
This was a very heavy month of usage - rain, snow, dog walking, hauling things, and a few heavy days of 20k steps. Lots of scuffs and scrapes, and I'll be rewaxing them with VLB halfway through January, as now there are spots where the wax has worn and the suede is absorbing water. They are looking well worn though, so I'm loving this patina.
Taken on January 4, 2026
Open Thunderdome 2025-2026, January submission
Grant Stone
Diesel Boot
US Men's Brannock: 9.5D
Leo Last: 9D
The 9D in Leo is a good fit and the ball is at the right place. I think the lasting could have been a bit tighter at the ball because I see folds developing in that area, or the last/pattern shape has more value there than I have. But overall very comfortable.
Grant Stone
Cost: 320 USD
Availability: Stock Model
Lead Time: 15 days
I wanted a boot that was light but durable, and would do well in the dutch weather (loads of rain). These popped up on my feed and having so much about Grant Stone, I decided to pick them up (and it just so happened that it was in time for the Open Dome).
I wrote to GS and they were extremely helpful. The sizing recommendation was spot on.
Found them online and ordered during Labor Day sale. Arrived a few days later. Packaging, shipping, and boxing were really top notch.