
A Predator, one month in. Twenty-five wears later, the dusty taupe is gone. In its place: warm honey across the toes, soft coffee along the seams, and a quiet caramel glow at the edges. The creases have settled in like old friends, the kiltie has darkened to mahogany, and the leather has started telling its own story, one scuff and sunbeam at a time. Still the same gentle beast underneath. Just a little more awake now
Taken on December 2, 2025
Open Thunderdome 2025-2026, December submission
Nicks Handmade Boots
MTO
US Men's Brannock: 10.5D
HNW Last: 10C
Perfectly firm handshake fit without any negative pressure points. The leather feels substantial but supple. The heel gently hugs my heel without any undesired heel slip. The length is perfect with a full thumb width at the tip of my toes.
Nicks Handmade Boots
Cost: 622 USD
Availability: Limited Edition
Lead Time: 5 months
I saw this come across on a limited edition release in spring of 2025 and thought it was a great natural tone. In seeing how other Predator leather releases had developed patina over a short amount of time I thought this would make a killer boot. …and it hasn’t disappointed.
I measured my foot multiple times using tracings, circumferential tape, and on a brannock. Additionally, I had previously purchased a 10D HNW Nicks traveler and found it to be a smidge wide which led me to the 10C decision on this pair.
Order was easy to place on Nicks website. Then, just had to sit back and wait.