My partner had a good day on Wednesday and was able to go to his office for a few hours, which gave me a few unexpected free hours. I decided to make a video during that time. I can't make videos when my partner is at home, as he has a low opinion about YouTube and videos in general.
In response to a request, on my new video, I discussed my opinions (based on experience) about the similarities and differences between Wesco "Boss" engineer boots and Chippewa engineer boots -- both the tall and short versions of each.
For your convenience, the video appears below. Watch, learn, and enjoy!
Showing posts with label Wesco Boots. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wesco Boots. Show all posts
Friday, April 13, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Replacement Wesco Boots?
The boots sold at auction for a great price -- more than I paid for them originally. A couple people noticed that and sent me a message asking if I would replace them with a new pair, especially since the prices for Wesco boots are going up on April 1.
My reply?
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Parting with a Pair of Wesco Harness Boots
I have owned this pair of tall black Wesco harness boots for about six years. Relatively speaking, they are rather young in my boot collection.
Regretfully, though, I have to part with them. Why?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Wesco Boots -- Differences Between Harness and Engineer Styles?
You have informative videos regarding boots. There are two things I don't skimp on; firearms and footwear. I am new to the sport of motorcycling and decided on Wesco boots and so I am wondering for riding comfort, would you recommend the engineer or harness? For the costs, I would like to know if there are any differences or not.
My reply?
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Frye or Wesco Boots?
Kid you not, this was a question that landed a visitor to this blog. Unfortunately, it was directed to a post where I discussed differences between Chippewa and Wesco boots, not Frye. Oh well, here goes... what are the major comparisons between Frye and Wesco boots?
Hmmm... like what's the difference between a Yugo and a Harley?
Hmmm... like what's the difference between a Yugo and a Harley?
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Wesco Boots -- Discount!
This post has been removed. The content on it is outdated and the discount referenced is no longer available.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Soured on International Boot Sales
Oh rats, what a dilemma. Back in March, someone contacted me expressing interest in an old pair of Wesco Boss boots that I had on my website. While I say, "none of these boots are for sale," I did have a note on the page about that particular pair of boots that they were small on me and I would entertain a bid to buy them.
A guy from the U.K. and I exchanged several email messages, and agreed on a direct sale. He offered to pay me in two payments, splitting his payment over two paychecks. I agreed. He said that he wanted them before going to a boot party in London on 25 March. He sent me a deposit, and we agreed on the amount of the remainder to be paid the following week.
In a gesture of good heartedness, I offered to send him the boots before I went on a business trip, which would have been during the week that he would have sent the last payment. That way, he would have the boots in time for his desired date. I felt assured that everything would work out, so I shipped the boots, then went on my trip... then didn't hear a thing.
I contacted him last week. He said that the boots were not received. I went to my post office and they showed me the tracking number (which I hadn't noted correctly) and validated that the boots had been shipped and delivered (but only says "delivered - Great Britain"). However, the guy to whom I shipped the boots said that he never received them.
I don't know exactly what's going on here. I accept the buyer's word that he hunted for the boots but couldn't find them. He's blaming our U.S. postal system for not having a record of their exact delivery -- other than "delivered Great Britain" on (date.)
I'm not out of money, directly. That is, I received a deposit which adequately covered the expensive shipping charge.
This whole fiasco has completely soured me from entertaining any thought of selling any more boots to anyone outside the U.S. or Canada. I am not saying that I will never do that again; however, I will insist that the buyer pre-pay all of the money, and also pay for a higher-cost but assured delivery process, such as by FedEx which has a much better process of assuring delivery and getting a signature of the recipient than the U.S. Postal Service.
By the way, if you are in London and see anyone wearing these boots, ask him where he got them. More photos of these boots are here. Seriously, if you see someone wearing them, let me know. Be assured, I will keep your confidence. I just want to find out what's going on.
Life is short: learn from your experience.
In a gesture of good heartedness, I offered to send him the boots before I went on a business trip, which would have been during the week that he would have sent the last payment. That way, he would have the boots in time for his desired date. I felt assured that everything would work out, so I shipped the boots, then went on my trip... then didn't hear a thing.
I contacted him last week. He said that the boots were not received. I went to my post office and they showed me the tracking number (which I hadn't noted correctly) and validated that the boots had been shipped and delivered (but only says "delivered - Great Britain"). However, the guy to whom I shipped the boots said that he never received them.
I don't know exactly what's going on here. I accept the buyer's word that he hunted for the boots but couldn't find them. He's blaming our U.S. postal system for not having a record of their exact delivery -- other than "delivered Great Britain" on (date.)
I'm not out of money, directly. That is, I received a deposit which adequately covered the expensive shipping charge.
This whole fiasco has completely soured me from entertaining any thought of selling any more boots to anyone outside the U.S. or Canada. I am not saying that I will never do that again; however, I will insist that the buyer pre-pay all of the money, and also pay for a higher-cost but assured delivery process, such as by FedEx which has a much better process of assuring delivery and getting a signature of the recipient than the U.S. Postal Service.
