Introducing The M-Series Anatomical Workers Field Boot

Hello Functional Footwear Friends,

It’s been a while. I had a rough end to last year; broken ribs and a torn rotator cuff. As someone whose life and work revolve around being active it was frustrating. I got a bit lost and off track. But I’m near recovered and ready to get back to it.

Out of the downtime I created a clearer plan. I'm switching to a factory in Portugal, and moving primarily to a pre-order model. The factory change will ensure consistency, high heritage construction standards and streamlined access for both European and North American customers.

I am also taking my energy back from Instagram and stepping away from paid marketing and influencers. I want the cost of Turriff footwear to reflect what they actually are; anatomical design, quality materials, skilled labour, and a fair margin.

While striving to create the most balanced, long lasting foot functional footwear
possible, I am most interested in offering my shoes to the widest audience I can. To do that I need to cut out any unnecessary costs that traditionally drive up prices. I know how to make shoes and that is what I am going to focus on. The goal is simple. The best possible footwear, for as many people as possible. These are not luxury shoes. They are shoes for humans.

The most exciting news; the M-Series Anatomical Workers Field Boot is done and heading to development and production. Many of you have been asking for a boot. I’ve been working on it for a while and wasn’t happy until this one. Full details and specs of the first sample boot can be found here.

The boots will be sold on a pre-order basis so watch your emails for the announcement.

Pictured here is the finalized fit and design sample. A list of Specifications and design edits can be found at the bottom of this email.

Before the pre-order launches I want to begin moving on from the current C-series Outdoor Shoe stock. As a thank you for following along use code FUNCTIONALFRIEND for $75 off. Some sizes are limited so check soon. Please note purchases made with this code are final sale.

If you have not seen or heard already I have added some new sizing tools to the website on the Find your Fit page. Please check them out, but if you still have questions please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Shop Now!

One last thing I want to touch on: A small number of pairs from the first factory run have shown premature outsole separation; the outsole lifting away from the cushion midsole during normal wear rather than through extended use. This is not acceptable and I am genuinely disappointed it has happened. If you have experienced this please reach out. I will assess the situation and find the right solution.

Thank you for the continued support and interest in Functional Footwear.

Tell your friends!

andrew@turriffshoes.com

Tread lightly.

Andrew

Sample Boot Specifications:

• Construction: 360-degree Stitchdown

• Leather: CF Stead Oiled ECO Grain - Dark Brown - 2mm

• Hardware: Antique Brass Eyelets

• Stitching: Brown

• Lining: Vamp (forefoot) lined

• Toe Box: Unstructured

• Heel Stiffener: Leather

• Insole: 1.5mm leather

• Midsole: 3mm leather

• Cushion: 6mm Nora Brand Lunatur EVA

• Outsole: Vibram 7132 Megagrip
  
  *note this is not the finalized factory spec list.

Pattern & Technical Updates:

• Hidden Pull Loop: To maintain a clean aesthetic, I have added a hidden fabric loop inspired by English riding boots. The slim fabric tucks comfortably away before tying the laces. Testing confirms no irritation to the Achilles.

• Ankle Mobility: I reduced the front height of the lacing quarters by 10mm. This enhances ankle mobility during vigorous activity and improves out-of-the-box comfort while maintaining a 6-inch (152.4mm) back height. I also feel it improves the overall aesthetics.

• Internal Flexibility: I’ve reduced insole thickness and changed the type of midsole leather used. While traditional shoemaking prizes stiff foundations and a structured, supportive underfoot feel, this material change has created a lightweight, flexible, and natural-feeling traditionally crafted boot. This is the most supple and comfortable boot I have ever made.

• Stack Height: Based on feedback, the pre-order will offer two choices: a 6mm cushion midsole combined with the leather midsole and rubber outsole, or a thinner, zero-cushion build featuring only a leather midsole and rubber outsole.

• Visual Balance: I’ve adjusted the pattern at key points to create visual symmetry on a highly asymmetrical anatomical last. The result is a more balanced look. Ive also eliminated the seam so many have affectionately called the “butt crack” from the heel counter pocket. This also contributes to an overall clean harmonious appearance.

• Outsole Choice: I am still researching the best outsole options. I am very happy with the performance of the Vibram 7132 Megagrip as seen on this iteration. While some have requested a thicker option for added lifespan, I have not yet identified a suitable multi-use alternative that meets my flexibility standards.

• Speed/Lace Hooks: I am currently testing the need for speed hooks. With the 6-inch height and the addition of the pull loop, I find eyelets provide a more secure fit, but I am still evaluating this for the final production run. Comments on this matter are welcome.