I love how he realized a potential issue, recognized the customers budget couldn't stretch far enough for a full repair so he fixed it in a manageable way with no problems or complaints. A pure professional and for that I respect you.
When he was describing people giving him flack for not doing a whole job it blew my mind. As a craftsman his ability to scale his work and still do a proper job is absolutely something to be commended.
I actually find it a bit unprofessional unless he had called and notified the customer off camera that he would only be doing a partial restoration unless his budget could increase. I understand that he may know the customers budget but I still think it’s better business to at least give the customer the opportunity and choice of how to proceed rather than taking it upon yourself.
I was an RAF Apprentice at Cosford back in 1970 and the entire Entry (216) had these hobnail boots as standard issue. On one occasion we did the Freedom of Wolverhampton parade, which involved us all going into the main church for a short service. However, all of us marching in step on the church's flagstone floor was deafening and set up vibrations that threatened to destroy the altar. The Drill Sergeant, in a panic, shouted an order to "Break Step", but that simply resulted in every apprentice completing the Change Step manoeuver, which involved slamming one foot down before setting off again. At this point the priceless artifacts on the altar gave up and tumbled onto the stone floor. I seem to recall the Bishop not being impressed.
Bob, We met. I was the Sergeant of 214 entry, Glenn Thomas was with you, we are both over in Canada now, I also loved the boots...can't say we brought down the alter though...😉
I loved this I was married to a Motorcycle Policeman (he passed from cancer), we made many trips to the cobbler as he loved to drag the outer sole of his *knee high* boot *on a turn*and the sparks would fly. He made so many people happy with that trick. This was a real treat for me to watch this, Thank you! :)
:-) Nice trick. Unfortunately if done in public, such "tricks" will these days usually result in a ticked for "public endangerment" or something similar. A ticked made out from a policeman...
@Yuck Foutube I am so sorry, i hope you get help or get over it yourself. Remember, as you grow up things will change and you can control how this happens. Best of luck for the future.
Shoes & boots used to be made to last & be, mostly, repairable. I'm 60 & clearly remember my & other family shoes being taken to the local (independent!) 'Snob's in West London. It was really only from the early 70's on that footwear became increasingly disposable. This bloke ain't ever going to be short of customers nor money given RAF Halton & the nouveau riche in the Tring area(!)
@@ahri1844 10-30 % from personal experience. I think of it as replacement of tires and brakes on a car. At some put the rest of it is so worn its not worth it. But cost per wear still a fraction of the cheap boots so it's worth the higher quality and in the long term is cheaper.
The brown on black looks so nice, craftsmanship like this is rare to see anymore. I’m a barber who works with leather and have been thinking about diving into the farrier world. This is literally a mix of all those things, so cool! I love your passion for what you do it shows in the way you flow. Lovely video
Great to see such traditional skills still in use, and still in demand. Given the labour involved, I bet this wasn't a cheap job, but the customer should be delighted with the result !
Not sure what UA-cam rabbit hole got me here, but HOLY SMOKES, THIS IS AWESOME! I worked in a specialty shoe shop for years and did minor repairs and customizations (that glue pot and brush bring back memories!), and loved the guy to whom we sent out big repairs. Your work is fantastic! So fun to watch! Can't wait to see more!
I remember having my boots re-soled when I was in the military. There's nothing better than putting on a pair of well broken-in boots that have brand new soles! So much better than new boots.
US Air Force (Retired) here. No hobnails in my past, but spit-shining the toe cap to a mirror finish and liberal use of edge dressing on the soles and heels brought back memories of Basic Training and Tech School in the early '60s. Always happy to see a person that takes pride in their work.
Canadian RCAC here. Spit shine ruins the polish finish, you get better results with after shave. The acid and salt in saliva breaks the surface down so easily. With after shave, you can have a really resilient mirror shine that could last you up to a week of hard drill with stones on the parade square.
You can get a decent shine if you use old nylon tights as well, from my experience. Even putting in no effort with a single coat of polish, they can bring it to a decent shine
Delightful! Ex-Navy myself and had only rubber soles, but to see how the old-school re-soling was/is done is absolutely wonderful. The hours I spent polishing my boots...oh boy! Thanks for showing how it is properly done!
Hey bro no matter the shoe, no matter the job, always remember 1 thing, rock and roll buddy rock and roll...👍 Great job best wishes from the Caribbean.
There is a reason why a cobbler was such a well respected profession.. Well other than they kept the shoes on your feet but come the 1960's or there about they started to die off rapidly with mass produced toss away shoes.
@@SilvaDreams Hope some time we start returning to looking at quality leather and long-lasting shoes again, like the quality leather sneakers or ol' logger boots. I'm currently looking at buying a pair of Wilson's myself for dress and summer daily with potentially a pair of West Coast Shoe Co's for work and winter.
@UnjustifiedRecs Not so. If like the U.S., I bet the get a clothing allowance and can spend it as they please. So probably could get all the bells and whistles but maybe decided spending on a pint or two at the local club was better spent.