By the way, if you are in London and see anyone wearing these boots, ask him where he got them. More photos of these boots are here. Seriously, if you see someone wearing them, let me know. Be assured, I will keep your confidence. I just want to find out what's going on.
Life is short: learn from your experience.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Sale On New Custom Wesco Boots
Wesco Boots sent us an email that for two days only, March 10 and March 11, they are having a 25% off sale on custom order options for their boots.
For example, if you want a leather lined boot option, then instead of paying the regular $99.00 cost, the leather lining will be $75.00.
To take advantage of this flash special, go to Wescoboots.com, custom design your boots on the demo build. Copy and paste the results, and send to ken@stompersboots.com. Ken will then send back an email with the Wesco discount, the Stomper's 10% discount off of Wesco's standard prices and the "Ken2011" Coupon special offer -$25.00 off for the price on orders over $200.00 during the month of March, and a special link to order your boots.
The cut off for this offer is 6:00 PM California Time, on Friday March 11, 2011. Payments sent after this time will not qualify for this special offer.
Will I order a pair of new Wesco boots? Personally, I am working hard at maintaining my sales resistance. As much as I want to support my favourite Boot Store, Stompers, I know in my heart (and in my boot closet) that owning and wearing 12 pairs of Wesco boots is sufficient :-).
While I did receive a substantial income tax refund, I have been a very good boy and put that away into a savings account for future rainy days. While I love boots, and motorcycle riding season is just around the corner, I really have to admit that I have "sufficient." I have to keep repeating that to myself, but so far, I am doing well. So far...
Life is short: order your Wesco Boots from Stompers on March 10 or 11 for terrific savings!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Random Boot Shots
While organizing photos on my computer, every now and then I see some pics from the past that for whatever reason, recapture my attention. Here are a few which have appeared on my website and this blog in the past. I am reposting them for no reason other than I like 'em.
Above, my Chippewa Firefighter Boots, which are a favorite for hot-weather motorcycle riding.
Above, Chippewa High-Shine Boots with Lug Soles that I saw on a cop in May, 2008 (this photo). I had lug soles added to a pair of them for myself. Great boots!
My old Wesco Boss Boots that still look and feel great, even after 20 years.
My newest pair of custom Wesco Roughout Harness Boots that are burgundy and brown in color. Very different boots that get many comments when I wear them.
My All American "Blue Knight" patrol boots. Very well-made and rugged boots made completely of leather.
My newest pair of Dehner Field Boots that a buddy thinks are "the bomb." I like them too!
My Dehner patrol boots with Vibram 100 lug soles. While these boots have shafts made of that plastic stuff called "Clarino Leather" (aka "Dehcord"), they still have a classic appearance that I enjoy wearing from time to time.
A random pair of Dehner motorcycle police patrol boots that I have seen among hundreds of pairs at police motorcycle competitions.
Life is short: wear boots!
Life is short: wear boots!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Should I Get Wesco Leather Lining?
This Google search from Canada asks:
"Should I get Wesco leather lining?"
Owning and riding my Harley with a dozen pairs of Wesco boots, both lined and unlined, I have some opinions.
While it is more expensive, leather lining will make the boots stand up on their own after they break in, last longer, as well as provide a bit more protection from the heat of a motorcycle engine. If you intend to wear the boots while riding a motorcycle, then I definitely recommend coughing up the extra bucks to get the boots made with leather lining.
If you may wear the boots while engaging in linesman work, wildland firefighting, logging, or other outdoor work or activities, then I also definitely recommend leather lining. The lining adds to the overall comfort as well as provides better protection for the ankles and legs.
If, however, you intend to wear the boots to knock around the neighborhood for casual wear, and never use them while operating a motorcycle or engaging in outdoor work where protection is necessary, then the choice is yours.
Leather-lined boots can be a bit warmer than unlined boots, but only if the boots fit snugly on the legs. If the boots are made custom so there will be a bit of space between the legs and the boot shaft so the boots can "breathe," then you probably will not notice the boots feeling hot to wear after a long period.
On very hot days, I do not wear Wesco boots while riding my motorcycle. The leather of Wesco boots is very thick, durable, and solid. Those boots get hot when worn in hot weather. Instead, when riding on hot days, I choose to wear Chippewa Firefighter Boots or (unlined) Engineer Boots instead of Wesco Boots.
To summarize: "should I get Wesco Leather Lining?" Generally, my opinion is, "yes, you should" but answer the question about how and where you will be wearing them -- while operating a motorcycle or doing outdoor labor -- or casually without requiring the added protection that leather lining provides.
Life is short: wear boots.
"Should I get Wesco leather lining?"
Owning and riding my Harley with a dozen pairs of Wesco boots, both lined and unlined, I have some opinions.
If you may wear the boots while engaging in linesman work, wildland firefighting, logging, or other outdoor work or activities, then I also definitely recommend leather lining. The lining adds to the overall comfort as well as provides better protection for the ankles and legs.
Leather-lined boots can be a bit warmer than unlined boots, but only if the boots fit snugly on the legs. If the boots are made custom so there will be a bit of space between the legs and the boot shaft so the boots can "breathe," then you probably will not notice the boots feeling hot to wear after a long period.
