a United States Navy officer born in Newburgh, New York. Ludlow was appointed Midshipman on April 2, 1804, and commissioned Lieutenant on June 3, 1810. At age 20, he served as first lieutenant to Captain James Lawrence aboard the USS Chesapeake.

During the ship's battle with HMS Shannon on June 1, 1813, Captain Lawrence delivered his immortal words "Don't give up the ship" to Lieutenant Ludlow. Both officers were mortally wounded in the engagement, with Ludlow dying in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 13, 1813. The naval officer's legacy extends beyond the boots, as Ludlow Street in New York City, known for its art and music scene, is also named in his honor.

The Ludlow Boots are constructed on the John Lofgren 120 Last with a 6-inch height and feature seven eyelets in a plain toe design. The boots utilize Goodyear welted construction, a method that allows for resoling and long-term durability. The outsole consists of a Vibram 430 sole and heel combination.

The upper material is Shinki Hikaku Horsebutt leather, sourced from Japan's Shinki tannery. This leather is available in two colorways: Timber and Black. Both variants feature the same construction specifications and are offered in sizes ranging from US 6E to US 12E. Complementing the boots are purpose-designed JLB Laces measuring 47 inches (120cm) in length, made from 100% cotton and manufactured in Japan.

John Lofgren Bootmaker produces the Ludlow Boots using traditional Japanese craftsmanship principles. The manufacturing process follows the "Shokuninkishitsu" (職人気質) philosophy, where skilled craftspeople specialize in specific production steps to ensure mastery of their particular craft. Each boot is completely hand-built in Japan using components sourced exclusively from the USA, Japan, England, France, Germany, and Italy.

The construction process includes several specialized steps. A metal shank and cork filling are installed by experienced craftspeople to improve comfort and allow each pair to conform to the wearer's foot over time. The lasting process employs precise techniques to ensure symmetry between left and right boots. The assembly features high stitch counts with carefully selected thread thickness and color appropriate for each design.

Materials sourcing extends beyond the primary leather to include components from multiple countries known for quality manufacturing. The outsoles are produced in the USA and Japan, selected for their durability and performance characteristics. This international supply chain reflects John Lofgren Bootmaker's commitment to using high-quality materials regardless of origin while maintaining all assembly operations in Japan.

The Ludlow Boots retail for $1,055.00 and are offered in sizes from US 6E to US 12E. Both the Timber and Black colorways utilizing Shinki Hikaku Horsebutt leather are available, though both variants were sold out as of September 2025. The boots are distributed through John Lofgren Bootmaker's direct sales channels.

Specialized laces designed specifically for the Ludlow Boots are available separately for $16.00. These JLB Laces measure 47 inches (120cm) in length, suitable for the boot's seven-eyelet configuration, and are manufactured in Japan from 100% cotton materials.