Combat Boots - Black Ops Shinki Shell Cordovan

Shell cordovan leather is a very stiff and fairly inflexible leather known for developing handsome rolls instead of the usual creases that wear into other leathers. The break-in period for shell cordovan footwear can be much more severe than with other boots or shoes in certain cases, and may take a considerable amount of time or wear. Caveat emptor. The Lofgren Combat boot is their take on the classic perforated cap-toe military boot, an iconically handsome boot that doesn't sacrifice sturdiness or durability. Standing at 6" tall, with 7 tonal eyelets & flat waxed cotton laces, they're built on the made in the USA Vibram 700 sole (with matching Vibram 700 heel) — one of our favorite outsoles for its low profile and surprising blend of traction & durability. They're made from an all-black shell cordovan leather from the Shinki Tannery in Japan. Shell cordovan is a very specific cut and treatment of horsebutt leather, utilizing a very small (and "shell-shaped") section of the lower rump. The tanning and finishing processes are also highly specialized, producing a stiff, glossy horsehide leather that's also notoriously difficult to make and use. The leather also ages very uniquely — while other cowhide and horsehide leathers will crease, shell cordovan curves and rolls, developing a beautiful silhouette as it wears in. As mentioned above, the stiffness and lack of stretch inherent to shell cordovan also contribute to a significant break-in period, and a tight fit out of the box.  There's even more magic packed into the fit. Lofgren call these an E width, because they're plenty roomy throughout but we've found them to be pretty accommodating to almost everyone. We suggest still sizing these like most other Lofgren boots, and taking 0.5 size smaller than your brannock size. Built on the John Lofgren 120 Last Black shell cordovan leather from Shinki Tannery in Japan Exclusive John Lofgren last Tonal brass hardware 7 eyelets Perforated cap toe Flat waxed cotton laces Made in USA Vibram 700 sole + 700 heel combination Leather midsole Black edge stain 360 degree storm welt construction Fully resoleable and rebuildable Take 0.5 size smaller than Brannock size Limited run Made in Japan