Free Range

Built on the HNW (Moderate Arch Standard Toe) last at a 6-inch height, the Free Range incorporates Nicks Handmade Boots' signature stitchdown construction and is equipped with Vibram Christy soles for comfort and durability. The model represents an approach to sustainable manufacturing while providing customers access to Nicks Handmade Boots' craftsmanship at approximately $450, compared to $520 for the similar Traveler model.

The Free Range embodies Nicks Handmade Boots' commitment to reducing leather waste by embracing imperfection rather than pursuing flawless hide selection. This philosophy transforms what would traditionally be considered manufacturing waste into a distinctive product line that celebrates the natural characteristics of leather. The boots maintain all quality standards of premium Nicks Handmade Boots models while offering customers a more affordable entry point into the brand's heritage construction methods.

The concept aligns with Nicks Handmade Boots' heritage boot philosophy, where heritage footwear is defined as construction built in a manner no longer common in modern manufacturing. The Free Range maintains this tradition through all-leather construction designed for daily wear and long-term durability, utilizing hand-stitched stitchdown methods that allow for complete reconstruction and resoling.

The Free Range utilizes Nicks Handmade Boots' traditional hand-stitched stitchdown construction method, providing superior durability compared to conventional construction techniques. This method allows for total recrafting by the maker, ensuring the boots can be completely rebuilt rather than simply repaired. The construction incorporates the company's signature uncompromising arch support, built into every boot regardless of the leather grade used.

Built on the HNW moderate-arch last, the Free Range accommodates extended wear periods while maintaining traditional heel height proportions. The HNW last profile is compatible with the Thurman toe shape and provides the moderate arch support that Nicks Handmade Boots has developed over decades of Pacific Northwest bootmaking experience.

The 6-inch height construction provides adequate ankle support while maintaining the proportions appropriate for heritage boot applications. Despite utilizing leather with natural imperfections, the structural integrity and performance characteristics remain identical to premium Nicks Handmade Boots models.

The Free Range is equipped with Vibram Christy soles, part of Vibram's Italian-made Heritage Series known for lightweight blown rubber construction. The Christy sole provides sneaker-like comfort while maintaining excellent traction on both natural terrain and pavement surfaces. This sole choice reflects the boot's positioning as daily-wear heritage footwear rather than specialized work applications.

The Christy sole has been long used in construction and service industries and is recognized for its functional, utilitarian aesthetic that complements the Free Range's practical design philosophy. The lightweight construction and larger ground contact area provide enhanced comfort for extended standing on hard, flat surfaces typical of urban and workshop environments.

All Free Range boots with Christy soles receive Electrical Hazard certification, meeting safety standards for electrical work applications. The sole construction maintains Nicks Handmade Boots' commitment to creating completely rebuildable footwear, allowing for sole replacement and reconstruction as needed.

The Free Range is constructed with the following specifications:

Construction Details:

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The Free Range represents Nicks Handmade Boots' innovation in sustainable manufacturing while maintaining the construction standards that have defined the company's reputation for over 60 years of Pacific Northwest bootmaking heritage.