Why These Are The BEST BOOTS EVER - Kreosote Nail Shank

The word "handmade" is thrown around a lot these days, and is often a synonym for quality. The idea of someone sitting at a bench and making something to the highest quality possible is a nice thought, but often only a fantasy. The true craftsman isn't likely spending their time bombarding you with advertisements telling you how great their stuff is, they're working hard to hone their skills well into the night. These makers patiently fulfill the orders from patrons lucky enough to have made a path to their shop to get something truly unique.
This isn't a fantasy with MYG Handmade. One man sits in his workshop making one pair of custom boots at a time for a customer lucky enough to find him. This is where you'll find antique tools and machinery he's repaired and maintained which aid him in the traditional shoemaking techniques he practices. This isn't some factory floor. The atmosphere is thick and sounds of Johnny Cash and Tom Waits echo from somewhere among tools and supplies. Are these the boots for everyone? Absolutely not. Thats why I love them.
BUY HERE: www.myghandmade.com/
-Website: www.carlmurawski.com
-Instagram: bit.ly/2qIHzaB
-That cool mug: bit.ly/39Ahpst
BEST OF THE BEST (affiliate links):
- Beard care: bit.ly/3MXMkB4
1. Work boots: bit.ly/3T2FA8f
2. Sunglasses: bit.ly/2IykfS4
3. Casual boots: bit.ly/3LHIRWT
4. Work jacket: carhartt.pxf.io/QOr5Ez
5. Flannel shirt: bit.ly/3PDtBxj
6. Made in USA Tee Shirt: bit.ly/3yAma1p
7. Casual jacket: prf.hn/l/7EvkaOo
8. Leather jacket: bit.ly/3LAKOUZ
9. Adventure Jacket:
10. Wool Socks: bit.ly/3WyzQpW
11. Outdoor Hat:
12. Flashlight: bit.ly/3lfQVC0
13. Hoodie: bit.ly/3qXvhV1
14. Briefcase: bit.ly/3qzNPzP
15. Leather Briefcase: bit.ly/3dpPkHt
16. Duffle Bag: bit.ly/3NrwdPR
17. EDC Pen: bigidesign.com/carlmurawski
18. Work shirt:
19. Wool vest: bit.ly/3CqU3Vq
20. Wool Coat: bit.ly/3N2W9Qg
Reviews of clothing, boots, and accessories for men, along with style advice and life philosophy. I've been working with my hands for my entire life as a mechanic, tow truck driver, and eventually a licensed electrician. Being a blue collar guy, I look for certain elements in a product: is it durable? Is it high-quality? Will it perform well over its service life? Whether boots, pants, jackets, or tools I believe it's best to buy once and cry once by getting the best you can afford. With so many options these days, choosing the best product can become a difficult decision, but that's where I come in. Helping you stay stylish, rugged, and handsome.
I don't care where it's made as long as it's made well, and allows you to buy less and buy better.

[@trentriehl4293]

I just started my addiction to boots and currently maxed out at a pair of Nicks. I certainly see the value in these. They look incredible. Truly wearing a piece of art. Nice!

[@firmak3560]

Those are the most badass pair of boots i have ever seen, that structured toe really puts it in a league of its own.

[@CarlMurawski]

I think so too! They really dont look like anything else out there.

[@rangerscoach]

they are fucking awesome

[@user-cs3hi8zp7p]

They look AMAZING... tippy-top shelf quality footwear made to last & WORTH. EVERY. SINGLE. PENNY!!!💪😎👍

[@bryanswilik651]

If I could afford it I would have all my footwear handmade. Maybe not sneakers, but all the rest. I think those boots look fantastic ! $900.00 is very reasonable.

[@calebtate6723]

3yrs later. Just an update. $1,850 for the boots! Get that money Kreosote!

[@jacobchavez4719]

Those boots are beautiful and worth it. Period. Congrats, Carl. Keep up the great work.

[@tockingwatches2377]

Just ordered the Nail Shank-2 today. Thanks for the introduction to the brand!

