Sage® Men's Distressed Tan Western Studded Harness Square Toe Boots

1 4 5

Larry W.
Would You Recommend? Yes

Current Rating: **** First of all, let me say that I'm still in the "break-in" period; less than 24 hrs. total wearing time, so this is NOT a final review. This review is based on my initial feelings about this product. The boot is a Sage 12" Distressed Tan Western Studded Harness Square Toe Boots (I'd call it BROWN), mfg. Item #ABI4711. Sage boots are made by the ABILENE BOOT COMPANY, who also make Abilene boots. Manufacturer Website: http://www.abileneboot.com/ . I purchased them at Cavender's, www.cavenders.com , In Austin TX. Cavender's is a Western store, and since these were HARNESS BOOTS, it was understandable that they weren't normally stocked in the store (which they weren't). While I could have ordered 'em online and had 'em delivered to my home, I called the store, ordered from them, and had boots shipped to the Cavender's at 4435 S. Lamar (Westgate Center, just north of Central Market). Cavender's delivery was prompt. My initial contact at the store was MARO TOVAR (asst. Manager); he handled me from initial order to present. He was helpful and courteous at all times; please ask for him when visiting Cavender's. Marco called me when boots arrived, so I drove on over. APPEARANCE: What originally drew me to this boot was its great looks, and Cavender's photos allow you to zoom in and look at the workmanship CLOSELY. The stitching, quality of leather (Bison, btw) looked fantastic in the pic's. Boot didn't disappoint "in the flesh"; actually looks even better. I really like the accent studs on the harness strap. I also like the fact that the sole is RUBBER instead of leather; more durability, and less chance I'll bust my ass by slipping on wet surfaces. While I'm not really concerned about the DURABILITY of the upper, I'm worried about how the upper's appearance over time. I have the feeling it will scuff easily; this might not necessarily be a bad thing, though. Boots, like jeans, seem to look better when they've got that "lived-in" look. Something I'll have to determine over time; I'll keep ya posted. So I tried 'em on, or at least I tried to. I got the left boot on with a fair amount of effort; it was REALLY tight. Right boot? Not happenin'; just plain too tight. No biggie; left 'em with Marco for a few days to be stretched a little (no charge, of course). This is not unusual when buying a new pair of boots, so this is not a negative point; just part of the process. After stretching, boots went on much easier. Right now, they're "borderline", still somewhat tight. Tightest spots are the point where the "calf" part of the Upper transitions into the "foot" part, and also at the ball of the foot. They may need more stretching, maybe not. Gotta break 'em in more before making a decision about that. No problem, cuz Marco said there was no time limit on stretching some more. But the boots are gonna work, additional stretching or not. I would have problems if my foot were any wider, as this is the widest size Abilene Boots provides, at least for this style of Sage boots. ATTTNTION ABILENE BOOTS: Please consider some WIDER SIZES, so EVERYONE can experience these boots. So for the moment, there ya have it. REALLY good-lookin' boot; the "fit factor" will have to be worked on over time, but I don't see a real problem. Based on that, my rating could stay where it is or go up or down. I could wind up at 5 Stars; ya never know. I KNOW this isn't a "custom" boot, but it's not TRYING to be. It's an "off the rack" boot, so I'm judging it based against its competitors IN THAT CATEGORY. At this time, if you're looking for a harness boot and a good outlet to buy em at, I recommend Sage Boots AND Cavender's; btw, they have an extensive line of Cowboy boots, both in the Sage and Abilene brands. And I HIGHLY recommend CAVENDER'S for ANY Western Wear needs. Check their website; their "brick & mortar" stores are all over the place, or yor can order online & get it shipped to your door. I'll give ya an update as the boots "update" me, OK?