Seidel 1964 Tan Smooth

The 1964 leather collection takes its name from the year Nicks Boots was founded in 1964. Originally developed by Nicks in collaboration with Seidel Tanning Corporation, the leather line initially launched with a brown color option. The collection later expanded to include tan, black, walnut, and chocolate variants, each offering distinct aging characteristics while sharing the same foundational tanning process and construction specifications.

Seidel 1964 Tan Smooth is constructed from 7-8 ounce chrome-tanned steerhide, processed with Seidel's specialized full-grain chrome tannage method. The leather undergoes tanning with extra oils and waxes to achieve a softer temper compared to standard chrome-tanned leathers. A heavy infusion of oils through the hot-stuffing process ensures the leather maintains flexibility while developing its characteristic patina over time. The tan variant is available at no additional charge when ordering Nicks boots.

The tan color variant stands out among 1964 leathers for its dramatic patina evolution. Starting as a light tan shade, the leather gradually transforms through wear and exposure, developing into what is described as a burnt-looking light brown. This color transformation occurs naturally as the oils in the leather respond to use, sunlight, and the wearer's unique environment, making each pair of boots develop a distinctive appearance over time.

Seidel Tanning Corporation, a fourth-generation family-owned tannery based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has operated for over 75 years and stands as the only Milwaukee tannery continuously operating since World War II. As one of the largest producers of high-quality leather in the United States, Seidel primarily processes cow hides for the footwear industry. The company specializes in full-grain leather using chrome tannage and earned Leather Working Group certification on February 21, 2024, demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability in leather production.