Very impressed with these fantastic boots.

I wore these boots every single day for this project, which means through all kinds of weather and activity! Hiking, biking, commuting, traveling, and getting my daily steps in, through sun, wind, rain, and snow. These boots have been a faithful companion and they have never let me down.

This leather has been very interesting to break in. It is initially very tough and super thick, which means it takes a while to soften up. Once it does break in though (and it will eventually, trust) it becomes sooo comfy and feels so nice to the touch. A nice aspect of the thickness is that it doesn’t crease much, but forms more like rolls, and it doesn’t have any loose grain (really satisfied on that point). Being such a light color to begin with, you would think it would be easy to patina, but in fact it shrugs off stains and scratches, so even a super dark pair of jeans didn’t show as much crocking as I expected, and scratches just rub out easily. This made the patina process longer but I am pleased with the results.

I have slightly wide feet so the fit for me is spot on with an 8.5 wide, roomy in the toe box but snug overall. I usually wear thick Darn Tough merino wool boot socks and a thin Dr scholls insole for sweat control. Once broken in the boots feel like slippers and I find I can walk in them longer than in sneakers. The longest I have gone continuously is 30,000 steps, which was no problem for the boots. The leather soles are actually very forgiving and comfortable to walk on.

The construction quality and finish on these boots is outstanding, similar to Alden and Viberg level. No loose stitching, solid hardware, excellent clicking. I have walked probably close to 500 miles and I would walk 500 more in these, and then some. I really like the lining in the boots, it is so soft and comfy and I think the design is classic and very versatile.

The leather sole has been great, very comfortable to walk on. I was a little fearful regarding durability and slipperiness, but I put a rubber patch on the outsole and neither of these has been an issue. I feel like the soles could last quite a bit longer, and the only problem with traction has been on black ice (probably true of any boot though). The look of leather soles is nice also and works equally well for office use and outings.

The leather and rubber heel has given no problems. It is comfy and durable, but I probably will add a rubber heel tap as there is some heavy wear on the heels.

I have multiple Grant Stones and I am highly Impressed with the brand. Unbeatable quality for the price and just gets better with time and aging. I am looking forward to seeing how these Diesels patina in the years to come. Highly recommended!