FEIT Arctic Hiker Leather Black, Smog Boots

Following the recent release of their Double Stitchdown boot, Feit have just dropped an even more winter-ready boot. Taking a lesson from last year’s polar vortex, they’ve created the Arctic Hiker boot with features that stack up to the most brutal winters.

The Arctic Hikers have padded ankle collars and tongues, keeping both comfort and insulation in mind. Gumlite lug soles and heels give you optimal traction while the high ankle and gusseted tongue help to keep snow and water out. On top of that, these boots have natural rubber and latex padded detailing throughout to ensure a waterproof design. For good measure, the heel and toe are reinforced with a second layer of leather as well.

As always, the leathers they use are dyed only with natural pigments to help keep the natural state of the calfskin. This allows the leather to patina much more richly and makes for a great match with raw denim, especially as the shoes and denim age together. The upper is lasted using a single piece of leather (save for the reinforcements on this particular model) giving it that minimalist quality for which the brand strives. This not only helps with the overall construction of the boot, but cuts down on the amount of stitching, resulting in a more comfortable experience.

They come in 2 color ways, ‘smog’ and black/white. Each pair of shoes is hand lasted and hand sewn, produced in limited quantities. So if you want to prepare yourself for this year’s polar vortex, you’d better act fast. You can pick them up for $800 at Feit’s website.