Jakkrabbits Ivories Boot

On June 30, 2022, an early retirement incentive was offerred by my employer and so I decided to accept it after thirty years as a theatre tech/carpentry teacher, I retired. I knew it was coming, so in March of 2022, I ordered my very first pair of customized boots from Jakkrabbits.com as a retirement gift to myself. The boots I chose were the 8 inch Ivories boot made from Badalassi Carlo Olmo leather. They came with speedhooks, veldschoen welt, Dr. Soles half sole and heels and woodsman heels on a Nosler last. As an avid motorcycle rider, I wanted something durable and beautiful. The order was placed in March of 2022, but due to my sizing of Brannock 13D I had to wait for the lasts to be made. The boots finally shipped in June of 2022 and arrived via DHL. The box had been cut open and re-taped by customs. As I opened the box, I noticed that the bubble wrap around one of the boots had been cut and retaped. My heart sank as I unwrapped the boot and discovered a 9 inch long shallow knife slash running from ankle to toe across the instep of the right boot. It was not cut through, but in time would fail with wear. I called DHL, they told me the shipper would have to make a claim on my behalf. I was told not to wear them until the claim was resolved. I sent pictures and a statement and had to wait until DHL decided to offer me 50% refund on the boots and I could keep the boots. Kudos to Jakkrabbits.com for going to bat for me with DHL. They sat in the box until September 12. I had originally thought to just go ahead and wear them, but since the Stitchdown Patina Thunderdome was starting October 1 and riding season was winding down, I waited and entered them into the dome. The boots have aged well, cleaned up easy and have patinated far more than I expected. I dubbed them "The Slasher Boots". They have been brushed monthly, conditioned lightly with Saphir Renovateur and worn 103/180 days. Thank you SPD and Jakkrabbits for this amazing opportunity!!!