How It's Made: World's Toughest Tanker Boot - Nicks TankerPro™

[@stupadasol5911]

Stopped into the shop in Spokane for a foot measurement with a hungry 3 year old. Nick himself shared his lunch, while I got measured. He won me over from his cross town competition. Wasn't the fries but the quality and workmanship. After a quarter century of hard use and a couple of resoles my Hot Shots are still in use today.

[@honeyalee2065]

kzbin.info/door/K_icgfhiCxlQuYVPW6teMg

[@fokkerd3red618]

Wow, There are some skilled craftsman making these boots. Very, very impressive.

[@Holy_Maker]

It's a great technique. I enjoyed watching the process by which Tanker Boot are made.

[@7892rl]

Rare to see this degree of hands-on craftsmanship nowadays. My Tankers should be here in 10--12 weeks. Long wait but judging by how they are being made should be worth it. Them cobblers are a rare breed and amazing to watch.

[@rikmeyer1469]

I am in absolute awe of the American craftsmen and craftswomen in this video and the quality of their work. I am ordering tonight and will be proud to own their boots. Thanks Nick's!

[@elmermason9685]

I wish we had those when I was a Tanker. Vietnam era. Nice boots. I didn’t realize how much work goes into just one pair. Thanks for the video. Once a Tanker, always a Tanker.

[@johndillard8588]

Roger that.

[@Tanker3278]

I doubt the mass production tanker boots they sell at Clothing Sales is anywhere near as good as Nicks. Going to have to get a pair. Its also a shame you can't buy tanker boots off the shelf at Ft. Knox anymore.

[@johndillard8588]

@@Tanker3278 : Dehner. The original

[@benkeyser9675]

This is literally what puts my newborn to sleep on Saturday mornings after his bottle, love watching these videos.

[@nicksboots]

Awwweeeee 🥰

[@emmanuelawosusi3276]

@@nicksboots Do you have pull on/cowboy style boots yet ? I viewed your Instagram and saw pull on boots ?

[@jackbraddell1124]

Saving up for a pair of Nick's currently !!!

[@NoblemansXchange]

This has got to be the coolest boot. That walnut leather is so good looking. Really enjoyed watching those straps be sewn down. ❎❎

[@heaventohades]

ive been obsessed since carl murawski reviewed these, they'll be my first pair of Nicks

[@honeyalee2065]

kzbin.info/door/K_icgfhiCxlQuYVPW6teMg

[@billmclaughlin8438]

You’ll never buy a better boot than a Nick’s. A bear to break in but when you’re done it’s like wearing a rugged pair of sneakers. I wore a pair of their wildland boots for years fighting wildland fires. Most of the experienced firefighters did. Worth every penny.

[@somedayzo6]

I really like the noise that the cutter makes!

[@Kudusole]

Is it just me, or just watching them making boots is very relaxing hahaha

[@mithrilsilver575]

No it's super cool lol!

[@YeshuaDavidson]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHOxfauAgpiZhNE this is what we call making shoes ☺️

[@kalabaydhjufa4604]

Watching men working hard makes u relaxing 😎? Oh dear lol

[@alaxendrus]

No kidding There's something wholesome to this. Like ASMR level And analog factory intrigue.

[@TheUntoldOdyssey94]

Same for me 🍀

[@MrHondoMan]

One of the coolest and most interesting videos I've ever watched! One day I hope to own a pair of Nicks. Until then, I'll have to live with my Red Wings and my very rare Dr. Marten's steel toed work boot.

[@joshuarumsey2302]

I used to do the same. I bought a pair to give the "Buy once, cry once" theory a try. I will never look back. These are so much better than mass produced boots I can't compare the two.

[@calebaranzubia5707]

Been waiting for this one . Thanks nicks !

[@frfrpr]

That's one kick as boot. Great video!

[@mikem5043]

Masterful craftsmanship to be proud of for sure!

[@honeyalee2065]

kzbin.info/door/K_icgfhiCxlQuYVPW6teMg

[@nabeelkhan51100]

I’d say I have a pretty firm handshake but these people would crush my hand with 0 effort. Excellent craftsmanship

[@CrimFerret]

I'd really love a pair of these or one of the other tanker style booths they make. My calves sometimes swell and I have the idea these would be easier to deal with than laces for that. They'd be daily footwear though not really a hard use work boot for me. I'd just love to have some boots this well made that would probably outlast me.

[@honeyalee2065]

kzbin.info/door/K_icgfhiCxlQuYVPW6teMg

[@7892rl]

Although I don't have the expanding cattle situation I bought my Tankers for much the same reasons. I'm a driver and don't need this quality of boot for work, I just like to have quality footwear and I believe Nick's are all of that.....all good except for the long wait to get "em !!!