[@CarlMurawski]

Very cool! I know you’ll love them

[@spenceratkinson8326]

I just heard you reference this boot on the denim and boots podcast this week. I am a more recent viewer so I hadn’t see this video yet. I’m sold! Time to save up and support the amazing work this guy is doing. Thanks for putting the word out there about MYG boots

[@CarlMurawski]

Happy to do it man!

[@voicedify]

Those are absolutely gorgeous!!! I cannot see how someone can't LOVE them! I'm sure they're worth every penny but as of now I'm a broke college student so I'll stick with the Redwings in my closet.

[@CarlMurawski]

Fair enough man, they'll be waiting when you get out of school!

[@downlander3361]

Broke College student and you can afford Redwings?

[@mrgt3201]

@@downlander3361 that's what I was thinking too.

[@frankmai1824]

Same boat, redwings are great though, enjoy and wear the shit out of them haha

[@salazteca1]

I personally like cowboy Boots but these are a pair of perfected handmade piece of art! 👍👍

[@aramisschmidtke3142]

they actually kinda resemble cowboy boots with the heel and stuff, a good all rounder

[@johnshrader1655]

If I heard right, these beautiful boots are made to fit Your feet-both of them. That's what you're paying for and it's worth it. The inner sole (footbed) is shaped to your feet which is so important for foot width and length. Good video, Carl.

[@kevinwentworth6500]

What's the website. I'm having trouble finding him online

[@armink9686]

I like to think of it this way, I will never be able to reasonably buy a brand new Rolls Royce or Bentley, but an automatic watch or expensive boots are luxury items I can save up for and have for myself for a very long time. They're items you can justify the price of and that will last for years while giving you that certain fizz you get from well made things. About these boots, they have a 1965 Lincoln Continental look about them, they're sinister as hell.

[@CarlMurawski]

Yes!!! I know exactly what you mean. Like James May gets that fizzy feeling when he drives some cars!

[@hilmermate317]

Looks great. For some reason, it really got me with that rail road nail hammered flat as a shank. That sounds incredebly epic to me.

[@shawnbottom4769]

Might sound epic but it’s really just a novelty. The steel composition that qualifies a rail spike is pretty broad. Whereas there are specific spring steel alloys that could out-perform it as a boot shank. If it was an excellent idea, boot makers would’ve been doing it long ago.

[@hilmermate317]

@@shawnbottom4769 I understand and agree with that. However I don't want to max out the performance. Even as less effective, I like it. Thank you for pointing it out, that it wouldn't be as effective.

[@juanramirez6251]

I inadvertently stated Nick’s Urban Logger was $1,000. I guess I was slightly inebriated. I was quickly corrected by another poster. I love this MYG boot. It’s rugged, different, well made and beautiful. If I could afford them I would definitely buy them. I’m a size 9 and 1/2 EEE or a 10EE. I am planning on buying Nick’s Urban Logger, just as soon as I’m able to sell my house and get a smaller house. I may even buy both Nick’s and MYG then. YOLO. Might as well live it in style.

[@MemphisCorollaS]

If interest rates were at 2020 levels with property values being even close to what they are now in 2023, then I’d insider refinancing the house to afford all sorts of things like these, some Nick’s and a wood shop with what’s left. They’ll last longer than my car or house at this point probably and cause me fewer problems. lol

[@AnthonyLauder]

I am salivating. These are gorgeous.

[@brandonv4900]

Fricken awesome boots. I Need a pair.

[@dudewuttheheck]

Great review and I do love how unique and lovingly made those are. I wouldn't wear that exact model, but I do think it looks quite cool.

[@bassheadlife492]

These boots are goals 😍

[@oliverallen5324]

MYG sound like the Nighthawk of shoes. “One boot, one cobbler.”

[@FitManStyle]

not really into boots but love the rustic look of these! Looks like it was made to take a beating

[@amanasd26]

Ordered 2 pairs of his boots, will update when I receive them down the road.

[@TheNunakun]

Yes, please let us know! I'll hopefully follow suit down the line. Thanks!

