The patina journey I’ve always wanted. I’m looking forward to the experience.

Nicks Custom ModelWickett & Craig Slate Double Stuffed

Maker

Nicks Handmade Boots

Model

Custom Model

Leather

Last

HNW Last

US Men's Brannock: 9.5E

HNW Last: 9.5E

They fit great! I’m glad I went with an E width.

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.

Why did you choose this item?

Availability: Custom
Style
Outdoor Activities

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?

HNW Last: 9.5EUS Men's Brannock: 9.5E
Online Guide
Sized Online
Tried On
Compared to Other Lasts
Trial Shoe

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?

Purchased from Nicks Handmade BootsTotal cost: 799 USD Lead time: 4 months
Online Store

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

Outdoor Activities

I’ve put about three and a half miles of walking.

Leather

Wickett & Craig Slate Double Stuffed
Break-In

Since the boots are new, I decided to wear them without the kilties because I want to break in the instep asap. The leather is stiff might take some time to mold to my lifestyle. I walked with my son the past few days and have put about 3.5 miles. I’ve noticed the leather is starting to slowly break in.

Fit

HNW Last: 9.5EUS Men's Brannock: 9.5E
Instep
Length Feels Right
Volume Feels Right
Ball Feels Right
Satisfied with the Fit

The fit feels right. My foot feels supported and they wear like tanks. I like to lace my boots on the tighter end and the instep can get a little uncomfortable after some time. I know the monitor discomfort will slowly go away after breaking the stiff veg tan leather and after adding the kilties.

Craftsmanship

Nicks Custom Model
Construction
Finishing
Stitching

The stitching on this pair is one of the best I’ve seen. The boots look great! The only complaint I have is the small dark spots at the tip of the boots. I’ve noticed that other pairs get that as well straight from the factory. Does anyone know why this happens?

Sole & heel

Vibram 100 Montagna Lug Full Sole Black6 days, current sole
Traction

I feel like I’m prepared for any terrain. I like the feeling that the V100 lug sole provides, sturdy with plenty of traction.

Vibram 100VWorn for 6 days, current heel

So far so good. No heel pain and or slipping.

Final thoughts

Would Recommend

I’ve been hunting for a true daily driver boot—something that can handle anything I throw at it—and I think I finally found it. This pair strikes that balance between rugged utility and everyday style. I can lace them up for a night out or put them to work without hesitation. The Wickett & Craig slate double-stuffed leather was the right call—the color has depth, the hand feel is rich, and I can tell it’s going to age beautifully. I can’t wait to see how the patina develops over the next six months as these boots start to tell my story.

Written by RubenHernandez
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