Funky naming boot in a comfortable, durable, and beautifully aging leather.

I haven't worn these boots super hard, but at the same time, I didn't go out of my way to baby them either. They’re built to actually be worn. I’ve used them nearly everyday (walking around, errands, light outdoor use, working in a hospital environment, holiday parties, yard work, etc.) and they handle it all without feeling delicate. The more scuffs and wear they pick up, the more character they get. I wasn't too stoked about the initial natural CXL color, but it turned into a rather pleasing caramel brown now.

Natural CXL is definitely one of those leathers that gets better the longer it's been worn/used. It started off as a lighter tan and has already darkened into a deeper, richer brown just from lighter-moderate wear and mild with some Bick 4. You can see how it’s starting to pick up rolls and creases in all the right places. I haven't truged through heavy snow or walked in down pouring rain with these boots, but it's gotten exposed to splashes chemical cleaner and a little water here and there, without significant damaging or even changing the leather tool much. CXL is comfortable from day one and requires minimal maintainance. It's just a pretty great leather for footwear.

The fit is solid after a mild break in period. The last doesn't feel exceptionally locked in, but it's also not too loose. The length is definitely shorter compared to other lasts I've tried, so it might not be the best for people with a longer HTT length compared to their HTB length. The last is labeled is E width. It's definitely got some vertical volume (especially in the toes), but it's not exceptionally wide. I feel like the width feels good for my D width feet (just a smidge of wiggle room).

You can tell these are well made (as expected of the John Lofgren brand and Japanese craftsmanship). Stitching is clean, everything lines up, and nothing feels cheap. The welt and finishing are super tidy. Just one of those pairs where you pick them up and everything just feels dialed in. The clicking is pretty good for CXL, without any excessively loose grain. All the hardware have been solid, without anything coming loose. The heel stack has also been pretty well put together, without any separation in the leather.

The outsole and heel have been exceptionally durable with minimal tread wear. The traction has also been pretty good on flat surfaces.

Durable and great traction on flat surfaces.

These are the kind of boots that reward wear. They look good new, but way better after some miles. If you like boots that age, darken, and develop personality, these really deliver.