I Love the style of the MP series of boots from White. They're built on the 55 last, throw in Color 8 CXL and I couldn't say no.
I went a half size down from my Brannock measurement.
Ordered online from Bakers Boots. They were on their "Final Few" page as factory seconds/rejects.
I was pretty strict about only using these boots for work. I'm a delivery driver...you know the guys in those brown trucks. In and out of the trucks, diggin' around in the back, and to the door steps of many a house/buildings in PDX. Over and over and over again. Too many steps and stairs to count. We got lots of rain and a little snow during the Thunderdome season and this pair exceeded my expectations. Feet were dry all season and no slips and falls. I can't ask for more out of a work boot. Usually I bust my butt at least once during the winter...not this year! They did great on the vast variety of surfaces in an urban/suburban environment. From asphalt to mossy stepping stones to gravel this pair has seen it and everything in-between. They did go on a few forest trail hikes and some casual days of wear.
Break in was almost non-existent...a few days and they were good to go. The leather has darkened a lot, but it still pops color in a few areas. Got a little brown peaking through in a few spots as well. Super easy to take care of. Wipe with a damp rag and brush for the most part. Hit them with some Smiths leather balm after some deep cleanings with leather cleaner/saddle soap and added a little neutral polish before some pictures. The leather has maintained its natural shine, but adding a little polish really makes them pop. Shiny and Color 8 go well together. I love to see the leather shiny. It's rainy in Portland...measures must be taken to keep the edges and exposed sole leather healthy. I used a block of bees wax from Ace Hardware (helpful folks there) and melted it right into the edges and then burnished it.
Sizing is half down from my Brannock measurement. This pair is interesting because they were a seconds pair. The uppers/shafts are different...if you look closely you can see the left boot is smaller than the right. Not in the actual size, but shaft height and ankle fit dimensions are different. It ended up working out just fine for my feet because my right (instep) foot is a little bigger than my left. A Cinderella story...I had my reservations, but it was meant to be. Other than the shaft differences the arch support and overall fit is fantastic. The boots are stupid comfortable. I can wear these all day everyday with no issues. Truly leather socks.
The finishing isn't perfect, but they're work boots. They haven't fallen apart, no ripped stitches, soles are still attached, and the leather has held up great. The design is sharp looking and construction is bullet proof. No issues with hardware at all. I'd say the leather clicking was well done on this pair, but I'm not an expert in clicking. I'm pleased with the creasing though.
Absolutely killer half sole. Durable, grippy, comfortable and long lasting. I put some miles in these boots and I'll be able to put plenty more on them before needing a resole. Probably need a new top lift soon due to my heel drag.
A fantastic pair. Good all around everyday boot. If you're cruising around an urban environment in all kinds of weather I'd say these are just about the perfect boot. Sturdy enough to handle just about anything, but light and easy to wear.