Medieval Knee-High Boots “Forest”
Noble Middle Ages fantasy boots
Have you ever tried on a medieval boot and found it to be vastly uncomfortable? There’s a reason for that: medieval shoes and boots often just have flat leather soles, which offer you absolutely no grip and zero support! Our bestselling “Forest Boots” are a solution to that, offering you the ultimate combination of medieval looks and contemporary shoe design. These are boots designed specifically for people who attend medieval events and need to spend time on their feet, such as LARP, HEMA, SCA, Renaissance Fairs, martial arts and other forms of adventuring and combat.
We have created this level of comfort by using modern shoe lasts. Our workshop is home to a master shoemaker and leatherworker, who has been excited to apply his expertise in making modern shoes to ArmStreet’s medieval products. A modern sole is also applied, which still leaves the boots looking very flat and medieval, but with some additional support inside that provides you with a touch more comfort than you’ll find with purely historical shoes. Other modern aspects include strong machine stitching, robust lacing loops, and a rubber outer-sole to give you a little bit more traction when running through the forest.
We have used natural pigskin leather, which is strong but also flexible so it fits like a glove. The overall design of the boot is basic and quite classic, meaning they don’t take away from the rest of your outfit. They have a slim profile on the foot and a rounded toe, giving them a very refined look. They go up to the upper calf, pretty just right to your knee, and lace-up the front to allow you to get the most comfortable fit. They are split from the top of the foot all the way up, with one side of the tongue sewn to the rest of the boot, and the other side unattached. This makes the placement of the tongue panel easier (if it weren’t attached on one side, it would shift quite a lot and be very difficult to get even). Robust fabric loops have been attached with a double layer of stitching, and strong lacing has been used, with extra length included. It is up to you if you cut the laces to be shorted, or just tie them around the top of the boot to work as a “garter”, helping hold it up.
We describe these boots a “generically medieval”, meaning they have an absolutely HUGE range of costumes they can be applied to. We’ve seen them used by elves, knights, warriors, barbarians, hunters, rangers, necromancers, wizards, militia fighters, Jacobites, noblemen… honestly, the list could go on! We have seen them in basically every single country we have attended events at, and are always surprised and delighted to see the sheer amount of characters that these boots have helped create. The best part about these boots is that they can be used as a statement piece for your costume, or they can blend right into the background... it’s up to you and how you style them. We can’t wait to see the character you create with them!
Please treat these boots with care - even though they are comfortable like modern shoes, they are still made of leather and require a bit of extra maintenance. There are a few things we recommend to prolong the life of our footwear: allow them to dry (24-48 hours) between each wear, make sure there is no dirt or mud on them when you’re not wearing them and store them properly. These are rules that can be applied to all leather footwear, including modern shoes. The reason to let the boots dry is to ensure you don’t experience any additional stretching, especially at the seams and back of the foot. A shoe brush (or toothbrush, or cloth) can be used to wipe away any dirt when you’re not wearing them. It is important to make sure there is no mud caked into the seams, as this can lead to rot. To store your boots, we recommend wooden shoe trees or even crumpled newspaper, as they can help the boot keep its shape. Boot keepers or hangers are a good way to keep the knee-high aspect stored upright. If the boots are treated correctly, they will be your trusty companion for many campaigns to come!
If you’re looking for something a bit fancier (and are very good at keeping your boots clean), we also have a white variation of this item.
Important note about measurements:
Please take your measurements attentively - your carefulness will help us make your shoes perfect. You should also remember that natural leather is soft material and it will stretch so when you are getting your shoes it is normal that they fit very slim. It will adjust to the shape of your foot after one or two days of usage.
For people with a broad ankle or non-standard leg proportions, we recommend ordering looser shoes, because this model is slim fitting.
To check how to measure yourself please click here (see video at the bottom of the page). Please note that the instep measurement "e" is really important for this model. Maximum size we can make is US 13 (European 46).
Check this video if you want to know how long it takes to lace up these boots.
Please contact us if you have any additional questions.
Important note: Brown, Natural and Cream leather shades may vary, as unfortunately we can't control color of leather which comes from our suppliers. Sometimes it may be darker or lighter, so if tone of the leather is important factor for you, please contact us before purchase to ascertain which color exactly we have in stock at the moment. Thank you for understanding.
