Designed for the south, worn in the north.

I got these boots specifically to wear hunting quail in the south, which I never managed to do this year. I did however wear them for several days of grouse hunting in New York and Vermont. Those days were particularly wet and or snowy. They also spent a few days in our Pennsylvania dove field. Other than that, they just got every shit detail that called for wearing boots. Oh, they also made the trip to Berlin, WI and to Boot Camp!

The rough out has darkened significantly over the course of the Dome. It has also flattened in some places. The first couple months it really didn’t want to give up any patina, then it slowly started turning. It also absorbed a LOT of indigo from my jeans. The break in was easy, and essentially a non factor. There really was zero care needed or given. All I would do is brush them when they were dirty. The water repellency of the rough out was basically 100%. These boots are going to last forever. Pecos Chamois Roughout is the leather equivalent of smooth, comfortable, stainless steel.

The fit is perfect. Out of the box they felt great, and as with all double (or triple) vamp Russells they mold so well to my feet. They are arguably among the most comfortable boots I own. I have worn them on several 10+ mile days hunting grouse, and they were awesome, even though they really aren’t technically suited for that. I just cinched the strap tighter and they wore just like lace up boots.

Even though handstitched there are zero flaws or bad stitches. Even though they have been worn hard none of the stitches have frayed. I love the Zephyr design, they are a great hunting boot, but also a great boot to pull on and go get the paper.

It’s ok, it’s comfortable. I’m not crazy about the look. I’ll likely replace it with the same sole I have on my Walnut Timberjack Zephyrs, which won’t be too long as there is definitely some wear on the heel. I will likely have the Oxford sole next time. Better traction in Appalachian upland conditions than I expected, but not as good as other choices. This boot was designed to be worn in the south Texas desert. I think it would be perfect there.

It’s ok, but I would go with the Oxford sole next time.

It’s a great pair of boots. They are basically bullet proof. They have been forced through briars and dragged against rocks and walked a ton in deep snow, and the leather basically flinched. I suspect that 50 years from now my grandson will be wearing them. I hope he is a 9D