BHHB - Custom Uphill Boot: Built like a tank and comfortable all day.
See specs
Maker
BHHB
Model
Custom Model
Leather
Last
Rounder Last: 11.5E
Sole
Heel
Purchased from
Bob Henderson
Order info
Cost: 591 USD
Availability: Custom
Lead Time: 4 months
More about this item
After initial break in, the Leather really is supple. Amazing boots.See background
Why did you choose this item?
After learning about the Thunderdome, I came across BHHB. I reached out to Bob and determined I wanted a taller boot. His moc toe builds on Instagram are beautiful, so it was an easy choice.
How did you determine your size?
I'm as 11.5 US in almost everything. I like a roomier toe box so we went with an E width. Unfortunately, I have tall insteps. Bob mentioned the Rounder Last has a higher instep than the Shooter Last so we went with it. He was also able to put a little extra room in the left foot, where my instep is taller. Excellent fit.
What was the ordering process?
Extremely smooth! Bob is awesome. We communicated directly through Instagram's messenger. He thoroughly explained leathers he had in stock and the fit of his lasts. We went over every detail of the boots. With his advice, we put together a solid plan. He kept me up to date throughout the whole process - and seeing him build them through his Instagram posts was a really nice bonus!
Use & wear
I've worn these everywhere from the office, cow pastures, a Daddy/Daughter dance to trudging through the woods.
Leather
The leather is tough overall. It doesn't scuff easily. Except on the moc stitch, but that's expected. The black overdye hold well but is slightly thinning around high wear areas such as the heels. A dark red hue is seeping through even more now. Ive only cleaned them a handful of times. I mostly just brush them off. Break in was pretty straightforward. Once the instep stretched to fit my foot and the full midsole earned its flex, the leather folded easily.
It's only on the tongue and lining the collar, so it broke in fast. Its holding up and formed to the laces almost instantly. It has darkened over time for sure and the roughout side of the tongue is a lot softer.
Fit
I can wear these all day. The 11.5 length is true to size. I went with an E width. I'm usually somewhere between D and E. The heels lift is just right, it doesn't feel like I'm rocking back and forth. The arch is subtle and feels right. Once the instep stretched a bit, everything else just fell into place (my left instep is a bit taller so that's a challenge with all shoes for me). I've worn thick and thin socks, no issues. Overall, these are a solid foundation and extremely tough whike fitting just right.
Craftsmanship
Bob pays attention to all the small details. The design is one I can wear anywhere from a field to a formal. At the same time, these are very tough. The finish was clean and free from any scuffs, off stitches or asymmetry.
Sole & heel
Its a tough, heavy lugged sole. No issues.
No issues. Performs as expected.
Final thoughts
Bob has a good thing going on. Investing in a solid pair of handmade boots is a big decision and I believe he understands that. His attention to details and ability to work with the customer prove it. He collaborates on every small detail to make sure the customer is happy. These Uphill boots will be part of my rotation now. They're mine, a 1 of 1, and that's a special thing. Great work, Bob. Cheers!
