Footwear to go with our jackets

[dubpynchon]

Just poking around a little I saw one or two boots with Horween leathers. Does it cost extra for CXL, or is a leather they normally stock? Sorry again if you addressed this all, I’m behind on this thread haha. Those look tough enough for a war though. Look like tanks.

I think it was around £20, I'd have to dig through a mountain of emails with Libs to find the exact amount. I'd recommend them, great boots.

 

[Jin431]

Benzein service boots ( Maryam toscanello horse rump) for a light hike to break in the boots

 

[dubpynchon]

Just poking around a little I saw one or two boots with Horween leathers. Does it cost extra for CXL, or is a leather they normally stock? Sorry again if you addressed this all, I’m behind on this thread haha. Those look tough enough for a war though. Look like tanks.

I don’t think they had any other Horween options other than CXL, they keep the prices low, fair play to them.

 

[dannyk]

I don’t think they had any other Horween options other than CXL, they keep the prices low, fair play to them.

They have one pair listed right now in Latigo. Which a Veg. Retan. That might be interesting.

https://www.rufflander.co.uk/shop/h...ts/78ptc-mens-traditional-leather-derby-boot/

 

[Psant25]

Same as dundas footwear those look good and great looking leather to boot. made by WL I believe

https://dundasfootwear.com/collections/type01

 

[powerserge]

Directly from their site. You can email them, then a nice lady (Libs) will contact you and you can discuss all the customization options (they offer a variety of leathers). It is a pity that their site is not that good.
Seriously, I really wonder why they are not more popular here.
I really don't remember how I was introduced to them many years ago, probably I have (again) TFL to blame!
Happy new year to all by the way, good riddance to 2020, stay healthy (and buy quality shoes and leather jackets)!

Do you know if WL still offer brass screwed soles? I remember reading something that WL and Rm Williams are some of the only brands to still offer that method of sole construction

Benzein service boots ( Maryam toscanello horse rump) for a light hike to break in the boots

View attachment 296798

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Those are super nice! Really like the brogue cap toe. I want to add another pair from them or another Indonesian maker. Especially admire your cordmasters from Sagara. What do you think of the Toscanello horserump so far? I love mine and I actually also have Toscanello cowhide boots coming in from Truman

 

[Jin431]

Do you know if WL still offer brass screwed soles? I remember reading something that WL and Rm Williams are some of the only brands to still offer that method of sole construction

Those are super nice! Really like the brogue cap toe. I want to add another pair from them or another Indonesian maker. Especially admire your cordmasters from Sagara. What do you think of the Toscanello horserump so far? I love mine and I actually also have Toscanello cowhide boots coming in from Truman

Thank you, the brogue cap toe is the fanciest cap toe I've ever worn and it's charming. I think the Indonesian boot makers are quite good, I'll order from them in the future as well if there is a leather I would like to have.

These boots are a bigger than I would like but I wore 2 socks today and that did the trick as my foot was not slipping all over the place anymore. The leather itself is rich (probably the best of the boots i currently own), feels sturdy, light scratches go away after a quick brush. The rolls and creases are starting to show and it's more pronounced on the right boot so that's interesting character to see. This is only the 2nd time I wore it and I feel the midsole is starting to form around my foot better. I was able to run/jog/walk just fine without any pain or blisters. I used dr soles raw cord for the outsoles (like in the cordmasters), I think the hemp fibers that stick out especially when the rubber wears down is growing on me.

I probably would have ordered the Truman toscanello as well if I didn't already ordered this pair from benzein.

 

[powerserge]

Thank you, the brogue cap toe is the fanciest cap toe I've ever worn and it's charming. I think the Indonesian boot makers are quite good, I'll order from them in the future as well if there is a leather I would like to have.

These boots are a bigger than I would like but I wore 2 socks today and that did the trick as my foot was not slipping all over the place anymore. The leather itself is rich (probably the best of the boots i currently own), feels sturdy, light scratches go away after a quick brush. The rolls and creases are starting to show and it's more pronounced on the right boot so that's interesting character to see. This is only the 2nd time I wore it and I feel the midsole is starting to form around my foot better. I was able to run/jog/walk just fine without any pain or blisters. I used dr soles raw cord for the outsoles (like in the cordmasters), I think the hemp fibers that stick out especially when the rubber wears down is growing on me.

I probably would have ordered the Truman toscanello as well if I didn't already ordered this pair from benzein.

I think brogue cap toes also look better than the straight stitched cap toes. The Indonesian makers offer a great value for money and the chance to get pretty much anything you can think of and generally whatever leather you want.
It's unfortunate that your boots are slightly on the bigger side but glad the extra socks help, have you thought about throwing in a insole?
I'm becoming a big fan of the dr soles products but so far only have had experience with the supergrip halfsoles and heels. I have heard really good things about raw cord and how indestructible they are, I may have to order myself the sole and resole one of my boots with it.

