Wesco
Mister Lou
Baker's Boots and Clothing
I think these are some of the best looking engineer boots around that are easy to get your hands on. I've wanted engineer boots for a long time. They have a western aesthetic with pirate swagger. They're just SUPER cool. I'm not sure what type of engineers wore these when the style was invented, but the name was good enough for me to wear them to work in commercial construction.
I emailed AND talked with a human being or two about sizing. I referenced my Whites and Nicks models. Those 11.5Ds led them to recommend these in 11E. It worked out!
Online/over the phone. Bakers is a great retailer.
I wore them as a foreman on multiple construction sites. I didn't get them into the mess as much as other working folks, but they were out there on site doing things. They saw a bit of moisture and mud here and there. It was more dust and dirt than anything.
It folddd nicely over time. I like the lack of wrinkles. However, there was a care card in the box with these boots. It told me not to get my boots wet. WHAT?!? I bought boots that can't get wet?? Get out of here!!! Well, it turns out that it was good advice. This leather got ugly and gummy in some spots. I'm going to call it character. I did see much need for conditioning over the months. I brushed daily though.
The fit feels real nice at the 6 month point. It took 3 months to get that good fit. They slipped a bunch for the first 3 months. The right slipped more than the left. I like how the full break in has lead to a bit of a sprung toe. The shaft still hasn't fallen much. The toes feel a bit squished, but barely worth noting. I wish there was a bit more arch, but that's personal preference. I had to add an extra hole for the instep strap on each boot for the first 3 months. I don't need that hole anymore.
I don't know if they're constructed how they say they were. I think these boots are sexy. They look bitchin from every angle. I wish I had a choice on the hardware though.
Whatever soles are on these, they're tough. I'm very happy so far.
All in all, I love these boots, but I'm done with them for awhile. They can handle being work boots, but I'm done wearing them that way. Although they're pull on, dealing with straps and buckles is just as annoying as laces. Also, I need boots that can get wet. I hated Seinfeld's suede jacket for the same reason.