We have loved Zerrows sandals from the moment we saw and held them and have salivated over their boot images from afar, so having an engineer made to spec by them was an exciting thought and a no brainer. We went back and forth with options and design until we arrived at what we think is the perfect engineer within this style/ silhouette. Nothing is perfect of course but we think these are about as close to perfect as you can get. We were so pleased when we opened the box, even more so after trying them on!
They are made on Zerrows flat toe last. This really is a lovely silhouette, almond/ rounded toe with good width and not much taper, slim and very curvy in the waist with quite a high arch (almost White’s like) and normal to slim in the heel. It is low profile across the lower foot but with enough height for your toes not to rub which gradually rises above the arch to make it easier to get them on. Yes, you heard it, an engineer boot with a low profile toe that has enough room in the arch to help the higher arched mammal. The shaft is slim for tighter hems as well but with enough width at the ankle to help ease them on.
Comfort: Immediate, the arch support feels great but not overbearing, the weight is mid to heavier for an engineer, good heft but not clunky at all. They are a comfortable pair of tall shaft boots, much better after break in as the sole and leather combination will make them feel a bit stiff until a few wears in.
The Leather: This time we opted for Horweens Black Tea-Core Latigo leather. Similar in weight to their CXL leather the Latigo is smooth, hard wearing, heavy weight but doesn’t show age as quickly or as pronounced as CXL does, it feels and looks a touch more dressy with a slight duller sheen to it. They can of course be polished up and will over time show signs of the underlying brown tones. It is a great, tough and better with age leather.
Construction & finish: The best materials and construction methods have been used in these boots, just see the DETAILS tab. The stitching is very neat and uniform, the heel well balanced and elegantly shaped and the sole trim is even and nicely done.
What’s more, they even come with extra leather insoles that you can add or remove to adjust the fit.
Made in Japan by people who really know what they are doing.
