WABASH ENGINEER BOOTS / BADALASSI CARLO LEATHER / GRIGIO
Lot No. LK-003-GRIGIO
After examining numerous vintage engineer boots, we’ve created these Japanese-made engineer boots packed with meticulous attention to detail—from materials and manufacturing methods to individual components—that can’t be fully described in just a few words.
They are the crowning achievement of the John Loftgren Boot Company’s lineup and embody the brand’s passion and commitment to excellence.
Japanese artisans have distilled traditional techniques into these sturdy, high-quality boots.
The leather used is Minerva Riscio from the Italian company “Carlo Badalassi.”
Located in the Tuscany region of Italy, Carlo Badalassi is a tannery specializing in vegetable-tanned leather. For over 50 years, they have been tanning leather in the region using the “Bacchetta” method and are considered one of the finest tanneries in the area.
The “Bacchetta” method is a traditional tanning process that involves slowly infusing the leather with vegetable tannins over an extended period, followed by repeated stages of fattening—a process of adding oil. However, because this method is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and the number of artisans capable of passing it down through the generations has dwindled over time, it has become increasingly rare.
Minerva Riscio leather is characterized by a smooth, beautiful surface and a thick, firm texture.
We use the shoulder section of cowhide, which is particularly strong. The more you use it, the more it develops a beautiful luster; the oil is retained well, and its elegant sheen deepens over time.
Please also enjoy the unique coloring that is characteristic of Italian craftsmanship.
Triple stitching is applied to areas prone to pressure, and the stitching—a hallmark of Japanese craftsmanship—offers a beautiful finish.
Featuring layered oak dark-tanned leather and a Woodsman’s heel (with a curve that curves inward), these boots boast an elegant finish.
The shaft is shaped with a rounded contour at the calf for a comfortable fit.
The buckle is a steel roller buckle featuring the brand’s logo. It has an antique brass finish and was designed from scratch to blend seamlessly with the leather.
The sole is made by the world-renowned manufacturer VIBRAM and offers exceptional durability.
Crafted using the Goodyear welt construction—one of the traditional methods for leather shoes—it boasts durability achieved through intricate stitching.
This construction method, commonly found in vintage boots and high-end shoes, is characterized by a level of durability that is unmatched by other methods.
Thanks to the complex stitching and structure, the shoes have just the right weight to create a pendulum-like motion while walking, providing excellent support.
One of the key attractions is that repairs, such as sole and heel replacements, are possible, allowing you to wear them virtually indefinitely.
They will be delivered in a custom box.
Material: COW HIDE
LAST: 110
Tanning: Vegetable
WIDTH: D
Heel: 4.5cm
Country of Origin: Japan
US 9D/27.0cm Inner Sole Length: 289mm
Size Reference Examples
All JLB boots are worn in US 8.5 (26.5cm).
Compared to boots from other manufacturers that I wear.Please feel free to use this as a reference.
RED WING/ #2268 ENGINEER BOOTS US 8.5D
WHITE’S/ SEMI DRESS BOOTS US 8.5D
WESCO/ JOB MASTER BOOTS US 8.5E
PARABOOTS/ CHAMBORD UK 7.5 (US 8.0)
Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding sizing.
info@speedway-shop.com
022-215-7577 (11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
Closed on Wednesdays
Each piece of natural leather is unique. You may notice minor scratches or wrinkles, but please enjoy these as part of the leather’s natural character. We look forward to your order with your understanding.