Materials:
- 100% natural leather;
- Lacing;
- Rubber outsole.
Features:
- Modern shoe last;
- Medieval fantasy design;
- Knee-high;
- Adjustable lacing.
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30 Feedbacks
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Stanley Choate 27 of February 2024:
These boots are everything I wanted. After trying two other pairs of boots from other makers, and hating them, these have exceeded all expectations. Getting into them the first time was a challenge, but after that they seem to have stretched in all the right ways. I normally wear a US size 9.5, so I ordered a size 10, and that was perfect. I can wear a double layer of thin socks with the boots for some added cushioning, and they still fit well. They feel like a second skin while walking in them.
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Chel 30 of May 2023:
I’m wildly obsessed with these boots. 10 hour work day, and a few unexpected mile-long hikes across the fairgrounds, and these boots did the trick. I switched out the insoles for a pair of my preferred kind—and they’re the most comfortable shoes I own next to my Docs. Living with chronic joint pain, that’s a wonder in itself. I can’t recommend them enough.
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Jonathan Jankowski 30 of April 2023:
Great feeling and well made. Couldn’t be happier with the purchase!
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Andrew 09 of September 2022:
These have been amazing, 10 hours on my feet without pain and the first time I have footwear that fits me and is true to size. Would buy again
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Jim 27 of August 2021:
I play a full contact combat larp, I also have us size 9eeee feet - which makes for all kinds of headaches. The custom fit on the forrest boots was excellent, and the overall fit and finish on these boots is very good, and they're plenty durable/ fitted for full a full contact sport. I'm very pleased with my purchase.
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John 11 of August 2021:
These boots are awesome! I custom ordered a pair and have never had footwear that fits me so perfectly. Unfortunately, shortly after they arrived the stitching came loose on the tongue of one boot (I have only tried them on a few times indoors, and they've had no heavy use whatsoever). I will need get the tongue stitching fixed at a cobbler because I don't trust my own sewing skills.
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Emily 11 of June 2021:
My husband wore a custom made pair of black leather Forest boots as part of his outfit at our recent medieval wedding. They looked amazing and were well made. I particularly liked the communication that we received when purchasing these, with someone emailing to check his measurements. Many thanks again.
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Guest 19 of August 2020:
Just received my boots shipping was a bit longer than anticipated but defiantly worth the wait craftsmanship is superb and they fit like a glove - lacing allows different style of wear and gives a solid fit
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Kris 15 of May 2020:
These are my *favorite* pair of boots of all time, and I'm still wearing the pair I bought back in 2013. I have long narrow feet with thin ankles and non-existent calves, and getting a custom pair of 'Medieval Fantasy High Boots “Forest” was the best footwear choice I've ever made. I wear them everywhere, for everything - from swordfighting to faires, from the grocery store to literally around the world. They are just so extremely comfortable AND durable. I have had to replace the soles a few times (as seven years in constant use will wear any shoe down!) but the leather, laces and stitching have all held up, top notch. 10/10 would Forest-Boot again.
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Gabby 14 of May 2020:
I've had my forest boots for just under four years and they are absolutely sublime! They go with every bit of kit I have and are awesome to fight in. Granted, they are a little slippery and the sole does need to be replaced after a little while, but the boot itself is still in stellar condition. Give it a polish every so often and you'll love these boots forever.
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Stefanie 13 of May 2020:
My forest boots have carried me over miles of dusty festival grounds for years now. They are easily the most practical and underrated thing I've bought from Armstreet so far. I wear orthotic arch supports but a standard size 8 still fit me perfectly, and my feet do not get sore. I treat the leather with some good wax once per season, and they look amazing yet! Love them.
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Rachel 12 of May 2020:
As always, the quality and construction of these boots is great, however I have since swapped to the Paladin boots as I can't stand the way my Forest boots are constantly sliding down. I wish they were just a few centimetres longer so they would tie under the knee instead of the widest part of my calf.
