The Delaware

The Delaware exemplifies Parkhurst's mission to offer high-quality boots at prices significantly below comparable competitors, typically $150-$200 less than similar offerings from established heritage brands. The boot underwent final assembly and finishing in Buffalo, NY, while primary manufacturing occurs in Spain and Portugal through Parkhurst's international partnerships developed after COVID-19 disrupted American supply chains.

The Delaware features a brogue cap toe design with detailed broguing across the toe cap and quarters. Construction follows the traditional Goodyear welt method, the same process used to manufacture premium footwear since the mid-1800s. This construction method creates boots that are fully resoleable, extending their useful life significantly compared to cemented construction alternatives.

The boot incorporates a split reverse welt design that provides enhanced water resistance compared to standard welted construction. The construction process involves over 200 individual handmade steps per pair, reflecting Parkhurst's commitment to traditional craftsmanship methods despite the competitive pricing.

Internal construction includes natural cork, steel shank, and vegetable-tanned welt, midsole, and insole components. The heel construction features a stacked leather base with mild cushioning foam for comfort during extended wear.

The Delaware is constructed on Parkhurst's 602M last, which provides a roomy fit with natural instep contouring. The last features slightly wider dimensions than traditional D width lasts, with additional toe box room compared to sleeker boot designs that can restrict toe movement.

Sizing guidance recommends customers size down from typical sneaker measurements, often requiring a full size reduction. For Brannock device measurements, customers typically size down half a size for D width feet with regular volume, or a full size for narrower, lower volume feet. The 602M last proves particularly suitable for customers seeking comfort without the appearance of wider boots.

The boot design incorporates minimal break-in period requirements due to the glove leather interior lining and thoughtful last design. The roomy toe box prevents common comfort issues associated with pointed or narrow toe box constructions while maintaining an aesthetically proportioned appearance.

Parkhurst conducts final assembly and finishing operations in Buffalo, New York, while partnering with Spanish and Portuguese facilities for primary manufacturing. This hybrid approach developed following the closure of American suppliers and manufacturers during COVID-19, when the company's original domestic partnerships became unavailable.

The company sources components and raw materials domestically through distributors, tanneries, and manufacturers located in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Illinois, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania. Manufacturing emphasizes skilled craftsmanship over automation, with each boot requiring over 200 individual production steps completed by hand rather than machine processes.

Parkhurst's European partners provide the specialized labor and technology necessary for consistent quality production while maintaining the company's commitment to responsible manufacturing practices. The Buffalo facility handles quality control, final finishing touches, and direct customer service before shipping.

The Delaware retails for $370, positioning it significantly below comparable heritage footwear from established brands. This pricing reflects Parkhurst's strategy of offering premium materials and construction at $150-$200 less than traditional competitors.

The company's business model focuses on creating accessible entry points into heritage footwear while maintaining quality standards typically associated with higher-priced alternatives. The Delaware represents this philosophy through its use of premium materials including Horween leather and traditional Goodyear welt construction at competitive pricing.

Parkhurst achieves this positioning through direct-to-consumer sales, efficient manufacturing partnerships, and focus on essential quality elements rather than premium packaging or extensive marketing. The company also offers factory seconds and samples with minor cosmetic flaws at further reduced prices, expanding accessibility without compromising core construction quality.

The price point allows the Delaware to compete directly with imported alternatives while offering American final assembly and quality control, appealing to consumers seeking domestic production elements within reasonable pricing constraints.