On very hot days, I do not wear Wesco boots while riding my motorcycle. The leather of Wesco boots is very thick, durable, and solid. Those boots get hot when worn in hot weather. Instead, when riding on hot days, I choose to wear Chippewa Firefighter Boots or (unlined) Engineer Boots instead of Wesco Boots.
To summarize: "should I get Wesco Leather Lining?" Generally, my opinion is, "yes, you should" but answer the question about how and where you will be wearing them -- while operating a motorcycle or doing outdoor labor -- or casually without requiring the added protection that leather lining provides.
Life is short: wear boots.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Comparison of Chippewa and Wesco Boots
I have been asked from time to time how Chippewa and Wesco engineer boots compare. Nothing shows the differences and similarities better than a video. Here it is! (see text summary below)
Summary of main points in the video:
Similarities of Chippewa and Wesco Engineer Boots
Note: these similarities are for stock Wesco Boss engineer boots. Wesco Boss boots can be made custom to different heights, number of buckles, color of leather, different soles, etc. But standard, stock Boss boots have these shared characteristics with Chippewa Engineer boots:
Differences
Life is short: know your boots!
Summary of main points in the video:
Similarities of Chippewa and Wesco Engineer Boots
Note: these similarities are for stock Wesco Boss engineer boots. Wesco Boss boots can be made custom to different heights, number of buckles, color of leather, different soles, etc. But standard, stock Boss boots have these shared characteristics with Chippewa Engineer boots:
- Made in USA
- Construction and durability: both Chippewa and Wesco boots are very well-constructed and will last a long time, even if exposed to heat, water, mud, chemicals, oil, etc.
- Leather: oil-tanned (dull finish) high-quality leather
- Straps and buckles: One strap with buckle across the instep, one strap with buckle closure at the top of the shaft. (Custom Wescos can have no straps or up to four straps.)
- Shaft lining: Unlined (though Custom Wesco boots can be leather-lined.)
- Thread color: the thread color on the soles and boot stays is white on both Chippewa and Wesco boots (though custom Wescos can have different thread colors specified.)
- Toes: Steel toe (note, Stompers Boots has a non-steel toe version of Chippewa engineer boots available, but the stock, standard Chippewa engineer boot has a steel toe.)
Differences
- Height: Chippewa -- 17"; Wesco Boss -- 18" (or shorter or taller, up to crotch-high.)
- Weight of leather: Chippewa boots are made from leather that is thinner than the leather that Wesco boots are made with.
- Weight of boots: Chippewa -- 3 lbs (1.36kg); Wesco 18" Boss -- 6 lbs (2.7kg)
- Sole: Chippewa -- Vibram Nitrile (moderate traction); Wesco -- Vibram 100 (big lug -- lots of traction)
- Customization: Chippewa boots cannot be made custom. You get what you get. Wesco boots can be made custom, with different heights, leather, number of straps, soles, heel height, and other options available -- at a price!
- Price: Chippewa -- approx. US$200/pair; Wesco Boss -- approx. US$500 (or more)
Life is short: know your boots!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Top 10 Countdown: 1 - 5
I continue with the list of my blog posts that receive the most number of unique visitors, as revealed by Statcounter for this year. (The top 6-10 posts were revealed yesterday, here.)
#5: How To Wear Biker Boots (November 18, 2010)
I should have posted this a long time ago. Of course I should have known that few people know how to wear biker boots, which is the reason that question must be entered into Google so often. That can be the only reason -- only us bikers know the secret handshake, the concealed location of the privacy pocket in a leather vest, and the intricacies of precisely how to wear biker boots. (As I said yesterday, sometimes I wonder why someone has to ask that question... perhaps they need to revert to wearing sneakers or loafers and refrain from operating a motorcycle.)
#4: Wesco Boots -- Gay? (December 11, 2009) [This was ranked #6 last year]
As I said yesterday about this year's post #6 (Wesco Boots and Gay Culture), there is a rather frequent misconception that guys who do not work in rough blue-collar trades (such as linesman, loggers, or woodland firefighters) and who choose to wear and display Wesco boots (or, heaven forbid, make a video about them!) -- therefore must be gay and the boots are gay too. While the West Coast Shoe Company (Wesco) does a lot of marketing to the motorcycle rider market, that marketing does not seem to penetrate among the bikers with whom I ride in the U.S. State of Merlin (that's how you pronounce it, fellas). I am the only guy in my outfit about which I am aware who wears Wesco boots while riding. I am gay. Therefore, the obvious leap of logic is that Wesco Boots are gay, or wearing them makes you gay, or that only gay men wear Wesco Boots. Bullshirt. Read the original post.
3. Where Do You Find Masculine Gay Guys? (July 10, 2010) [This was ranked #4 last year ... so the ranking indicates sustained and growing interest in this topic.]
I see sooooo many inquiries entered anonymously into search engines such as: "where to find masculine gay guys" or "are there masculine gay men" or "where to meet normal masculine guys" or even, "are there masculine gay men?" (as in, "do they exist?") There is a large interest out there from single guys, mostly younger, who are looking for a guy who doesn't behave effeminately. Perhaps there is some curiosity, too, that I am a masculine gay man who is in love with another masculine gay man.
