Grant Stone
Edward Boot
Leo Last
US Men's Brannock: 7.5D
Leo Last: 6D
Returned original submission of same boot of 6.5D after comparing sizes with this now late entry
Vibram 100 Montagna Lug Full Sole Black
Less than a day, current sole
Micro Stud Rubber Sole
Made for Grant Stone
Less than a day, current sole
Grant Stone
My previous trail runners wore out and I wanted to replace them with quality stitchdown leather that would last longer and look good. I wanted a pair of black water resistant boots that can handle all kinds of outdoor terrain while I walk dogs and also cleans up nice enough to meet real estate clients.
I originally ordered this pair in 6.5 per the online guide and submitted photos for these in October. But I suspected that a size 6 would fit better so I ordered a second pair. After comparing the fit of both pair I withdrew the size 6.5 boots from the competition and sent them back to Grant Stone. Then I waited for November to submit the size 6 boots. The size 6 Edwards accommodates a half arch support for me comfortably.
I ordered online and shipping was prompt. The return was handled easily
These boots walked on city sidewalks, suburban paved and graveled trails, and rural deer paths which included dirt, mud, snow, puddles, grass, brambles, and brush. Going up and down steep hills is not uncommon. Some of the dogs I walk are large so I need to be able to keep my footing in all situations and these boots are more than up to the task. They clean up nice and looked passable for the office and meeting real estate clients. They also showed up for date nights
The leather has slowly started showing wear. The color reads as charcoal grey. Break in was minimal. For care I simply brush them off but if they are exceptionally muddy I might follow with a damp cloth. I picked this leather for its water resistance. My feet stay dry in the wettest weather.
The Leo last gives adequate toe room and decent heel grip. There is no arch support. I use half insole arch supports for this pair. My feet feel comfortable and supported. I prefer a medium weight sock with these and can wear a thicker wool sock, when there is snow or ice, comfortably. I love that my feet feel snug and secure while still allowing plenty of room for toe spread.
I love almost everything about these boots. They look and feel good. They are well constructed. The silver toned hardware looks perfect with the charcoal black wax suede. The only minor complaint is the narrowness of the tongue means I have to take more care to keep it centered while lacing up as it wants to migrate to the side. I will be wearing these for years.
The Micro Stud Rubber sole doesn’t provide enough traction for slippery slopes such as wet grass embankments so I opted to replace immediately before the November photo submission.
These soles provide secure traction for any terrain. These soles help me stay on my feet going up or down steep slick trails with a big energetic dog on leash. My cobbler tacked on plastic heel protectors about 4 times which slowed the wear down on the outer heels.
I would happily recommend Grant Stone boots. The Edwards in Wax Commander Suede do everything I want. You can’t beat the quality at this price point