Black Suede Dress Service Boot

A black suede service boot cut for dressier days, with larger quarters, smaller hardware and one extra eyelet that lengthens the lacing and slims the overall line. It keeps the work-boot shape but reads closer to a dress boot from across a room.

The upper is calf suede over a full-grain kip leather lining, with full-grain leather heel counters holding the back of the boot in shape. Gunmetal eyelets and speed hooks carry the laces. Underneath, the boot is Goodyear-welted on a flat welt that runs all the way around, with a vegetable-tanned leather insole, welt and midsole, a cork filler and a steel shank. The outsole is a cavity wedge, and because of the welt it can be replaced when it wears down.

Suede this dark works with charcoal trousers, dark jeans or a heavy overcoat, and it hides scuffs better than smooth leather. Brush it after wet days. Wear this service boot when sneakers feel too casual and oxfords feel too formal.