Understanding Oil Tanned LeatherLet’s chat about something called oil-tanned leather. People often use this term for leather that has been treated in a special way with oil. The oil isn’t used to tan the leather but is involved later on to give it a protective sheen that only gets better as it gets older, just like JK Boots’ famous Superduty boot. So, what do we actually mean with "oil-tanned leather," why do boot makers, like JK Boots, use it, and is it a good choice for boots? The Truth About Oil Tanned Leather E...
Why are Handmade Boots More Comfortable?Photo: Well-worn pair of handmade JK work boots History of Bootmaking Handmade footwear was the norm for millennia until the 19th century with the development of industrial machines which flooded the market with synthetic materials and more styles of boots than ever. The mass production of boots allowed for lower prices and greater accessibility to, well…the masses. Today’s boot manufacturers boast of high-tech construction and maximum comfort with unfamiliar terms like “air-infused PU midsol...
Nylon vs. Leather Boot LacesWhen it comes to boot laces, the debate between nylon and leather is as old as time. Both materials offer unique benefits and drawbacks, making the choice a matter of personal preference and specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the pros and cons of nylon and leather boot laces to help you make an informed decision for your footwear. Durability and Heat Resistance Leather laces have stood the test of time for their incredible toughness and durability. Cut direct...
How to Keep Work Boots from SmellingWhether you’re wearing a pair of old sneakers or a pair of premium-quality leather work boots, there’s one thing that’s inevitable—smelly feet. The heat and sweat from your feet are a dinner bell for bacteria, and it’s that bacteria that causes the smell. With a little effort, common sense, and a bit of ingenuity, it’s easy to remove, if not completely fix, the smell in your work boots. Because bacteria thrive in the heat and moisture that your boots provide, you’ll need to either mask or,...
Which Part of Insulated Work Boots is Dielectric?Not every work boot offers dielectric protection. To be electrically insulating, boots must have a rubber sole and some form of waterproofing. Additional insulation inside can also provide dielectric properties. Electrical Hazard (EH-Rated) leather boots won’t be dielectric as they’re not waterproof. If you’re looking for a dielectric work boot, you’ll need waterproof, insulated boots, preferably with a high shaft. Insulated winter work boots are dielectric, as they can be used in wet, icy, ...
In-Stock vs. Custom BootsWhen it's time to pick up a new pair of boots, you've got two options: grab something off the shelf or get a pair made just for you. Each choice has its own pros and cons, depending on what you need and want. Here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you decide what’s best for you. In-Stock Boots: The Instant Choice In-stock boots are your go-to when you need something quick and easy. They're already made, available in standard sizes, and you can grab them off the shelf whenev...
The Story of John KhadzhiI wasn’t even born yet when my dad started JK Boots. But there are some truths about how we hand-craft each pair of boots that runs through our workshop today that have been in place since 1994, when JK began. Sure, I can sit here and tell you that we strive to make the best boots in the world, or that we select the best materials. But doesn’t every brand say the same thing? (We actually do those things, but that’s beside the point).I thought it was important to tell the story of JK instead. ...
3 Hacks to Break in Insulated Boots FastInsulated boots have an extra layer under the leather, which makes breaking them in tougher than usual. To break your insulated boots in, you’ll have to wear them around the home for a while while wearing thicker socks. You should also condition your insulated boots with leather oil. This not only waterproofs them but softens the leather, making them more comfortable and easy to break in. After you’ve used leather oil, wear your boots at home for a day or two until they’re broken in enoug...
How to Dry Winter Boots: 3 Easy Hacks to Keep Your Winter Boots DryThere’s very little chance that your winter boots won’t get wet at some point. After all, it’s why you bought them in the first place. After a day of snow, ice, or rain, you’ll need to dry your boots for another day’s work, but what’s the most efficient way to dry winter boots? Well-conditioned boots shouldn’t take much drying, but a few tricks are proven to dry winter boots safely when they’ve taken a real dunking. What You’ll Need to Keep Your Winter Boots Dry The best way to keep your wi...
3 Hacks to Stop Your Boots from SqueakingNew boots, especially handmade or custom boots, have noticeably more going on inside them than your average boots. Multiple layers of leather, thicker uppers, and a higher build quality all mean there’s a higher chance of your boots squeaking. Your boots react to heat, moisture, and pressure, and the multiple layers of leather can expand and contract, causing that annoying squeak you can’t seem to place. If your boots are squeaking, it won’t damage them, but it can be annoying, so we’ve ...
Will Work Boots Stretch? If So, How Much?Work boots will stretch a little as you break them in as the leather softens and molds to your foot. You can speed up the process using a leather conditioner or boot stretching spray, making your boots easier to wear. Leather is incredibly versatile, but it can only stretch so far. You’ll not get a leather work boot to stretch more than one size, and that’s an optimistic hope—realistically, you'll not stretch a boot more than a half size bigger. If your work boots still feel like they’...
