Mr Chin can roast and compliment at the same time. He's funny af

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Haha honestly he's so great.

@liamkearns363

2 жыл бұрын

You just wait...the channel will turn into "Levi & Leah & Mr. Chin" real soon.

@nnekaotika5635

2 жыл бұрын

@@liamkearns363 that would be exciting.

@angesoie

2 жыл бұрын

@@liamkearns363 hell yes

@sebastienban6074

2 жыл бұрын

@@liamkearns363 What if this channel turns into Leah & Mr Chin

Could be a great opportunity for the software developers of the world to help local companies like this develop better websites pro bono!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha they need it so bad 😂😭

@willpchess

2 жыл бұрын

They're effectively wholesaling, by not selling direct they're helping their bricks and mortar retailers

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Never thought about this!

A few things after owning GYW shoes/boots for the past couple years, Levi: -Don't use a water proofing spray. It stays on the leather and doesn't come off, preventing it from getting any moisturizing. Only use sprays on suede. -Saphir is the best, natural ingredient stuff you can get for leather care. Since this is an oiled chrome tanned leather, I'd recommend Venetian Shoe Cream, or Saphir Greasy Leather Cream. Don't use wax. Can use some dubbin if you want. -Absolutely get a set of CEDAR SHOE TREES (Saw some in Chin's shop)! Ideally you want to rotate your boots between wears and use these, but I'm guessing since you don't do that always put these shoe trees in your boots. These absorb moisture and odours, along with keeping your shoe/boots shape. It makes your shoes last longer, which you want I'm sure. -Get a horse hair brush. Brush your boots after each wear with it to get the dirt and dust off of them. I'm sure I got more, but can't think of them currently lol

@ecureed

2 жыл бұрын

Logan I just bought some chromexcel natural leather boots, worn about three times for a full workday in the office. At what point should I condition them with the products you mention above? I assumed I did not need to do that right out the box? What’s your opinion?

@bernardocardoso1356

2 жыл бұрын

@@ecureed Maybe I can help you, because I also own GYW boots. It's a good idea to condition boots right of the box, because they were most likely in storage for months starved of nourishment. I like using the Venetian for lighter leathers that I don't want to darken. Two thin layers 30 minutes apart should do it. Remember to brush them with the shoe brush (horsehair, ideally) first so dirt doesn't get trapped under the shoe cream. I hope this helps.

@soupesoupe

Жыл бұрын

I agree about the waterproofing spray. My leather boots were fine for years in harsh winters until I decided to put spray on for the heck of it. Not long after, the leather started to crack. The boots died shortly after. Seems like the spray dries and seals the leather and doesn't allow the leather to breathe and stretch.

If you came here to hear about the boots, it starts at 10:55.

@franky3fingers337

5 ай бұрын

Yeah this video was a waste of time.

@beechonut6884

2 ай бұрын

Thank you for that.

"Leah's chatting with one of her older friends, he's a 94 year old man, who Leah helped with his book...about figure skating" At no point did I have any idea where that sentence was going

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah honestly saying it out is a little weird 😅

Thanks for all the info and education you put into your videos about sustainability and quality products. I appreciate your help in becoming more aware! Thank you!

Goodyear welts are great, I love that you’re educating people on shoe construction for sustainability

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Love that you’re here! Thanks for commenting! ❤️

I would love a video about how you ended up cleaning up after and dealing with the flooding. Like what was and wasn't able to be saved. AND the trade offs you had to make between wanting to solve a problem quickly, wanting to solve a problem safely, and wanting to solve a problem in a sustainable way.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Murielle, we're in the middle of dealing with it so in next video we'll touch on it a little bit.

I was so happy to watch this video, both because of the rebranding to involve more Leah, but we also got the long awaited boots video!!!! Way to go Levi!!!!!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Haha thanks Sarah! We’re doing our best here! 😅

In my experience, Blundstone quality hasn't really changed. They have outsourced due to the sheer volume of sales, and any manufacturer (cough REDBACK cough) would do the same. Simple business economics, really. Not saying I agree with it, but it's the way things work.

shoutout to this sponsor! Levi introduced me to them and that's where I got my new to me phone. It was easy and great. Thank you Levi and Leah for being choosey about your sponsors!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hecking yeah! So glad to hear that it worked out for you!

Chin is so cute!!! I am so happy to see him in your video again!

I haven't checked in on your adventure. My pair of CWs is pretty great but my Blundstones are still ok after 6 years too, except they're a bit beat. I use the Canada Wests for anything that doesn't involve work or risks damaging until I wear through the Blunds. I also have issues with the heel, but the upside is you can change the soles and consequently, the heel lol. I did painting with the Blundstones so I had to do some pretty heavy cleaning on them and giving them a vinegar soak completely brought the leather back to store condition. I bought mine in Kits.

