The Boot

This special collaboration with Rose Anvil is a love letter to the style we helped pioneer well over a century ago. The adaptation of the Indian moccasin with European boot making techniques was spearheaded by trappers along the U.S.-Canadian border in the late 1800s. Moccasin construction was quiet for stalking and was incredibly comfortable due to the sock-like fit of the molded leather vamp. Russell Moccasin was one of the first companies to begin producing moccasin boots and soon added outsoles to make them even more durable. By the 1920's, Russell boots were known internationally, worn by aviators like Charles Lindbergh, and hard core sportsmen such as King Edward VIII who wore them on safari. They were prized for their long-distance comfort, water-resistance and longevity. In 1923 R.B. Slatter wore a pair of Russells on an 1,800 mile trek across British Colombia and Canada, wearing out two pack horses in the process. (Read the full story Here) .

In 1930, in the wake of the Great Depression, companies began to make Mock Moccasins to give the appearance of the Moccasin construction Russell was famed for, but without the unique true moccasin construction that made its performance so well known. By making them as welted or stitch-down construction, the time required to produce a pair was cut by more than 80%, allowing them to sell them at vastly lower prices than a true moccasin. With this change in construction, the benefits of the style they were trying to emulate was left behind. By the 1960's, only hard core sportsmen and wealthy clients knew the difference between a Mock Moccasin and a true moccasin.

The OG Moc is the real deal though. Made on our Bird Shooter pattern which was developed in the early 1910s, this boot is bench made with our famous patented Overlap stitch and unique Double Vamp moccasin construction. Two independent layers of hand-lasted leather surround the foot, making it incredibly water-resistant and the ultimate in comfort. A classic Vibram Christy wedge sole and our favorite Walnut Timberjack leather tanned at S.B. Foot make this boot about as classic as it gets.

This boot is a Collaboration. Upon your order it will be put into production on a 6 month production lead time. Collaborations are limited in material and are not eligible for exchange.