3 Hacks to Break in Work Boots FastNew work boots often feel stiff and uncomfortable until broken in. Even if you’ve made sure to buy boots that are the right size, it can take weeks of wear before your feet stop rubbing against the interior of your boots. If you’re in a rush to wear your work boots, you’ll need to speed up the process without causing them any damage. Today, we’ll be looking at three proven hacks that’ll not only break your boots in much quicker than simply wearing them until the pain goes away but will ens...
Work Boots and Construction: What Kind of Boots Work Best?Handcrafted, quality work boots are often designed for fairly specific roles, unlike the average pair of off-the-shelf work boots, and picking the proper boots can make your working life much easier. JK Boots know that a wildland firefighter will need a completely different set of features on their boots than someone working on beams or hard, flat surfaces. With years of experience handcrafting boots that’ll handle anything the Northwest can offer, we know the right boot for the job matters....
Ultimate Logging Boots: Rugged Footwear for Forestry ProfessionalsOrigin of Logger Boots The term "logger" finds its roots in the early logging practices of North America. It originally referred to the workers who specialized in the cutting, moving, and processing of wood during the booming timber industry of the 19th century. These workers, often equipped with nothing more than axes, saws, and sheer physical strength, ventured into dense forests to fell trees and transport logs to nearby rivers. The logs were then floated downstream to...
A Day in the Life of a Wildland Firefighter: The JK Boots and MYSTERY RANCH ExperienceIn the demanding world of wildland firefighting, having the right gear is not just a matter of convenience, it's a necessity for safety and performance. That's where JK Boots and MYSTERY RANCH come in. With JK's Fire Inlander boots and MYSTERY RANCH's Shift 900 MWP backpack, wildland firefighters are equipped to face the most challenging conditions with confidence. Morning Preparations The day begins with the ritual of gearing up. Slipping into JK Fire Inlander boots, firefi...
Cowboy Boot Care 101You've got a great pair of cowboy boots, so now you just need to know how to care for them properly. Here are the biggest steps you can take. The Crucial Practice of Rotating Cowboy Boots To maximize the durability and longevity of your cherished cowboy boots, a key practice is to rotate their use. Wearing the same pair of boots on consecutive days is not recommended. Our feet naturally produce sweat and oils, which are absorbed by the boots. Allowing your boots to rest and air out betwe...
Understanding Oil Tanned Leather
Let’s chat about something called oil-tanned leather. People often use this term for leather that has been treated in a special way with oil. The oil isn’t used to tan the leather but is involved later on to give it a protective sheen that only gets better as it gets older, just like JK Boots’ famous Superduty boot. So, what do we actually mean with "oil-tanned leather," why do boot makers, like JK Boots, use it, and is it a good choice for boots? The Truth About Oil Tanned Leather E...
Why are Handmade Boots More Comfortable?
Photo: Well-worn pair of handmade JK work boots History of Bootmaking Handmade footwear was the norm for millennia until the 19th century with the development of industrial machines which flooded the market with synthetic materials and more styles of boots than ever. The mass production of boots allowed for lower prices and greater accessibility to, well…the masses. Today’s boot manufacturers boast of high-tech construction and maximum comfort with unfamiliar terms like “air-infused PU midsol...
Nylon vs. Leather Boot Laces
When it comes to boot laces, the debate between nylon and leather is as old as time. Both materials offer unique benefits and drawbacks, making the choice a matter of personal preference and specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the pros and cons of nylon and leather boot laces to help you make an informed decision for your footwear. Durability and Heat Resistance Leather laces have stood the test of time for their incredible toughness and durability. Cut direct...
How to Keep Work Boots from Smelling
Whether you’re wearing a pair of old sneakers or a pair of premium-quality leather work boots, there’s one thing that’s inevitable—smelly feet. The heat and sweat from your feet are a dinner bell for bacteria, and it’s that bacteria that causes the smell. With a little effort, common sense, and a bit of ingenuity, it’s easy to remove, if not completely fix, the smell in your work boots. Because bacteria thrive in the heat and moisture that your boots provide, you’ll need to either mask or,...
Which Part of Insulated Work Boots is Dielectric?
Not every work boot offers dielectric protection. To be electrically insulating, boots must have a rubber sole and some form of waterproofing. Additional insulation inside can also provide dielectric properties. Electrical Hazard (EH-Rated) leather boots won’t be dielectric as they’re not waterproof. If you’re looking for a dielectric work boot, you’ll need waterproof, insulated boots, preferably with a high shaft. Insulated winter work boots are dielectric, as they can be used in wet, icy, ...
