If you’ve been curious as I have about this English shoemaker, this Crown Northampton Boot Review takes a closer look at the Everdon Rambler Mid Boot in natural Horween Chromexcel leather, explaining why their footwear offers great value for money.
Produced in England and built with a Vibram sole, this model showcases why Crown Northampton has become one of the most talked-about British casual footwear brands of recent years. And for good reason. I will admit, when they first started gaining ground, I was not super enthused to learn more, but as they have continued to grow and offer new models, I will admit, I am pleasantly surprised and am glad I opened my mind about them. In fact, I think that these are so cool that they will certainly stay in my personal rotation.
👉 Watch my YouTube Unboxing Review:
First Impressions and Packaging
Crown Northampton ships its footwear in a solid white box featuring a distinctive crown logo—a subtle nod to English heritage. The presentation immediately stands out. Inside, you’ll find a leather card holder made from offcuts—repurposed pieces of leftover hide that would otherwise go to waste. It’s a thoughtful, sustainable touch that hints at the brand’s focus on craftsmanship and practicality. And a nice addition for the purchaser, too!
The dust bags are substantial and lined, designed to protect the shoes from rubbing against one another during transport. Details like these set a positive tone even before you get to the footwear itself. They especially help when shoes have D-ring eyelets and are made in oil-impregnated leather, both details susceptible to deep scuffing.
About Crown Northampton
While Crown Northampton proudly states “Handmade in England since 1908,” the company feels refreshingly modern in its approach. They blend traditional English manufacturing with contemporary design and transparency. Each pair is made to order, typically with a lead time of around 9–12 weeks. That’s impressive considering the quality and customization offered for the price point. I got my pair in about 10 weeks, so within the timeframe but pleasantly on the earlier side. Just in time for Autumn!
Their footwear sits in an interesting position—bridging casual lifestyle and refined craftsmanship. The Everdon Rambler is a great example of this hybrid design ethos. Since our world is moving more into that ‘casual lifestyle idea’ more and more, I imagine that has helped to catapult their success.
The Everdon Rambler Boot
This particular model, the Everdon Rambler Mid Boot, is made from natural Horween Chromexcel, a well-known oil-tanned leather famous for its depth of color, softness, and ability to develop rich patina over time. The black Vibram sole adds both durability and comfort, making it suitable for year-round wear.
The Rambler offers a wholecut pattern, meaning the upper is made from one continuous piece of leather. It’s a clever design choice—mixing the alpine boot aesthetic with a sleek, minimalist structure. The result is something versatile: not too heavy, not too refined. It’s a boot that feels equally at home with denim and a flannel shirt as it does with chinos and a knit sweater. And more equally sits perfectly in my wardrobe and with my own style. If you read this blog, you know that I am a big sucker for Alpine boot style.
Fit and Comfort
I took my standard dress shoe size—UK 6.5 (US 7.5)—and found the fit snug, almost like a well-fitted dress shoe. There’s little room for thicker socks, but that tightness gives excellent support. Over time, the leather will stretch slightly, providing the space I need for something heavier.
The insole cushioning deserves special mention—it’s firm yet comfortable, offering what I call a “robust pillow” effect. It feels supportive underfoot without collapsing after a few wears, which is often a problem in softer, foam-based insoles.
If you plan to wear heavier socks or want a roomier fit, consider sizing up half a size. Otherwise, stick to your regular dress shoe size for a snug, precise feel.
Quality and Construction
- Material: Horween Chromexcel leather (USA)
- Sole: Black Vibram rubber sole unit
- Lining: Vegetable-tanned leather
- Counter/Stiffener: Oak bark leather (not leather board nor cellastic – genuine leather)
- Made in England
- Price: $509 USD (I think that the price fluctuates based on daily exchange rates, as today it says $503, and when you look, it might say something different)
At this price point, the value is exceptional. Between the Horween leather, Vibram sole, and English construction, it competes easily with much more expensive brands. The build feels solid, with neat stitching and no loose threads or glue marks. Every element, from the texture of the leather to the welt line, reflects careful workmanship. If money were no object, I would easily pay upward of $800 for these boots.
Sizing Range and Accessibility
Crown Northampton offers sizes from UK 3 to UK 14—a massive range covering both men and women. This inclusivity is rare, especially in a made-to-order brand. Despite the wide size spectrum, the pricing remains the same across all sizes, which is commendable given the leather cost difference between a UK 3 and a UK 14.
Final Thoughts
This Crown Northampton Boot Review confirms what many enthusiasts have already been saying: the brand delivers genuine quality, thoughtful design, and fair value. The Everdon Rambler Mid Boot hits the sweet spot between rugged and refined, making it a versatile option for everyday wear.
At $509 USD, made-to-order, with Horween leather and Vibram soles—all crafted in England—it’s hard to find a better deal in this segment. These boots exceeded my expectations both in comfort and style. They’re a design I’ll actually wear, not just unbox.
Crown Northampton gets my full stamp of approval—beautifully made, well-priced, and refreshingly modern while still rooted in traditional English craftsmanship.
Learn more here: https://crownnorthampton.com/
—Justin FitzPatrick, The Shoe Snob
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