@UnjustifiedRecs this pair came in from Navy Cadets. It’s a volunteer military youth organisation. They weren’t a sailor/ actively serving member of the Royal Navy
@@marytaylor1187 No clothing allowance is given to serving members of any of our armed forces. If we want kit that is not issued or to do repairs on older kit such as this we have to pay for it out of pocket.
You mentioned the cost of doing this repair, and i agree with your solution. That Navy cadet has serviceable parade boots that will most likely be passed on to another, and you did top notch work. thank you for what you do.
@@devingeary455 No just mentioning that, as this pair was repaired and passed on, that in future, the favour would be returned. As in many things, older items have a higher chance of being a lot better in build quality, and boots are no different.
I absolutely love the fact that you stay true to your values and work ethic, above everything else. You have your priorities straight even though creating a UA-cam channel was a great idea to show your craftsmanship . These days people are hungry over social media acceptance and they live for the likes, and the posts and everything in between so it’s good to know you have your feet on the ground and know exactly what matters. It’s absolutely delightful to watch your videos Dan 💕
My family used to have the British Army contract for their boots - based in Aldershot the business lasted 3 generations before closing. Loved the smell of the shop.
It’s 3.30am on Christmas Day morning and I’m watching a video about shoe repair. Speaks volumes about the attraction of the content, all interesting stuff 👍
I’ve done a lot of work in my years here in Nebraska in the cobbler shop, never done hobnails though or triple soles. Never too old to learn new thing things! I appreciate your attention to detail and the fact that you are conscious of your customers limitations when considering the repairs. Truly enjoy watching your videos.
So nice to see someone carrying on a tradition in a disposable world. I've had my Corcoran Jump boots for over 30 years and some Dan Post and Tony Lama cowboy boots for over 20 plus years. Each have had multiple resoles and will last forever.
Much respect for doing the best you could for the young man. Once, long ago being a Military Wife. We were on a budget as well. Sometimes you gotta find a different way of doing the job. And then there's compromise. Great job anyway. You Rock Too!
The good old suggested list sent me here for some reason after watching comedy video's . I'm sitting in a farmhouse on the Canadian Prairies of Manitoba, now I hear you ask why did i watch this then. I was actually born at the RAF hospital up the road from you in 1974 and spent the first 14 years of my life in the New Mill/ Tring area. Before leaving and heading to wales in 1988 and then on to Canada in 2000. It's actually cool to be watching a younger guy take on an old style repair skill, I fix older farm equipment here for customers. So many of the trades I need to help me like engine component machining/radiator rebuilding are dying out, as the younger ones don't take over from the older generation with our throw away society getting worse. I fix the stuff younger guys that use computer diagnostics as their main tool don't really have a clue about L.O.L I really enjoyed the video and will be back for more. Thanks for filming what you do . Take care.
Wow! A lot of work, time and pride. I bet when the owner picked them up, he couldn't stop saying "WOW". Like I did. Really enjoyed seeing how this is done.
What a treat. There were ads during the video, and none of the products advertised showed anything like the decency and craftmanship that you put into this job. Well done!
A real craftsman that knows his trade. No short cuts and you work to your clients budget... very nice finish, excellent video, BTW sound was fine no problems...
For years my mum and dad always said about "hobnail boots" and I assumed it was a reference to heavy lumpy boots...now I know it actually had a specific meaning! Never knew there was such a thing as a "hobnail"! Awesome work.
Its AMAZING how more intricate Sea cadet boots are than In Canada, mine were old CAF parade boots, and DESTROYED... but still had to 'mirror finish' lots of baking. We had no hob nails, plates, anything like that.
When I was at Taunton in the Army we sent our ammo boots to Dartmoor prison for repair .Didn't realise the work involved. Quite enjoyed it . Thanks. As an aside I was very good at bulling boots. Earned a few cigarettes doing it for my mates.
This brought back a lot of memories from the 60's... interesting to see the same techniques being used a half century on... nothing like seeing a whole company doing an RCR drag halt and leaving a streak of sparks behind them.
It’s great to you put your heart and sole in to your craft - I wish I knew a cobbler as conscientious and competent as you when I was serving. But my friend, that would not pass as a mirror shine in the British Army! Break out the beeswax!! 😁👍🏻😁
Hob nails have a single 'lump'...these are called 'triple hob'. They used to form the basis for early mountaineering boots along with 'tricounis', a complicated edge forming piece of metal. Weighed a ton!
Dan I always read about hobnailed boots, but I've never seen them before ..now I get it. You are totally correct if the customer cannot afford the whole job and you as the craftsman think it is fine then clearly repairing the first sole is what you have to do to STAY IN BUSINESS. Thanks for spelling it out for those that do not get that, or understand that. Man I wish I lived in the UK I would love to see you work live. Keep on keeping on!
I used to do the boots for the army base near my shop, the army base's budget also didn't include replacing any leather at all, had to do all sorts of things to plug up the hob holes. In the end our army base dumped all of these boots (that cost the MOD £150 each) and replaced them all with crap from China that could not be repaired. Sad really, I miss working on them.
