Packer

Otto White perfected the Packer design during the 1930s specifically for Forest Service workers who loaded horses and traveled through rugged terrain to transport supplies. The boot's design prioritizes durability and arch support for extended periods on horseback and rough ground. White's Boots continues to manufacture the Packer using the same hand-sewn methods at their Spokane, Washington facility, with each pair requiring 14 to 16 weeks for production.

White's Boots developed the Packer as part of a series of specialized work boots during the 1930s, alongside the Lineman, Sportsman, Semi-Dress, and Oxford styles. Otto White designed these boots for American workers who required more specialized footwear than what was available in the general market. The Packer specifically addressed the needs of United States Forest Service mule packers, who required sturdy boots capable of withstanding extended use in remote wilderness areas.

The original Packer was designed for workers who would load up horses and ride through rugged terrain to bring goods and supplies from one location to another. This application demanded boots that could provide secure footing in stirrups while offering sufficient ankle support for walking on uneven ground. Otto White's design incorporated the 690 last, one of the oldest lasts in White's collection, which had previously been used for mining and logging boots.

Otto White remained active in the White's factory until his death in 1972 at age 91, continuing to refine bootmaking techniques and train new craftsmen in the traditional methods used for boots like the Packer.

The Packer utilizes hand-sewn stitchdown construction, a method that White's Boots has employed since 1853. This construction involves more than 25 unique stages performed by hand, with master bootmakers hand-lasting, hand-welting, and hand-bottoming each boot individually. The process begins with hand-stitching the upper to the insole using an awl and thread at three stitches per inch.

The boot features an 8-inch height constructed from 6-ounce Seidel full-grain water-resistant leather. Double-row stitchdown construction secures the upper to a leather midsole and shank system, providing structural integrity throughout the boot. The construction includes a pure leather insole and midsole, with no synthetic components in the boot's foundation.

White's builds the Packer on their 690-C Arch-Ease last, which incorporates a high arch design originally developed for mining and logging applications. The last features increased height and width in the toe box, along with an underslung heel configuration for enhanced support. The Arch-Ease system creates a custom fit as the all-leather construction molds to the wearer's foot over time.

The Packer measures 8 inches in height and weighs approximately 2 pounds 14 ounces per boot, totaling nearly 3 pounds per boot. The upper consists of full-grain water-resistant leather in a 6-ounce thickness, providing durability while maintaining flexibility. White's constructs the boot as a fully gusseted design to enhance water resistance.

Hardware includes five eyelets and five speed hooks, along with rawhide leather boot laces and removable brown leather kilties. The boot features antique brass hooks and eyelets throughout the lacing system. An almond-shaped toe design facilitates insertion into stirrups, reflecting the boot's original purpose for mounted workers.

The sole system combines a Vibram V-bar outsole, also known as the Tigam 700, with a leather stacked heel designed for durability on varied terrain. The construction allows for complete rebuilding, with rebuild services available at approximately half the cost of a new pair.

White's recommends sizing down from typical athletic shoe sizes, as the Packer runs large compared to modern sneaker sizing. Most customers order a half size down from their regular shoe size to achieve proper fit.

The Packer retails for approximately $700 through White's Boots and authorized dealers. As a made-to-order item, production requires 14 to 16 weeks for completion. White's manufactures each pair individually at their Spokane, Washington facility using traditional hand-sewn methods.

Authorized dealers include Baker's Boot & Clothing, which offers customization options for customers seeking modifications to the standard specification. The boot is also available through White's direct sales channels, including their official website and Spokane retail location.

White's offers the Packer through their Legacy Collection, which consists of heritage-style boots with historical significance in American work boot development. The company maintains the original specifications and construction methods established by Otto White during the 1930s development period.