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Thibault 16 of March 2020:I just received the ones I ordered last month. They look awesome and the guide on the website to correctly choose my size was very helpful. However the left one has a flaw with the inner stitches, making a leather corner stick out against the ankle, rubbing against it constantly when I walk and creating blisters very quickly. It probably is something easy enough to fix so I will go see a shoemaker to ask them to redo the stitches or to cut that corne to smooth it up. Other than that, they are very nice, I guess I was just unlucky !
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Michael 02 of March 2020:My favorite boots! Have them in brown and in black
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Eóin 17 of January 2020:
Boots needed to be custom fitted, Armstreet helped with every step Arrived quickly afterwards. Fit was perfect and very comfortable, have worn them for entire days
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Sophia 26 of December 2019:
Bought these for my Ren Faire job. 9 weekends of 12+ hour days in mud, gravel, grass and pavement, as well as 4 rehersal weekends, my daily use, and my personal fight practice, and the only thing that happened to these boots was one of the lacing loops frayed, and that was due to a thorn catching it and refusing to let go. I love these boots. You can't go wrong with these.
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Eric Smith 27 of November 2019:
The boots are great. They were a little snug, but I keep wearing them and they now fit like a glove. Great work.
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Rafael 13 of August 2019:
I purchased a pair of these custom made for my medieval wargaming and weekend Dagorhir fun. I am pretty rough on my stuff and didn't want to lose out on the full garb experience by opting for more modern shoes to help me with fighting. After seeing the video of these boots being used for parkour, I had to give them a try. I was so happy that I did! I have been using them for months now and they are going strong and still look fantastic. I get constant compliments about them and I know that when I'm fighting I can count on them to perform up to modern shoes standards. Great product! I recommend to anyone looking for quality boots that can perform in high combat larps or any medieval wargaming.
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Alan Davison 26 of September 2017:
Fantasy boots (in black) have arrived and they are perfect. I took the risk of ordering 'stock' and from the measurements guide ordered a size smaller than I would normally buy. The fit is perfect and the quality seems very good. The leather is thick but supple and the boots are very comfortable to wear. Thanks again, Armstreet.
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Nathaniel 26 of June 2017:
A solid pair of boots, they look great, feel great, but as you imagine they don't provide much aeration so your feet will get a little sweaty but you will look awesome in the process. I think they are worthwhile if you are looking to add a sleek look to your costume or just wanting comfortable alternative boots to wear. Well played Armstreet, may we meet again...
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Kathy Zimmerman 30 of January 2017:
hello, Team! Ordered these in the silver embossed black for my husband (his first pair is plain black, so we decided to go with a fancy pair as well). He is so happy with the fit...he usually is not satisfied with the fit in shoes, but your measuring instructions made it so easy to get a custom fit. They are perfect!!
ArmStreet team:That`s amazing! We`re happy to hear the boots fit, thank you for the feedback!
We hope to see some photos of your husband in all the outfits once if you don`t mind. ;)
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Alqualisse 10 of November 2016:
I ordered a pair custom and I love them. As others have said, they do need to be "worn in" or softened. A pair a thick socks will help cushion your feet. Once worn in, they're very comfortable to wear all day. Pretty good agility in them too. I dance in mine at faires without a problem. No ankle rolling, no stiffness in the wrong places, no sliding about within the boot. I recommend a custom pair as every foot is unique.
ArmStreet team:Thank you for the great review! It`s a pleasure to hear such feedbacks. :)
Always welcome back to ArmStreet!
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Guillem Clapés 13 of October 2016:
Hi, the boots just arrived and they ara amazing! Even better than I expected. Thank you very much Armstreet!
ArmStreet team:Thank you so much for getting back to us with such great news! :)
Enjoy wearing the boots and always welcome back to ArmStreet!
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Jeff Willmarth 06 of February 2016:
Greetings, I first saw these boots at Armstreet over a year ago, and they seemed to be just what I was looking for. But, as I have very difficult feet to fit in boots, I was hesitant to buy on line. A couple of months ago I finally broke down and purchased them. They are outstanding! They look great, feel great, and are totally in character for my Ranger "persona". YAY!
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Jonathan Bluestein 24 of January 2016:
Excellent boots!! I would recommend them. High quality and as in the pictures. They take a bit of time to soften. Best to send measurements with pictures of your feet surrounded by the measuring tape. Measurements need to be very accurate - pay attention to the instructions.
