I discovered White's Boots in 2013 on a search for the impossible: Knee-high, lace-up, no zip, form fit, leather boots. I'd tried a few options I came across, vintage with a gum sole (peeled right off), 90s Cole Haan (great materials but the design had a flaw that made them dig into my ankles), and a couple off the rack modern that aren't even worth mentioning. I found out White's did custom made, and saved about a year before making my order. A few months later the boots of my dreams were finally mine and I found it harder and harder to continue buying off the rack. Jump forward to 2022 and I'm on my third pair of White's Boots, and here's why:

Customized fit.

When I slipped on my first pair of White's Boots I said "oh THAT'S what arch support is." The brand is known for arch support as a standard feature and it makes all the difference. The materials and construction are built to last, so having something that custom fits is important: you wear them in, they don't wear you out. On the chance you use them to the point of needing major repairs, they're completely rebuildable, the brand will create a new sole if you need one, or even a new upper from your existing sole.

Since they're workboots they're heavy, which can be an adjustment if you're not used to it. However the more you wear them the better they get, which can shift your mindset from the more modern expectation of only wearing an item a few times before it starts to wear out.

You can order them online, but if you have access to a Danner store, I highly recommend going in for a fitting and browsing sample options in person. I go to the store in Portland and the staff is always helpful, knowledgeable, and inviting, making shopping a pleasant experience instead of a chore.

To me they're worth the money and the wait. Living in the PNW means even paved surfaces often have rain and debris, and I like the durability and protection they provide, not to mention the style. Having purchased the boots that have become wardrobe staples I can see myself buying more in the future but in more adventurous customizations, there really are endless possibilities when you see all the options.