[@GaZzBenKo]

Yeah.. you have the update link please ..

[@shawnbottom4769]

Nah. Dude was just flexin that he could afford two pairs.

[@JoseMartinez-yr2wq]

When you break down the cost I think those boots sound reasonable. I have seen art that is just a digital image printed on metal sell for over $2000 for a 3' by 4'

[@CarlMurawski]

That’s it precisely!

[@blackwingvisuals5017]

Utterly fantastic

[@bobbie318]

Expensive - but really good looking shoes.

[@steveeab2364]

You need to get the guys over at the Gentleman's Gazette out of their loafers and into a pair of these bad boys!

[@ib4905]

Saw this video and couldn't stop thinking about it for a week. This is a work of art. Went ahead and ordered them despite $1400 price + US tax + shipping to UK + UK tax + wrath of wife + 26 month waiting list.

[@trentriehl4293]

All seems reasonable except the wrath of wife, that is the highest price to pay!

[@aztlanahauc]

The Nail Shank-2 Black Coal is calling my name. Just have to convince the wife.

[@annahenderson1730]

These are astonishing

[@jordanmartinez5042]

Great video, when you broke down why the boots cost so much it made sense. I still hate looking at them, but I get it.

[@KyleMeyer949]

I think I’m gonna start saving for these. I mentioned it to my girlfriend and she didn’t absolutely loose it so that’s a good sign hahaha. I’ve got lots that I need to save for other than them to but they are exactly my style and made by someone who is a lot like me, or at least the person I hope to become. The only difference is our medium, he makes boots, I make knives so I already understand how custom items are priced the way they are. And I’ve decided I want to start looking for custom makers as much as possible with items that I will have a long time rather than buying off the rack.

[@bassheadlife492]

Did you get them?

[@bassheadlife492]

That's the sickest boot I've ever seen, love the close ups

[@CarlMurawski]

Dude, I LOVE these boots still. I'm wearing them now!

[@peterpiper6707]

Man these are beautiful

[@patrickwallen5065]

I love these boots!!!

[@saleemwaheed9956]

OMG! The greatest boots I've ever seen! $900 is a bargain! My daughter doesn't have to go to private school! I gotta have these boots!

[@CarlMurawski]

Lol!!!

[@MineGames131]

I'm not a huge fan of the roughout leather but I can see the appeal. Great video!

[@adam-davidvaught8382]

Those look amazing.

[@CarlMurawski]

I think so too!

[@_bats_]

Eighteen dollars an hour for skills like these is totally insane. The man deserves the money. Have you ever seen/handled any White Kloud boots from Japan? Similar aesthetic (though, I haven't seen any in leather like this) and a similar price point, also a one-man operation making extremely high-end vintage-inspired boots. I'm just curious as to how they compare, and which one is more deserving of a spot on my grail list.

[@CarlMurawski]

I have, and White Kloud is absolutely grail-worthy. I suppose it depends on which aesthetic you like since they have their own flavor. Top notch in every way.

[@ikapatino3214]

Those boots are beautiful.

[@Droogs53]

just beautiful. And I love Carl's vids. Oh, there's a 34 month wait right now for these...so...I may be too old. I don't even buy green bananas!

[@joshmontes3439]

Awesome video! I’d love to see you make a video about Truman Boot Co soon and or how they compare to Red Wings

[@johnfenton7715]

This is something I’d want but would be a capstone for my collection

[@andresrangel7731]

Nice

[@mikebeavis8929]

God damn. I’m in love

[@arongatt]

These are the best looking boots I ever saw , ofcourse I would do it and now it’s on the list. (Is going to take sometime tho to get to them 😂).

[@nateand3]

I'd love to have a pair. They look pretty badass to me

[@phillyfathead]

Absolutely love them, in the long run they will b a complete bargain!

[@shaneprice2764]

I would love to have a pair of these! Great vid!

[@CarlMurawski]

They’re still available my man!

[@shaneprice2764]

@@CarlMurawski unfortunately it's not in the budget at the moment!