Try getting in touch with the nearest Sea Cadet Unit that has a Royal Marines Cadet Detachment. These cadets use the parade boots and obtain them second hand. As a result, they would probably be in need of repair. However, bear in mind the cadet's parents / unit stores would not be very rich!!
Excellent..Thouh Sadly We'll Find out TRUMP WAS RIGHT! It's the Chynna Plague!! Soled out to Cheap labour.. Love the Cobblers Art.. Done some Horse Farriery in my time..loved it! And I've got me a pair of 1954 MOD British Army hobnail boots.. I'm 66yrs old..Great Video ..👌Ozzy
Very impressed that a young cadet realized the value of a quality pair of boots enough to get them repaired rather than replaced. Glad you were able to help him.
whilst youtube has gone crazy in many aspects this platform is still one of the best ways to learn how to do things, absolutely amazing how many things you can learn here
Love how clean and tidy your shop is, organized and everything in its proper place, save time save money, says a lot about your character, great video as well, nice to see pride and professionalism in one's craft
What controversy? You did a great job and stayed within the lads budget. Plus we all learned about the filling paste that mimics leather once dry. Winning all around.
I've still got two pairs of my parade boots that where triple soled and studded in Tring when I was a DI at that RAF Camp, first pair about 1998 and 2nd pair I never got to wear (injured Iraq 2005) done in 2004. Peace Charlie 🇬🇧
Perhaps a dumb question but what is the purpose of all the metal on the bottom, specifically the tri-studded bits? Sounds nice on concrete? I'm sure it would be hell on wood floors.
@@Doesin they where the traditional pattern military boots. Same with civilian boots and clogs back in the day. The segs or cleats stopped the leather or wooden soles wearing away. It's cheaper to replace the studs. They sound great on tarmac and concrete I'll agree, but also turns any surface into a skating rink! I went on my backside more than once.
This is the kind of guy you want to have a pint or 2. such a chill and humble human being. and on top of that his trade is just amazing. Thanks for the upload and keep up the great work!!!
Hi I watch your show all the time. I’ve commented before. On this one I just wanted to say great job putting the customer first. One thing I’ve learned in business is, you have to work with the customers budget not your own. I’m glad to hear you put your customers first always 🥰
this is so awesome that you're preserving an ancient craft and bringing value to things that we just replace. Your shoe polishing video has made the best results here at home.
Reminded me of watching my dad repair boots. So endearing. Modern machinery looks nothing like the Landis machinery he used to have. I miss the smell of leather and Barges shoe cement.
That was fantastic, I have never seen a cobbler work before - gotta love UA-cam. I had heard of hob nail boots but I thought they were what held the sole on. You wouldn't want to walk on mum's floor in those boots. They looked terrific when complete. Thanks for sharing, cheers mate.
you havent heard the wonderful crunch of 200 sappers coming to attention on a graveled parade ground the wonderful smack of those boots turning gravel into dust AND the absolute horror of an over bulled boots toe cap faling off and disintergrating with the sad sound of a broken heart :) or the look of disgust as some idiot trie the old trick of peeing in your boots to soften them..the smell is horrific on a warm day with sweaty feet, it does actually work IF your arny boots are the brown ones made from some sortof nearly flexible arnour plate that were the type used in ww1 but Not if your boots were manufactured afterthe mid 50's :/
@@peterforden5917 it was even better when a couple idiots from my troop found out the shortcut hack for gettting mirror shine on parade boots; using the juice that those rotating floor buffer machines use on your caps will make them perfect... UNTIL it rains. it was amazing watching 15+ nodeyes all shit their pants as their boots turned purple.
@@peterforden5917 Only thing I can think of when I see or hear the word Sapper/s is combat engineers, especially the the Soviet ones during WW2. But I’m guessing that’s not what you mean, And I’m probably gonna find out what that is during the video, But if I don’t I would be happy to learn what it is from you!.
great work as per usual! people on youtube are spoiled, we always want to see a full restoration, full JR soles & heels, solid brass hardware, budget be damned lol but it's refreshing to see a real-world job...we get to see you work within a budget and still get those boots lookin like new!
very interesting to see how different types of craftsmen use leather in such different ways! I make a lot of leather projects like knife sheaths and armor pieces so its such a new way of looking at things when you watch someone like a cobbler work with leather.
Very interesting video. Thank you. I was a re-enactor american civil war and the foor wear had pegged leather soles. The gluing of the sole brought a memory of the sole peeling off at the toe. I had read a story about amber and pine sap. At next event I found a pine tree that had lots of tree sap . Found a " gob" , not too soft not to stiff. Put some under the peeled sole and pressed and wore the shoe for the weekend. This around 1991. Still have the shoes and the sap did the trick. Cannot tell the sole had started to peel off.