Thanks.I’ a big fan of Blundstones.First pair 21 years ago.Going to check out Canada West

Thank you for the recommendation! Returned the Blundstones after hearing durability concerns, and bought these a couple weeks later. I’m in NorCal, so regrettably had to purchase through Amazon. Keep up the great videos!

@t.soares1125

Жыл бұрын

How are you liking them 9 months later? Any issues?

Hope everyone is safe out in BC, with all the crazy weather… again.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Everyone we know is *relatively* ok for now 🙏🏼

Yeah waterproofing depends upon how you’re going to use the boots as you said. I believe Mr. Chin figured you were going to wear them for more dressed up events. I liked the logger analogy.

As an Australian I can say that Leah’s boots are what they are supposed to look like

A little late to this but as a U.S. person, Jim Green's Stockman and Outback boots are a fantastic option too. They do a fantastic job keeping their production model within South Africa, to support their local economy, and they do awesome work supporting African wildlife conservation.

Amazing!! Imagine the look on my face when I realized they’re made in MY city and I can buy them in person!!!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Congrats! Apparently they have boots with "blemishes" in them that are on a super discount too if you're into that!

@t.soares1125

Жыл бұрын

It looks like they're made in Winnipeg. Did you end up getting them? And how have you liked them? Do you know if it's made of genuine, another or full grain?

Not sure if it’s been mentioned, but there’s a cobbler in Vancouver that claims to be able to resole blundstones. Might be worth checking out for Leah’s boots.

Watching I was surprised to see they are made in Winnipeg! I will have go check out the outlet store. I knew Manitobah Mukluks sold worldwide, but I had never heard of this company! Great!

Mr Chin is such a hoot! So glad he got more business!

looking at Canada West's boots, they're looking very nice! I mean, if I was looking of a pair of Chelsea-style boots, that might just have to be the one!

Yes! It's our famous cobbler again!💜

I love beat up boots they have so much characters

Y'all are cute. Thanks for making my recovery from the booster easier to get through

Hey Levi great video. What brand name and model are your old boots 🥾???

My Blundstones blew the dole off, but with care and cleaning I did get almost 14 yrs outta my Blundstones....I've had the Sketchers version as well, only had about 6 yrs usage till 1 got left behind during a trip and hospital visit ( broken leg)... Today I just nought a pair of Timberland boots to replace my Blundstones...The Timberlands have a stitched on sole.. The Blundstones are going for avrepair if possible... I have boots that are handmade and are 15 yrs old...still great condition and handle the abuse of riding my Harley...

I was not really super interested in the video concept about the boots, but clicked because i liked the two of you so much. Two minutes into the video i thought it as a great topic as well, so i think the "Levi & Leah" thing is working, you're just too great to miss out on ;)

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha well I’m glad you liked it!

I would look into getting a vibrant wedge sole put on after the current sole wears out! No heel, no heel drag!

Love the boots! Not a shocker, no retailers in PEI, so I'll have to try a spot in NS or NB on our next trip to the mainland. Like Leah, I've been rocking my Blundstones for quite a few years with some damage to the toes and they are also starting to rip where they crease! I still love them, but I will eventually need to look for a replacement too. I figured I'd replace them with a new pair, but this video got me thinking. Thanks!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! You can also look for used blundstones online too if that's easier?

If you're wearing leather shoes the best way to waterproof them is usually just to shine them, aside from waterproofing it also keeps the leather nourished and looking good for longer. I shine mine about once a week, more often if the weather is bad. Just don't place freshly shined shoes anywhere near a radiator or the leather will start to break.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Love this! Thanks for the tip!

@martaborkowska8168

2 жыл бұрын

I was going to say the same thing! Also cleaning, moisturizing and using shoe trees can extend the life and "presentability" of the shoes sooo much. I'm pretty sure that if you really cleaned that leather and put the moisture and colour back in those old boots, they would look pretty close to the new ones :)

@Justin-ml8id

2 жыл бұрын

Hey, could you specify on how you shine/ waterproofing your boots?

@missmayflower

11 ай бұрын

Shine with what?

I live in Florida and probably will never need winter boots but I still watched this whole video and really enjoyed it!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahahaha well I’m glad you liked it!

I bought my Canada west Romeo’s after seeing your last blundstones video and doing a year and a bit of thinking on it. Their womens model is definitely on the narrow side, but after wearing them in some rain, they broke in nicely. I LOVE them and am really happy with them! Thanks for the idea.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

That is awesome! I'm so glad they worked out for you!

@Scooter-K

2 жыл бұрын

Meagan, so did I, purchased the Romeo. What did you buy to make them waterproof and conditioner for the leather?

