Dune Chromexcel Plain Toe Boot

Dune sits at the pale end of the Chromexcel range, and on a plain toe boot it shows every mark the leather picks up. That is the reason to buy it.

These are natural aniline hides, so creasing and colour variation are expected, and each pair develops differently because every hide is unique. Horween tans the Chromexcel in Chicago; the hot-stuffed tannage leaves natural oils and waxes in the leather, which is where the pull-up effect and the supple feel come from. Full-grain kip leather lines the inside. Vegetable-tanned leather makes up the insole, welt and midsole, over cork filler and a steel shank, with full-grain leather heel counters at the back. Goodyear-welt construction on the Leo last, a 360º split-reverse welt, antique brass eyelets and speed hooks. The micro stud rubber outsole is medium density, built to handle all seasons and to combine traction with durability.

Pale leather asks for a plain outfit around it. Nothing loud above the ankle, nothing competing. Wear it long enough and the dune tone stops being uniform, which is when it starts looking like yours.