Look at my horse, my horse is amazing.

Six days a week in the shop and around town. Lots of rain, snow and dust. Mostly freezing cold temperatures. Heavy use and few breaks. No glamorous trips around the world, just a workhorse of a boot working every day.

Break in was longer than I’m used to, with double layers of stiff-ass horsehide in the waist and heel. The toe area collapsed onto my big toe a little, right at the start of Boot Camp when I was doing 12000 steps a day… soon though, they softened and became very comfortable. Color darkened a lot and fat lines became more visible with conditioning, and the toes were scuffed to death with no side effects. I thought this leather would scratch easy but it’s just so dense it will never wear through.

The 9B/D 1942 last with added volume under the forefoot for use with super-thick wool socks has been very comfortable. Support is great, especially with that huge counter cover that runs all the way up the arch. I have narrow feet so there is some extra lateral space in the ball area but it doesn’t bother me. I chose to add to the forefoot because the shop where I make these boots is often in the low 40s during January and February and I need extra insulation from the cold concrete floor. Thick socks and a fit that doesn’t constrict blood flow or movement is a must.

Some of my best work. Clicking turned out amazing with rolls on both vamps and basically no grain break anywhere. Stitching this leather is HARD, especially navigating around the rivet area where you have three layers of leather and sharp turns. I think it turned out excellent and the white thread really pops against the darkened veg tan. Absolutely love to stare at this pair.

First time with the raw cord and it was pretty nice. Certainly looks are a big draw for this sole but the grip is also quite good, and it’s a pretty flexible rubber compared to Vibram’s offerings in the same thickness. I think it’ll take me three years of daily wear to need a resole…

Same as with the outsole, very cool looking, durable and grippy. Would wear again.

Overall very pleased with how this pair turned out. I’ll be reaching for them on cold and snowy days for a while I think. And they’re very stylish!