In-Stock vs. Custom Boots
When it's time to pick up a new pair of boots, you've got two options: grab something off the shelf or get a pair made just for you. Each choice has its own pros and cons, depending on what you need and want. Here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you decide what’s best for you. In-Stock Boots: The Instant Choice In-stock boots are your go-to when you need something quick and easy. They're already made, available in standard sizes, and you can grab them off the shelf whenev...
The Story of John Khadzhi
I wasn’t even born yet when my dad started JK Boots. But there are some truths about how we hand-craft each pair of boots that runs through our workshop today that have been in place since 1994, when JK began. Sure, I can sit here and tell you that we strive to make the best boots in the world, or that we select the best materials. But doesn’t every brand say the same thing? (We actually do those things, but that’s beside the point).I thought it was important to tell the story of JK instead. ...
3 Hacks to Break in Insulated Boots Fast
Insulated boots have an extra layer under the leather, which makes breaking them in tougher than usual. To break your insulated boots in, you’ll have to wear them around the home for a while while wearing thicker socks. You should also condition your insulated boots with leather oil. This not only waterproofs them but softens the leather, making them more comfortable and easy to break in. After you’ve used leather oil, wear your boots at home for a day or two until they’re broken in enoug...
How to Dry Winter Boots: 3 Easy Hacks to Keep Your Winter Boots Dry
There’s very little chance that your winter boots won’t get wet at some point. After all, it’s why you bought them in the first place. After a day of snow, ice, or rain, you’ll need to dry your boots for another day’s work, but what’s the most efficient way to dry winter boots? Well-conditioned boots shouldn’t take much drying, but a few tricks are proven to dry winter boots safely when they’ve taken a real dunking. What You’ll Need to Keep Your Winter Boots Dry The best way to keep your wi...
3 Hacks to Stop Your Boots from Squeaking
New boots, especially handmade or custom boots, have noticeably more going on inside them than your average boots. Multiple layers of leather, thicker uppers, and a higher build quality all mean there’s a higher chance of your boots squeaking. Your boots react to heat, moisture, and pressure, and the multiple layers of leather can expand and contract, causing that annoying squeak you can’t seem to place. If your boots are squeaking, it won’t damage them, but it can be annoying, so we’ve ...
Will Work Boots Stretch? If So, How Much?
Work boots will stretch a little as you break them in as the leather softens and molds to your foot. You can speed up the process using a leather conditioner or boot stretching spray, making your boots easier to wear. Leather is incredibly versatile, but it can only stretch so far. You’ll not get a leather work boot to stretch more than one size, and that’s an optimistic hope—realistically, you'll not stretch a boot more than a half size bigger. If your work boots still feel like they’...
3 Hacks to Break in Work Boots Fast
New work boots often feel stiff and uncomfortable until broken in. Even if you’ve made sure to buy boots that are the right size, it can take weeks of wear before your feet stop rubbing against the interior of your boots. If you’re in a rush to wear your work boots, you’ll need to speed up the process without causing them any damage. Today, we’ll be looking at three proven hacks that’ll not only break your boots in much quicker than simply wearing them until the pain goes away but will ens...
Work Boots and Construction: What Kind of Boots Work Best?
Handcrafted, quality work boots are often designed for fairly specific roles, unlike the average pair of off-the-shelf work boots, and picking the proper boots can make your working life much easier. JK Boots know that a wildland firefighter will need a completely different set of features on their boots than someone working on beams or hard, flat surfaces. With years of experience handcrafting boots that’ll handle anything the Northwest can offer, we know the right boot for the job matters....
Ultimate Logging Boots: Rugged Footwear for Forestry Professionals
Origin of Logger Boots The term "logger" finds its roots in the early logging practices of North America. It originally referred to the workers who specialized in the cutting, moving, and processing of wood during the booming timber industry of the 19th century. These workers, often equipped with nothing more than axes, saws, and sheer physical strength, ventured into dense forests to fell trees and transport logs to nearby rivers. The logs were then floated downstream to...
A Day in the Life of a Wildland Firefighter: The JK Boots and MYSTERY RANCH Experience
In the demanding world of wildland firefighting, having the right gear is not just a matter of convenience, it's a necessity for safety and performance. That's where JK Boots and MYSTERY RANCH come in. With JK's Fire Inlander boots and MYSTERY RANCH's Shift 900 MWP backpack, wildland firefighters are equipped to face the most challenging conditions with confidence. Morning Preparations The day begins with the ritual of gearing up. Slipping into JK Fire Inlander boots, firefi...
Cowboy Boot Care 101
You've got a great pair of cowboy boots, so now you just need to know how to care for them properly. Here are the biggest steps you can take. The Crucial Practice of Rotating Cowboy Boots To maximize the durability and longevity of your cherished cowboy boots, a key practice is to rotate their use. Wearing the same pair of boots on consecutive days is not recommended. Our feet naturally produce sweat and oils, which are absorbed by the boots. Allowing your boots to rest and air out betwe...
