Chrome 415 Work Boot Review
First Impressions
Back in 1995, Chrome established itself as a maker of high-quality messenger bags built from military-grade fabrics and old seat belt buckles. They’ve expanded into a range of other products including apparel and shoes. Chrome recently introduced the 415 Work Boot as part of its All City line. You can find them in either leather (known as Storm 415) or Cordura nylon. For this test, we received the leather version in both black and sand. The products deliver dynamite looks – part Chuck Taylor All Star and part chukka.
Features
Why Chuck Taylor, do you say? The white rubber wrap-around toe and heal bumpers of our sand-colored sample create that old-school basketball shoe look. And how chukka? With a high-quality leather upper and boot-like lacing, that’s how.
Specs
Weight: 2 lb 6 oz per pair (men’s size 11)
Sole: Vulcanized rubber
Upper: Leather
The leather uppers of the Storm 415 deliver are both waterproof and breathable. We didn’t overheat in these shoes. But we did find the leather a touch stiff. It requires some breaking in. We also found the soles to be fairly thin. And although Chrome includes thick insoles, we would have preferred a little more of a true mid-sole in these boots.
Fit
Chrome includes a note on its website regarding sizing. In short, it says order a half size larger than normal. The note is completely accurate and appreciated. I typically prefer a men’s 10.5 for street shoes and my Storm 415s are size 11, and fit perfectly. They run a touch narrow but should stretch out over time. Don’t be afraid to follow Chrome’s advice and size up.
Final Verdict
The Chrome Storm 415 is one cool chukka. We dig the urban styling and retro look. It could use a little more of a mid-sole, in our humble opinion, but that’s a pretty minor complaint. You can find them at Chrome.
