Oi!
It’s a shoe review! As I continue on in my occasional blogging per the LIFEstyle column I launched a few years ago, I’m excited to write about these new shoes delivered to me from Chrome Industries. The description of these leather hightops sparked my interest. Then when I saw the graphics on the shoebox my expectation went higher. This hip urban sport company understands aesthetics. It’s hard not to like the regal lion griffin logo the company uses (with the HM-approved colors red, black and white in the brand).
The shoes fit well, but I was dismayed when I developed sores that might turn into blisters around my ankles, but I pressed on, attributing that to my newbie breaking in period. I gave it a day, day and a half, and … sure enough, these high tops were broken in and as comfortable as a pair of socks. Speaking of socks, I recommend a pair of calf-high socks that extend high enough to peek out above the shoe tops.
These comfortable and stylish shoes lace up with strong work-boot laces and get compliments. They’re functional, too, giving a flat sole grip to whatever you’re on – skate deck, boat deck or concrete. The bottom has raised slots, as opposed to a waffle pattern. If you’re used to flat sole shoes (a la vans slip-ons, etc.), you already know how it’ll impact your feet if you’re walking on concrete all day. Some people are better prepared for that and others need an instep/arch insert to cushion the blows.
These are lightweight. You almost don’t feel like you have ’em on. Let’s call it the Peter Pan effect. This is a good thing. Mix that with comfort, looks and rugged leather construction and you’ve got one quality shoe. I’ve been wearing these for a few months and can report no unusual wear and tear, no glue coming undone. High praise for the Chrome 415 Workboot.
Here’s a shot of me using the shoes in action. I must say it improved my vocal performance by a good 45 percent (as far as you know). Click on the photo for a zoomed view. Note the faultless crease in the bent back foot.
Shoe specs include:
HYPE:
We made our limited edition Red Leather 415 Work Boot to provide the stability and protection of a work boot with the mobility and feel of a sneaker. We noticed that work has changed but everyone is still wearing boots made for standing on the factory floor. We wanted a boot that didn’t require a long break-in period. One you could bike, skate, walk, and ride a motorcycle in. Red Leather 415s are made using weatherproof, oiled, full grain leather. Durable, and built for urban trades.
FIT:
• Contoured impact-resistant PU footbed
• Blown rubber midsole wedge for maximum comfort
SPECS:
Weight:
2.1 lb
FEATURES:
• Low profile design for better fit with toe cages
• Durable upper construction
• Out of the box comfort
• Padded collar for ankle support
• Reflective heel pull loop for nighttime visibility
• Steel aglets to keep laces from fraying
FABRICATION:
• 100% Vulcanized construction
• Oiled full grain leather upper
• Skid resistant contact rubber on the sole
• Built in: Thailand
PRICE:
$130 (not cheap, but neither is the workmanship and materials or fashion quality)
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