Deserts cover around 33% of the Earth’s total land surface. If you include those areas at risk of desertification this figure increases to almost 40%.
Believe it or not, we have a desert in the UK. Dungeness in Kent, is widely recognised as the UK’s only desert. Some might find this hard to believe. This unique landscape consists of Europe’s largest expanse of shingle. Not sand. I really should take a trip down there sometime and check the place out. I think I have the perfect boots for a walk there.
Like a lot of people on this wet island of ours, I love a desert boot. I’m not sure if it’s a British ‘quirk’, or if it’s some bizarre remnant of empire. But one thing I don’t like about them is the ‘flimsiness’. Most of the time, this isn’t a problem. But sometimes, I really wish I had more support, more grip and some real stability. So, I had one made to my specifications. You are going to love these!
While I was in the processes of placing an order with my friend Matteo at Caltrek. I asked him about one of his military inspired desert boots.
I wanted to see if we could make this boot stitchdown first. I’m a huge fan of stitchdown construction, I love the stability it provides and the relaxed fit. I also asked him if we could change the lacing system. Instead of having eyelets, I decided d-rings and a few speed hooks would be more practical. I also asked him to remove the waterproof membrane. Yes, you read that right. I said no to a waterproof membrane. They have their place. The market is saturated in them (pardon the pun). But I wanted to focus on breathability. For the sole we went with a Vibram® mountain block. Nothing special, just proven grip and excellent wear credentials. The boot is stitchdown and the midsole is rubber, so changing this out in the future is easy work for a cobbler. Is it overkill for a desert boot? I don’t think that it is. It’s also a fairly soft compound too.
The upper of the boot is Italian suede and Cordura® fabric. The tongue is bellowed to help keep out dirt and debris. The boot stands at just over 7inches. Despite appearing quite short the boot feels supportive underfoot as well as around the ankles. This is a no-nonsense boot. The kind of boot I like! Simple and solid.
I give you the DESERT SCOUT.
I have to say that when these turned up at GHC HQ, I had them on my feet within seconds. The lacing system concept worked, that’s for sure. The sizing works for me and the lack of membrane means that the fit is just that little bit more relaxed. I use an orthotic insole because I have fallen arches, no problem with space in the boots at all. Despite having flat feet the width of the boot works for me too.
WHY ARE THESE BOOTS MADE TO ORDER AND WHY CAN’T I GET THEM RIGHT AWAY?
Some people find this annoying. I hear you! I’m trying to promote the idea of sustainable (slow) fashion and mindful consumption. This option also allows me to offer more boots. I can experiment, see what works and what doesn’t. It also benefits the smaller more artisan producer. They don’t have their money tied up in orders and aren’t worrying too much about cashflow. The manufacturer can also focus their attention on one pair of boots at a time. I have to say I like this idea a lot. There’s something else too. You get a better deal as the consumer. I can keep the price lower, and I handle everything for you. You won’t have any custom charges passed onto you and you get free shipping withing the UK.
What’s the point if they aren’t made to measure?
Made to measure is an entirely different ball game! It’s also something I’m exploring with a bootmaker in the US. Watch this space!
These boots don’t take long to be made, allow up to 4 weeks for them to arrive with me and then to be shipped to you. If you are in the UK and something isn’t quite right with them. Don’t worry. You can still return them to me. Not a problem in the least. If you are outside of the UK, please take the time to have a look at my returns/shipping page Shipping and Returns
WHO ARE THESE BOOTS FOR?
I wanted to spread the word about these Desert Scouts as soon as I could. I know a good boot when I see one. If you are interested check them out here DESERT SCOUT
Personally, I think these are for people who like a simple boot. Just like the desert or chukka boots of old, these are still simple. They are all about functionality. Easy to lace up, simple to look after and repairable. They are more capable than the desert boots of old and will handle rougher terrain. I think that this will be a perfect boot for the spring and summer months. Hiking, hunting, birdwatching, nature photography or working outdoors. These have your back! A premium made Italian stitchdown boot. The DESERT SCOUT a new standard in desert boots. ESPLORIAMO INSIEME!
I can’t wait to get these out on the trail and will report back soon!
Genuine handcrafted outdoors signing off!!
THANKS FOR READING!