[@alejandroespinosa4444]

Just when I had Redwing...especially the iconic Iron Ranger 8111 at $300.00 as the best bang for your hard earned cash. Now this Master Piece shows up! The style...the unforgiving grainy leather that makes a quiet yet strong statement. The classic, timeless style. Rugged stance that makes itself not only functional, but the new Trend revived. Yes, 900 bucks does not easily all budgets, yet well worth the price in having a pair in your shoe rack!

[@gundude82]

Shoe rack? If I spend $900 on a pair of boots then they're gonna be my only pair.

[@Beef5]

Hope you bought them. They cost $1850 now.

[@johnminden669]

Those are amazing! 👍💯 I'd be terrified they wouldn't fit right.

[@CarlMurawski]

Well that definitely depends on the measurements, but if you are careful and measure twice you’ll get a boot that fits like none other.

[@SamGreenMaker]

I have a pair of Nicks on right now that are custom to my feet. They are incredible! someone once told me to always invest in things that go between you and the ground. Ive also heard it as spend money on shoes and your bed. because if you're not in one, you'll be in the other.

[@Marcel-ff9gp]

ordered today. I am so excited

[@CarlMurawski]

Nice! You'll be getting one of the last pairs!

[@Marcel-ff9gp]

Carl Murawski Yes, if I go after the order number, I am number 43 (out of 50) this year. I am glad.

[@aqilanwarrivera3503]

if I could get a pair I would give them a name and love them like a classic car !

[@Orlanzepol123]

*NICE!*

[@jiwanrai1932]

Looks so perfect. Is there any chance to buy ?

[@axleambitions]

Bespoke is the next step , I’ve had the hardest time finding shoes or boots that fit my wide ass feet. Thanks for the vid Carl

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha yeah man, Custom is the way to go with wide feet.

[@xjo2hx2442x]

I mean people spend their money any which way they please. If someone can buy $300 rubber Gucci slippers than I don’t see the issue with spending $1000 on a pair of custom handmade boots.

[@MrDecaliostro]

Incredible boots! I’d like to order a pair

[@CarlMurawski]

They're truly outstanding and in a class of their own.

[@benandi1890]

I think those are amazing boots. I would pay for custom boots any time instead of of the rack boots that don't last a year.

[@savvylifestrategies9445]

Great video, Carl. The MYG Handmade boots appear to be excellent and worth the $900 price tag. I'm an author. I spend a lot of time on the computer but love good casual to dress boots. I also live in Minnesota, where good boots are a must. To date, I have only bought Allen & Edmonds and Johnston & Murphy dress boots., Both are American made, which I like. I did my last book signing wearing Sullivan Street A&E dress boots ($445) and got compliments. You've now got me thinking about MYG Handmade. Thank you for introducing us to this brand.

[@samfogleman2337]

I appreciate your videos! I like fine footwear. Those look like nice boots!

[@mattbec]

I want a pair!

[@explosiveenterprises1479]

What is the lead time running from myg?

[@Digger927]

Before I saw that pair of boots I would have said I'd definitely never spend that much on a pair of boots. Realistically I can still probably say that but seeing them made me open to it. I've spent over 500 on a pair of Whites and 280 on a pair of Iron Rangers, I guess my new limit is $900, lol.

[@wtfmrb293]

No doubt very cool

[@kuroneko8394]

ONE DAY ONE DAY!!

[@andrewsalazar98]

The waiting list is over two years, so whenever the day comes, it’ll come a few years later 😂

[@nadinesmoske1838]

WoW my red shoes! what about bison or textured leather? If 2 tone what may be the 2nd accent color?

[@sea2side]

I came to your boot reviews after watching one person leather crafters (eg little king goods). The One man show crafting truly bespoke boots is fantastic, the $ he gets is like your KZbin returns , enough to keep going. The long game is where the craftsman and content creator are going. Thankyou for creating. If only I coukd affors those boots not the generic $200 Aussie made BlueSteel i have. P.S. have you reviewed the Aussie Icon R.M.Williams boots?