The challenge is that most masculine-behaving gay guys have learned skills to hide that they are gay, and remain firmly in the closet. Society has taught them (incorrectly) that "real men aren't gay" and that there is something wrong with guys who like guys. I could go on and on... the point is that stereotypes and heteronormative expectations are out there. Thus, it is very hard to find a masculine gay man. This post has some ideas about where to look ... and this post explains why they are so elusive.
2. Gay Leather Breeches (November 1, 2010)
It is likely that this post's rank so high in readership on this blog is an anomaly, in that while this post gets a lot of unique visits -- sorta off the charts since it was posted -- it may also be ranking so high because it is recent and serves as a topic of interest to gay men who are planning to attend upcoming gatherings of the Gay Men's Leatherclan (Mid-Atlantic Leather in Washington, DC, in January and International Mr. Leather in Chicago, Illinois, in May).
I took the approach in that blog post to dispel the notion that leather breeches unto themselves are not gay, though well over 90% of visitors to that post have entered "gay leather breeches" into a search engine which directed them to this post. I think what they were seeking were answers to any of these questions: 1) where can I find leather breeches to wear to a gay men's gathering? or 2) are people who wear leather breeches gay (as in 'always')?
Well, whatever, this post gets a lot of readers directed to it from internet searches. Not a surprise -- so many people like to search anonymously for information to resolve curiosity.
And ... dah-dah-dum! Here's the Number One blog post this year:
#1: Bulges and Breeches (July 18, 2009) [This was ranked #2 last year, so again, by an increase to ranking #1, it shows a sustained interest!]
Why such a high, sustained interest? Just go to Google images and enter "Tom of Finland." You will see a LOT of ToF images on blogs, including this one. I grabbed this image from the net, that links to my blog post. The post was written as a review -- admiration of superb artwork.
Perhaps, as well, images like this is where the perception of "gay leather breeches" and gay men in tall black boots comes from.
Life is short: keep reading and I will keep blogging!
#5: How To Wear Biker Boots (November 18, 2010)
#4: Wesco Boots -- Gay? (December 11, 2009) [This was ranked #6 last year]
3. Where Do You Find Masculine Gay Guys? (July 10, 2010) [This was ranked #4 last year ... so the ranking indicates sustained and growing interest in this topic.]
The challenge is that most masculine-behaving gay guys have learned skills to hide that they are gay, and remain firmly in the closet. Society has taught them (incorrectly) that "real men aren't gay" and that there is something wrong with guys who like guys. I could go on and on... the point is that stereotypes and heteronormative expectations are out there. Thus, it is very hard to find a masculine gay man. This post has some ideas about where to look ... and this post explains why they are so elusive.
2. Gay Leather Breeches (November 1, 2010)
I took the approach in that blog post to dispel the notion that leather breeches unto themselves are not gay, though well over 90% of visitors to that post have entered "gay leather breeches" into a search engine which directed them to this post. I think what they were seeking were answers to any of these questions: 1) where can I find leather breeches to wear to a gay men's gathering? or 2) are people who wear leather breeches gay (as in 'always')?
Well, whatever, this post gets a lot of readers directed to it from internet searches. Not a surprise -- so many people like to search anonymously for information to resolve curiosity.
And ... dah-dah-dum! Here's the Number One blog post this year:
#1: Bulges and Breeches (July 18, 2009) [This was ranked #2 last year, so again, by an increase to ranking #1, it shows a sustained interest!]
Perhaps, as well, images like this is where the perception of "gay leather breeches" and gay men in tall black boots comes from.
Life is short: keep reading and I will keep blogging!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Top 10 Countdown: 6 - 10
In my third year of blogging, I have enjoyed writing posts about my various interests and my life -- and I've averaged a post-a-day. I may not be able to keep up that pace next year.
I reviewed the visitor's stats for this blog over the past several months, and have determined what the most popular posts on this blog have been, as ranked by the count of the number of unique visitors to specific posts -- thanks to Statcounter, which does the hard work for me.
Interestingly, one of the Top 10 blog posts was from 2008, and three of the Top 10 were from 2009. The remainder were posted this year.
So here goes... the Top Blog Posts on this blog during 2010:
#10: How To Tell If You Have Vintage Frye Boots (October 30, 2010)
This doesn't surprise me at all. Lots and lots of people are interested in vintage Frye boots, and learning how to tell the differences between Fryes made in the 1970s, then during the 80s and up to 2003 when the John A. Frye Shoe Company as we knew it closed and the name was bought by a series of companies that licensed the Frye label to third-party shoe/bootmakers to make products under that name.
#9: Tucking Pants Into Boots (October 10, 2010)
Again, not a surprise this ranks so high. I get a huge number of visitors to this blog and to the "Cowboy Boots and Jeans" tutorial on my website from internet searches along the lines of "do men wear jeans tucked in or out of boots?" I swear, I never cease to be amazed at the large number of internet searches on this topic -- probably by curious, confused, and happy-to-be-anonymous guys asking this question. (IMHO, if a guy has to ask this question, he has more things to worry about than this matter....)
