So(le) long

roycehamptontho3 months ago
Viberg 145 OxfordC.F. Stead Zulu Waxed Kudu
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Use & wear

Office Work
Physical Work
Travel
Cold Temperatures
Hot Temperatures
Leisure
Outdoor Activities

Primary footwear for last 6 months regardless of activity.

Leather

C.F. Stead Zulu Waxed Kudu
Break-In
Durability

These didn’t show a huge change in colour but the character is the hero of this story. The leather shows wear (scratches etc) easily that once brushed adds really satisfying depth and I’ll say it again… character. Also super comfortable from the outset and only became more so.

Fit

110 Last: 10.5EEUS Men's Brannock: 11E
Toe Box
Comfort
Length Feels Right
Volume Feels Right
Ball Feels Right
Satisfied with the Fit

Love the 110 last. It can have a slightly boxy feeling if I’m wearing super thin socks but on the whole a fan.

Craftsmanship

Viberg 145 Oxford
Design
Construction

I bought these from the 2023 Viberg Warehouse Sale and tbh I don’t think they had been through a finishing process. Perhaps a MTO that was abandoned for one reason or another. I had them changed from a commando sole to Dr Sole wedge and they were finished then. On the whole I think he did a terrific job. They are super solid and chonky. Love the pattern. Have sourced another 145 already.

Sole & heel

Traction
Durability
Comfort

I thought I would like the wedge more than I did. As it turns out I’m a little sad I converted pre dome but live and learn. Just before my final pictures I was caught in a very wet day and while my feet stayed super dry the soles with 6 months of solid wear were slippery as all get out. I like the look and the immediate comfort of the wedge but the durability and longevity weren’t as impressive.

Final thoughts

Would Recommend

Love these shoes and the leather. Going to give them a break and a resole and they will be back in the rotation before too long.

Written by roycehamptontho
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