The best workwear boots | The Shell Cordovan Podcast with ​⁠ 

The line on the middle of your boots is the crimping line. On some boots it is needed to pre shape the leather on a crimping board. You could do it without the line, but some choose to show the line to show the extra work they put in (and Im not do sure but I think vintage engineers also have this line so it is a reason for reproduction boots)

I really enjoyed the part on King Boots. As well as what boots you felt were overhyped. Despite wearing primarily PNW Boots I do agree that they aren't for everyone! They are built for work wear and the trades! Although if either one of you were to ever pick-up a Pacific Northwest built boot I would encourage Frank's. He is more about fit, they also hand last and pull the boots more correctly. But it's by far a smaller operation compared to their two competitors. He also has lighter weight leather in stock available that are beyond what is featured on the site. I would suggest talking to Michelle if you ever had questions on it. That said I do agree, given both of your lifestyles and aesthetics. The way these boot builders make things are definitely overkill for most! JK is something I really don't recommend to most! They are using 9oz leather and really that's overkill for all but the most hardcore trades! Really 5-6oz is a good point for a work boot. 4.5-5oz for the average person. 6-7oz for most of the people who aren't firefighters or doing work in veg tan boots. 7-8oz is strictly for arborists, firefighters, linemen, etc. Or those who really want support! Expect the first 100-200 hours to be harr though!

"dead waiter..." haha