 

[powerserge]

Here are my TDD-01 boots from Benzein in Toscanello horse rump from Maryam. I’ve had them for about 2 months now and from the get go they have fit me perfectly. This is unlike any other boot experience I have had up to this point, and it was definitely worth the wait. Indonesia has become a favorite place of mine and is full of very talented makers. These pictures are some that I took one when first received the boots. I will eventually post some more updated pictures as they age more. Also happy new years everyone!

Edit: Sorry for the flipped pictures not sure why they changed after I uploaded them

 

[Harris HTM]

Do you know if WL still offer brass screwed soles? I remember reading something that WL and Rm Williams are some of the only brands to still offer that method of sole construction

No idea, I got my last pair from them 4 years ago if I remember well.

 

[Jin431]

I think brogue cap toes also look better than the straight stitched cap toes. The Indonesian makers offer a great value for money and the chance to get pretty much anything you can think of and generally whatever leather you want.
It's unfortunate that your boots are slightly on the bigger side but glad the extra socks help, have you thought about throwing in a insole?
I'm becoming a big fan of the dr soles products but so far only have had experience with the supergrip halfsoles and heels. I have heard really good things about raw cord and how indestructible they are, I may have to order myself the sole and resole one of my boots with it.

Got it so brogue cap toe is slightly curved, I thought they just had holes in them that's why they are different lol I think Indonesian makers offering a premium selection of leather and soles for a reasonable asking price with the quality of worksmanship they do is smart business. I am convinced by the makers I've bought boots from (Sagara/Benzein/Junkard)

I will eventually need to buy leather insoles for that boot, any recommendations you can throw my way? I've seen the super grip half soles and they look well made, they offer it in a full sole now so I'll want to try that too

Here are my TDD-01 boots from Benzein in Toscanello horse rump from Maryam. I’ve had them for about 2 months now and from the get go they have fit me perfectly. This is unlike any other boot experience I have had up to this point, and it was definitely worth the wait. Indonesia has become a favorite place of mine and is full of very talented makers. These pictures are some that I took one when first received the boots. I will eventually post some more updated pictures as they age more. Also happy new years everyone!
View attachment 296833 View attachment 296834 View attachment 296835 View attachment 296836 View attachment 296837
Edit: Sorry for the flipped pictures not sure why they changed after I uploaded them

Those TDD 01 really look good, do you like it because of how it's lasted? It has a nice shape to it, it probably holds your foot in place. I should get one of these lol if I do get them I'll have 3 rows of speed hooks instead. It looks a little more formal than what I would regularly wear but that looks stunning. Congratulations

 

[Woodtroll]

This discussion is interesting to me just now:



By way of reminder, I started this thread in the "General" attire section. I am in no-manner an expert at anything. Much less Engineer boots. I just like them:
https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/comparison-wesco-mr-lou-to-john-lofgren-engineer.102418/

Woodtroll - If you (like me) have worn primarily lace-up boots since you were a teenager, you may find the engineer boot journey a challenge. Sounds like you started with some cheaper ones, which is a very good idea. I have a "slightly" narrow foot, a 11.5C/12C is my ideal size in most makes & models of boots. However as I indicated in the thread, John Lofgren's only come in one width.

The Wesco Mr. Lou's can be ordered in other widths. I suggest looking at Baker's boots if you decide to try Wesco's (no matter what type).

Here is the rub for me - the Lofgren's require a good double-sock to fit me. Once on however and "locked in" they walk rather well for an engineer. My Mr. Lou's fit much better (and with only one pair of socks needed) however as I am starting to wear them a bit on carpet in my house only, I am finding something different out here. The "walk" is different. They seem a lot more choppy. I would have expected the opposite - as they fit Much Better. However the Lofgren's' simply walk smoothly. I still do not recommend walking all day in them - that would be pretty difficult.

I suspect some of this can be attributed to the photos below. Notice the shape difference below (mostly toward the front) Lofgren's on the Right in both photos.

View attachment 295507

The difference is a bit easier to see with a straightedge in between:

View attachment 295509

So I cannot pretend to tell how this works a different "step" feel between two similar pairs of boots. However it sure seems to. I would be interested in your throughs. Also this may be something to consider as you look for the right pair of engineer boots. Hope it's helpful...

Thank you! All of the points you discuss have been concerns for me. And, like you say, engineers just aren't made to walk in, at least not for extended periods. I bought the pair I have prior to a hip replacement a couple years ago, because I just couldn't see being able to bend over to lace up my normal boots (and I certainly wasn't, at least for a while!). Having pull-on boots was a blessing, but of course I wasn't doing very much walking then, so the fit and "walkability" didn't matter as much.

I've about resigned myself to admire them from afar, although I sure do like the way some of them look and would like to own one good pair someday.