ArmStreet team:We're very pleased to receive a review with such an efficient advice!
These boots are worth the time you spent taking the measurements (you can always send us the pictures of your feet with the attached measuring tape to contact@armstreet.com).
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Leif 30 of December 2015:
I love these boots! Thank you so much!! :) I will return! :)
ArmStreet team:Many thanks for your feedback, Leif!
We will be sure to share your feedback with our shoemaker! Always welcome back to ArmStreet!
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Andrew Lambert 03 of August 2014:
My pair arrived today, and they are beautiful! My only complaint is that the laces were much too long. Not a big deal though, new laces are cheap, and the boots are gorgeous!
ArmStreet team:Great, thanks for your feedback, Andrew!
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Paul 24 of May 2013:
Hi there. My name is Paul and I have ordered two pairs of these boots. I just wanted to say that I'm very pleased with my purchase of these. They're very high quality, really and look great. Worth every penny. Thanks again.
ArmStreet team:Thank you for your feedback, Paul!
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Sean 26 of September 2011:
I have a pair of these and have spent many a day running around in the forest and at Ren-fairs they are very comfortable at first I was worried about the soles but they have held up extremely well
ArmStreet team :Thank you for the great and honest feedback! These boots are very comfortable.
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Krael 19 of August 2009:
I have purchased this boots. They are even better than the picture and really fit like gloves, just be carefull taking measurments.
ArmStreet team:Thank you, Krael, for your wonderful feedback!
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52 Comments
Is it possible to make these boots with a sole that is scaled like the "dragon" boots for more grip?
Hello, unfortunately, it is not possible, sorry.
Can these be made with a dark red/burgundy red leather?
Yes, please simply select custom size option for the boots.
I worry, because I have very wide, flat feet (and bunions), but love the look of the Forest boots. How have these boots turned out for women with horrible feet such as mine? or should I look to a different pair?? Opinions???
Hello Debora, the boots can be made in custom size for you. Please contact our support team with your measurements for assistance.
How easy are these boots to put on and take off? I’m looking to purchase these for larp but I hate having to spend a lot of time putting on my boots... especially if there is a monster headed towards my cabin and I need to run!
Hi Katie, these boots need to be laced so you will need some time to put them on. Please look for the boots without lacing.
Hi, do you make these boots for women size 5?
Hi Fael, yes we can make these boots for a woman. Please simply select custom size option for the boots and send us a comment to your order that they are for a woman.
I get cold very easy so I was wondering how warm they are and how dry I can expect my feet to be if I buy a pair.
Dear Elizabeth, these boots are not lined so they are not suitable for very cold weather. The leather is pretty thick so they can be worn in the rain, but should be dried right away. The leather is not water proof, unfortunately.
Do you make these for women? Not sure if the sizing is for only men
Hi Lynn, yes, please simply leave this comment to your order at the checkout.
Are the in-stock sizes mens' size system?
Hi Jacquelyn, yes it is men's sizes.
I'm confused about the sizes, since it says it fits both men and woman, but a female size 6 and a male size 6 are not the same measurements. So how do I know if the size 6 will fit me or not??
Dear Julie, these boots can be made for female measurements in custom size only. Please leave a comment to your order that boots should be made for a woman.
Hello, Would it be possible to make these in custom size so that they would fit me (woman 7,5 or 8 (have to measure))?
Hello Amanda, yes, these boots can be made for a woman in custom size.
Hi, I wear size 9 men shoes and i have large feet. Is there somewhere where i can put the width i need. Thanks! Marc
Hi Marc, yes please simply select custom size option for the boots.
The aesthetic of these boots really lures me in however, I am wondering if I pay for a custom fit, if you too can create these boots using an alternative to leather. Something man-made, artificial or even a reinforced fabric. I do not really support leather but want something that looks exactly like this boot.
Hi Avalon, these boots can be made in natural leather only, sorry.
Can the Medieval Fantasy High Boots Forest be made more waterproof (like treatment or something)? I will be working as elf (which these boots seem perfect for) at a Ren Fest this fall and will be in the forest (rain or shine). I think these boots could really work, but how to they do in rain?
Hi Meghan, unfortunately, it is not possible to make them waterer proof. However, you may use some modern water proof spray for leather.
