William Lennon Boots
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Back in early February I made the trip down to Stoney Middleton to see the styles and leathers on offer. These are the results.
When there I thought I'd chosen a colour closer to that of British tan. However this being a natural product and my memory not being what it was. I've come to accept my new tangerine coloured footwear.
Early impressions; Solid! Yet surprisingly comfy and supple. Plus a totally different style to what I already posses. Quality not quite up there with my Whites or Wesco's though. Overall I'm pretty pleased with them. Having thought they were going to be more of a light brown colour, I'd talked myself out of purchasing a pair of White's SD in Brown HH. It's safe to say those are now back on the cards.
The only disappointments were the gouging in the side of one of the boots, presumably from when the sole was trimmed to size. And placement of the leather insole not being flush with the rear of the boot.
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Having had boots from both, I would definitely say they are.
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I guess that depends. They have very different aesthetics- reflective of their distinctly American and English heritages. If you like the style of William Lennon boots, then I think you will be happy with the quality. They are, in my opinion, extremely well built boots and an excellent value.
However, if you prefer a specific pair from White's, and you're considering WL simply because it's good, kind of similar, and a better price, then I think you're not going to be happy. Love isn't easily quantifiable…
On a more practical note, my pair of WL boots were not easy or quick to break in. The soles were triple leather, and never really got easy to wear. The fact that they only come in whole sizes was problematic, too. I had a size 10 and really needed a size 9.5, which is why I sold them. On the other hand, my pair from White's was fabulously comfortable from the very beginning. I loved how they felt on my feet, even after a whole day in them.
Sorry, that's kind of rambling, and I'm not sure that it really helps...
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How did the suede boots turn out in the end?
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Any chance of resurrecting this thread? Just placed an order for 78TC Work Boots in black waxy full-grain leather. Lots of good pics and info on this thread, would be interested to see more William Lennon pics. Will post mine as soon as the boots get here. Looking forward to seeing these rugged beauties in person.
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@khaki8;
WL&C officers boots are a softer boot right from the off so they felt comfortable from day 1. Construction is good but not quite as good as White's imo. Fit was great and these are a non-custom size UK 9 / Euro 43.
Whites take some breaking in which is, i believe, a reflection of the quality and durability of the leather used.
I love the style and simplicity of the WL&C where as I love the solidity, quality of material and construction of the Whites.
Thanks, I love 'em -
@den1mhead they look great. Been thinking of getting some WL. Do you know the spec for these? And are you normally a 43?
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^cheers @mahlon321 and @el padre^
el padre, these particular boots were purchased from Silvermans in London, see link below for more info and spec;
Silverman's offer them in UK sizes 6-12. I normally wear size UK 9, which these are, and they are a super fit.
Silverman's advertise them as "HAND-MADE OFFICERS BOOTS HILEG" on their website, not as WL boots, but when they arrive you receive the boots in this box;
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@mahlon321 @el padre if you send a nice email to Libs at William Lennon, they may even make you a pair themselves and probably for less than Silverman's RRP.
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EVO Update: William Lennon "Tug Of War"
Might as well take a few iPhone snaps in the soft morning light__ to show what I'm meant about the leather.
A year later, leather is more pliant & rubbery. Still steeped in wax that everything [dirt, grime, scuff, etc.] just wipes right off a wet cloth. Up-keep is, basically, brushing the dirt off__ no oiling/conditioning necessary even @this point.
The triple leather sole won't prolly flex anytime soon, if ever. The functional "sprung" toes roll on every stride
I like how these boots seem unapologetic for being crass & unattractive … So, punk
Hoggy's right__ Go TTS as Trickers 4497 on the length … & yeah, only G-width.
If I can do it over, I'd go unstructured toe, or at least, a partial. Sizing right on WL is very crucial. Stretching the vamp is not an option ... at least, not on my "Tug Of War" on thick ass Waxed Reverse Kip leather. Also, toes seemed to be double-reinforced cuz they were really stiff.
1st time was like slipping into a pair of Chinese "Lotus Shoes"Btw, mine were also triple leather soles, but opted on rubber half sole topys.
No BACKSTAYs -
I'm liking their Derby boots…..wonder if they can do black Chromexcel!