The Roots is a work boot manufactured by Rolling Dub Trio, a Japanese footwear company based in Tokyo. Built on the classic Munson last using double-row stitchdown construction, the Roots represents Rolling Dub Trio's interpretation of traditional American military and work boot design combined with premium Italian leather and Japanese craftsmanship.
Available in multiple heights ranging from 6 inches to 11 inches, the Roots incorporates a distinctive brogue cap-toe design that distinguishes it from purely utilitarian work boots. The model exemplifies Rolling Dub Trio's philosophy of creating footwear that is built to last and fully rebuildable over time, utilizing old world construction methods adapted for contemporary heritage footwear.
The Roots features double-row stitchdown construction, a method that provides durability and allows for resoling throughout the boot's lifespan. This construction approach aligns with Rolling Dub Trio's commitment to creating footwear that is fully rebuildable and recraftable over time.
The boot incorporates a distinctive brogue cap-toe design, featuring perforated leather work that elevates the aesthetic beyond purely functional work boots. This design element bridges the gap between utilitarian footwear and more refined styles while maintaining the boot's work-oriented heritage.
The Roots is built on the J-MUNSON Last, a versatile last type originally used by the US Army during wartime and subsequently modified to fit modern Japanese specifications. This last provides the boot's characteristic shape and fit profile, connecting the design to its military heritage while adapting to contemporary foot shapes.
The Roots is offered in multiple height configurations to accommodate different preferences and use cases. The 6-inch version serves as a middle ground between the lower Roots Low model and the taller 8.5-inch option, providing moderate ankle support while maintaining easier entry and exit.
The 8.5-inch version measures slightly over 9.5 inches tall when including heel height, offering substantial ankle coverage typical of traditional work boots. This height provides enhanced protection and support for demanding work environments while maintaining the boot's heritage aesthetic.
An 11-inch Engineer Boot version extends the Roots design into motorcycle boot territory, featuring the tall shaft characteristic of engineer boots while retaining the model's signature construction methods and materials. This variant demonstrates the versatility of the Roots design across different footwear categories.
The Roots utilizes ORIGINAL HORSEBUTT #1010 leather, a sturdy Italian horsebutt that undergoes hand-selection and receives final oil treatment in Japan before cutting and sewing. This combination of Italian leather craftsmanship with Japanese finishing techniques reflects Rolling Dub Trio's approach to sourcing premium materials while maintaining control over final preparation.
The boot is available in both black and brown horsebutt leather options, providing classic colorways that complement the boot's traditional design aesthetic. The horsebutt leather offers durability and aging characteristics prized by heritage footwear enthusiasts, developing patina and character through wear.
The Roots incorporates heavy-duty brass hardware throughout its construction, ensuring durability while providing visual elements that complement the boot's heritage design. The boots close with rawhide laces, a traditional choice that aligns with work boot heritage while offering reliability and longevity.
The model carries the style code BF01 and is designated as Model: ROOTS within Rolling Dub Trio's product line. This systematic approach to product identification reflects the brand's organized approach to its diverse model range.
The Roots features THE BOOTS FACTORY CORK RUBBER SOLE, a proprietary outsole developed by Rolling Dub Trio that combines cork and rubber materials for durability and traction. This sole construction provides the performance characteristics necessary for work boot applications while maintaining the aesthetic appropriate for heritage footwear.
The boot incorporates a QUABAUG heel with 27mm heel height, providing moderate elevation while maintaining stability and comfort for extended wear. The Quabaug heel choice reflects attention to traditional work boot sole construction while ensuring reliable performance across different surfaces and conditions.
The Roots is manufactured in small batches at The Boots Factory workshop in Tokyo, operated by Rolling Dub Trio. This small-batch production approach allows for careful attention to construction details and quality control while maintaining the exclusivity associated with Japanese heritage footwear brands.
The manufacturing process incorporates traditional techniques adapted for contemporary production, ensuring that each boot meets the brand's standards for durability and craftsmanship. The Tokyo location provides access to skilled craftspeople familiar with both traditional Japanese techniques and heritage footwear construction methods.
"Rolling Dub Trio Roots 6\" Boot - Brown Horsebutt". Standard & Strange. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
"Rolling Dub Trio Roots 8.5\" Boot - Brown Horsebutt". Standard & Strange. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
"Rolling Dub Trio - ROOTS Boot in Black Horse Butt". Tempo Design Store. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
"Rolling Dub Trio - Roots Collection". URAHARA. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
"Rolling Dub Trio Roots 11\" Engineer Boot - Natural Horsebutt". Standard & Strange. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
"Rolling Dub Trio Roots Black Horsebutt". Burgundy & Child. Retrieved September 18, 2025.