 

[dannyk]

I’d also recommend checking out Parkhurst guys.
https://www.parkhurstbrand.com/

American made a short drive from
My house. One owner who does all the design work. Has a small team of 8 in a shop that has living wages, benefits. Uses all the same good stuff like horween, Maryam, CF Stead etc.. dainite soles. Everything he makes is under 350 minus customs. He will do custom work though. Will make anything actually if you provide the leather. Does offer some deals on seconds and samples. Doesn’t have a big line or many lasts. That’s the one downfall of his operation being so small. Doesn’t really have any tanks or true work boots. Mostly traditional service style boots with more modern city life aesthetics. Andy is the owners name. Met him a few times he’s super nice and responsive and just a good dude.

 

[Jin431]

I've seen parkhurst boots before, never knew you can go full custom. The dark brown Maryam HH is intriguing to me.

@Marc mndt might be interested in a MTO bruciato HH to pair with his Thedi

 

[dannyk]

I've seen parkhurst boots before, never knew you can go full custom. The dark brown Maryam HH is intriguing to me.

@Marc mndt might be interested in a MTO bruciato HH to pair with his Thedi

Yup.you pick from the base models he has, the hardware he uses, the soles he offers. And he has a wider selection of leathers than what his stock models are. And yeah will use leather you provide if you get high quality stuff and enough of it. I’ve had 3 pairs of his stuff. Sold 2 of them. Not because they weren’t good, just got them as part of a deal then found out they didn’t fit. The ones I kept are “The Allen” in Natural Dublin and honest might be the most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned. So it’s not like full custom in the sense he will change the last or make a new model for you. But cool enough for me.

 

[Jin431]

Yup.you pick from the base modes he has, the hardware he uses, the soles he offers. And he has a wider selection of leathers than what his stock models are. And yeah will use leather you provide if you get high quality stuff and enough of it. I’ve had 3 pairs of his stuff. Sold 2 of them. Not because they weren’t good, just got them as part of a deal then found out they didn’t fit. The ones I kept are “The Allen” in Natural Dublin and honest might be the most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned. So it’s not like full custom in the sense he will change the last or make a new model for you. But cool enough for me.

Got it, always thought they just made boots with CXL or CF stead so I was never that into parkhurst brand. Don't know where to source boot quality hides, so I think I'm good with the dark brown HH. I just ordered a java Truman so I'll wait a while to see if they are too similar.

I think we have pretty similar boot sizes. How are their sizing? I'm an 8D with Truman 79 last or 8.5D on c55 last. For red wings I'm 7.5D moc toe, 8D blacksmiths.

 

[Ayeteael]

Here are my TDD-01 boots from Benzein in Toscanello horse rump from Maryam. I’ve had them for about 2 months now and from the get go they have fit me perfectly. This is unlike any other boot experience I have had up to this point, and it was definitely worth the wait. Indonesia has become a favorite place of mine and is full of very talented makers. These pictures are some that I took one when first received the boots. I will eventually post some more updated pictures as they age more. Also happy new years everyone!
View attachment 296833 View attachment 296834 View attachment 296835 View attachment 296836 View attachment 296837
Edit: Sorry for the flipped pictures not sure why they changed after I uploaded them

Those are sharp. The Indonesian makers are incredibly talented. Once you get past the fit anxiety and wait time, they’re an excellent choice. There are so many great US based bootmakers now, on top of the Asian makers: grant stone, parkhurst, mark albert, Truman, etc. I don’t have any personal experience with these makers, but they’ve got a lotta fans on social media. I came close to getting some grant stones during the Black Friday sale, but spent that money elsewhere.

 

[dannyk]

Got it, always thought they just made boots with CXL or CF stead so I was never that into parkhurst brand. Don't know where to source boot quality hides, so I think I'm good with the dark brown HH. I just ordered a java Truman so I'll wait a while to see if they are too similar.

I think we have pretty similar boot sizes. How are their sizing? I'm an 8D with Truman 79 last or 8.5D on c55 last. For red wings I'm 7.5D moc toe, 8D blacksmiths.

Sounds like we would be the same. On a brannock I’m a true 8.5 and that’s what I take in Parkhurst. The two I sold were 9s. I’m a 7.5 in any red wings I’ve ever tried. Dont know Truman haven’t owned any. They are on my list to try. I’m torn between getting the Java waxed flesh from them. Or getting Type 3 Service boots from ATF and then dubbing them myself. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. But if I buy those and do that, it’s essentially like making my own waxed flesh and then no need for the Truman’s.

 

[Blackadder]

Viberg roughout engineer with FW Aviator vest and Bronson 1943 Gurkha combat pants

 

[Jin431]

Sagara Cordmasters lace-to-toe boots in Olive Badalassi with Black Overdye for a walk around a local park and neighborhood today. Boots are starting to break in.