I have worn these boots almost everyday for the duration of the Thunderdome. Only wearing other boots on maybe 3 or 4 days. Being in the winter they got exposed to a little cool to cold weather. On the colder days I wore thicker socks. I used these as work and casual boots. They work well for that , while not safety boots I have those to change to if needed, which is only occasionally.
The break in on these boots was about two weeks, it was not super difficult though I did develop some hotspots in the heel area. For care I have just brushed the boots with a horsehair brush, rinsed off with water once for a bit more dust removal. As these have aged the underlying color of the waxed roughout leather has peaked through more and more. My wife describes it as a wine color, I think of it as a royal purple. In most situations they look like dark or black boots with a natural welt. If in bright sunlight or using the flash the colors come out. This leather has barely started to show anything I would consider wear, just the wax slowly wearing away and the nap changing as the roughout is revealed. They feel quite tough and the leather is reasonably thick, I would not use them as a safety work boot, but they should stand up to light duty stuff. As a waxed leather they seemed to breathe better than expected. Probably dependent on the socks used .
So Parkhurst does not offer different widths and my Brannock is a 10e and I usually end up in ee width shoes and boots. The guidance I got was to buy true to size for a wider fit, this has worked out perfectly. The heel of the boot is snug along with the waist, and I have plenty of room for my toes. Arch support is minimal but sufficient for daily wear. Feel underfoot is similar to my Iron Rangers with a small amount more cushioning. Overall I am pleased with the fit of the boots and would order the same size again.
Looking over these boots I have no complaints on the overall level of craftsmanship. The boot is rolling instead of creasing at the flex areas, stitching is very consistent throughout. The shape of the boot is on the dressier side which works in most situations.
This sole has been good in most conditions. There were a couple concrete or stone surfaces where it was a bit slippery . Those were rare for me so that has not bothered me. Wear shows a bit on the heel were I have the typical heel strike rounding. Also the bottoms ridges have worn completely flat under the ball of my foot. I can’t say I put tons of mileage on these so will not draw a long term conclusion. Underfoot I didn’t feel the ridges like I did the lugs on other boots, which was good.
Not perfect on all situations, a little slippery on a couple concrete or stone surfaces. Wear might be high but I am not sure. Overall I have liked the traction and under foot feel.
I have quite enjoyed these boots, the waxy commander leather is fun and feels durable. The look of the boot in both design and color is amazing. They have been comfortable and I find myself reaching for them even though the contest is now over. The cost was pretty reasonable for what they are.