Man that brought back memories, you never forget the sound they made on parade or the hours buffing, why didn’t you use some saddle soap before adding the conditioner to clean them up a bit
Idk if anyone else has pointed this out, (at least for me); the part where you stained the sole looks just like toy story where the old toy repair man painted on woddy’s shoe
I am one that thinks videos are better when the the customer is under a budget to see practical solutions. When money isn't an issue, then anything is possible.
man, I've nothing to do here, randomly watching this, I'm glad UA-cam has become a platform for everyone to share their skills and potentially make money off it, Unlike other platforms rigged for models showing nipslips
Great job of repairing those boots. I hope you never feel compelled to explain your business decisions again to your viewers. You know your bottom line and budget and how to run your business. Thank you for making these videos available.
There used to be shoe repair shops here. The last pair of boots I had resoled was years ago. It's gotten to the point where your car is a disposable item anymore. Everything is made in factory's now, by corporations and that's the way they want it.
Wow all this , I was at Halton and my boots would most likely have been sent to Tring for repair so we could make lots of noise on the Parade square. Respect.
and ruining your new expensive oak kitchen floor! Great video from a true craftsman. Thought cobblers had all but disappeared in our throw away society!!
Beautiful craftsmanship. Well-made, and well maintained footwear is a thing of beauty, not like the semi-disposable rubbish that is often found these days.
I love how he realized a potential issue, recognized the customers budget couldn't stretch far enough for a full repair so he fixed it in a manageable way with no problems or complaints. A pure professional and for that I respect you.
When he was describing people giving him flack for not doing a whole job it blew my mind. As a craftsman his ability to scale his work and still do a proper job is absolutely something to be commended.
I actually find it a bit unprofessional unless he had called and notified the customer off camera that he would only be doing a partial restoration unless his budget could increase. I understand that he may know the customers budget but I still think it’s better business to at least give the customer the opportunity and choice of how to proceed rather than taking it upon yourself.
@@Hangnailer47 lol
@@Hangnailer47 This conversation about budget and issues was probably addressed prior to filming.
@@Hangnailer47 STFU
I don't know how I ended up here but it's always interesting to see a craftsman at work
Ditto
Same
The important question is what is the algorithm going to throw at me next after I watched half an hour of shoe repair, liked, and subscribed?
Don't lie. You're here to look at the buff dudes like the rest of us
@@cfuse more shores and alien footwear.
I was an RAF Apprentice at Cosford back in 1970 and the entire Entry (216) had these hobnail boots as standard issue. On one occasion we did the Freedom of Wolverhampton parade, which involved us all going into the main church for a short service. However, all of us marching in step on the church's flagstone floor was deafening and set up vibrations that threatened to destroy the altar. The Drill Sergeant, in a panic, shouted an order to "Break Step", but that simply resulted in every apprentice completing the Change Step manoeuver, which involved slamming one foot down before setting off again. At this point the priceless artifacts on the altar gave up and tumbled onto the stone floor. I seem to recall the Bishop not being impressed.
Bob, We met. I was the Sergeant of 214 entry, Glenn Thomas was with you, we are both over in Canada now, I also loved the boots...can't say we brought down the alter though...😉
wow. i bet he was upset
Craftsmen and artisans are a dying breed. It was a pleasure to watch you at your craft.
Appreciate it
Anyone else notice the horse shoe nails were in a bottle of a bodybuilding supplement?
And it totally makes sense
I did, I had to skip back and check 'cause I noticed the nails were labeled 'unflavored'
I loved this I was married to a Motorcycle Policeman (he passed from cancer), we made many trips to the cobbler as he loved to drag the outer sole of his *knee high* boot *on a turn*and the sparks would fly. He made so many people happy with that trick. This was a real treat for me to watch this, Thank you! :)
Im Glad it brought back some memories Lily!
deepest sympathy and condolences on your loss
:-) Nice trick. Unfortunately if done in public, such "tricks" will these days usually result in a ticked for "public endangerment" or something similar. A ticked made out from a policeman...
@Yuck Foutube that's a vile comment, with no substantiality.
@Yuck Foutube I am so sorry, i hope you get help or get over it yourself. Remember, as you grow up things will change and you can control how this happens. Best of luck for the future.
In the current climate of reducing waste someone that makes shoes last forever should get far more credit than they do. Nice job too.
I bet it costs as much to get your shoes fixed as it is to buy a new pair tbh lol
@@ahri1844 depends on the shoes you wear.
Shoes & boots used to be made to last & be, mostly, repairable. I'm 60 & clearly remember my & other family shoes being taken to the local (independent!) 'Snob's in West London. It was really only from the early 70's on that footwear became increasingly disposable.
This bloke ain't ever going to be short of customers nor money given RAF Halton & the nouveau riche in the Tring area(!)
@@ahri1844 10-30 % from personal experience. I think of it as replacement of tires and brakes on a car. At some put the rest of it is so worn its not worth it. But cost per wear still a fraction of the cheap boots so it's worth the higher quality and in the long term is cheaper.