[@CrimFerret]

@@7892rl Yeah, that's the main downside. Really, when it comes to made to order semi-bespoke items, these are pretty affordable by comparison.

[@w.bridges9118]

Wow that's craftsmanship regards from Australia 🇦🇺

[@adworg]

Incredible. I wish you guys the absolute best. Seriously great work.

[@andreleblanc1963]

Outstanding craftsmanship period!

[@ACS402010]

Awesome channel.

[@bruceburns1672]

I am a Metalworker by trade and near retirement I had reached the point where Metalwork made me physically ill , the monotony of the same thing for 50 years had got to me , now retired I cannot pick up a tool to do anything , everything is left undone , to see these people turn up every day to do this year in year out , they deserve a medal on top of the pittance of a wage .

[@SoulblinderAD]

I went from purchasing a new pair of $70 shoes once a year to buying one quality boot that has lasted me 7 years and barely any damage. High quality leather boots will save money in the long term, especially when treated well, and will feel like part of your body once the leather adjust. And these look even higher quality, so I can image this kind of boot lasting a lifetime.

[@JeffreyStrader]

Thing is, not everyone has a large sum of money to drop instantly on a pair of boots.

[@pierssegal5910]

@@JeffreyStrader that's the Sam Vines theory of economic inequality in action.

[@dr.emilschaffhausen4683]

@@pierssegal5910 Is economic inequality a bad thing if everyone is clothed, fed and housed?

[@pierssegal5910]

@@dr.emilschaffhausen4683 dunno. Find an example and we'll see.

[@therealjoeysalazar]

Resole looks easy with this build style. Impressive!

[@jamal69jackson77]

I must say, I've used and seen so many high quality boots that I was skeptical about the claims on this video, but these boots definitely seem almost over built, which is a great thing. I will have to see if Nick's makes a boot in a style that will interest me and my needs. Incredibly well made video about your boot making process.

[@SueDohman]

Who knew that much hands on work went into making a pair of boots! And who knew dudes still did stuff like that? Just sayin. I’d wouldn’t mind it at all. Just one of the first things I noticed.

[@retiredgoon512]

Absolutely incredible Worth every penny American product at its finest! 🇺🇸

[@redblade8160]

Michael. There is no such thing as an American product, you lot are a bunch of mixed foreigners all in one country.

[@OuroborosArmory]

This is a boot I will own someday, I just wish they had a small buckle right at the arch of the foot, to flatten out that profile

[@Paladin_of_Justice]

Holy shit finally I find a superior quality boot . I thought my Danners were bad ass. I'm definitely getting these . I didn't think boots were made this well any longer.

[@mariolombardi3864]

Great craftmanship!

[@somedayzo6]

Love the production videos. Would really enjoy a voiceover explaining each part of the process! When is the last removed from the boot?

[@nicksboots]

The last is removed from the boot after the heel cap has been nailed on)

[@somedayzo6]

@@nicksboots Thank you!!!

[@emmanuelawosusi3276]

@@nicksboots can I use the tanker pro for wildland firefighting ?

[@joshuarumsey2302]

What is the purpose of the straps instead of laces? Is it merely a novelty or is there a functional reason?

[@Totemparadox]

As the name implies the straps are for tankers so that laces don't get caught on anything inside a tank. Practical aspects for civilians is putting them on quickly, no laces to snap, etc.

[@letsexploreeverything6727]

Hay at 9:50 they put something black down douse anyone know what it is

[@Totemparadox]

Rubber squeak pad. Makes it so that the boots are less likely to squeak when used.

[@gglass2648]

Interested to see the Americana built. I know it’s a heritage and not a work, but they look great. Preferably in 1964 full roughout leather.

[@TheAmtrack69]

WOW! Looks like a very high quality boot.

[@esheeshe3839]

great workmanship it is🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@chaiwatpotichanid]

Just selling design 🥾🥰🥰👍happiest job description love job 🥾

[@mattstan627]

If any boot deserves the military inspired Thurman last it would be the tanker boot. Please bring back the Thurman last for the tanker boot. I was able to get a pair before y'all stopped offering it and I will order another the day y'all offer it again. Thanks for the great boots.

[@nicksboots]

Hey Matt, We have gone through many changes with the outsole options offered here at Nicks. The Thurman last does not work with every outsole which is why we do not have it listed on our site for certain models. That being said we can still make the Thurman last tanker boot. You will just need to call or email in to discuss outsole options. Thanks! :)

[@WhenSteelCoilsFly]

Just ordered this exact config with a composite toe and a toe cap, t minus 24 weeks

[@colinbryant5598]

Absolutely first class manufacturing. Respect to fellow craftsmen. I would love a pair but how much?