#8: What To Wear With Motorcycle Boots? (September 21, 2010)
Again, I am amazed how search engines are used with the most inane questions by the curious and happy-to-be-anonymous guys. So, what to wear with motorcycle boots? Easy: jeans, leathers, or breeches. Simple. Better to be booted in long pants on a motorcycle than be an organ donor wearing shorts and sneakers... just sayin'.
#7: Hard-workin' Old Chippewa Engineer Boots (July 13, 2009)
This is the first of my blog posts from last year to be ranked among the Top 10. I think the reason why is the image that I posted with it. The post itself is rather dull ... just an explanation of a busy day while wearing engineer boots. This is where "Google Images" produces hits on this blog, because whatever guys search for about dirty, muddy, or well-worn engineer boots produces this image, with a link to this post.
#6: Wesco Boots and Gay Culture (December 27, 2008) [This was ranked #1 last year]
It is fascinating to me that this post would rank so high on this blog -- its now over two years old. Why does it receive so many visits? I think for two reasons: the image shows up in high rankings on Google Image searches -- a tough-looking, masculine biker boot on a Harley. Second, I think the topic itself draws a lot of visitors too. I see many search engines results for searches such as: "why do gay men like Wesco Boots" or "Wesco Boots Gay" or "Gay Boot Fetish" and so forth. I'm here to dispel the notion that only gay men wear Wesco boots, or that the boots themselves are gay. They're just boots, and while I own a dozen pairs of Wesco boots, I have yet to see them make out with each other. :-)
Check back tomorrow for Blog Posts ranked #1 to 5!
Life is short: keep bloggin'!
I reviewed the visitor's stats for this blog over the past several months, and have determined what the most popular posts on this blog have been, as ranked by the count of the number of unique visitors to specific posts -- thanks to Statcounter, which does the hard work for me.
Interestingly, one of the Top 10 blog posts was from 2008, and three of the Top 10 were from 2009. The remainder were posted this year.
So here goes... the Top Blog Posts on this blog during 2010:
#10: How To Tell If You Have Vintage Frye Boots (October 30, 2010)
#9: Tucking Pants Into Boots (October 10, 2010)
#8: What To Wear With Motorcycle Boots? (September 21, 2010)
#7: Hard-workin' Old Chippewa Engineer Boots (July 13, 2009)
#6: Wesco Boots and Gay Culture (December 27, 2008) [This was ranked #1 last year]
Check back tomorrow for Blog Posts ranked #1 to 5!
Life is short: keep bloggin'!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Bikeless Biker
These boots were on sale at Stompers Boots of San Franciso, my favorite boot store. To help the store remain in business, I snagged 'em and here they are! They are great biker boots, 18" tall and unlined. Because they are stock size, they fit snugly on my legs and feel great. I can't wait 'til the winter passes and I can ride my Harley with them. Right now, in the dead of winter, I remain a "Bikeless Biker" while my Harley sits snugly in the garage. :-(
Life is short: wear boots!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Stompers: Best Darn Boot Shop
Stompers Boots of San Francisco is by far the best damn boot shop in the world. While that's the owner's statement, I agree with it (though I prefer not to use profanity.)I posted about Stompers on this blog often -- in fact, this post is a repeat of one that I posted back in 2008. Stompers has suffered through the global recession with many challenges, yet has remained in business because of the owner, Mike's, dedication and commitment. I am repeating this post because I think it's important that the Bootmen Community support this "Institution of Bootdom."
Why, to me, are they the best? And why do I link from dozens of pages on my website, including my home page, to them?
My website is visited by bikers often. Bikers ought to know where to get decent motorcycle boots and stop wearing sneakers and shorts when riding. But I also have these reasons for endorsing Stompers so strongly:
Stompers is particularly good about working with customers on custom orders. Most of my tall biker boots are custom, including most of my Dehners and all of my Wesco engineer and harness boots. Chippewa Boots aren't available in custom sizes, but Stompers knows how to get me fitted correctly in Chips.
Mike, Stompers' Owner, offers great personal customer service. He wants his Bootmen customers to be happy. He ensures that the order is right. He also has a wickedly funny sense of humor, and has been fun to talk to and exchange email with. I am honored to enjoy his friendship, and to have thrown hundreds of referrals his way, knowing that many have resulted in sales.
Stompers' prices are competitive, and there is not a shipping charge for domestic U.S. orders. I haven't found the quality boots that I have wanted at a lower cost elsewhere. And Stompers is really good about getting custom orders to me as quickly as possible by working with its suppliers. Price-wise, I have saved about 20% off of MSRP when ordering through Stompers rather than from the manufacturer, such as Wesco, directly. The tall brown Wesco Harness Boots custom-made to my size (calf width being the issue) shown to the right were ordered from Wesco through Stompers, among others. I have gotten a lot of compliments on these boots. They look great! I often wear them proudly with jeans or leathers tucked in when I ride my Harley.Stompers really knows how to display boots well in excellent photography of the boots the store sells. The boots are not only displayed, but shown on guys wearing them. You can see how a certain pair of boots would look on your own feet through the images offered on the Stompers Boots website.
