White’s Boots has been synonymous with quality, durability, and craftsmanship for over a century. Founded in the 1800s by Edward White, the company built its reputation by making boots tough enough for loggers, firefighters, ranchers, and hard laborers. Now based in Spokane, Washington, White’s continues to craft handmade, custom-fit boots using the same time-tested techniques that set them apart over a century ago.

But White’s Boots isn’t just about history—it’s about a better way to live. 

Bespoke Bliss with White’s Boots

Custom boots aren’t just comfortable; they’re an investment in your health, longevity, and confidence. If you’ve ever struggled with aching feet, knee pain, back pain (like me), or boots that fall apart too soon, it’s time to consider stepping into the world of true craftsmanship.

Let’s break down why White’s Boots is the gold standard in handmade footwear, how their fitting process ensures it, and what you need to know about construction, materials, and maintenance to make the most of your investment.

In a world filled with disposable goods, there’s something special about owning a pair of boots built to last. White’s Boots, a legendary name in handmade footwear, embodies that tradition—one where craftsmanship, durability, and a custom fit aren’t just selling points but a way of life. More than just a purchase, a pair of White’s boots is an investment in quality, comfort, and longevity.

But why should you consider spending $400+ on boots when department store brands cost a fraction of that? More importantly, why are so many people—including myself—choosing White’s over modern mass-produced footwear? Let’s break it down, from the craftsmanship behind each pair to the real-world benefits of investing in boots that truly support you.

Why I Switched:

I didn’t start out as a custom boot enthusiast. For years, I cycled through mass-produced work boots, hoping to find something to keep up with my demanding lifestyle. At 6 feet tall and 245 pounds, I put serious wear and tear on my footwear. My days are spent constantly on my feet, whether I’m teaching firearm classes, walking miles at trade shows, or tackling home improvement projects like framing a deck or using a chainsaw. 

My boots needed to handle all of it, but none of them did.

Every pair I tried had the same disappointing issues. The materials broke down within a year, the insoles compressed into nothing, and there was zero support. By the end of a long day, my feet ached so badly that the pain would linger into the next day. Eventually, I developed plantar fasciitis—a painful condition that made even basic tasks an ordeal. That was my breaking point. I needed something better. That’s when I discovered White’s Boots.

My first pair was Perrys, White’s least expensive model. They were light, comfortable, and built far better than anything else I had owned. But the real test came when I ordered a fully customized pair of Farmer Ranchers tailored to my measurements. 

Later, I added a pair of Foremans to my collection. Each time, the experience was the same—when I slipped them on, I finally understood what real support felt like.

After years of searching and countless frustrations, I finally found boots that didn’t just work—they were built for me.

White’s boots stand apart because they aren’t just stitched together on an assembly line—they’re built by craftsmen who follow centuries-old techniques.

Fitting Process:

Unlike store-bought boots that come in standard sizes, White’s creates boots that fit your individual feet—not just a size range. Their fitting process includes:

1. Tracing your feet (while wearing thick socks).

2. Measuring key dimensions: arch height, instep, toe width, and calf size.

3. Using those measurements to craft two separate boots—one for your left foot and one for your right.

This results in a custom-fit boot that molds to your feet over time, creating incredible comfort and support.

Anatomy of Old School Bootmaking

Every White’s boot is hand-lasted, hand-welted, and hand-bottomed, meaning it’s built by skilled craftsmen—not machines. Unlike modern footwear that uses plastic, foam, and synthetic materials that break down quickly, White’s boots are made using leather, steel, and stitching—materials that actually improve with age.

Here’s what makes them so durable:

• Hand-Welted Stitching – White’s uses a Stitch-Down or Goodyear welt construction method, making their boots easily rebuildable and resoleable.

• Thick, Full-Grain Leather – Unlike cheap “genuine leather” boots, White’s uses thick, top-tier hides that become more comfortable as they break in.

• Hardwood, Leather, and Steel Shanks – Provides critical arch support that prevents foot fatigue and pain.

• Triple-Stitched Seams – Increases durability in high-stress areas.

What’s a Last?

It’s the solid, three-dimensional mold around which a boot is shaped and built. It determines the boot’s overall fit, shape, and style, including the toe box, arch support, heel placement, and overall volume. Think of it as the blueprint for how the boot will feel on your foot. White’s offers a variety of lasts tailored to different foot shapes, activities, and aesthetic preferences.