The brown on black looks so nice, craftsmanship like this is rare to see anymore. I’m a barber who works with leather and have been thinking about diving into the farrier world. This is literally a mix of all those things, so cool! I love your passion for what you do it shows in the way you flow. Lovely video
That algorithm though! how many of us thought we would be sitting back watching a dude fix some boots. Fantastic Video!
yup
Not me, but i love it!
@@BillyMillion didn't know Spotify adds were on here
Half way around the world at that.
Yep
Great to see such traditional skills still in use, and still in demand. Given the labour involved, I bet this wasn't a cheap job, but the customer should be delighted with the result !
Not sure what UA-cam rabbit hole got me here, but HOLY SMOKES, THIS IS AWESOME! I worked in a specialty shoe shop for years and did minor repairs and customizations (that glue pot and brush bring back memories!), and loved the guy to whom we sent out big repairs. Your work is fantastic! So fun to watch! Can't wait to see more!
I remember having my boots re-soled when I was in the military. There's nothing better than putting on a pair of well broken-in boots that have brand new soles! So much better than new boots.
US Air Force (Retired) here. No hobnails in my past, but spit-shining the toe cap to a mirror finish and liberal use of edge dressing on the soles and heels brought back memories of Basic Training and Tech School in the early '60s. Always happy to see a person that takes pride in their work.
Canadian RCAC here. Spit shine ruins the polish finish, you get better results with after shave. The acid and salt in saliva breaks the surface down so easily. With after shave, you can have a really resilient mirror shine that could last you up to a week of hard drill with stones on the parade square.
You can get a decent shine if you use old nylon tights as well, from my experience. Even putting in no effort with a single coat of polish, they can bring it to a decent shine
No
@@archerymidnight3422 nylon tights are the best for it. With some kiwi polish.
3708 BMTS @ Lackland, and then Avionics at Chanute AFB.
You know a craftsman is beyond pro level skill when they make it look easy.
Appreciate it Brock!
Delightful! Ex-Navy myself and had only rubber soles, but to see how the old-school re-soling was/is done is absolutely wonderful. The hours I spent polishing my boots...oh boy! Thanks for showing how it is properly done!
Hey bro no matter the shoe, no matter the job, always remember 1 thing, rock and roll buddy rock and roll...👍
Great job best wishes from the Caribbean.
Awesome thanks man
You have a great business ethic, helping out where you can and doing an amazing job for your customers.
thanks james!
@@Dan_the_cobbler so THAT is why her majesty’s forces have that iconic clack as they March
@@Dan_the_cobbler how many times a day do you accidentally clobber your hand with that hammer?
Unbelievable how skilled a Cobbler is. I never realised there was so many facets to being a cobbler. Another fascinating video.
There is a reason why a cobbler was such a well respected profession.. Well other than they kept the shoes on your feet but come the 1960's or there about they started to die off rapidly with mass produced toss away shoes.
@@SilvaDreams Hope some time we start returning to looking at quality leather and long-lasting shoes again, like the quality leather sneakers or ol' logger boots. I'm currently looking at buying a pair of Wilson's myself for dress and summer daily with potentially a pair of West Coast Shoe Co's for work and winter.
It’s nice you gave the sailor an option for an affordable repair.
Thanks Mary appreciate it.
@UnjustifiedRecs Not so. If like the U.S., I bet the get a clothing allowance and can spend it as they please. So probably could get all the bells and whistles but maybe decided spending on a pint or two at the local club was better spent.
@UnjustifiedRecs this pair came in from Navy Cadets. It’s a volunteer military youth organisation. They weren’t a sailor/ actively serving member of the Royal Navy
@@marytaylor1187 No clothing allowance is given to serving members of any of our armed forces. If we want kit that is not issued or to do repairs on older kit such as this we have to pay for it out of pocket.
@@NotSnooze That’s a shame.
You mentioned the cost of doing this repair, and i agree with your solution. That Navy cadet has serviceable parade boots that will most likely be passed on to another, and you did top notch work. thank you for what you do.
You mean that Cadets don't get to keep their boots, but rather they are passed on to another cadet?
@@devingeary455 No just mentioning that, as this pair was repaired and passed on, that in future, the favour would be returned. As in many things, older items have a higher chance of being a lot better in build quality, and boots are no different.
I absolutely love the fact that you stay true to your values and work ethic, above everything else. You have your priorities straight even though creating a UA-cam channel was a great idea to show your craftsmanship . These days people are hungry over social media acceptance and they live for the likes, and the posts and everything in between so it’s good to know you have your feet on the ground and know exactly what matters. It’s absolutely delightful to watch your videos Dan 💕
Thank you I appreciate that.
My family used to have the British Army contract for their boots - based in Aldershot the business lasted 3 generations before closing. Loved the smell of the shop.
I used to put horseshoes on my Dr Martins back in the 80s. They looked good at night dragging my feet on the road on my motorbike. Lol. 🔥
Sounds wild haha.
7:26 that song...