I was honored to see that, with my permission, Mike has featured one of my photos with my Chippewa Firefighter boots on his website, here and here as well as joining the rotation of photos that appear when the home page is refreshed. Wow! Thanks, Mike!If you have been thinking about getting some new boots, visit Stompers Boots, either in person while in San Francisco, or on-line. You will be happy that you did.
Life is short: support the "Institution of Bootdom": Stompers Boots!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Boot Questions via Google
Every now and then, I gather questions that people enter into internet searches that direct people to this blog or my website. I never cease to be amazed at what people are asking. Here goes:
What's the difference between a laredo boot and a tony lama boot?
A: It's the manufacturer. Laredo boots are cheap and are not the quality of Tony Lama boots. If you want the good stuff, go with Tony Lama. There aren't many other differences in style, height, or appearance. However, there is (to me) a big difference in the comfort. Machine-made Laredo boots are not nearly as comfortable as Tony Lamas.
tuck in jeans or not with cowboy boots?
A: Yes. See this post or this one.
what type of jeans should be worn with boots?
A: Blue. Black. Sometimes brown. Wranglers (to me) look best. Levis work well. So do Dickies or other off-brands. Jeans & boots are a natural combination.
how long does leather lined sole boots last?
I think the question is "low long do leather soles last on cowboy boots?"
A: It depends. Good quality boots made with all-leather soles, such as Lucchese Classics, will last a long time. The measurement of time is in number of hours worn -- not in months or years you have owned them. Look at the soles. Do you see little round holes on the sole between the heel and the foot? If so, you are seeing "pegs." Boots that have pegged soles are of much better quality than boots that have soles that are sewn on. Boots with pegged leather soles will wear for thousands of hours. Boots with sewn (not pegged) soles will wear out more quickly, as in hundreds but not thousands of hours. Of course, it depends where you wear the boots -- on ordinary sidewalks and such. Wearing leather-soled boots on rough pavement, rocky terrain, or in water will make them wear out much more quickly.
do wearing boots make me a cowboy?
A: I doubt this guy will "become" a cowboy simply by wearing boots. I wear cowboy boots often, but I am not a cowboy. I don't ride horses (any more) nor work on a ranch. Cowboys work with cattle, horses, and often on ranches or farms. A cowboy is who is he by what he does, not by what he wears on his feet.
can you only wear cowboy boots with jeans?
Can you only what? huh? I think this means, "do you wear cowboy boots only with jeans?" (The writer was from Texas, by the way).
A: No. One can wear cowboy boots with a suit, with leather pants, and even though I wouldn't do it, I have seen some guys wear cowboy boots with shorts. What you wear with cowboy boots is your choice. My personal opinion, however, is that cowboy boots look best with jeans, but dress cowboy boots look great with a business suit, too. A few guys can pull off an interesting look with a pair of cowboy boots and a pair of leather jeans. While I'm sharing opinions, I think wearing cowboy boots with anything other than long pants looks silly.
Are western boots acceptable with khakis?
A: If you have to ask this question, put your sneakers or loafers back on and put your boots away.
Sure: western (cowboy) boots are fine with khakis. I wear that combination sometimes when my jeans are in the wash or I'm going to a semi-dressy informal event, such a gathering as my yuppie-brother-in-law's home or something.
Cowboy boots and belts usually made with which bird's skin?
A: Good question! Ostrich is usually chosen to make a pair of boots and a belt to match. I have seen other skins from lizard (teju lizard) and even alligator used for boots/belt combos, but mostly it's ostrich. Why? Ostriches are farmed for their hides to use for bootmaking, and some of the hides (or parts of hides) are so narrow that they cannot be used for boots, so belts are made from those remainders.
Where to buy leather boot stretch liquid?
A: In the drugstore. It's called "rubbing alcohol." Seriously, it's the same thing. Don't be fooled by paying 5x as much for "boot stretching liquid." When you read the label, you'll find that the contents is rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, which costs less than US$1/bottle in most drugstores.
What's roughout leather on Wesco boots?
A: A hide from which boots are made comes with two sides: the smooth side and the rough side. Roughout leather is the rough side of the skin. A pair of roughout boots is made with the rough side on the outside, rather than on the inside. Beware: the hide used for a pair of roughout boots is not any more expensive than "regular" leather. But the West Coast Shoe Company (Wesco) charges more for a pair of their boots made with the rough side showing because the perception of higher value exists and because they can. Not for any other reason.
Can you wear cowboy boots in a horse show?
A: I could go so many places with this, but let's suffice to say, "yes."
Boots inside or outside boots?
A: Yes, this was an actual question entered into a Google search. My answer would be....
Life is short: wear your feet inside your boots at all times. (The opposite is so much messier.)
What's the difference between a laredo boot and a tony lama boot?
A: It's the manufacturer. Laredo boots are cheap and are not the quality of Tony Lama boots. If you want the good stuff, go with Tony Lama. There aren't many other differences in style, height, or appearance. However, there is (to me) a big difference in the comfort. Machine-made Laredo boots are not nearly as comfortable as Tony Lamas.
tuck in jeans or not with cowboy boots?
