u/Bungholio91

First, a huge THANK YOU to those in this Sub who own these boots because the sizing consensus here is on-point! I'm a 9.5D Brannock and went with 9E, which was the right play. It's true that, at least in the #17 last, "E" wears like a "D," so take that into consideration if you order.

Boots arrived two days after I ordered, and I'm sharing inside and outside pics to show the subtle lighting variances. I've only worn them once (all day yesterday), and they're comfy AF. IMO, the appeal of the Pecos is twofold: 1). its history for the brand; and 2). its simplicity. There's something to say for a basic boot that you won't need to baby and can just wear the hell out of -- a true GADA. 🤘

https://crushonretro.com/products/mens-lace-to-toe-boots-kudu-reverse?_pos=5&_sid=608685229&_ss=r

In late 2025, I decided it was time to stop being a naysayer to the Chinese footwear and apparel market, because all I was seeing was telling me my beliefs were unfounded. So, I took the plunge starting with Crush on Retro's horsehide jackets. I bought my first, which has proven to rival some of my Japanese makers' HH jackets, and then I bought a second CoR HH jacket - equally as impressive as the first in its build quality.

Having had two outstanding experiences with CoR, I then decided it was time to give Chinese boots a go, and I took a flyer on two pairs of Luosjiet boots. Each also wowed me. Happy with my buys and batting 1,000, I figured it was time to try some CoR boots, as well.

For the unfamiliar, CoR itself is not a maker; instead, they're a vendor for other makers and you really want to drill down on your due diligence. Many Chinese makers' leathers are sourced from PrimeAsia Leather Co. which, I believe is the world's largest tannery. However, CoR also offers leathers from makers with whom many of us are more familiar. I decided to start with the leather.

I own several pairs with C.F. Stead, including kudu, so these boots felt like a safe bet. Indeed, I can vouch for the leather's legitimacy and, as with my Luosjiet boots, the quality of the stitching, paneling, welt work, hardware, outsole, etc., is all on-point. I'm sure the Vibram 430 is from China, and as a long time fan of the 430 on dozens of other boots, I can't feel nor detect any appreciable differences between this pair's 430 and my others (time will of course tell, though).

If you've been on the fence about Chinese footwear, I encourage you to find a pair you like and give them a shot. We're all boot and shoe lovers here, and it's been educational and liberating to expand my horizons.

Just scored the RTS Mister Lou in Tan Latigo from Baker's this week and thought it'd be cool to showcase 'em next to Nicks Pullman in DS Tobacco.

Which do you prefer?