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you so much! I haven’t tried R.M. Williams but they’re on the list!

[@sea2side]

On second thoughts dont RM they are now owned by multinational coy whos marketing team just backhanded and shafted artist c.j.hendry ( see her ig stories) pls dont accidentally advertise arsewipes. Ps get well soon.

[@nicholas201111]

Happy good morning

[@henryhartley9993]

Nice boots Carl,

[@CarlMurawski]

Well thanks!!

[@wescobts]

I have a pair of handmade Wesco's, and i have many pairs of RW's and a pair of Danners, and a pair of Galibier Super Guide hiking boots, All of them feel very good up to about 8 hours, then once fatigue sets in, only the Wesco's and the Galibiers continue to feel great.So depending on what your purpose is, what you intend to accomplish, then maybe just a pair of off the shelf field or fashion boots will do. If your a type of person who would wear these boots until the end of time, thick or thin, rain, heat or bliuebird weather, then yes i could see spending that amount of money.I believe the video shows that they are made of outstanding quality, and are a very handsome boot. I would buy a pair...and wear them until the end of time ;)

[@dustinread6407]

A comparison between these and role clubs would be very interesting

[@swordfish1120]

Good video. How do these compare (in fit, construction and long wear comfort) to a Nicks, White's, Wesco or JK boots dress style? These boots are now going for $1400 so you bought at the right time.👍🏼

[@qqqwark]

Hi, can someone tell me if he delivers to Europe? (Croatia or Germany)

[@moonlight5050]

These are stunning.....how much customisation is allowed on a pair of these..? Could you have darker leather, more eyelets, speedhooks for the last one or two at the top..? I've just got a pair of Red Wing 8111 and am now obsessed with quality boots but would like a darker pair to replace my Dr M's that are also casual, most black boots look more formal but these MYG look incredible 👍👍👍

[@CarlMurawski]

I really think the sky is the limit and he will make anything you want. It seems like he’s happy to do anything as long as it’s cool.

[@quentinhxc1]

I've been waiting all day to watch this video. A pair of built to fit boots is something on another level. Would I buy them? Absolutely. I've spent more on guns. Will my wife be on board? Well it's one of those things you ask for forgiveness rather then permission for. Great video! Keep em coming!

[@CarlMurawski]

My greatest fear is that my wife sells my guns for what I told her they cost! 😆

[@quentinhxc1]

@@CarlMurawski lol I'd have to sell one or two to buy these boots lol

[@cjcooper4370]

Would love to someday.

[@MrJackHeeler]

Interesting looking boot, especially, the toe and heel. Good luck with them. I’ll stick with my 15 year old custom White’s Farmer Rancher shell cordovans. They fit like a glove, but wear like a slipper. White’s had quality products prior to LaCrosse purchasing them. Glad to see new artisans getting spotlight time through folks like you. Keep up the good work.

[@CarlMurawski]

Thanks for watching my friend!

[@aurtisanminer2827]

What is different about whites boots now?

[@MrJackHeeler]

@@aurtisanminer2827 The 2 additional pair I purchased leather was a much thinner weight and the thread for stitching looked visibly different. I returned both pairs, but stuck with what I had, not purchasing from a different vendor.

[@dshanley7]

I love the look. I totally understand the price being handmade by one maker and being super high quality. I couldn't justify getting myself a pair the expensive right now but one day.

[@CarlMurawski]

Fair enough, and its admirable that youre financially responsible! Better to live within your means than in debt for sure. These are worth saving for I think.

[@dshanley7]

@@CarlMurawski I agree, plus you know, I did spend $570 on the Nick's I wear everyday to work so it's not like I'm currently lacking 😅😅

[@NOELGARAGESALE]

Are you able to identify old boots. I have a pair of old work boots that I am trying to learn more about.