A: Yes. See this post or this one.
what type of jeans should be worn with boots?
A: Blue. Black. Sometimes brown. Wranglers (to me) look best. Levis work well. So do Dickies or other off-brands. Jeans & boots are a natural combination.
how long does leather lined sole boots last?
I think the question is "low long do leather soles last on cowboy boots?"
A: It depends. Good quality boots made with all-leather soles, such as Lucchese Classics, will last a long time. The measurement of time is in number of hours worn -- not in months or years you have owned them. Look at the soles. Do you see little round holes on the sole between the heel and the foot? If so, you are seeing "pegs." Boots that have pegged soles are of much better quality than boots that have soles that are sewn on. Boots with pegged leather soles will wear for thousands of hours. Boots with sewn (not pegged) soles will wear out more quickly, as in hundreds but not thousands of hours. Of course, it depends where you wear the boots -- on ordinary sidewalks and such. Wearing leather-soled boots on rough pavement, rocky terrain, or in water will make them wear out much more quickly.
do wearing boots make me a cowboy?
A: I doubt this guy will "become" a cowboy simply by wearing boots. I wear cowboy boots often, but I am not a cowboy. I don't ride horses (any more) nor work on a ranch. Cowboys work with cattle, horses, and often on ranches or farms. A cowboy is who is he by what he does, not by what he wears on his feet.
can you only wear cowboy boots with jeans?
Can you only what? huh? I think this means, "do you wear cowboy boots only with jeans?" (The writer was from Texas, by the way).
A: No. One can wear cowboy boots with a suit, with leather pants, and even though I wouldn't do it, I have seen some guys wear cowboy boots with shorts. What you wear with cowboy boots is your choice. My personal opinion, however, is that cowboy boots look best with jeans, but dress cowboy boots look great with a business suit, too. A few guys can pull off an interesting look with a pair of cowboy boots and a pair of leather jeans. While I'm sharing opinions, I think wearing cowboy boots with anything other than long pants looks silly.
Are western boots acceptable with khakis?
A: If you have to ask this question, put your sneakers or loafers back on and put your boots away.
Sure: western (cowboy) boots are fine with khakis. I wear that combination sometimes when my jeans are in the wash or I'm going to a semi-dressy informal event, such a gathering as my yuppie-brother-in-law's home or something.
Cowboy boots and belts usually made with which bird's skin?
A: Good question! Ostrich is usually chosen to make a pair of boots and a belt to match. I have seen other skins from lizard (teju lizard) and even alligator used for boots/belt combos, but mostly it's ostrich. Why? Ostriches are farmed for their hides to use for bootmaking, and some of the hides (or parts of hides) are so narrow that they cannot be used for boots, so belts are made from those remainders.
Where to buy leather boot stretch liquid?
A: In the drugstore. It's called "rubbing alcohol." Seriously, it's the same thing. Don't be fooled by paying 5x as much for "boot stretching liquid." When you read the label, you'll find that the contents is rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, which costs less than US$1/bottle in most drugstores.
What's roughout leather on Wesco boots?
A: A hide from which boots are made comes with two sides: the smooth side and the rough side. Roughout leather is the rough side of the skin. A pair of roughout boots is made with the rough side on the outside, rather than on the inside. Beware: the hide used for a pair of roughout boots is not any more expensive than "regular" leather. But the West Coast Shoe Company (Wesco) charges more for a pair of their boots made with the rough side showing because the perception of higher value exists and because they can. Not for any other reason.
Can you wear cowboy boots in a horse show?
A: I could go so many places with this, but let's suffice to say, "yes."
Boots inside or outside boots?
A: Yes, this was an actual question entered into a Google search. My answer would be....
Life is short: wear your feet inside your boots at all times. (The opposite is so much messier.)
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Classic Bamaboy
I have the distinct honor and privilege of having developed a very close friendship with a guy who has quite a reputation for producing high-quality photos of some of his boots. Striking, masculine, classy, and with style ... and with a charm unique to this guy whose self-deprecation belies his intelligence. Smart as a whip, he is, but I shan't say more, else it will go to his head.
The guy I am talking about goes by "Bamaboy". Yeah, he lives in Alabama, but is a man of the world. Quick-witted and skilled, he continues to blow me away with his creativity and artistry. Ooops, there I go again....
It was kinda funny how our friendship developed, but I'm glad it did. I am also pleased to have met him in person -- and he told me that I'm the only one from the "boots gang" at hotboots/BOL who he has met in person. He is a very private guy. He is honorable, good to his family and loved-ones, and honest as the day is long. Our values are parallel, and our respect for one another runs deep.
This photo was posted by Bamaboy on the hotboots/BOL board yesterday, sorta at my urging. The board has had a "harness boots week." He has posted this image on that board before, but so long ago that many haven't seen it. The boots in this photo are now in my collection as Bama told me he was going to sell them, and gave me "first dibs" to buy them from him. I wear these boots when I ride my Harley, and think fondly of my friend each time I do. And I no longer wonder why these boots wander off into mudholes... (giggle).
Life is short: cherish close friends, and hold them with respect and honor in your heart.
