Fritz Boot

The Fritz Boot uses full-vamp single row stitchdown construction, a method where the upper leather is folded outward and stitched directly to the midsole in a single row of visible stitching. This construction creates a durable bond while allowing the boot to be resoled. The white stitching provides a distinctive visual element that contrasts with darker leather selections.

All outsoles on the Fritz Boot are hand-stitched, adding to the labor-intensive nature of the construction. The pattern incorporates standard NF Bootmaker components throughout the build: horsehide vamp liners for durability and structure, solid brass hardware for longevity, brass tacks for reinforcement, and 6mm vegetable-tanned buffalo leather insoles that provide a stable foundation. The boots also feature 6mm vegetable-tanned leather shanks for arch support, 3mm vegetable-tanned heel counters to maintain heel structure, 3mm vegetable-tanned midsoles, and 5mm vegetable-tanned heel lifts.

Customers can select from various leather options when ordering the Fritz Boot. Documented examples include Tempesti Baku, a premium Italian leather from the Tempesti tannery, and Horween Tumbled Black Chromexcel, an American oil-tanned leather known for its suppleness and water resistance. Wickett & Craig Burgundy Burnt Harness leather, a pull-up leather with rich color variation, represents another available option.

Hardware choices include polished brass, which develops a natural patina over time. Edge finishing is available in natural, allowing the leather layers to show their color. Sole options include the Dr. Sole #1220 Supergrip Full Sole in black, which provides traction through a distinctive tread pattern, and the Vibram 430 Oil-Resisting Mini-Lug Full Sole, a work boot staple since the mid-20th century offering oil and slip resistance.

The Fritz Boot pattern differs from NF Bootmaker's other offerings in specific ways. Cap toes, a design element where a separate piece of leather reinforces the toe area, are available on the Milton pattern but not on the Fritz Boot. This distinguishes the Fritz as a plain toe design. For customers selecting Maryam Horsefront or Deer leathers, NF Bootmaker recommends the Milton pattern unlined rather than the Fritz, suggesting the Fritz pattern works better with a lined construction.

As of December 2024, the Fritz Boot carried a starting price of $1,800 through NF Bootmaker's standard ordering process. Actual purchase prices documented at $1,350 indicate variation based on specific leather and customization selections. The production lead time runs approximately seven months from order placement to delivery, reflecting the handmade nature of the construction process.

The Fritz Boot demonstrates minimal break-in requirements according to owner reports. The leather used in documented pairs has been described as very soft and flexible from initial wear, contrasting with some heritage boots that require extended break-in periods. This characteristic varies depending on the specific leather selected for construction.