Nick's Boots Free Range WC in DS Meadow

I am really liking this color. The idea of the Free Range line is that you get a pair of Nick's boots quicker and for less but they are going to include cuts that have some visual imperfections. They also ship them out at the same speed as the quickship models. I ordered mine on May 23rd and got them on my front porch August 27th.

Sizing- The sizing compared to my prior two pairs of Nick's- it is similar but appears to be a little more narrow throughout. I have a pair of overlanders in brown CXL and a pair of cutter's choice in rouhout walnut in the same size, 12.5EE. The toe area is where I am noticing the biggest difference. Both of my other Nick's are in their HNW last so I am surprised there is a difference. It could be the stiffness of this leather or maybe I have really stretched my other boots out this much and don't remember how tight they were.

Leather- I can see some discoloration in the leather, especially on heal in the form of spots. There are some work marks around the vamp where it flairs out into the welt. This is what I was expecting and I like the look. This is my first experience with Wickett & Craig leather and my first with the their double stuff. The leather does feel waxy or greasy on the surface. I haven't tried but I imagine a towel wipe would come away with some color and some grease. I have to read up on how to care for these beyond a damp cloth cleaning and brushing. All that being said I am really looking forward to wearing these with the black or grey pants I run. I think these are going to look great.

Fit & Finish- comparing these two my other two Nick's the craftsman ship is the same. The stitching appears tight and everything is mostly symmetrical. I have never been disappointed with the boots Nick's puts out so I am 3 for 3. I know some people have had quality issues but I guess I am lucky getting gems every time. I'd have preferred brass fittings to the chrome ones this came with but no option for that. (This is my one gripe)

I will have to come back to determine how I like the V-Bar sole. I've only done Lug varants on boots before. This won't be until October. The boots will be closet queens until then.

Apologies for the last post that got taken down. I forgot the rules of this sub. But I get to include some pictures with the kilties in. It really does hide the tongue being a different color.

Original unboxing video and a video of the boots in sunlight.

https://youtu.be/-u0sRKn-t-c?si=ijMJFt9wgSPKNM3E

https://youtu.be/FHJkFTMZSSc?si=0k4XHUP0Nj7caKel

Ordering info from their website:

"Free Range - Wickett & Craig Buy with Confidence: I understand that Nicks recommends ordering a half size shorter than my normal size, and I can return and exchange my boots if they are in a new condition. (Limited to one exchange per order) Yes, I understand Fitting method I've already ordered Nicks. Use that size. Leather Double Stuffed - Meadow Boot Length- We recommend choosing 1/2 size down from Brannock. 12.5 (Some soles may not fit) Boot Width EE - Wide Add Matching Leather Swag? No thank you I have read and understand the lead-times Yes Outsole V-Bar Sole- Block Heel I understand that Free Range boots will include cosmetic imperfections such as: stretch marks, bug bites, minor scarring etc. Yes, I love the character! RANGE-W&C-SOF-DSMEADOW-EEWIDE-VBAR"