Dank pods!
lets get out the freakish ears on a stand and listen to the hu du sixhundo's from ol mate senny
It’s 3.30am on Christmas Day morning and I’m watching a video about shoe repair. Speaks volumes about the attraction of the content, all interesting stuff 👍
I’ve done a lot of work in my years here in Nebraska in the cobbler shop, never done hobnails though or triple soles. Never too old to learn new thing things! I appreciate your attention to detail and the fact that you are conscious of your customers limitations when considering the repairs. Truly enjoy watching your videos.
I love how he talks to his audience like we’re all shoe experts
He's showing his skill. it's what trademen do. :P
I'm an expert wearer, zero repairer.
You will always have arm chair experts on these channels.
So nice to see someone carrying on a tradition in a disposable world. I've had my Corcoran Jump boots for over 30 years and some Dan Post and Tony Lama cowboy
boots for over 20 plus years. Each have had multiple resoles and will last forever.
I got started on Danners while I was in the Army and now use their work boots....that’s the main thing I like about their boots...made to be resoled
For real, crafts like this are a dying breed, sadly.
I have a pair of Whites fire boots, they are custom made to order, they are not cheap but they built to last.
It’s so rare to have someone with such plain integrity, skill and a desire to educate. Of course a few Bob in the till help too but all power to you.
Thanks!
@@Dan_the_cobbler no, credit where it is due, in this world of “fake news”, twats and bigotry you are a ⭐️
I appreciate how you serve the customer primarily.
Much respect for doing the best you could for the young man. Once, long ago being a Military Wife. We were on a budget as well. Sometimes you gotta find a different way of doing the job. And then there's compromise. Great job anyway. You Rock Too!
Hello from Dallas, Texas. Nice to see a young man who knows the worth and value of fine craftsmanship.
The good old suggested list sent me here for some reason after watching comedy video's . I'm sitting in a farmhouse on the Canadian Prairies of Manitoba, now I hear you ask why did i watch this then. I was actually born at the RAF hospital up the road from you in 1974 and spent the first 14 years of my life in the New Mill/ Tring area. Before leaving and heading to wales in 1988 and then on to Canada in 2000.
It's actually cool to be watching a younger guy take on an old style repair skill, I fix older farm equipment here for customers. So many of the trades I need to help me like engine component machining/radiator rebuilding are dying out, as the younger ones don't take over from the older generation with our throw away society getting worse. I fix the stuff younger guys that use computer diagnostics as their main tool don't really have a clue about L.O.L I really enjoyed the video and will be back for more. Thanks for filming what you do . Take care.
Loved wearing my Ammo boots during my Service days (1977 - 2001). A special, ‘I’m a Serviceman’ feeling.
Wow! A lot of work, time and pride. I bet when the owner picked them up, he couldn't stop saying "WOW". Like I did. Really enjoyed seeing how this is done.
Glad you enjoyed it!
What a treat. There were ads during the video, and none of the products advertised showed anything like the decency and craftmanship that you put into this job. Well done!
I'm not a cobbler or very much interested in it, but I do like to see craftsmanship and taking pride in doing a good job! Well done mate
Thanks Peter.
A real craftsman that knows his trade. No short cuts and you work to your clients budget... very nice finish, excellent video, BTW sound was fine no problems...
Thanks for the feedback Barry!
For years my mum and dad always said about "hobnail boots" and I assumed it was a reference to heavy lumpy boots...now I know it actually had a specific meaning! Never knew there was such a thing as a "hobnail"! Awesome work.
Now you know! and thanks!
What is the purpose of the iron works and hob nails on the parade boots?
@@thomaserixton4662 I would say hobnails act like studs on a tyre
Like you I thought it was just a name. Didn't realise they were actual nails in a boot.
Its AMAZING how more intricate Sea cadet boots are than In Canada, mine were old CAF parade boots, and DESTROYED... but still had to 'mirror finish' lots of baking. We had no hob nails, plates, anything like that.
Love those Albert slippers on the Singer machine. Great work on those boots. It’s always a pleasure to watch a craftsman at work
When I was at Taunton in the Army we sent our ammo boots to Dartmoor prison for repair .Didn't realise the work involved. Quite enjoyed it . Thanks. As an aside I was very good at bulling boots. Earned a few cigarettes doing it for my mates.
Craftsmen like him are few and far between! Absolutely amazing in the age of "throw aways"
Thanks.
This brought back a lot of memories from the 60's... interesting to see the same techniques being used a half century on... nothing like seeing a whole company doing an RCR drag halt and leaving a streak of sparks behind them.
I was 2 RCR, 2nd Battalion, Oromocto, N.B./75+
It’s great to you put your heart and sole in to your craft - I wish I knew a cobbler as conscientious and competent as you when I was serving. But my friend, that would not pass as a mirror shine in the British Army! Break out the beeswax!! 😁👍🏻😁
Hob nails have a single 'lump'...these are called 'triple hob'.
They used to form the basis for early mountaineering boots along with 'tricounis', a complicated edge forming piece of metal.
Weighed a ton!
