
2 months in. A lot of personal growth in that time, and these boots were there for all of it. They've traveled to Europe, a continent I had never been to before, and provided all day comfort so I could be in moment with close friends; my chosen family. They've been around town, helped me stay on my feet through community events - open art houses and food distribution to those in need. They've been in the field, as the holiday season kicks into gear, so to does my workload in public service. They've been through rain, snow, mud, and salt. The chromexcel continues to hold its shine, despite being conditioned only once - prior to the competition start. Seen here, the cap toe trench boot is positioned next to another Oak Street product in my collection and also in Natural Chormexcel, The Trench Oxford. The Difference in Patina is clear, but The Cap Toe Trench Boot is catching up quickly. If it matches the worn, caramelized and marble like, patina of the Trench oxford by the end of the competition, it will be a personal victory for me. Onto December, and The New Year.
Taken on December 3, 2025
Open Thunderdome 2025-2026, December submission
Oak Street Bootmakers
Trench Boot
US Men's Brannock: 10.5EEE
Elston Last: 10.5
No modifications needed.
The Elston Last is unique in its naturally wide toe box. Where with any other brand I would be ordering a 10.5 in EEE, not so with Oak Street, they are very comfortable out of the box.
Oak Street Bootmakers
Cost: 398.4 USD
Availability: Stock Model
Lead Time: 4 days
Oak Street is my go to brand for boots, I own several pairs from them. American made, Hand lasted, and even assembly being completed in upstate New York (my home state - something about my money staying local, it resonates with me). When deciding to participate in this year's Thunderdome, I felt the natural chromexcel would be the perfect fit for this competition.
I went with my Brannock measurements. I prefer the Elston Last because of its naturally wide toe box. I typically run EEE on other shoe brands, oak street provides all day comfort.
Very quick. Navigating the Oak Street website is no problem at all, they even through in a key fob as a token of appreciation for my years of doing business with them. Communication was quick and precise, Boots arrived at my doorstep 4 days after I placed the order. A great retail experience, as expected, and would not hesitate to purchase from them again in the future.