Six months of transformative wear
See specs
Maker
Nicks Handmade Boots
Model
Custom Model
Leather
Last
Sole
Heel
Purchased from
Nicks Handmade Boots
Order info
Cost: 799 USD
Availability: Custom
Lead Time: 4 months
More about this item
7 inch, celastic toe, gun metal hooks and eyes, black stitching, block heel profile.See background
Why did you choose this item?
I’ve been fascinated by PNW bootmakers for a couple of years now—the craftsmanship, the heritage, the functionality. For my 31st birthday, my wife surprised me with my first pair of custom boots, and I knew I wanted to create something special—something I’d be proud to wear every day. Lately, I’ve been refining my style and dialing in a more mature wardrobe, so I aimed for a build that bridges both worlds: rugged enough for real work, but refined enough to pair effortlessly with casual fits.
How did you determine your size?
I dialed in my sizing based on what I learned from my first pair of handmade boots—a pair of White’s 350-CS in 9.5D. I’ve logged hundreds of miles in those, and I really appreciate the support and shape of the 55 last. The length is spot on, but after long days—10 miles or more—my feet tend to swell a bit, and I start to feel some pressure in the toe area. This time around, I decided to go with the HNW last, which offers a little more toe room and a rounder profile compared to the 55’s almond shape. I also opted for an E width per Nicks recommendation on their online support. The E width decision helped to balance the arch support and give my feet the space they need for all-day comfort. I will have to report back once I put these to the test and complete a long day.
What was the ordering process?
I ordered this pair online. The process was smooth. The only complaint I have is that I paid extra for additional customization to get black thread and I received their standard white. Not a huge deal, but I was a little disappointed. The boots arrived four months after placing the order.
Use & wear
All the creases and rolls have been earned through serious miles of walking and hours of work. I used these boots to hike, work, church, Disney trips and everything in between.
Leather
The evolution has been exceptional. This leather is special. The original slate has transformed into a glowing spectrum of warm browns and copper tones, with heavy burnishing across the toe and heel. The pull-up is alive—shifting in the light and giving the leather depth and a finish that shifts beautifully with the light. I brushed the leather after every use with a horse hair brush and kept wooden shoe trees to keep their shape. I also connected with people in the community that suggested Smiths leather balm to condition the leather, kilties, and laces.
Fit
The fit has settled in perfectly. After the initial break-in (couple of weeks) they’ve molded to my foot with a secure heel and comfortable forefoot. These things are tanks and not a lightweight boot at all but I can wear them all day long. I’m also glad Nicks staff suggested EE width to give me the right fit. I do wish I had more arch support because I was more used to the 55 last.
Craftsmanship
This build has proven itself. Clean stitching, strong structure, and a finish that holds up under real use. Nothing has loosened, nothing has failed—it’s the kind of construction you stop thinking about because it just works.
Sole & heel
Excellent traction with minimal wear—balances the refined upper with real utility. The material is tough and not as comfortable but I’ll take that trade off because my other boots have terrible heel drag.
Durable, stable, and proven. Performs exactly as expected under sustained wear.
Final thoughts
I’m proud to wear these every day. This double stuffed leather is aging right—high contrast, depth, and character earned through wear.
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The patina journey I’ve always wanted. I’m looking forward to the experience.
Nicks Custom Model in Wickett & Craig Slate Double Stuffed