Customer Reviews
Details: Porter last, storm welt, structured toe box, double midsole, full horsefront lining, matching thread, antique brass hardware with speed hooks, and a 360 welt construction.
Leather: I love the black cherry color of the bison. I have two other boots in black but the black cherry color really stands out. Bison leather is thick and rough on the inside. However, it is very flexible which allows it to break in fast.
Sizing: I have D width feet with a brannock size of 11.5 and 11.4 for each foot with a high instep. I received the size 10.5 in the Porter last which fits me perfectly due to the very wide toe box. I wear medium thickness socks. If you have slightly larger feet or wear thick socks I would recommend the 11.
Break In: I break in 1-2 pairs of boots/shoes per week. I find that bison leather breaks in quick. I was able to wear these around the house for 1-2 hours before I left they were comfortable enough to take on a 5 mile walk. Once finished with the walk they felt completely broken in and didn't have any hot spots or give any blisters.
Waiting Time: I order these on December 7th, 2024 and received them on March 26, 2025. In Caswell's defense I did order these larger and changed the sizing after they sent me a couple boots to try on. That may have made the wait a bit longer. I have had made to order boots take longer from other companies so I feel the waiting time is reasonable.
Overall: These are fantastic boots in a great color. Bison is unique enough that it received plenty of feedback and compliments. They are on the heavier side, 1100g or 2 pounds 7 oz, but with bison leather and a double midsole that is to be expected. I have been able to walk all day in them without any problems. I highly recommend picking up a pair. Just installed you will be waiting for a bit as you would for most made to order footwear.
I learned of Caswell Boot Company by watching YouTube videos; and reached out to meet with Kevin for a fitting in the DC/MD/VA area (DMV). I typically order two sizes of Ready-to-Wear boots to determine my size in that brand and on the brand's particular Last. I am so pleased that Kevin offers the Try-On service for the MTO, as it spared me from having to tie up hundreds of dollars for months or of getting stuck with a pair of custom-ordered boot that do not fit. While deciding on a leather choice and other options for the MTO, Kevin emailed links to articles, answered all my questions, and offered his professional opinions to assist me with creating an aesthetically pleasing pair of boots.
I placed my order on 01 Nov 2023 and my boots were delivered to my door on 08 Feb 2024. Throughout the time, Kevin stayed in touch to provide updates and a possible delivery time. Considering these boots were ordered during the busiest holiday season and that the leather had to first be special ordered from Law Tannery and then shipped to Spain; having my boots in hand in less than 4 months was amazing. Speaking of amazing, my Garrett Black Cherry Bison boots arrived well packaged to prevent any damages during transport and there were no loose threads, no nicks or scratches in the leather, no loose skin, and no mix matched panels. I had opted for a rolled collar and matching tongue for the MTO, and was impressed that the same, thick, supple bison leather had been used throughout in the construction of the boots.
The fit? Perfect! Working with Kevin to create a beautiful, well-fitting pair of custom boots could be likened unto ordering bespoke on a budget. Caswell has an extensive line of styles, leathers, and lasts. One is sure to find or be able to create a grail pair of boots that will exceed the expectations of any woman or man. These Caswell MTO boots are truly a work of art!