Dan I always read about hobnailed boots, but I've never seen them before ..now I get it. You are totally correct if the customer cannot afford the whole job and you as the craftsman think it is fine then clearly repairing the first sole is what you have to do to STAY IN BUSINESS. Thanks for spelling it out for those that do not get that, or understand that. Man I wish I lived in the UK I would love to see you work live. Keep on keeping on!
Thanks Eric appreciate it!
I used to do the boots for the army base near my shop, the army base's budget also didn't include replacing any leather at all, had to do all sorts of things to plug up the hob holes. In the end our army base dumped all of these boots (that cost the MOD £150 each) and replaced them all with crap from China that could not be repaired. Sad really, I miss working on them.
You know how it feels then!
The government did the same thing with our safety boots, they didn’t even last a year.
Your taxes at work, folks!
Try getting in touch with the nearest Sea Cadet Unit that has a Royal Marines Cadet Detachment. These cadets use the parade boots and obtain them second hand. As a result, they would probably be in need of repair. However, bear in mind the cadet's parents / unit stores would not be very rich!!
Excellent..Thouh Sadly We'll Find out TRUMP WAS RIGHT! It's the Chynna Plague!! Soled out to Cheap labour.. Love the Cobblers Art.. Done some Horse Farriery in my time..loved it! And I've got me a pair of 1954 MOD British Army hobnail boots.. I'm 66yrs old..Great Video ..👌Ozzy
Very impressed that a young cadet realized the value of a quality pair of boots enough to get them repaired rather than replaced. Glad you were able to help him.
Thanks James!
whilst youtube has gone crazy in many aspects this platform is still one of the best ways to learn how to do things, absolutely amazing how many things you can learn here
Hey Dan, why would you fill the holes with filler? Wouldn’t the glue attach more firmly with the holes intact?
Love how clean and tidy your shop is, organized and everything in its proper place, save time save money, says a lot about your character, great video as well, nice to see pride and professionalism in one's craft
Apart from the tacs on the floor 🤣
What controversy? You did a great job and stayed within the lads budget. Plus we all learned about the filling paste that mimics leather once dry. Winning all around.
I've still got two pairs of my parade boots that where triple soled and studded in Tring when I was a DI at that RAF Camp, first pair about 1998 and 2nd pair I never got to wear (injured Iraq 2005) done in 2004.
Peace
Charlie 🇬🇧
Perhaps a dumb question but what is the purpose of all the metal on the bottom, specifically the tri-studded bits? Sounds nice on concrete? I'm sure it would be hell on wood floors.
@@Doesin they where the traditional pattern military boots.
Same with civilian boots and clogs back in the day.
The segs or cleats stopped the leather or wooden soles wearing away. It's cheaper to replace the studs.
They sound great on tarmac and concrete I'll agree, but also turns any surface into a skating rink!
I went on my backside more than once.
@@charliemansonUK Much appreciated and makes sense. Thank you!
I always enjoy watching a pro at work. Great vid!
This is the kind of guy you want to have a pint or 2. such a chill and humble human being. and on top of that his trade is just amazing. Thanks for the upload and keep up the great work!!!
I never knew what they meant by hob nail boots. Glad you can keep these enlisted folks in top footwear and at a suitable budget.
Hi I watch your show all the time. I’ve commented before. On this one I just wanted to say great job putting the customer first. One thing I’ve learned in business is, you have to work with the customers budget not your own. I’m glad to hear you put your customers first always 🥰
I'm not sure how I got here, but I'm glad that I've found this channel.
Welcome!
this is so awesome that you're preserving an ancient craft and bringing value to things that we just replace. Your shoe polishing video has made the best results here at home.
I gotta say the most satisfying part of this for me is the way the stain disappears into the leather.
Reminded me of watching my dad repair boots. So endearing. Modern machinery looks nothing like the Landis machinery he used to have. I miss the smell of leather and Barges shoe cement.
That was really great!Had never even heard of hob nails before!please show more of these military type boots. Really nice.
Hi, i think it will be cool to see the reactions of the people who recives his shoes after a full work.
Greetings from Argentina!!
That was fantastic, I have never seen a cobbler work before - gotta love UA-cam. I had heard of hob nail boots but I thought they were what held the sole on. You wouldn't want to walk on mum's floor in those boots. They looked terrific when complete. Thanks for sharing, cheers mate.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Impressive. A young man doing this manual artisan work with passion and knowledge. Thanks for the video. !!
All my life I have heard of hobnail boots, never really knowing what they were, so thanks for your interesting and informative videos.
I never knew the military did tap dancing
you havent heard the wonderful crunch of 200 sappers coming to attention on a graveled parade ground the wonderful smack of those boots turning gravel into dust AND the absolute horror of an over bulled boots toe cap faling off and disintergrating with the sad sound of a broken heart :)
or the look of disgust as some idiot trie the old trick of peeing in your boots to soften them..the smell is horrific on a warm day with sweaty feet, it does actually work IF your arny boots are the brown ones made from some sortof nearly flexible arnour plate that were the type used in ww1 but Not if your boots were manufactured afterthe mid 50's :/
@@peterforden5917 3 cheers for the C.R.E!
