Wolverine’s new 1000 Mile Boot Collection is a sight to behold. Drawing on 125 years of history, the collection features Horween leathers, stacked leather outsoles, Vibram soles, Goodyear welt construction, and Made in the USA goodness. That’s a roster robust enough to turn even the most dedicated Sneaker Head. The cornerstone of Wolverine’s collection is the 1000 Mile Boot. Based closely on original Wolverines of the early 20th century, it appears to have time traveled from the foot of one of these fine gentleman to us. The 1000 Mile Boot has all the same impressive construction as the rest of the line, but a simple aesthetic that leaves its competition in the dust.
As for the name, it comes from vintage Wolverine advertising purporting their boots to “last a 1000 miles”. When we got lucky enough to tie on a pair of Rust 1000 Mile Boots we figured wearing the hell out of them was the best way to demo them while honoring the heritage. In that spirit, we’ve submitted them to family parties, job interviews, snow, sleet, rain, public transportation, 14 hour days on our feet, dates, and sporting events. Along the way we were impressed at how quickly the uppers formed to our feet, and the soles became comfortable, allowing them to be worn for long periods of time with very little discomfort.
The 1000 Mile’s appearance is an exercise in simplicity and, as such, needs little description, but the boots pair perfectly with wardrobe staples like jeans and khakis and could even pass with the right suit. The most surprising thing we found about the 1000 Mile Boot is how much attention they garnered; each time we wore them someone complimented them and asked what they were. Some people may balk at the $325 price tag, but that’s no more than a handmade pair of dress shoes costs from the likes of Allen Edmonds or Alden. And, when it comes down to it, that’s what the 1000 Mile’s are – a fine pair of footwear, not just boots. Care for the leather right and get them resoled a few times and you’ll surpass 1000 miles easily.
Cost: $325