[@CarlMurawski]

No but Gabbard from Kreosote boots is really good with that

[@MetalsForBrunch]

Id prefer mini commando lugs for this shoe for more rugged look. I still need to try out the sub $500 boots first to see if its worth the extra $$ for custom boots. Im already satisfied with my sub $300 boots like my thursdayboots, thorogoods, helm boots, redwings and higgins mill at the moment. I just bought a whites boot for my first sub $500 boot but havent recieved yet. Hopefully my search for custom boots will end when I try out white boots. Im also interested in alden and truman boots. Im glad your custom boots was perfect for you. Great video review!

[@TedNghiem]

nice!

[@CarlMurawski]

I love them!

[@AJ-by6pd]

I can appreciate that they are hand made, but I personally like Truman boots for casual boot look and my grant stones for my dress boots.

[@alexandermcabee3549]

Would you have any recommendations for similarly styled boots like those, with maybe a smooth finished leather and like 600 bucks cheaper?

[@andrewsalazar98]

Nick’s Urban Loggers

[@peterj.9360]

Great video and the workmanship is gorgeous. But I like a little bit dressier shoes and I found the shoes from Bruce Katz "Samuel Hubbard" is the Product name now a days the best shoes for wearing. They are made in Portugal.

[@astral_plane_crash]

Not too big of a boot guy but these are beautiful.

[@daqt6079]

Definitely worth the cost.

[@JY-dh7mk]

Outstanding. Is there any other brand/maker that is similar to this or comes close? My issue isn't with the cost, more with the wait time. And although I'm rather certain I'll pull the trigger on one of his styles, I'd like something in the interim, 13 ish months is a long time when you have an itch.

[@charlesbronson240]

Ostmo boots.

[@peterbukourasjr6449]

Carl can you do an update on these Gorgeous boots I’d love to see what they look like after a year, they are a lot of money but I think I’m gonna pull the trigger I would love to see an update how they look now thanks Pete

[@CarlMurawski]

I sure will! In fact, I have a new pair of Kreosotes coming in and that may be a good time to take a look back at these. I really love them and they're the crown jewel of my collection.

[@blackwingvisuals5017]

They look brutal

[@ianmedium]

Stunning! If people moan about the cost check out bespoke dress shoe makers who use adapted lasts like this and you will see on average prices double this!

[@Jack_all]

Once again I must get my sartorial "Fix", vicariously through you Carl.. great review

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahaha I’m happy to be of service!!!

[@Spring-ni4vq]

SIMPLY AWE-STRUCKING!!!

[@ianmedium]

Looking at this again the one thing I would change is the rubber topper on the heel. I would rather have one less leather piece in the stack and double the rubber topper as I know I would go through the outer right edge of that rubber in two weeks. I often wonder with these high end work style boots if they are designed for Brooklyn fashionistas or Hollywood stars more than actual practical footwear.

[@stevedellanno1842]

Damn, these are sick but expensive

[@CarlMurawski]

True and true.

[@cokyfandris]

I should have these boots..i already have nick's boots

[@charliegutierrez8728]

How's the engineer boots coming along. Send me the concept model size 12 ee

[@CarlMurawski]

lol I’d love to man! If I can give anything away rest assured I will!

[@reezethevampire]

Man, I thought my Nicks were crazy cool.

[@CarlMurawski]

Other level right???

[@reezethevampire]

@@CarlMurawski Yea, these are pretty incredible, and they look AMAZING.

[@jessestacken]

Does the nail shank make them feel heavy?

[@CarlMurawski]

They definitely have a nice heft to them, but I wouldn’t call them heavy boots. Sorry, I’m sure that’s kind of a confusing statement.

[@mickeywiltz1152]

Has anyone used this style boot for mountain deer or elk hunting.?

[@user-JamesBond]

I bought a pair of Sagara boots from Indonesia, tightly fit very well-made. I have not yet broken them in. They hurt my feet I bought a pair $1000 John Lofgren boots, and they fit like a glove no breaking. First evening I went out with them for 12 hours the second day I use them for 10 hours no issues. Big difference, I like the Indonesian boot but for some reason the leather is too heavy or some thing I don’t know I’ll keep on trying to break them in

[@ExpertAdviceTV]

Can you cut one of those in half for us so we can really see the quality?