@@peterforden5917 it was even better when a couple idiots from my troop found out the shortcut hack for gettting mirror shine on parade boots; using the juice that those rotating floor buffer machines use on your caps will make them perfect... UNTIL it rains. it was amazing watching 15+ nodeyes all shit their pants as their boots turned purple.
Yes, but they couldn’t afford the canes or the white hats!
@@peterforden5917 Only thing I can think of when I see or hear the word Sapper/s is combat engineers, especially the the Soviet ones during WW2.
But I’m guessing that’s not what you mean, And I’m probably gonna find out what that is during the video, But if I don’t I would be happy to learn what it is from you!.
Those are some lovely parquet ruiners! :D Only wear them to the house of your worst enemy!
Watching people work with their hands is satisfying!
Cheers! All the best! Great video. I found it informative and surprisingly relaxing!
okay, so this is the kind of thing I'm into at 42 years old, watching a guy repair shoes and keeping my attention. he just gained a sub.
Haha appreciate it Moe.
I have to say.. being a 70s baby has its perks.
great work as per usual! people on youtube are spoiled, we always want to see a full restoration, full JR soles & heels, solid brass hardware, budget be damned lol
but it's refreshing to see a real-world job...we get to see you work within a budget and still get those boots lookin like new!
very interesting to see how different types of craftsmen use leather in such different ways! I make a lot of leather projects like knife sheaths and armor pieces so its such a new way of looking at things when you watch someone like a cobbler work with leather.
Very interesting video. Thank you. I was a re-enactor american civil war and the foor wear had pegged leather soles. The gluing of the sole brought a memory of the sole peeling off at the toe. I had read a story about amber and pine sap. At next event I found a pine tree that had lots of tree sap . Found a " gob" , not too soft not to stiff. Put some under the peeled sole and pressed and wore the shoe for the weekend. This around 1991. Still have the shoes and the sap did the trick. Cannot tell the sole had started to peel off.
Dan, your skills are on the next level. I particularly liked no loved what you did to those Ferragamo shoes. Your not a cobbler, your an artist.
Man that brought back memories, you never forget the sound they made on parade or the hours buffing, why didn’t you use some saddle soap before adding the conditioner to clean them up a bit
Awesome look at a trade that isn’t shared as much as it should be!
Used to have a pair of these used to hate using bees wax but felt like a proud dad once all bulled up
The knowledge of his craft is just fascinating, I love watching these
Appreciate it!
The bloke in the window is useless........been on the same shoe for days...sack him !
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA
The poor guy is putting his heart and SOLE into his work 🤪
🤣
Nailed it....
He's not working on the shoes, he's working on your nightmares!
Wish we could see customer reactions. But I totally understand u can't. Love the work you do!
Idk if anyone else has pointed this out, (at least for me); the part where you stained the sole looks just like toy story where the old toy repair man painted on woddy’s shoe
Woddy lol
Nice to see a young man doing a real trade, well done.
I am one that thinks videos are better when the the customer is under a budget to see practical solutions. When money isn't an issue, then anything is possible.
man, I've nothing to do here, randomly watching this, I'm glad UA-cam has become a platform for everyone to share their skills and potentially make money off it, Unlike other platforms rigged for models showing nipslips
Such a craftsman! Keeping the skills alive and well
I can really appreciate the pride, and attention to detail, in your workmanship
You do top notch work, Dan! The personal touches you add on the repairs, makes the shoes really pop. The cadet got himself an excellent deal.
So refreshing to watch so many old shoes get new life instead of going in the waste
Great job of repairing those boots. I hope you never feel compelled to explain your business decisions again to your viewers. You know your bottom line and budget and how to run your business. Thank you for making these videos available.
christ!we need more like you here in the states!
There used to be shoe repair shops here. The last pair of boots I had resoled was years ago. It's gotten to the point where your car is a disposable item anymore. Everything is made in factory's now, by corporations and that's the way they want it.
Check out Trenton and Heath, they’re out in Tennessee and so fun to watch also.
I was brought for restoration, American shoes in 1943 . Just like the horseshoe on the heels.
Wow all this , I was at Halton and my boots would most likely have been sent to Tring for repair so we could make lots of noise on the Parade square. Respect.
The bit about the customer's budget got you a sub. Thank you.
Imagine someone walking on your floor with these.
That is the reason to take Your shoes off at the door.
and ruining your new expensive oak kitchen floor! Great video from a true craftsman. Thought cobblers had all but disappeared in our throw away society!!
I would sound like your walking around with rugby boots on
Just don't walk on the square.
That's asmr for me
Beautiful craftsmanship. Well-made, and well maintained footwear is a thing of beauty, not like the semi-disposable rubbish that is often found these days.
Love the pink duckie that watches you work!
He’s just down there chilling
Nice would love a pair 🇮🇪☘️
Nice to to see a young person with old school skills and cares about his customers 😎😎
You did such a great job on these! The customer would of been really happy with these! Doesn’t look like a budget job either, they look fantastic!
*have