[@dakotareid1566]

Like $500 but they’ll last longer then a $100 boot 7 times over

[@colinbryant5598]

@@dakotareid1566 And by the time they get to England, gonna be mega bucks. I love quality but my pockets aren't that deep. But you are right. They would last very well. All the best from England. Col.

[@68charger88]

TRUE CRAFTSMANSHIP! GOOD LUCK BREAKING IN THOSE BOOTS!

[@danbobe3480]

I would like to learn that job

[@keybordfighter7672]

Kudos....just one question those nails hammered right and left going in on direction but whats on the other side?

[@Totemparadox]

A metal last. When the clenching nails hit it, the tips turn 180 degrees and turn into hooks.

[@jakev1972]

Where do you find those one arm lasting pliers. That tool is so handy!

[@Sams911]

I'm an ex-M1A1 Tanker... would like to get a pair of these for fun.. don't see them for sale on your site?

[@mikeogden5256]

I want some tanker boots…. I imagine this tanker will become a top seller

[@dr.emilschaffhausen4683]

Could you add specifics on the boot made in this video so individuals can order the exact same boot with the same colors and look? Given the number of options for each boot, this would be a good start for people.

[@vern146]

can you make a pair with one sole raised 16 mm right?

[@Brother_Tinnitus]

As a former tanker, I will have these.

[@christopherdalley411]

How do Nick's Tanker boots handle water? I've had Tony Lama, Lucchesse, and Anderson Bean and I work out doors a lot and after a number of rains the soles keep coming apart. So I'm looking to switch to this next boot. Help me out here, please.

[@1979augistine]

Sweet set of kickers

[@wayned5872]

One mean looking pair of boots👍👍

[@mithrilsilver575]

That is such a creative boot design!!! Not a fan of the raised heel like that though. To uncomfortable for me. Excellent video

[@alexhamon9261]

Can get their boots built on a moderate arch last with much less heel.

[@mithrilsilver575]

@@alexhamon9261 Thanks man.

[@Podmetaczacase]

I've discovered this channel only few days ago... Now, I am in a consulting type of business, but if I had a courage for a change - you'd be watcing me on one of those machines! Thank you, I'm a fan of yours!

[@tbled52]

I know. If I had a cobbler around I'd almost volunteer my time to apprentice a few days a week. I really enjoy these videos and the finished product for some reason.

[@fluffykittynoodles]

Well, I wasn't in the market for a new pair

[@germanCrowbar]

Can you also make boots in size US 21?

[@mikemilburn7823]

You don't pick up those kind of skills overnight, awesome boot. I'll take a 12 please LOL.......Mike

[@helencaverna]

Were those screws in the bottom necessary?

[@tjrm63]

Ordered a pair in February, hopefully they arrive in July

[@billypalmer8525]

The Tankers Boots that I wore after I got out of Vietnam and went Germany were made by the Cochran Company they were the ones that made the Airborne Jump Boots. Back then a pair of Black Leather Combat Boots from Quartermaster Sales cost $8.40 in 1969 in Germany if I remember right my Tankers Boots cost between $25 and $40 if I remember right. Which back then was a lot of money for a G.I. You could only wear them if you had an Armor MOS.

[@evtinker1814]

I think you mean Corcoran. They stopped making tanker boots about a year ago for some reason. I miss mine. Former M60A1/M60A3/M1 tanker.

[@marshaldillon4387]

God Bless Both you guys !!

[@billypalmer8525]

I forgot to add that when I was in Vietnam in 1967 I served with the 2nd Bn 34th Armour Company A 2nd Plt. I crewed on an M48A3C Tank. A Damn Fine Vehicle.

[@orbitaljellyfish808]

Wish I could try these on. Kinda don’t think they would slip too much but that’s a high stakes bet. The lead time is understandable but still greatly complicates the purchase scenario. Fantastic looking boots tho 👏👏

[@jackbraddell1124]

I have a feeling that I will wear them outside of work for awhile before beating them up at work. I have lesser quality boots lsuch as Redwing, and Thorogood for tha !!!!!!

[@JERSEYDRONE38436]

Much props👍 This makes my hands hurt just watching it tho

[@frostywelder1220]

Good looking boot!!!

[@MECH-MASTER]

Absolutely beautiful craftsmanship. Made in the U.S.A. 👍

[@larrymiller5253]

I'm a dinosaur tanker. First tank had a 90mm gun tube. Made it all the way through the M60's and finished in 1990 on an M1. I still have my last pair of black, toe cap, tankers. Gonna research and see where I can get a pair of these, if possible.

[@alexhamon9261]

Also check out their new tanker boot called "heritage tankerpro".

