Expedition Boot

MODEL DETAILS

For those unfamiliar, Bruce Chatwin was one of the great travel writers of the 20th century. His books, including The Songlines, are internationally acclaimed for their mix of true accounts and dramatization that allows the reader to visualize the obscure subjects that he wrote about. Bruce was enchanted by the customs and history of people groups in some of the most remote places on earth, including Patagonia, Australia, and Nepal.

Though we don’t know when or where Bruce purchased his first pair of Russells, we do know he used them almost exclusively for his travels and expeditions. Bruce owned a pair of 9" Bird Shooters and an iconic pair of customized Safaris. It is clear from the photos we have found, that he favored each for different circumstances.

The pair of Safaris that he owned were unique because unlike the standard version of the Safari at the time, his had both a Double Stack Midsole and a Vibram Montagna outsole. Such a combination is more typical of the Bird Shooter variant called the Mountaineer (Precursor to the Backcountry), yet still maintained the Scottish Twill Quarters. The combination, though highly specialized, results in a packable, heavy duty hiking boot for hot, rocky environments. Our team has put together a modern version of Bruce’s pair that has several upgrades to make them even more capable.

Included with our Double and Triple Vamp Boots

A pair of Comfort Insoles is included with our Double and Triple vamp Models. Use is optional, however they are an excellent way to make slight adjustments to the boot fit and add shock absorption.

Exclusively at Russell Moccasin

Double Vamp Construction

4) Inner Vamp

Our unique sock-like liner that seals the interior of our performance footwear. This true moccasin layer is hand-lasted and makes the boot incredibly water-resistant and comfortable.

1) Outer Vamp

This is the primary moccasin layer that forms the core of all our footwear. Hand lasted from the bottom-up, it wraps all the way underneath the foot for the ultimate flexibility and comfort.

2) Overlap Seam

Patented in 1910 at Russell, the Overlap seam protects the joint between the vamp and plug. Hand sewn for nearly two hours per pair, it is highly water-resistant and differentiates Russells from Maine Moccasins.