-25⁰F. Constant exposure to snow. Work and daily life in Alaska exposed these boots to a ton of adverse conditions through the thunderdome. In and out of doors these boots saw snow plowing, snowmobiliing, welding, mechanicing, chores, shoveling snow, Costco runs, and a myriad of other things.
1964 break in is indeed easy. It starts out comfortable and gets more comfortable. I beeswaxed the lowers to help protect against the elements and it not only added some phenominal protection it has really added to the character. Being winter in Alaska these didn't experience much dirty conditions so my care routine was just brushing occasionally to help keep the waxes distributed.
I love the HNW. It doesn't have too much arch support but still provides a comfortable and stable platform.
The Nick's TankerPro is my favorite boot of all time. I could rave on and on about the durability, quality, and comfort but I think their reputation precedes them enough that I don't need to. These boots live up to the expectation and uphold their immaculate reputation
The MaxWedge has held up quite well despite the initial peeling of the layers which my superglue continues to hold together. I've really enjoyed the light and squishy comfort and how much more conducive to my monkey antics these soles have been. The only minor issue I've had is that it holds moisture quite bad. It hasn't caused me any problems but I do notice it some times.
Final thoughts? Absolute satisfaction. I actually have a third pair of tankers en route to me right now. Nick's is an outstanding and honorable company. They are hands down my favorite boot makers and the TankerPro suites me, my lifestyle and needs the best of any boot I've ever worn by an astronomical margin.