I like Big Boots and I Cannot Lie!

Boots are a little love of mine. I love getting a fresh pair and wearing them in, the feeling you get when you've made a new pair comfy and they are just beginning to feel like a glove. I love the firm grip they give you when you walk on terrain not made for dull, weak city shoes to walk on but that is simply there to be roamed upon as our ancestors did, foraging and hunting back in the day. On top of that the range of boots has changed so much over the years. There used to be the army issue Doc Marten that has become a staple of the skin and punk scene that is now marketed for consumption as one of these. Whilst of course there are many types of boot out there to look and laugh at. Meanwhile the industrial boot remains issued cheaply and is available under new brands for just a fraction of the price.

Its the range of boots that I want this blog to be about but also my experience with various brands, their ability to be worn for a ramble, at a gig or just as a fashion accessory. How well worn can you get your boots. I will be reviewing boots and other footwear for looks, durability and price.

The industrial boot is still available for anyone to purchase and has a classic look and there are many brands too. My current favourite is the Grafters M124A:

I get this from my local industrial boot supplier for around £30. It has a steel toecap and is made in Sheffield under good labour conditions. They take a fair bit of punishment, they look good and you can take them anywhere. The grip is solid welted rubber made from old tyres. It has about a 2 cm deep moulded grip that can take you anywhere you want to go, with a zigzag pattern that keeps a firm hold on the environment. It is about 8 holes as you can see so is pretty casual and not too hardcore looking. There is cushioned ankle support and, on wearing, it has that wear anywhere quality to it that ties you in, and you get a spare pair of laces too! You might get a blister or two the first couple of weeks when you're wearing these in but they do feel comfy right from the get go. So none of that cutting into the skin you might get from a pair of Docs. Tramp around town fine, but they will feel a bit heavy on the dancefloor with none of the air-cushioned pogo bounce you will feel from Docs. Still you can give your calves a good workout trying to beat your oc wearing mates and, if you have mates like mine, there'll be a couple who won't bounce that high anyway.

A good mosher, a good rambler and good for getting around town. Simply my current 5 star favourite.