
January was a hard month. Back to back storms, snow packed on top of snow, ice, strong gusts, wind chills below 0, and a cold that was felt deeper than ever before. These boots, and a double layer of wool socks, kept me up and active through all of it. I was apart of the response to one of the largest winter weather storms in my city's history, I did my job and still made time for my friends and my community. As is the case with my watches, every scratch and mark tells a story. The marks on these boots continue to tell a story of love, community, and what it means to be a friend.
Taken on February 4, 2026
Open Thunderdome 2025-2026, February 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.