CAVEAT EMPTOR: These boots are made from a highly varied horsebutt leather that can differ in color, texture, markings, & grain across different boot panels. The pronounced grain texture of the boots is both desirable and intentional, and any imperfections should be understood as purely aesthetic (as in, they will not effect the longevity or wearability of the boots). If you are not bothered by variation in your footwear, then we encourage you to check out these boots - this is some of the most gorgeous and incredible looking leather we've managed to get our hands on.
The original M-43 service shoe that serves as the model for these was issued in 1943, with the rivetless version starting in 1944. The basic specifications for this boot were very simple. Composition sole, welted construction, natural combination-tanned rough-out cowhide, all built up on the Munson last with an unstructured toe. The goal was to have a cost-effective, durable shoe for all forms of combat conditions. Multiple variants popped up across the armed forces, including version for the Marines and the Navy, all with the same basic template.
Not sufficiently pleased making a simple reproduction, the Lofgren team have taken the M-43 and upgraded every aspect they can. Military grade eyelets, multiple rows of precise, high-SPI stitchwork, a completely unstructured toe, & USA-made Vibram 705 soles with 700 heels held on with a British-made 360 degree storm welt.
For this highly limited-edition release, the team at Lofgren have used an incredible olive horsebutt from Japan's own Shinki Tannery, one of the premier horsehide tanneries in the world. This is a remarkable leather, with a glossy finish, incredibly pronounced grain texture, and a rich olive color with beautiful tonal highs and lows. Unlike cowhide, horsebutt tends to roll rather than crease over time, giving them a more subtle and clean aging process.
They are built around the same Munson last as used in the originals, which makes for a comfortable, supportive boot.
Choose 1 size smaller than your Brannock device size.
- Built on the original Munson Last
- Unlined Shinki olive horsebutt
- Pronounced grain texture
- Variable paneling
- Leather midsole
- 360 degree storm welt
- Vibram 705 sole with 700 heel
- Tonal brown eyelets
- Brown edge stain
- White contrast stitching
- Choose 1 size smaller than your Brannock device size
- Made In Japan
- Limited Edition - these will not be restocked
Built on the original Munson Last
Choose 1 size smaller than your Brannock device size.
Choose 0.5 size smaller than your Red Wing Iron Ranger or Alden Barrie last size.
Choose the same size as your Viberg 2030 last size.