This is a recreation of the classic Frye 12 R Harness boot after the quality of the Made In USA Frye drastically deteriorated. I took my old pair to Chris at Wesco and asked him to help me configure the same style look with a much better build. He definitely delivered, they only get better with wear. These boots go well with just about anything I could wear.
I had custom measurements taken by Chris at Wesco for the perfect fit.
It was stellar. I brought my old pair in and asked for a better recreation. Service was amazing and the boots far outpaced my hopes.
They are for walking out in the dirt/farm/ranch, but also versatile enough for dressing up bohemian style with skirts and dresses. (This is the wife side of the account.) But at the same time, unlike other women's boots of that style, these are genuinely made like tanks and will last. I have worn them outside, on several mile walks, to karate class, and to the Japanese Gardens. They go shockingly well with nearly everything.
Brushing, shoe trees when I can remember. I will leather oil but haven't needed to yet. I love the rippling (marbling) patterns in the patina of the natural chromexcel and how it has just now started to sag to the length I am truly wanting. The leather lining has also made them much more comfortable to wear and sturdier too.
I can actually flex my toes so supremely comfortable! I have narrow calves too so having them made to fit has been amazing, no shafts loudly slapping around my calves with each step.
I can find no fault in any of these aspects, and I'm pretty picky about quality (an understatement). These are tanks, made with fantastic leather and soft but supple lining and very sturdy hardware.
Love this sole. It looks dressy on the outside but has hidden rugged traction. The best of both worlds in my opinion. It's holding up admirably.
My old boots were my end-all be-all for the perfect boot. When the leather finish was ruined I was more than a little crushed, but remembered Wesco. I decided to try to recreate them from better materials there and am so glad I did. I highly recommend the experience if you want a pair of boots that ought to last you a lifetime.