Hi I want to order a pair of these boots in 11 when will you have more boots in stock ???
Hi Miguel, you may still purchase size 11 even if it is out of stock. We will simply make it to order.
Could these be made with a thicker sole? I have weak ankles/a collapsing arch and thin soles lead to pain after a long day.
Hi Jess, yes we can make the boots with rubber sole.
I ordered a pair of these for my husband a couple years back and they've been working great!! However, his laces have worn out completely. Is there any way we can get them replaced? Thanks!
Hi Melissa, thank you for your feedback! Yes, of course, we can replace the laces. Please sontact our support team for details.
Hello! If I am exactly between size 8 and size 9 according to my foot length, which would you recommend? Is it better to have a little extra room in these boots, or will they stretch in length as well as width? Thank you!
You can just send us the measurements (foot length, foot circumference, instep, heel, ankle, calf) and we will help you to determine the right size.
Would it be possible or even suitable to alter these boots for wearing with the sabatons that you offer? I would be intending to use them with the kings guard set.
Yes, the boots can be worn under the sabatons with no problem.
I am interested in purchasing a pair of these boots - I have orthodics I would like to put into the boot (I have slight fallen arches) How would I measure my foot when keeping in mind of the orthodics I would like to fit inside the boot?
Hi Mark, please simply send us the accurate measurements and leave a comment to your order that some room should be left for the orthodic insoles.
I'm very interested in this style of boot, but I would love to have an option that also came up high enough to protect my knees (for kneeling, or when I do stunt falls, etc.) ... Do you have any ideas for how that could be done?
This model can not be modified this way, sorry. At the moment we can offer you these boots which hide the knees.
Can these be made in a 14 or 15 men us
We cannot produce the boots in those sizes, sorry. The biggest size we can make is US 13 men`s which goes for the foot length 11.56 in (29.4 cm).
Any problems with the boot loosening on the calf and falling down?
Hello, the boots does not loosen on the calves.
if the sole ever needs to be replaced can this be done by a local shoe repair place or once the sole is worn out thats it for the boot. Also I'm looking for a boot that would suit both medieval knight and a santa clause costume... would you think these would work ? or is there a pair that you would recommend?
Yes, the sole can be replaced locally, there should be no problems with this.
These boots are suitable for Santa! Certainly the Renaissance High Leather Boots are the best boots ever for Santa, but they are not the best option for training and fighting because of the heels.
Would you do them as overknees, too?
These boots cannot be made as overknees. Average height is about 18", we can add about an inch or inch and a half but not more.
Hi there, those boots look amazing. I just want to ask if the embossed leather is as stout as the normal one? I guess it is harder to take care of? Thanks, Iris
Simple one-color embossed leather (grey-brown, dark brown, ginger, dark blue, black, white colors) is closer to suede to touch, it's softer than standard full-grain leather and embossed leather with second color pattern.
Care guidelines differs as much as care for usual shoes of smooth leather and suede leather.
Hello, would it be possible to see a picture of these made out of embossed leather. It's hard for me to picture it. Thanks a bunch
We don't have such pictures, sorry. You may check the Lost Princess shoes and The Accolade shoes, they are made of embossed leather.
Can these boots be made in a plain white leather (same texturing as the first two leather/color options just in white)? The reason I ask is I need them in a very specific shade of blue, and it's easier to dye them from white than from dark brown or black.
Yes, these boots are available in plain white - Medieval White "Fantasy" High Forest Boots.
Can you accomodate wide widths in this style?
Yes, these boots can be made for the wide foot, simply mention this in a comment to your order. Please measure the circumference of your foot (around the ball measured all the way around the widest part of the foot) precisely.
Are there any pictures of these or any other boots make with the black embossed leather? I like that material, but would really like to see a product made with it before deciding on it.
Unfortunately we don't have any pictures of the product made of black embossed leather, sorry. You can check the shoes made of dark blue embossed leather, the black leather is just a bit darker.
