Shoes

[robwall1861]

So after this past weekend at the Bentonville event in NC, I noticed I REALLY need to repalace my shoes (after 11 years of service the soles have given out). The top three sources I'm going with are Robert Land, Missourie Boot and Shoe and Mattimore Harness.

Does anyone out there have any advice one way or the others to any of these vendors as far as quality, accuracy, etc.

Thanks in advance.

Sincerely,
Robert "Robin" Wallace

[Michael Comer]

Re: Shoes

Robert,

They are all good vendors and this subject has been covered quite a bit in the past. Please use the search function to see some of the earlier discussions. I am sure they will help you out with your quest.

[estephenson]

Re: Shoes

Robin, All three produce a good product, but each have their flaws. They all have machined uppers, but utilize period machines, not incorrect at all. They all use pegging machines, as they should considering they are production shops.

Robert Land has started to use pre-dyed leather and they have been puffing up like a sponge, his soles are machine pegged and I have seen recent examples of his work that the pegging has not penetrated beyond the sole.

Robert Serio makes great boots, but they are to wide in both sole and heel and this will cause blisters on longer marches.

Tom Mattimore shoes lasts make them look a bit more "frankenstienish" then they should. His "progressive" shoe is double pegged, heel is a little longer then I have seen, but that does not mean they are incorrect.

Hope this helps.

[robwall1861]

Re: Shoes

Sorry, forgot to mention in my previous post that I am looking for a pair Jefferson Brogans to use for both my US and CS impression.

Thanks again,
Robin

[P. M. Cunningham, Tinner]

Re: Shoes

(after 11 years of service the soles have given out).
Sincerely,
Robert "Robin" Wallace

There is always repair.

Pat Cunningham

[Silas]

Re: Shoes

Please consult the Authentic Campaigner Website & Forums FAQ for questions like this. As noted in this FAQ :

Here you can find answers to questions about how the board works. Use the links or search box below to find your way around.

Who makes the best _____________ ?

The most authentic vendors of various items come and go - so often that it's difficult to answer this question. The Authentic Campaigner website tries to maintain a stable of excellent vendors for you to choose from - you can find a full list of them here.

You'd be well-served to do a little looking around - ask your messmates. Whenever possible, compare the reproductions with originals - not other reproductions. Try to find reproductions that do not sacrifice in any of the most important three categories: Authentic materials, correct patterns, quality of construction.

What uniform should I buy for my ___________ ____________ impression?

If you're in a unit, your unit should be able to answer that question for you. If they can't, you need to ask yourself if you're in the right unit. Living History units need to do their own research in regard to uniform impressions - it's one of the most rewarding studies you can embark on. If you're not in a unit, perhaps you should join one before you decide what impression you want to do.

[Spinster]

Re: Shoes

Mr. Cunningham is being modest.

His period shoe repair services are available through Ezra Barnhouse Merchantile. I've seen the work. Fabulous!

[onemoreb]

Re: Shoes

Robin,
If you are looking for something hand sewn and ultra authentic, contact MO Boot and Shoe. Mr. Serio will be happy to assist you with whatever you desire. I have 5 pairs of footwear from his shop and have been pleased with them all. He can provide you with entirely hand-sewn Jefferson bootees (including soles) that have all parts hand sewn and even with a hand-sewn welt that I guarantee to be the most flexible and comfortable totally period correct shoes you will ever own. However they are quite expensive but well worth the price. They can be repaired over and over. I have never experienced any problem with them on long marches or long days of doing interp for the Park Service.
In my humble opinion, you tend to get what you pay for.

[Prodical Reb]

Re: Shoes

I like my MB&S brogans. Have been holding up well, even with all the rain we've had in the last 2 years. I can't tell you how many times they have been soaked! I advise hobnails! They have really held up well!

If you order from MB&S, make sure you follow the directions on tracing your foot with sock style you plan on wearing! Mine fit right out of the box and went immediately to Remembrance day parade in Gettysburg with no break-in & no issues! They arrived the day before!

[Silas]

Re: Shoes

This borderline "who makes the best" thread has begun to morph into a thread with the usual testimonials which accompany "who makes the best" questions. There's really no new information which can provided. The reply from Mr. Comer pretty well answers the question and provides some solid advice :

They are all good vendors and this subject has been covered quite a bit in the past. Please use the search function to see some of the earlier discussions. I am sure they will help you out with your quest.

Accordingly, I'm reaching for the lock ...