SUM Federal Brogans.

[PrivateBrooke]

I'm currently in the market for a new pair of brogans, and found the "Federal Contract Brogans" from South Union Mills. I've heard some good things about this vendor, the price seems pretty great to me, and their stuff looks good to my eye. But my eye is not the best. Does anyone have experience with these brogans?

 

[Dan Kohli]

They are good reproductions. But them having sewn soles means that they have to be better maintained then pegged brogan, unfortunately I forgot to do that sort of thing. I would buy them again.

 

[PrivateBrooke]

They are good reproductions. But them having sewn soles means that they have to be better maintained then pegged brogan, unfortunately I forgot to do that sort of thing. I would buy them again.

I would plan on getting heel plates installed, anything else I should know about maintaining them?

 

[johan_steele]

When it comes to your feet spare no expense. You truly do get what you pay for. As far as authenticity and comfort I know of none better than Missouri Boot and Shoe. I know men who have had the same pair best part of 20 years and they make them to fit your feet out of the box.

If you're going to be in the field hobnails and heel plates are a necessity. Properly installed heel plates add considerable life the brogans but don't really help with traction that is for the hobnails. If you're spending time inside or on concrete and pavement… duct tape over the metal bits will keep your feet from landing you on your posterior.

Now if you want the experience of aching feet, legs and lower back after a 5 mile hike… go cheap. Having made that mistake I advise against it.

 

[Rusk County Avengers]

I've not bought any from SUM, as I have a pair of Robert Land brogans that are too comfortable, and too durable to replace. (Heck as many years as I've had them, I was terrified a river crossing would do them in, but nope!)

That being said, I know several folks who have gone with the SUM, and I have only heard good things about them and their other footwear. I know I'll probably be ordering their 18th Century shoes pretty soon since I'm getting ready to jump into Rev. War events.

 

[Rusk County Avengers]

Also, a note or two on heel plates to bear in mind...

First, not every soldier on both sides had heel plates on their shoes. Their a must to get the maximum years of service out of brogans without the heels wearing down to thin, BUT if you plan on walking indoors in historic buildings, if your not very careful you will tear up those floors.

Also, never walk into a Wally world after an event wearing them. If you walk normal the first step into the building will result in you seeing the ceiling, and your feet, before busting your behind and head. Been there, done that, hurts and is embarrassing!

 

[Dan Kohli]

I would plan on getting heel plates installed, anything else I should know about maintaining them?

Always make sure the leather doesn't dry out too much. I think there are modern and period correct products for that.

 

[Dan Kohli]

Here's a good video by Co. D 2nd USSS about shoes maintenance.

 

[Mrs. V]

Well that is the smooth side out, what about the rough out? I know that @Western Reserve Volunteer brushes them out then gives them a light wipe with a wet cloth.

I never thought to condition the soles of my boots..gotta get on that.

 

[captaindrew]

I have a pair from SUM. I bought them specifically when I have to do a Federal impression which isn't that often. They are well made and pretty comfortable for out of the box shoes. As stated before they are sewn soles and made of a lighter leather than many of the other makers. I don't think they'd have near the longevity of my Confederate shoes from Missouri Boot and Shoe that have a ton of miles on them. But for using them a couple times a year for a few years now they're holding up well.

 

[PrivateBrooke]

I really don't have the time for MB&S, I need something that ships before next season. Plus the price is right on these.

Also, a note or two on heel plates to bear in mind...

First, not every soldier on both sides had heel plates on their shoes. Their a must to get the maximum years of service out of brogans without the heels wearing down to thin, BUT if you plan on walking indoors in historic buildings, if your not very careful you will tear up those floors.

Also, never walk into a Wally world after an event wearing them. If you walk normal the first step into the building will result in you seeing the ceiling, and your feet, before busting your behind and head. Been there, done that, hurts and is embarrassing!

Well considering one parade through the streets of Gettysburg was enough to destroy the heels on my old shoes...I think I'll go with heel plates. Also I already learned about walmart the hard way. lol

 

[Dan Kohli]

For what's it's worth. the pair that I have from SUM, I had received during 2020. They lasted to the end of the 160th Gettysburg anniversary events. Where the front of one of the shoes started pulling away from the soul.
I'm going to go to the local shoe repair shop to see if it's salvageable.

 

[PrivateBrooke]

For what's it's worth. the pair that I have from SUM, I had received during 2020. They lasted to the end of the 160th Gettysburg anniversary events. Where the front of one of the shoes started pulling away from the soul.
I'm going to go to the local shoe repair shop to see if it's salvageable.

Not period correct, but I fixed this on an old pair using shoe goo. It got me through the rest of the event and I still have them but don't use them much lol