My birthday was in March this year so the wife and I took a trip up to Richmond in North Yorkshire. A beautiful part of the world and home of Altberg boots. Altberg make a range of made to order boots using traditional techniques, so you basically get their design of boot made to the exact size of your feet. Particularly good if you're extra wide, or like me a bit narrow
I'd made an appointment at the shop / factory and this is a good idea because the measuring up process is pretty lengthy. Its important to take your time and try a few pairs on in addition to being measured. I had opted for a pair of "Hoggs" which are a dual purpose boot designed for riding and walking off the bike. a bit of an alternative to the usual Alpinestars, but there's something to be said for the whole Altberg experience. I've never had a suit made to measure, but this is as close as I've got.
You pay for the boots up front and then wait for up to twelve weeks while they are made. I caved in one week before actual delivery and phoned for an update! Yesterday the Parcel Force man dropped off what you'll see in the photos below. A superb pair of very tough boots which some riders claim will last more than 20 years. Altberg will repair / resole your boots and provide their own "Leder Gris" wax oil to keep the boots supple and waterproof. I'm wearing my Hoggs right now and they're already starting to loosen up nicely. The fit is superb as you would expect from the measuring process.
You can check out Altberg at http://www.altberg.co.uk
The pictures below were taken with the very kind permission of Altberg, (except for the ones in my kitchen!)
Cheers,
John.
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