@thebassclarinetist

2 жыл бұрын

@@Scooter-K I used nikwax waterproofing cream, it’s not my favourite but I’m using it up. I also really love arctic dubbin. Anything you use will deepen the colour of the leather, but it’s beautiful.

Great video! Ever since you’ve talked about the quality of boots and how they’re made with the sole being replaceable I’ve been making sure I purchase boots that are made with the stitching to get the soles replaced. Too bad the Canada west doesn’t sell in the states...

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah that is too bad! I’m sure there’s great options down there too though 👍🏼

@korenaBOB

2 жыл бұрын

@@LeahandLevi this did spark me research leather boots made in the US. Thank you!

@XxLogo

2 жыл бұрын

@@korenaBOB I recommend Grant Stone. Not made in USA, but the best boots you can probably buy for the price tbh in the GYW community

@simplelife3551

2 жыл бұрын

Looking for recommendations that can be purchased in the US.

@XxLogo

2 жыл бұрын

@@simplelife3551 Grant Stone, Alden, Allen Edmonds, Cobblers Union (there are more out there that I am forgetting)

The Canada West boots have a separate heel block which is a plus with the good year welt

Great video guys!

Definitely more lively and interesting with the fam & friends. 👍👍

I'm SO hard on my shoes too edit: love the coordination between this video and the new future proof video.

Mr. Chin is hilarious!!! You should do an interview with him so we can hear about his life. Also you used to be able to buy Canada West boots at MEC. Booo MEC for not carrying them anymore.

"cmon look at the old man right here, back to work!" haha

There are some retailers in Ontario that sell these online. I bought mine from the rustique moose. Gravity pope in Toronto also carries them.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this!

Leather heel stacks are definitely a beast to break in! Keep with it and they’ll feel better. Also I wish more people understood how hilarious it is that you called Viberg asking if they stocked another brand

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha they apparently do! They have a bunch of them. (But yes I see how it’s hilarious)

Because of Mr. Chin and your video about shoe repair, I visited my local cobbler for the first time (yes to repair my Birks) and later found out they are only one of three remaining and struggling in my home US state of Vermont. You bet I'll be back!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

I love this! Tell your friends! These local places are super important. 🙏🏻

I maintain all of my leather boots by trying to buy ones with replaceable stacked leather heels if possible. My local cobbler, Sam's Shoes, in Auburn NY has replaced many a heels for me - for example, I got some oxford boots in Italy when I was in high school and I have gotten the heels replaced at least 3 times on that pair! I also polish my boots with shoe polish a few times a winter and try to keep off road salt if possible, since that is what destroys my boots the most.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! I love that. Hoping to repair these indefinitely ✊🏻

Curious of the the brand and model of your old boots, Levi. Thanks!

My favourite shoes are all minimalist/barefoot/barefoot friendly. I can't even put my feet in most traditional shoes anymore, because 1) they've gotten wider from being able to splay naturally, and 2) anything stiff kills my feet even faster than they used to. I love the look and blundstones, and many "mainstream" shoes, and let's face it, there aren't nearly enough barefoot shoe models if you love fashion, but it's getting better every year. Even every season. Some are entirely made within the EU, Canada or the US, so that's great. And if you have a good traditional cobbler, you can repair some of them. But hopefully, as the market grows, so do the options, and we can have shoes that are repairable and/or made ethically and/or have as low an impact on the environment as possible. It's so cool people decided to go to the same cobbler you did, yay for small, local businesses!

I just love watching your channel!! You two make me laugh. Mr Chin though 🤣🤣🤣

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

He’s so great! 😅

Thanks for the video. I may go visit the shoe store as well since he is local and in Victoria. How do you like the waterproof spray that you bought in the video? I am a looking for a good waterproof spray such as Saphir invulner

I recently purchased a new boot from Thursday Boots, have been using a nike ACG boot I got about 8yrs ago .

I quite litereally found this video looking for Blundstone alternatives with Goodyear Welts! How did you find sizing with these boots? I read a review on Stridewise and then confirmed on the Canada West website that they only make boots in E, EE, and EEE widths (looks like the Chelsea style boots are EEE). Did you size down? The value for money here looks incredible - even with the cost of shipping to the states, just not sure about sizing and fit.

I’m not ready for this Chicago snow 😂

Try snow seal. It will darken the leather but will waterproof is mostly beeswax. You can also just get beeswax from your local apiary and do it that way if you want fully natural and no aerosol can/waster Check out the red wing Chelsea it doesn’t have a heel since it’s a cristy sole. You can also get a cristy or flat sole put on your boots when you get them resoled. Also, for Leah, she may need a wide size. I’m a woman but at least a D width. When I made the switch to buying mens shoes (typically D width and womens shoes are typically narrower), May want to consider buying wide shoes or mens. Mens are typically better quality.