The guy I am talking about goes by "Bamaboy". Yeah, he lives in Alabama, but is a man of the world. Quick-witted and skilled, he continues to blow me away with his creativity and artistry. Ooops, there I go again....
It was kinda funny how our friendship developed, but I'm glad it did. I am also pleased to have met him in person -- and he told me that I'm the only one from the "boots gang" at hotboots/BOL who he has met in person. He is a very private guy. He is honorable, good to his family and loved-ones, and honest as the day is long. Our values are parallel, and our respect for one another runs deep.
This photo was posted by Bamaboy on the hotboots/BOL board yesterday, sorta at my urging. The board has had a "harness boots week." He has posted this image on that board before, but so long ago that many haven't seen it. The boots in this photo are now in my collection as Bama told me he was going to sell them, and gave me "first dibs" to buy them from him. I wear these boots when I ride my Harley, and think fondly of my friend each time I do. And I no longer wonder why these boots wander off into mudholes... (giggle).
Life is short: cherish close friends, and hold them with respect and honor in your heart.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Thinning the Wesco Boot Collection
Note (added later): these boots have been sold and are not availableI have had this pair of Wesco Boss Boots since 1989. The color is different -- The West Coast Shoe Company (Wesco) calls it "Redwood." They are 20" tall (after sagging about an inch once they were broken in), and have a 16-1/2" calf circumference. I wore them while riding my Harley (and previous motorcycles), so shifter-scuffing on the right boot is noticeable.
I bought these boots directly from Wesco. At the time, Stompers wasn't open yet, and I did not know that you can get new Wesco Boots from a third-party retailer for significantly less money than from the dealer direct.
The boots are standard, or stock, in measurement. The foot size is 10D. They are not lined with leather, but the leather is very stiff and they stand up well. They have one buckle at the top, closed with a brass closure, and of course one buckle across the instep, which is traditional for an engineer-style boot.
I can pull them on with a struggle, and my regular 10D foot fits fine. The leg is where I have a problem. The calf circumference is too tight for me as my calf muscles have gotten a bit bigger as I have aged.
I have
Life is short: continue the life of a long-lived pair of boots!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Friggin' Blister
Last Sunday I mowed the lawn. No big deal. But my formerly broken ankle was sore again, and hurt most where the top of my short work boots reached the ankle. So I decided to wear my Wesco Combat Boots which are a bit taller, and came above the former broken bone so when laced closed, the boots would provide more support.
As soon as I got out of my cast and could wear boots again, those were the boots I wore because the lacing made them adjustable, so they could accommodate the residual swelling. I even mowed the lawn in those boots back in April and May.
I never had a problem with those boots causing a blister. Not until this past Sunday. When I was done with the lawn, I went inside to take a cold shower to cool off as it was friggin' hot outside. When I took my boots off and peeled off my socks, I screamed in pain. My gosh, what a big friggin' ugly sore blister on the back of my right heel!
How in the hell did that happen? Probably the old socks I was wearing were the culprit. They had worn thin at the heel. Pushing the mower up our small hill is where I think the blister happened, as I was causing the boot to rub a lot against the skin of my heel. Damn, when I first felt a little tingle that is a sign of a blister, I should have stopped right away and taken care of it. But no.... I kept going and much to my dismay this damn blister happened.
I'll survive. But I tell 'ya, it's hard to find a pair of boots to wear that do not cause my heel to hurt like hell. I am now wearing a bandage, moleskin, and two pairs of socks over the blister. I take all that stuff off at night so air can get to it so it can heal. I am choosing boots that I don't wear as often because they were big on me. But with two pairs of socks and those layers over the blister, I need larger boots to accommodate the protection.
Meanwhile, I am walking with a distinctive limp ... again ... sigh. Oh well, as I said, I'll survive.
Life is short: blisters happen.
As soon as I got out of my cast and could wear boots again, those were the boots I wore because the lacing made them adjustable, so they could accommodate the residual swelling. I even mowed the lawn in those boots back in April and May.
I never had a problem with those boots causing a blister. Not until this past Sunday. When I was done with the lawn, I went inside to take a cold shower to cool off as it was friggin' hot outside. When I took my boots off and peeled off my socks, I screamed in pain. My gosh, what a big friggin' ugly sore blister on the back of my right heel!
How in the hell did that happen? Probably the old socks I was wearing were the culprit. They had worn thin at the heel. Pushing the mower up our small hill is where I think the blister happened, as I was causing the boot to rub a lot against the skin of my heel. Damn, when I first felt a little tingle that is a sign of a blister, I should have stopped right away and taken care of it. But no.... I kept going and much to my dismay this damn blister happened.
I'll survive. But I tell 'ya, it's hard to find a pair of boots to wear that do not cause my heel to hurt like hell. I am now wearing a bandage, moleskin, and two pairs of socks over the blister. I take all that stuff off at night so air can get to it so it can heal. I am choosing boots that I don't wear as often because they were big on me. But with two pairs of socks and those layers over the blister, I need larger boots to accommodate the protection.
Meanwhile, I am walking with a distinctive limp ... again ... sigh. Oh well, as I said, I'll survive.
Life is short: blisters happen.
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