The Steadfast Chukka Boots are a premium ankle boot manufactured by John Lofgren Bootmaker in Japan. Introduced as part of the company's chukka boot collection, these boots feature a taller four-eyelet design that distinguishes them from typical two or three-eyelet chukka boots. Built using traditional Goodyear welt construction with materials sourced from France, Italy, Japan, and the United States, the Steadfast represents the company's commitment to combining Japanese craftsmanship with premium international components.
The boots are constructed with French calfskin leather tanned in Japan and finished with Italian Vibram soles, reflecting John Lofgren's philosophy of sourcing materials from suppliers considered the best in their respective fields. Available in multiple leather options including standard French calfskin colorways and premium Shinki Hikaku shell cordovan, the Steadfast Chukka Boots retail for $685 USD and are sized similarly to Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger boots.
The Steadfast Chukka Boots feature Goodyear storm welt construction with 360-degree welting, extending the welt completely around the boot rather than the typical 270-degree configuration. This construction method incorporates USA-made storm welts, double and triple stitched sewing throughout, and Japanese-made steel shanks for structural support. The thick leather midsole and outsole construction includes Italian-made Vibram half soles and heels with a Vibram rubber heel and outsole topper.
Upper construction uses French calfskin leather that is tanned in Japan, with the interior lined with Japanese leather. The boots include a rough-out heel-cup for added support and utilize triple stitching on the uppers with accent details. Built on a 110 last in D/medium width, the boots are available in sizes six through 12 and sized similarly to Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger boots for reference.
The Steadfast incorporates a four-eyelet design that creates a taller profile than traditional chukka boots, which typically feature two or three eyelets. This additional height significantly improves the boot's visual balance and appearance while maintaining the fundamental chukka boot silhouette. The design includes accent stitching details and utilizes the company's attention to specific design elements that John Lofgren considers in each style of footwear.
All construction is performed in Japan by Shokuninkishitsu, craftspeople dedicated to mastering their specific craft rather than serving as general production line workers. Each pair undergoes a final inspection where it is thoroughly examined for imperfections before being approved for delivery. The manufacturing process reflects the company's philosophy that "profit over people is not what we're about," emphasizing the value of master craftsmanship and ethical production methods.
Materials are sourced internationally from suppliers including Japan's Shinki tannery for premium horsehide options, French tanneries for calfskin leather, Italian manufacturers for Vibram sole components, and USA suppliers for storm welts. This global sourcing approach allows the company to utilize materials from companies considered the best at their specific manufacturing processes.
The Steadfast Chukka Boots are available in multiple material options beyond the standard French calfskin construction. Standard colorways include burgundy, brown, and black French calfskin, all tanned in Japan. Premium versions are offered in Shinki Hikaku shell cordovan in select colorways, sourced from Japan's renowned Shinki tannery. Additional options include Japanese suede variations, with some models available as pre-orders depending on material availability and production schedules.
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"THE STEADFAST CHUKKA BOOTS / FRENCH CALFSKIN BURGUNDY". John Lofgren Bootmaker. Retrieved September 8, 2025.
"Shinki Hikaku Shell Cordovan". John Lofgren Bootmaker. Retrieved September 8, 2025.