NF Bootmaker
MakerAbout
NF Bootmaker is a custom footwear company founded by Nathan Florsheim, a solo bootmaker based in Chicago, Illinois. Operating as a one-person operation from his home studio, Nathan creates handmade service boots with each pair entirely made by hand. The company prioritizes fit and comfort through made-to-measure services designed to accommodate all genders and body types.
About
NF Bootmaker is a custom footwear company founded by Nathan Florsheim, a solo bootmaker based in Chicago, Illinois. Operating as a one-person operation from his home studio, Nathan creates handmade service boots with each pair entirely made by hand. The company prioritizes fit and comfort through made-to-measure services designed to accommodate all genders and body types.
History
Nathan Florsheim is entirely self-taught with no formal cordwaining education. He started experimenting with cordwaining in 2020, gradually developing his skills through multiple iterations, unsuccessful attempts, and hands-on experimentation. After gradually accepting client orders, Nathan transitioned to full-time bootmaking in June 2022.
Manufacturing
NF Bootmaker operates as a one-person operation with all boots handmade entirely by Nathan in his home studio. The signature construction method is full-vamp single row stitchdown with hand-stitched outsoles. Production requires approximately 45 hours of direct bootmaking time per pair.
All boots include standard components: horsehide vamp liners, solid brass hardware and brass tacks, 6mm vegetable-tanned buffalo leather insoles, 6mm vegetable-tanned leather shanks, 3mm vegetable-tanned heel counters, 3mm vegetable-tanned midsoles, 5mm vegetable-tanned heel lifts, and hand-stitched outsoles.
The company works with premium leather suppliers including Horween, CF Stead, La Perla Azzurra, Maryam, Bakers, Wickett & Craig, and J & FJ Baker. For custom orders, additional suppliers include Tannery Row, District Leather, Maverick, and Rocky Mountain Leather. Shell cordovan is not currently offered.
Outsole options include Dr. Sole Supergrip II, various Vibram options, and leather soles. Hardware finishes are available in antique brass or polished brass.
Customization options
Vamp options include plain toe, cap toe (additional $15), and brogue cap toe (additional $25). Sole choices include Dr. Sole Supergrip II, various Vibram options, or leather. Heel selections include Dr. Sole options in multiple colors. Edge finishing is available in natural or brown and black stains. Tongue color options provide flexibility for tonal or contrasting designs. Specialty leathers such as horsebutt and Bakers waxed flesh carry an additional charge of $100.
Products
NF Bootmaker offers five main styles: Milton Boot, Milton Shoe, Belmont Boot, Belmont Shoe, and Fritz Boot. The Milton Boot and Milton Shoe start at $1,700, while the Belmont Boot and Fritz Boot start at $1,800, and the Belmont Shoe starts at $1,700.
Services
The company provides custom ordering services along with repair and resole options. Made-to-measure services collect measurements and other data points to ensure the best fit possible. Orders are packaged in minimal, recycled cardboard packaging with an organic cotton logo tote included. NF Bootmaker opens order books a handful of times each year due to the time-intensive production process. Newsletter signup is available for notifications when orders reopen.
References
"About — NF Bootmaker". NF Bootmaker. Retrieved November 17, 2025.
"Leather Options/Specs — NF Bootmaker". NF Bootmaker. Retrieved November 17, 2025.
"NF Bootmaker Official Website". NF Bootmaker. Retrieved November 12, 2025.
