I would like to present my newest acquisition, WESCO's boss (engineer) boot. These are my second pair of custom WESCO's following a pair of packers. The initial price of $100 for the custom fit is a bit steep, I knew though that I would be spreading that cost over at least two pairs of boots and I might be in it for a third. A small price to pay for a guy with very tall arches, and a 10A-AA foot measurement. The specs; boss boots, western last (more on that later), standard 11" tall. Black steer leather, nickel buckles, standard length straps, brown stitching uppers, white stitching lowers. That is the standard stitching colors, if you want custom colors WESCO will do that, but from what I understand its a pain in the butt to change thread colors. I figured if I wanted black I could always dye them myself. Turns out I actually like the contrasting stitching. #705 Vibram half soles, with brown painted mid soles. This is really my only deviation from a stock pair.
These boots started out their lives as a stock boss toe boot. When I first contacted Pete in the custom fit department we discussed what I wanted and a few non standard options. When I finally made my decision I decided not to venture off the beaten path and opted for a standard boss toe to obtain the heel height I wanted. When the 14 weeks had finally arrived my boss toed boots were a bit sloppier than I had hoped. Pete and I discussed the difficulties of fitting my very narrow foot in a pull on boot. When all of the tricks or tips to get the boots to fit better were finally exhausted WESCO offered to rebuild the boots as a western toed boot (narrower overall profile). This time only a two week wait was necessary, and when they returned to me I now have a wonderfully fitting pull on boot. I must say that these are the most comfortable fitting pieces of footwear that I have ever owned. Well worth the money and the wait. The combination leather mid soles and high arch support are just heaven for me to stand in. I can stand all day on concrete and only be mildly tiered by the end of the day, unlike all of my old cheap boot barn junkers that would leave me practically in tears and would be worn out in 10 months. My packers have gone through a 6 month agricultural season of me wearing them everyday and look new when I clean them up. I wouldn't be surprised to get 4-5 years of work from them before a resole or rebuild is needed. These engineer boots being used only for ridding or casual use should be heirloom quality.
The break in, for whatever reason has been much smoother than my packers. When I took these pictures I believe I have about 20 days in them. - Jared
I would like to thank fellow FL member marineabilly and his blog http://vintageengineerboots.blogspot.com/ The wealth of information that can be found there was essential to helping me get a perfect pair of engineer boots.