Greetings, I was just wondering if it's possible to have the toe of the boots taper together and taper up slightly, and if a (decorative only) strap and buckle could be added from ankle to ankle along the bottom of the shin. Thanks, ~Andrew
These boots can not be modified in such a way, sorry. Here are our models of men's shoes with narrow/pointy toe: Classic Medieval Handmade Leather Boots, Handmade Long Leather “Persian” Boots, Gothic Shoes Suede Long Toe, Gothic Curved Black Leather Shoes.
love these boots they also look nice in white i want these in black beautiful they will go well with what i wear from armstreet
I'm looking to buy the forest boots, but I'm concerned about the grip. The larp I do takes place in a area with lots of muddy hills. What is the grip like on these boots??
The grip is sufficient for wet and muddy ground. But it is still not hiking boots with traction thick sole for extreme conditions.
Is the dark brown embossed leather the for the Forest boots the same type as it looks in the pictures or is it more of a suede? Do you have pictures of this boot in that leather? Thank you
Brown embossed leather is closer to the suede to touch, it's softer than standard ("full-grain") leather.
While we do not have such pictures, but we're going to add them soon.
Can they be folded down at the top if not laced all the way up? Just curious if this is am option to change the look up a bit. Also, if there are any pictures of the brown boots available that would be much appreciated!
Uppers of these boots cannot be folded down, please pay attention to this model.
There are no pictures of these boots in brown.
Hello. I've got a little question about the 11 1/2 size limitation on this. Most of the shoes I wear are size 12, but depending on the maker and style of the shoe, my size sometimes varies between 11 and 13. With that in mind, do you think these could be made to fit me?
To determine this, please email us the length of your foot.
Hi there.... I added this item to my cart shown with its original price of 239.99 $ HOWEVER, surfing through the site, I remember seeing it at a reduced price of 216 $ Which is the correct price? Please advice in order to proceed with the placement of my order Thanks Vasileios Vekios
Perhaps you've seen the same boots on sale in Archives section.
I am contemplating wether to buy these or not. I want to get them for using in the woods and everywhere really, if I get them. I have a question though, how are these boots in water, I don't want to have to be in water but say there is a deep puddle that is a foot deep, what would happen if I had to step into it?
They work in wet weather very well, but they are not waterproof.
How thick is the rubber sole?
Rubber sole thickness of about 3-4 mm.
Can these be made in lighter brown/tan
Yes, please choose brown leather color in the order form.
how tall are the boots or do you put in a certain measurement for the length of the boot I have had a problem in the past with boots being to tall and I am not able to bend my knee very well. But really love these boots. they are exactly what i am looking for.
Average height of the boots is about 18".
Two questions. #1- What kind of leather are these made from? #2- What if measurements vary slightly from one foot/ankle to the other?
These boots are made of 100% natural pigskin leather, it's thick and dense. Please measure both feet and provide the measurements in the comments to your order.
What type of brown is the leather going to be? e.g. dark brown, light brown, chocolate brown ect. Thanks!
Closer to dark brown, as on these boots.
I'm interested in the Forrest Boot as a present for my wife. I'm just a bit concerned with the length of the boot as her ankle to knee measurement is only 14 1/2 inches and she doesn't want them to come up to high
We do custom size adjustments, please mention the desired height of the shaft in a comment to your order.
Would these boots be suitable for wintertime? How warm are they and would they endure being in snow?
These are not winter boots, they are closer to demi-season boots.
These boots are a very nice style. How well would they work with a boot knife and everyday usage? Is it possible to add a little bit more of a heel to it, like 1/2 or 1 inch for a custom order?
The boots are good for everyday usage, but we can't add heels, sorry.
Is the sole leather? and how much for a dark brown pair? Thank you!
The sole is rubber. Brown boots cost the same.
I take it these are only for men?
These shoes may be worn by both men and women.
Do you offer any other kinds of soles on these?
These boots are available with rubber soles only.
Boots Look great, are they reliable to be worn on a regular every day basis? How it is in wet conditions?
Yep, they are ok for regular use.
They work great when it rains, I have the same pair - and usually this is the only part of my garb which stays dry.
I want to order these shoe.
You're welcome! Just add them to you cart and pay with any major credit card or PayPal.
Do they come in any shade of green?
This model is not available in green, sorry.
hi i was wonderng if you have these in size 8 and i dark brown
These boots are custom size, made to order according to your measurements.
Available in brown, please choose brown leather color in the order form.