Woodcock TLC

The Woodcock TLC employs Russell Moccasin's distinctive triple vamp construction, featuring three layers of leather that completely surround the foot. This multi-layer design provides enhanced durability and weather protection while maintaining the flexibility characteristic of true moccasin construction. The triple vamp system creates a barrier system that manages moisture while allowing natural foot movement.

The construction begins with Russell's traditional moccasin foundation, where leather wraps around the foot like a hammock underneath. Each layer of the triple vamp serves a specific function, with the innermost layer providing comfort, the middle layer offering structural support, and the outer layer delivering weather protection and durability.

Every Woodcock TLC boot is fully handmade and handlasted using techniques passed down through generations of Russell craftsmen. The manufacturing process takes place in Russell's original Berlin, Wisconsin facility, where skilled bootmakers employ century-old Puritan Stitching machines alongside traditional hand-sewing methods.

The construction process involves hand-cutting, hand-lasting, and hand-sewing all leather components. This artisanal approach ensures each boot receives individual attention and allows for custom fit adjustments that define Russell's custom bootmaking philosophy. The time-intensive process reflects Russell's focus on quality over quantity, with the company producing only 10,000 to 12,000 pairs annually across all models.

The Woodcock TLC utilizes full-grain waterproofed leather sourced from established tanneries. Russell Moccasin maintains partnerships with respected leather suppliers, including Horween Tannery in Chicago, known for their Bronze Chamois leather with its distinctive matte velvet finish achieved through buffing and oil treatment processes.

The boot comes fully leather lined, providing additional comfort and weather protection. The leather lining works in conjunction with the waterproofed outer leather to create a comprehensive moisture management system suitable for extended outdoor use in challenging conditions.

The waterproofing system extends beyond the leather treatment to incorporate Russell's proprietary Overlap Seam construction. Originally patented in 1910, this seam design provides enhanced water resistance and durability at critical stress points. The overlap construction method creates sealed joints that prevent water intrusion while maintaining the boot's structural integrity under field conditions.

The Woodcock TLC is available in five standard color options: Black, Reddish Brown, Tan, Chocolate, and Green. These colors are selected to complement hunting environments while providing versatility for various outdoor applications. The color options utilize Russell's standard leather treatments that maintain consistent waterproofing and durability characteristics across all variations.

Customers can specify insulation levels based on their intended use conditions. The boot accommodates various insulation options, including the popular 200-gram Thinsulate system for cold weather hunting. Buyers can choose to insulate the entire boot or limit insulation to the foot area, allowing customization based on climate conditions and personal preferences.

The insulation system integrates with the triple vamp construction without compromising the boot's flexibility or fit characteristics. The modular insulation approach reflects Russell's custom manufacturing philosophy, where each boot is tailored to specific user requirements.

The standard sole configuration features Russell's hefty Claw Airbob sole, designed to provide traction and durability across varied terrain. The Airbob sole maintains flexibility while delivering the grip necessary for hunting applications. Alternative Vibram sole options are available, though these typically add weight to the overall boot construction.

Customers can also specify additional sole cushioning or reinforced toe caps for particularly challenging terrain applications. These modifications accommodate specialized hunting conditions while maintaining the boot's core performance characteristics.

The Woodcock TLC incorporates several comfort-focused design elements that support extended wear during hunting expeditions. The footbed is engineered for all-day comfort, accommodating the demands of rugged terrain navigation while maintaining proper foot support and alignment.

A finger loop positioned at the boot's rear facilitates easy slip-on wear, while the lacing system provides quick adjustment capabilities. These convenience features support field efficiency, allowing hunters to adjust their footwear quickly when conditions change.

The custom manufacturing process begins with detailed foot measurements that customers provide to Russell Moccasin. This measurement system accommodates foot irregularities and ensures proper fit across the boot's complex construction. Customers with bunions, differently sized feet, or other fit challenges can provide photographs to assist in the customization process.

Russell maintains customer measurements on file for ten years, facilitating future orders and repair services. This record-keeping system reflects the company's long-term relationship approach with customers and supports the boot's repairability over extended service life.

The Woodcock TLC builds upon Russell Moccasin Co.'s manufacturing heritage dating to 1898, when William Russell purchased the Wright Shoe Company and established the foundation for what would become America's moccasin manufacturer. The construction methods employed in the Woodcock TLC represent refinements of techniques developed over more than a century of continuous production.

The TLC designation reflects Russell's specialization in hunting footwear, building on the company's customer base among outdoor enthusiasts that includes notable customers such as Charles Lindbergh and Harrison Ford. This historical context positions the Woodcock TLC as part of Russell's outdoor footwear manufacturing history spanning over 125 years.

Manufacturing takes place in Russell's original Berlin, Wisconsin facility, located on the banks of the Fox River. This facility has housed Russell Moccasin production for over 124 years, maintaining the company's focus on American manufacturing while preserving traditional construction methods.

The facility employs approximately 30 people, with 22 working directly in production roles. This workforce maintains the specialized skills necessary for true moccasin construction, with knowledge passed from master craftsmen to apprentices in keeping with Russell's traditional approach to skill development.

Ordering a Woodcock TLC requires providing detailed foot measurements to Russell Moccasin's specialists. The measurement process accommodates the custom nature of each boot, ensuring proper fit across the complex triple vamp construction. Customers can visit trade show exhibits, follow online measuring instructions, or visit the Berlin, Wisconsin factory for direct measurement services.

The custom order process includes consultation regarding color choices, insulation options, and sole configurations. This collaborative approach ensures each boot meets the customer's specific requirements while maintaining Russell's construction standards.

The Woodcock TLC is positioned in the high-end hunting boot market, with pricing typically ranging from $527 to $655 based on customization specifications. This pricing reflects the extensive hand construction process, full-grain leather materials, and custom fitting services that define Russell Moccasin products.

The investment in a Woodcock TLC includes Russell's approach to repairability, with boots designed to accommodate multiple resoling cycles without compromising the upper construction. This long-term value proposition supports the boot's higher initial cost through extended service life potential.