[@samanthavillanuevagomez8596]

podrian hacer pedidos especiales aunque solo sea una pieza, esto seria para la ciudad de mexico

[@redblade8160]

Do they make these boots in pairs?

[@dominick358]

Are these available only in certain leathers?

[@wendellwayne5479]

awesome boots

[@israelroque3921]

How much for this boots.? Is pretty good.

[@matthewtaylor3308]

What size is the example being made? Are these available in steel or composite toe?

[@Totemparadox]

12D and both are available as options.

[@almeggs3247]

I love your dedication! God bless everyone!

[@zachs.7760]

I can't wait for the email saying my pair have shipped. I ordered a pair of Tankers in late December.

[@Saleemsrr]

From where i can buy this ?

[@jarlnieminen4307]

Reminds me of my apprenticeship repairing boots.

[@gmaent1]

WOW these are beautiful boots would love to find a Nicks dealer in Texas!

[@NonLegitNation2]

I could be wrong but I think you have to order directly from them, again, i might be wrong.

[@Totemparadox]

@@NonLegitNation2 Mostly yes. They have a few dealers, but very few.

[@Padoinky]

Would be nice to have some spoken or written narrative to explain what is being shown or at least the major build phases

[@tarabottogino]

Two question please. What is the price range of this boots? I understand you are base in America, do you deliver to Europe? Thank you.

[@nicksboots]

Check it all out on the website! We ship to Europe! nicksboots.com

[@HughesReview]

How many hours does it take to make this boot?

[@lieutenant805]

Don’t need no music at the end it’s badass enough.

[@thomasbrustad5596]

Beautiful

[@MeMoeMustafaAlnour]

That's a lot of nails to prevent you from stepping on one lol

[@positivelynegative9149]

Nicks, have you considered making a line of motorcycling boots?

[@nicksboots]

We have our Hooligan line of Moto boots!)

[@billypalmer8525]

I wore Tankers Boots after I got out of Vietnam and went to Germany back in 1969. Of course back then every boot was Black. I did not know that any body wore them in Armor anymore.

[@LarryFogarty]

wow the skill

[@ms.annthrope415]

Old time American work talent and craftsmanship. That's why they're over $500 a pair and take forever to break in. Wear them but take your old boots woth you. Wear them 1/2 a day. Change back ino your old boots. 2nd week, wear them an entire day but take your old boots just in case your doggies are screaming. But they'll will last 20 years if hard labor, especially if you clean them once in a while and apply Obernauffs leather oil. When the soles are gone send them in fir a rebuild. You'll get new boots with old uppers that take very little break in.

[@nzer57]

I buy cheap as boots - one and only requirement comfort from the get-go. Last pair was US$50. They'll last 1-2 years then I'll get another pair. $500 boots are for wankers who think they're the man. Same as Hollywood wannabes and their $5000 handbags.

[@genegrant4332]

Fill them with water. Put them on. Jump off a ladder 6 or 8 feet up. Dry them with a towel. Put them back on. Broke in.

[@johnhebert3855]

Why the suede leather on uppers and heel?

[@Totemparadox]

More visually resistant to cuts and scratches.

[@johnhebert3855]

@@Totemparadox thanks

[@TSimo113]

Ok I'm sold

[@emmanuelawosusi3276]

NIck's boots should make a boot that have a mix how a nicks tanker pro and engineer boot in one ,it could be the solution for ankle support for pull on boots for wildland firefighting ?

[@filipinopatriot9202]

Made in the USA is the best shoes. Kudos to you Sirs.

[@truthreignsforever9286]

I’ll purchase one ☝️ of Nick’s boots any day

[@LUNARWIL3441]

NICKS ❤️ ✌️ las mejores botas 👢 del mundoooooooooo 🌎

[@reubeng2110]

wow he just cobbled that boot together nice

[@8BitNaptime]

Kick ass!

[@englishteacher1260]

These remind me of a cross between the US GI tanker boots and the Germany tanker boots.

[@MRLEE-of5fj]

I love it

[@MATTLEism]

I'm telling you what. One day I'll have enough money saved to get me a pair of these because I burn through work boots like it's going out of style. I can't wait for that day seriously.

[@nzer57]

If you're going through boots then you need to understand what kills them and if the boot is suited to the application. All boots fail sooner or later. The primary killer is the sole construction. Too much flex that enables a boot to bend and crease behind the toe line will kill a boot faster than anything. High quality leather will slow that down but not prevent it. Stiffer soles and maintenance can make even a cheap boot last for years. i have rubber boots for wet crappy conditions and leather boots for dry conditions. My cheapo leathers can last up to 3 years with regular care.

[@humanresources3545]

Would they be tougher and lighter and less expensive if they were made out of kevlar instead of leather?