For example:

• 55 Last: Known for its high arch and deep heel cup, this last is ideal for those needing exceptional support, like loggers or workers on their feet all day. It’s commonly used for their Smoke Jumper boots.

• 610 Last: A lower arch but still supportive, the 610 is designed to balance work and casual wear, as seen in their Farmer Rancher and Foreman boots.

• 1972 Last: With a flatter arch, this last is suited for those who prefer a more relaxed fit, making it a favorite for their Perry Boots.

• 4811 Last: A moderate arch designed for all-day comfort, it’s a versatile last often used for lighter-duty boots.

White’s team carefully analyzes your foot measurements to recommend the best Last for your specific needs. This ensures a custom fit that prioritizes comfort, support, and durability.

Traditional Bootmaking vs. Mass Production

Mass-produced boots rely on synthetic adhesives and cheap materials designed to look good on a shelf rather than provide lasting support. The reality is:

• Factory-made boots use pre-formed insoles and foam fillers that lose their cushion within months.

• Many brands use glued-on soles, meaning the whole boot is useless once they wear out.

• Synthetics and plastics break down faster, making them disposable rather than repairable.

On the other hand, White’s boots follow traditional bootmaking techniques that outlast mass production by decades. A well-maintained pair of White’s boots can easily last 15+ years with periodic resoles—far beyond anything mass production can offer.

Performance:

I put my White’s boots through real challenges—not just casual wear. For example, at SHOT Show, one of the largest trade shows in the firearms industry, I walked more than 25 miles over the course of the week. Spanning millions of square feet of convention space, this event is notorious for the massive time spent walking/standing. I brought two pairs of White’s boots—my Foremans and Perrys—and they just handled it. No foot pain, no blisters—just solid, reliable comfort.

Beyond trade shows, my White’s boots see heavy labor. From working with a chainsaw to framing a deck, these boots endure the kinds of tasks that taxed cheaper boots. My White’s, on the other hand, have held up for years.

Another standout feature of White’s boots is their rebuildability. I bought my original pair of Perrys in May 2021. That pair of boots (on my feet as I type) are on resole number five – the same Christy Vibram outsole they shipped with.  My Foreman’s have been resoled multiple times too. 

When you resole your boots, it’s possible to change the outsole for a different application, though boot-owner beware. When my Farmer Ranchers needed a new outsole, I took them to a local shop. Unfortunately, the wrong sole choice made me realize how much customization matters. 

I’ll return to the cobbler to restore the original Christy outsole  – a testament to the importance of the right fit and materials for long-term performance.

Boot Care:

Caring for your White’s boots is essential to keep them performing and lasting for years. My go-to tools are simple but effective: an old toothbrush for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, a dauber for applying saddle soap, a horse-hair boot brush, Fiebing’s Saddle Soap for cleaning, White’s Boot Conditioner for nourishing the leather, and a clean rag for wiping everything down. 

The process is straightforward—start by removing dirt and grime with saddle soap and a toothbrush, then condition the leather to maintain its flexibility and prevent cracking. It’s important to note that different leather types require specific care methods. For example, oil-tanned leather benefits from regular conditioning, while roughout leather may need just brushing to maintain its texture. When you order your boots, ask White’s for recommendations based on your leather type to ensure they stay in top condition.

Mindset:

Some people scoff at spending $400+ on boots. But that thinking is short-sighted.

• Cheap boots wear out in 12-18 months. If you’re buying $150 boots every year, you’ll spend $1,500 over a decade.

• White’s boots last 10+ years with proper care, making them a smarter long-term investment.

• Health costs add up. If cheap boots give you foot pain, back issues, or knee pain, you’ll pay way more in medical expenses than you would for quality footwear.

This is the philosophy of “Buy Once, Cry Once.” Yes, high-quality boots cost more upfront but save you money, pain, and frustration in the long run.

Best Boots I’ve Ever Owned

I own multiple pairs of White’s, but if I had to choose one for life, it would be my Foremans. They’re tough, versatile, and walk the line between work boot and dress boot. Whether I’m at a trade show, on a job site, or heading to dinner, they fit the bill.
White’s Boots aren’t just footwear—they’re an investment in comfort, quality, and longevity. If you’re tired of cheap, painful boots and want something built to last, it’s time to step into higher-quality living.
Your feet will thank you.

For more information, visit whitesboots.com