Reproduction WWI Army Uniform Boots

[sdummer96]

Hi everyone,

 

I am interested in getting a reproduction WWI Army uniform together, and I am looking at purchasing my boots first.

 

I've been researching different websites, and would greatly appreciate any input as to where I should get my boots from. I'd like a good quality boot that I could definitely be worn, and will stand a bit of punishment (hence why I'd like to get reproductions).

 

Unfortunately, many of the links from past posts and reenactor sites are broken, or no longer exist, so these links were found off of Google on January 30th, 2016.

 

$148 https://onlinemilitaria.net/products/4718-US-M1917-Trench-Boots-Available-to-US-Customers-only/

$179 http://mantheline.com/proddetail.php?prod=WWIBOOTS-H10%2C11E

$180 https://onlinemilitaria.net/products/4751-US-M1918-Pershing-Trench-Boots-Available-to-US-Customers-only/

$275 http://www.civilwarboots.com/store_WWI.asp

$300 http://www.greatwar.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=2629450 (w/ Hobnails)

$350 http://www.greatwar.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=2629411 (w/ Hobnails)

 

I am not afraid to pay for quality, however, I would ideally like to keep the boots under or around $200.

 

Thanks!

 

 

 

[Chris1917]

I have been very happy with my 1917 Trench Boots from What Price Glory. They fit well - ordered my size - have held up well and look great. Jerry offers a number of proper boots depending on what you are wanting. The Marching Shoes for early and 1917 and 1918 Pershing for later. The new French Model 12/16 boots look good and would work well for a US impression, too. I have always had fast shipping and great service from WPG. Good luck.

 

http://onlinemilitaria.net/products/c164-wwi/?page=2&filter=yes

[Chris1917]

I also meant to add that you can't go wrong with Mattimore boots if you want to make the investment. Great quality and a truly custom made boot.

[heftaa01]

I just went through this debate a few months ago.

 

These two forum threads were monumental in helping me decide.
http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/218364-thin-barracks-shoes-and-great-hobnailed-hulks/?hl=boots&do=findComment&comment=1723706

http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/226082-thin-barracks-shoes-and-great-hobnailed-hulks-part-ii/?hl=boots&do=findComment&comment=1792214

I'd advise avoiding Man the Lines, I don't own them but have heard nightmare stories, and they look pretty rough.

The WPG 1917 are the best value in my opinion, matching the earlier style for a decent price. Once dirtied up or with some hubbards grease applied they look great. (That's what I'm going with)

Great War Militaria offers one of the top tier that i've seen. Their boots have the right "look" in my humble opinion with a leather grain that looks very similar to the several originals i've seen. But at $300, they're expensive.

http://www.greatwar.com/scripts/prodList.asp?idCategory=42

 

I'd go with What Price Glory, unless you have some extra cash kicking around, in which case i'd hit Great War.

[sdummer96]

Thank you all for your replies!

 

I just ordered the 1918 Pershing boots, and am eagerly awaiting their arrival! I'll post some HD pictures to this thread for the future reference of anyone interested.