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  1. Why do Wildland Fire Boots Have High Heels?  Is there a reason why wildland fire boots have such high heels? Well, yes. Most wildland fire boots have a tall heel--something like a 2-inch block curved or western-style heel. And there’s a specific reason for such a tall heel. There are a lot of benefits to the high logger heel, and there are a few drawbacks as well. A great example of a wildland fire boot that’s ready for duty is the JK Fire Inlander. We’ll use that boot to demonstrate all the reasons why you might want a raised heel f...
  2. Can Wildland Fire Boots Have a Steel Shank? There’s a lot of false information out there saying that a steel shank conducts too much heat and can burn your feet if you’re out fighting fires and expose your boot sole to too many embers. That’s just not true. However, the best wildland fire boots like the JK Fire Inlander don’t use steel shanks. And there’s a good reason for it. Can I Have a Steel Shank in my Wildland Fire Boot? Short answer: yes, wildland firefighting boots can have a steel shank. A steel shank is a supportive...
  3. Are Wildland Fire Boots Good for Hiking? As a wildland firefighter, you know the importance of having a reliable and durable pair of boots that are specifically designed for the job. But what about when you want to hit the trails for a casual hike? Are your wildland fire boots suitable for hiking as well? Well, there are some pros and cons of wearing fire boots for hiking and if you’re looking for a boot that can do both, then you’re in luck: the JK Fire Inlander is a wildland fire boot all the way through, but plenty of our custome...
  4. The Types of Leather We Use and Why Why should you use Smooth or Roughout Leather? Our smooth and roughout leather both originate from the same leather hides, each term simply referring to the side of the leather that is facing out on the boot. With full grain leather, you will see the familiar smooth leather on one side, and the "hairy" or roughout leather on the backside. Roughout should not be confused with suede, which results from splitting the hide in the middle giving you a length of delicate material that is fuz...
  5. What are Insulated Boots? 3 Reasons You Must Consider Winter Work Boots Insulated boots have an additional thermal insulation layer inside to protect your feet from low temperatures. The most common type of insulation is Thinsulate, a synthetic material that traps air molecules to retain heat. For less extreme temperatures, insulated boots are rated by the insulation thickness ranging through 100g, 200g, 400g, 600g, and 800g. At What Temperatures Do You Need Insulated Boots? As a general rule, the higher the rating, the thicker the insulation, making Thinsulat...
  6. How JK Crafts American Made Work Boots True American made work boots are a dying breed. Sure, you can find boots that are sewn together in the USA. Brands that print the Stars and Stripes on a little tag and attach it to the inside. But what about boots that are USA-made all the way through? There are a handful of brands still crafting true American made work boots, from the style all the way through to the materials. Here’s how it’s done. The Best American Made Work Boots Are Handcrafted For a truly durable work boot, there’s n...
  7. What Leather is Best for Fire Boots?  NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards require an 8-inch lace-up style leather boot with a melt-resistant sole. That’s a mouthful, ain’t it? What’s not as clear is what type of leather is the best for fire boots. Because even two boots that look the same can have a vastly different performance in the field. So if you’re getting a new pair of fire boots, you want to make sure you’re getting the right leather that’ll keep your feet protected and comfortable. And if you pick a ...
  8. 7 Types of Cowboy Boot Toe Shapes You Need to Know Cowboy boots are much more than just footwear; they're a blend of function, fashion, and personal expression. With a variety of toe styles available, it's essential to find the one that not only fits your foot but also your lifestyle and aesthetic preference. Whether you're a rancher, a rodeo enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the Western way of life, the right cowboy boot can make all the difference. Let's explore some popular toe styles, focusing on the classic roun...
  9. Understanding Boot Leather Stretch: Getting the Right Fit When it comes to our JK Boots, like the iconic Superduty and the versatile O.T., getting the right fit is paramount. Leather, the heart and soul of our boots, naturally stretches and conforms to your foot over time. Let's dive into how this works and how to ensure your new JK Boots fit like a glove from day one. Choosing the Right Size Selecting the right size in styles like our Superduty and O.T. boots is the first step to ensuring long-term comfort. Leather boots, including ours, will ...
  10. Introducing the Ace: The Boot That Starts Journeys Welcome to the launch of JK Western's original foray into the legacy of the West – the Ace Boot. This isn't just a step into the world of cowboy boots; it's a stride into the essence of the frontier itself, crafted for those with a pioneering spirit and an eye for enduring style. Designed in Spokane and handcrafted in the capital of western-bootmaking: Leon, Mexico, our boots are a celebration of the values that make up the old west. The Ace: A Nod to the Classics Imagine the...
  11. Mastering the Art of Breaking In Your Cowboy Boots: A JK Western Guide At JK Western, we understand that a well-fitted cowboy boot is the cornerstone of comfort and style in your western wardrobe. That's why we've put together this essential guide to help you break in your new cowboy boots. Whether you're rocking our classic leather styles or opting for something more exotic, this guide ensures a perfect fit every time. The Importance of a Good Break-In Just like a new saddle, cowboy boots need to be broken in. This process not only ensures your boo...
  12. Are Cowboy Boots Suitable for Winter? A Guide for the Modern Pioneer In the heart of winter, when the cold wind howls across the plains, a true adventurer knows the value of dependable footwear. At JK Western, we believe that the right pair of cowboy boots isn't just a fashion statement - it's a testament to resilience and adaptability. Our collection embodies not just the spirit of the frontier but also the practical needs of the modern man. Winterizing Your Cowboy Boots: A Blend of Tradition and Technology Traditional cowboy boots, handcrafted with ...
  13. Introducing The Buck: A Boot That Defines Durability Welcome to the latest addition in JK Western's legacy – The Buck Boot. This is not just another entry into western footwear; it's a robust stride into the essence of American resilience and style, crafted for those who value a blend of rugged endurance and classic design. Designed in Spokane and masterfully handcrafted in the western boot-making capital of Leon, Mexico, The Buck stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of the West. More than a boot, it's a celebration of hardy A...
  14. How to Get the Right Fit for JK Western Boots When it comes to cowboy boots, fit is everything. A well-fitting pair of boots can be the difference between a day of comfort and style and a day of discomfort. JK Western Boots understands this, and in this guide, we'll explore how to ensure your cowboy boots fit perfectly, using JK Western's exceptional range as our benchmark. Understanding Cowboy Boot Fit: The JK Western Standard Cowboy boots differ from regular footwear in terms of fit. We emphasize that while the boot should fee...
  15. Busting 6 Safety Toe Boot Myths: The Real Deal for the Hardworking Professional In the world of hardworking individuals, safety toe boots are essential. But let's clear the air on some common myths about these tough protectors. Myth 1: Safety Toe Boots Are Uncomfortable Reality: Thanks to modern design and materials, safety toe boots are now super comfortable. They come with features like padded insoles and lightweight construction, making them perfect for long shifts without any discomfort. Myth 2: Only for Construction Workers Reality: Think again! Safety toe boo...
  16. What's a Boot Jack and How to Use One Stepping out of your western boots after a long day should be as smooth as your first step into them. At JK Western, we understand the importance of convenience and care for your cherished boots. That's why we're excited to introduce you to the practical magic of boot jacks. In this guide, we'll explore what a boot jack is, how it benefits your boot removal process, and the right way to use it without harming your prized JK Western boots. What is a Boot Jack? A boot jack is a beau...