Traipsing through forests, rocky riverside hikes with my dog, trick or treating with my kiddos, walking through Brooklyn at night for miles, getting stomped on at a Julian Casablancas & the Voidz concert....these boots have lived a robust and super diverse life already! Had to saddle stitch the short front strap back on after fastening them way too tight. Otherwise, they have been molding to my feet perfectly. I've enjoyed the rare privilege of being fashionable and practical that these boots have afforded me. :-) <3
The break-in process was easy breezy except for a little rubbing on my pinky toe. Went away after about a week of daily hikes/walks. I'm excited to see the leather cracking and slouching, they're finally getting imbued with a soul!! No major color change in the cracks, which I love. In every aspect of life, I am a monchrome all-black type of gal. As for care, I just brush them when they're dusty. I'm not a fan of super shiny polished boots, which is why I'm in the dome to begin with lol
There was some pesky rubbing on my pinky toe the first few weeks. After a little blister, the issue was fixed with the addition of insoles, which also provide arch support. Amazing fit with nice thick Dickies socks, sliding around a bit if worn with thin socks.
I am extremely picky about shoes. They MUST be all black, no colored stitching, completely black soles, no gold/brass hardware, only silver. I had a hell of a time finding black monochrome boots that checked all these boxes. Not to mention boots cool enough to be worn with dresses, yet legitimately constructed enough for work and extreme terrains as well. The construction is superb. Comfy, sturdy yet malleable, and no issues other than the one aforementioned strap coming unstitched. Easy fix.
Extremely solid block heel with very little bend or squish to it. They feel like they'll last forever. With the thick chunky black lugs, these could qualify as goth girl boots in the proper context (which is a very positive and surprising design trait for an indestructible tanker work boot to have!). The lugs also give excellent traction. I have yet to slip or fall, even on hillsides and rocky beaches.
Great for climbing. Hard as a rock, made of 100% leather. I can knock on it and it sounds totally solid, not squishy or rubbery like other boots I've had. And lemme just say...I wouldn't want to get kicked by someone wearing these. Ow. Grateful these heels are attached to ME!