Red Wing, once founded as a producer of workboots for the rigors of farmers and hunters, also is one of the purveyors for the U.S. army. One of the leathers we apply to our boots are the Mohave leathers. They come in three colors; Sand Mohave, Sage Mohave and Olive Mohave. These leathers were originally developed for three military divisions in the US; Army, Navy and Air Force.

As for this, the quality is required to meet a very high standard. And so they do. The Mohave leather is a waterproof suede leather—made from U.S. cattle hides. These leathers are suede, though not as common as any other piece of suede you’ll find in shoes. Where normally, leathers are split in half which creates two pieces of rough surface, Mohave is unsplit suede leather. The key difference is the raw material—it is more durable/stronger primarily because it is thicker in weight and hide substance. The suede we see on this leather, actually is the inside of the cow. The high breathability is created because it is unfinished leather—meaning there is no pigment and/or surface additives that could potentially “clog up” the leather rendering it less breathable.

The name Mohave comes from the Mohave Desert, located in the southeast of California. You will cross it when following famous Route 66. This area is known as a desert of extremes. It undergoes four distinct seasons; winter months bring temperatures going below -18°C, whereas in summer temperatures can go up to 54°C. Furthermore, this area is dominated by mountains, alternated by valleys and basins. Logically, to withstand this area, a boot would need excellent water resistance, strength and climate control. And this is what S.B. Foot Tanning – the Red Wing Shoe Company tannery – with over 130 years of experience, is capable of.

These leathers are featured on a diverse set of Red Wing Heritage styles, such as the Chukka 3144 or the Moc Toe 8881 and 8139. A mix of function and style that will support you no matter what condition you end up in.

We’ve picked up the first rays of sunlight, hung out in the park last weekend and stored our jackets and almost the boots!. Spring is there! And we’re ready! A fresh pair of Red Wing Handsewn shoes will do the coming months. Lightweight, though built from traditional Red Wing leather.

The 9142 is of a classic chukka appearance and features a unique all-leather construction combined with hints of moccasin styling. It features rawhide leather laces and lightweight Vibram outsoles.

And this alternative colourway, the 9143 in classic Oro-iginal leather.

Part of our Genuine Handsewn collection, which is entirely made in Lewiston, Maine, is the 9158. This style in Camel Muleskinner features classic oxford styling detailed with unique elements that make them uniquely Red Wing. One such detail is the American-made plantation crepe sole, made of 100% natural rubber, which was a common feature of boat shoes made in the 1950’s. They offer comfort from the moment you slip them on.

The rawhide laces and traditional ‘baseball’ contrast stitching are other notable features of the shoe, which is also offered in a second leather, Copper Rough & Tough.

Read all about the Genuine Handsewn collection here.