Ghillie boots

[Allan Thomson]

Errr not quite. I quite agree with what you say, but, I actually meant historical and theatrical attire for todays wear can look rather OTT or just don't fit the occasion , if we are not careful. Sorry , my fault, for not making myself clear.

Something I've always wondered about these Ghillie Boots is do they perform as a proper boot - waterproof to the top and durable enough to hike in, possibly with replaceable soles or are they just a 'fashion item'?

[User]

Something I've always wondered about these Ghillie Boots is do they perform as a proper boot - waterproof to the top and durable enough to hike in, possibly with replaceable soles or are they just a 'fashion item'?

Leather isn't waterproof, because it's porous. And broguing is generally detrimental to waterproofing. The boots in the eBay listing don't appear to be gusseted, which really makes them not waterproof. The sole appears to have a fake welt, with cemented construction. So they probably aren't designed to be resoled. They're a fashion item.

[Allan Thomson]

Leather isn't waterproof, because it's porous. And broguing is generally detrimental to waterproofing. The boots in the eBay listing don't appear to be gusseted, which really makes them not waterproof. The sole appears to have a fake welt, with cemented construction. So they probably aren't designed to be resoled. They're a fashion item.

I was debating whether the padded cuff indicated some sort of internal membrane as composite boots seem to be more common now. But I'd agree with you probably an overpriced fashion item neither fit for dress nor outdoor purposes. That said I've had brogue shoes that have kept out water for a quick immersion not over the top. And treatment with dubbing would help.

I've looked at Hoggs Veldtshoes and thought they looked best suited for kilt wear but at £400 the price was just too steep!!!

When it comes to hiking a pair of army surplus Haixs boots seem to go well with a kilt.