John Lofgren's Duke Roper Boots are inspired by two dukes. One being an American icon and the other one being the duke of Wellington. The latter Duke wore Hessian boots, which were military-issued footwear worn by British troops. The boots were known for having a short heel, pointed toes, tassel decorated tops, and for their ease of getting in and out of stirrups. The Duke of Wellington commissioned a shoemaker to modify his personal Hessian boots to create a boot with a one inch heel and a mid-calf shaft. Those boots are thought to be directly linked to modern day ropers. And like so many things in fashion, the origins are of course, military.
John Lofgren's different models are all inspired by John's vast collection of vintage boots. This collection provides him with the inspiration and knowledge of how well-made boots should be constructed, and it's the foundation of his reputation as one of the worlds finest producer of boots! The Lofgren team is known to cherish the process and craftsmanship of boot making that in most cases today unfortunately have fallen into oblivion in a world of mass production.
These boots are made from start to finish by experienced craftsmen in Japan with no expenses spared in the sourcing of materials. The leather used is from the Shinki Hikaku tannery in Japan, a company that specializes in horsehide leather tanning. They are considered on of the best, if not the best, tanneries in the world. The leather might feel a bit stiff at the beginning but will soon soften and shape around your foot. A most beautiful patina will appear after years of wear.
Thanks to their arch support, quality construction and durable soles these boots are suitable for everyday wear no matter the occasion for many years to come. They are comfortable out of the box and will only get more comfortable with wear as the insoles conform to your feet.
John Lofgren is famous for making sure that every step of the supply chain is being made under ethical working conditions, even down to the smallest nails and eyelets!
A common experience when first trying a pair of pull-on boots is that they feel large in the heel. However - your heel needs to be able to move in the beginning. A heel slip of about half an inch (a bit more than a centimeter) is completely normal and will prevent chafing. With some wear, the boot will form a crease above your heal, giving you a personal fit.
Please contact us for more information and sizing. We will be happy to help you out!
- John Lofgren LK-030 Duke Roper Boots Shinki Hikaku Horsebutt Timber
- Lot No. LK-030
- D / Medium width
- 1.25" stacked heel and 10" shaft
- Goodyear welted construction using USA made storm welts
- Shinki Hikaku horsebutt uppers
- Heavy single, double and triple stitched sewing
- Japanese made steel shanks
- Made in USA Vibram #269 soles and #700 heels
- Embossed padded leather heel pad
- Built on the John Lofgren 170 last
- Includes Japanese made John Lofgren Bootmaker box and dust bags
- Made in Japan
