Nicks
TankerPro
HNW Last
US Men's Brannock: L 11C, R 11D HTB/10 HTT
HNW Last: 10.5E
3 of my 3 pairs of Nick's are on the HNW last... do I need to say more?
Nicks Handmade Boots
This is my second pair of TankerPro's from Nick's. I learned from the first pair that, once broken in properly, they can function like a slip-on, but unlike a slip-on, still have a means of being secured. Since I fulfill a very multifaceted role at my job, this multifunctional type boot serves me better than any other style I've worn. When I'm operating equipment, driving a dump truck, mechanicing, welding, or just fiddling around the shop, the tanker functions as a slip-on and often goes many consecutive days without me cinching any straps. But because there are straps, anytime I'm felling trees, walking raw land to plot out project parameters, or doing anything where having my boot secured is important, I still have that option without having to keep a second pair of boots with me. I've also come to love the overall feel of the tanker. It has a much more forgiving and comfortable fit through the front face, especially when squatted down, while still managing to have a secure fit when cinched. The standout features of this second pair would be the new Nick's MaxWedge and the 1964 ash gray leather. I was very happy to see Nick's add a gray option to their lineup because I already wear a lot of gray for work for how well it doesn't show being dirty. The MaxWedge looks like it could be the perfect combination of comfort and durability I'm looking for. I love how much lighter the MaxWedge is compared to a traditional heel stack. Between the lightness and cushioning, I've been able to move around much more nimbly than I could with the traditional heel. While I bought this primarily for work, I expect it, like the first pair, will infiltrate much of my personal life as well.
I was fortunate enough to have the same size feet as the fella who first introduced me to Nick's with his pair of BP's
Ordered during Nick's overstock sale in May. Received less than a month later. This was my third pair of Nick's, and it felt super weird to receive them this quickly. The ordering process was as smooth as usual.
-25⁰F. Constant exposure to snow. Work and daily life in Alaska exposed these boots to a ton of adverse conditions through the thunderdome. In and out of doors these boots saw snow plowing, snowmobiliing, welding, mechanicing, chores, shoveling snow, Costco runs, and a myriad of other things.
1964 break in is indeed easy. It starts out comfortable and gets more comfortable. I beeswaxed the lowers to help protect against the elements and it not only added some phenominal protection it has really added to the character. Being winter in Alaska these didn't experience much dirty conditions so my care routine was just brushing occasionally to help keep the waxes distributed.
I love the HNW. It doesn't have too much arch support but still provides a comfortable and stable platform.
The Nick's TankerPro is my favorite boot of all time. I could rave on and on about the durability, quality, and comfort but I think their reputation precedes them enough that I don't need to. These boots live up to the expectation and uphold their immaculate reputation
The MaxWedge has held up quite well despite the initial peeling of the layers which my superglue continues to hold together. I've really enjoyed the light and squishy comfort and how much more conducive to my monkey antics these soles have been. The only minor issue I've had is that it holds moisture quite bad. It hasn't caused me any problems but I do notice it some times.
Final thoughts? Absolute satisfaction. I actually have a third pair of tankers en route to me right now. Nick's is an outstanding and honorable company. They are hands down my favorite boot makers and the TankerPro suites me, my lifestyle and needs the best of any boot I've ever worn by an astronomical margin.