LVL01 Derby Boot

The LVL01 features classic derby construction with open lacing, providing a more relaxed fit around the instep compared to oxford-style closed lacing. This design choice makes the boot particularly suitable for those with higher insteps or wider feet, while maintaining the refined appearance expected from quality dress footwear.

The boot's height typically extends to mid-ankle, creating a versatile silhouette that bridges formal and casual wear. The derby lacing system allows for easy adjustment and accommodation of different foot shapes, making this model particularly popular among customers seeking both comfort and style.

Like all Onderhoud boots, the LVL01 employs traditional hand-welted construction throughout. The process begins with hand-lasting the upper to the last, followed by hand-cutting and attaching a leather welt around the perimeter of the sole.

The characteristic stitching features deliberately angled hand-stitches that emphasize the artisanal nature of construction. This intentional variation from machine precision showcases the human craftsmanship behind each pair and adds to the boot's distinctive character.

The LVL01 Derby Boot offers various sole configurations to suit different preferences and intended uses:

Customers can specify heel height preferences, with options ranging from low dress shoe heels to slightly higher work boot profiles depending on the intended aesthetic and functional requirements.

The LVL01 Derby Boot is available in Onderhoud's full range of leather offerings, from entry-level Indonesian pull-up leathers to premium international hides:

Entry-Level Options ($240-$280):

Premium Upgrades ($350-$400):

Luxury Options (up to $750):

Onderhoud's made-to-measure approach allows extensive customization of the LVL01 Derby Boot:

Each LVL01 Derby Boot is constructed using detailed foot measurements provided by the customer. Rizky Afnan works directly with customers through Instagram to ensure proper fit, requesting specific measurements including:

This personalized approach results in boots that fit significantly better than standard retail sizing, with many customers reporting the LVL01 as among the most comfortable footwear they own.

Due to the made-to-measure construction and quality leather materials, LVL01 Derby Boots typically require minimal break-in compared to off-the-shelf footwear. Most customers report comfortable wear from the first day, with the leather gradually molding to the foot over the first few weeks of wear.

The vegetable-tanned leather options may require slightly longer break-in periods but reward patience with superior aging characteristics and patina development over time.

Acquiring a pair of LVL01 Derby Boots requires patience and timing due to Onderhoud's small-scale production and high demand. The ordering process begins by following @onderhoud.handmade on Instagram and waiting for order books to open.

Rizky Afnan personally manages all customer communications, using a lottery system to fairly distribute limited production slots among interested customers. This approach has become part of the Onderhoud mystique, with many customers developing relationships with the maker over time.

Current production timelines for the LVL01 Derby Boot range from 4-6 months from order confirmation to completion. This extended timeline reflects several factors:

The LVL01 Derby Boot represents exceptional value in the handmade footwear market, with pricing determined by leather selection and customization level:

New LVL01 Derby Boots benefit from an initial conditioning with high-quality leather conditioner, particularly for vegetable-tanned leather options. Onderhoud provides basic care instructions with each pair, emphasizing the importance of allowing leather to breathe between wears.

The hand-welted construction enables full resoling when needed, making the LVL01 Derby Boot a buy-it-for-life investment. Regular maintenance includes:

The LVL01 Derby Boot excels at developing character through wear, particularly in vegetable-tanned leathers. The combination of quality materials and hand construction creates footwear that improves with age, developing unique patina patterns that reflect the wearer's lifestyle and habits.

LVL01 Derby Boot owners consistently praise the combination of construction quality, fit, and value. Common positive feedback includes:

Footwear enthusiasts and professional reviewers have recognized the LVL01 Derby Boot as exemplifying the best of Indonesian craftsmanship. The model demonstrates that exceptional handmade footwear can emerge from any location with sufficient skill and dedication to traditional techniques.