I've actually heard of the Canada West boots, but like you mentioned it was a pain to find them.

Thank you so much!!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤

I cant really think of any, but what do you think of zero drop boots? Maybe Lems have some, but I'm not sure

I actually may like this channel even more now...enjoyed the video very much, especially the story about how you went out of your way to NOT buy the from Amazon: ahah I can totally relate with that!!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha yep! Well thanks for being here and leaving a comment ❤️🥰

My wife is a figure skating coach and now must know what the book you referenced is.

Should you buy true to size or have allowance for socks?

Anyone know what's the module number for the boots that he got? Thanks.

I love y’all 💜💜

Return of Chhim! The legend :)

I have been searching for boots that I can wear during the winter when I move to Canada in a couple of months! SO glad that Levi made this video.

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

You are so welcome! Hopefully you find something that works for you!

@missmayflower

11 ай бұрын

Haha..depends where in Canada you’re going. They are okay for the mild west coast. If you’re going to other provinces, you’ll need felt pack boots for the snow.

Love my Canada West Romeos as well!

There are a few reputable cobblers that I found on KZread and a simple Google search that resole (re-glue) TPU soles Blundstone, Redback, Rossi in N. America. So yeah, you have options. Let’s face it all 3 brands are as comfortable as sneakers and last about 5-10 times longer. If you wear any of these brands you already know how versatile they are in a casual wardrobe.

Please put a Amazon link, I can’t find them anywhere

how can I get these in the USA? I would like a pair and don't really want to get Blundstones

Hey guys, the boots that I have and love are RM Williams. You can dress them up or dress them down. When the sole goes you can have them replaced. Made from one peace leather. They are super comfy but super expensive. Definitely worth it! I’m from Australia. Great vlog guys!

@ivanescalera6259

Жыл бұрын

They are not that good anymore… for that price range Carmina makes better Chelsea.

What was the difference in your size for the Blundstones versus the Canada West boots?

I have Canada west boots. Took forever to work in. Definitely not comfortable from the box. Love them though.

Why didn't I see this video BEFORE I ordered 2 pair of Blundstones? Can I get the Canada West boots in America? Also, would you kindly share what model # those boots are? Thanks in advance...

Maybe I missed it. I know that it's Western Canada, but what is the name of the boot? Is it made of genuine leather or full grain? Does it have a removable insole?

Went looking for those boots on Amazon (basically because I live in the States and don't have the time to mess around trying to find a store with them). No listings on Amazon. Sad. Guess I might try to buy a pair next time I'm in Vancouver.

Any thoughts on red back boots? And mr. chin is the best! 😄

What are the boots called, Canada Dry? And has someone substantiated told you they are resole'able?

Hopefully one day we will be more easily available in Canada🙌

Anyone know of a good place to get the Canada west Romeos in Vancouver?

Have you ever considered zero drop boots/shoes?

Hi Levi & Leah… cool video and massive kudos to you for avoiding the Space Cowboy Company. I love the look of the Canada West boots and like you, Levi, I appreciate the non-gimmicky simplicity of their business model. I have a request… is there any chance that you would consider putting out some content on the ecological disasters that we are experiencing here in BC and making the connection between 50c heat domes, wildfires, floods, mudslides, and the the over-consumption and global transport of goods? Here we are living in a province where gasoline has now be rationed and supply chains are broken, but people are still gearing up for the Black Friday sales and worrying about their Christmas shopping. OK… I don’t know if this was a rant or a request. Please consider it as both, and many thanks for letting me voice my opinions and eco-concerns here in your space. Much appreciated!! And Leah… I have horses and lots of leather tack… mold can easily be cleaned up and removed from your leather purse/bag… just tackle the job now, don’t procrastinate. Your friend Chen will have a good leather cleaning and preserving product for your purse/bag, and that same product can be used on your boots. Try to get a product with natural ingredients… no synthetics, as they can damage leather over time. I have cleaned a cr*p-load of leather tack over the years… your purse/bag will make a comeback. Thanks friends 🌎💦Ⓜ️ary💕. PS - the world needs more skilled trades people like Chen. I am a high school sewing teacher, and I am constantly promoting the need for hands-on skills and hobbies… not everybody will have a tech-based career. Thanks and have a great rest of your weekend. ☃️❄️

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mary! yes there is a huge elephant in the room and it's hard to feel normal when everything very much isn't. We'll be mentioning it yes but I don't know if a full video is in the works but thank you for leaving such thoughtful comments!

GOD !! Each time you have a very useful and interesting sponsorship its always for the US !!! Rip me in Quebec Canada......

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

So sorry! I try to balance them but sadly most of the team is US based!

@wapiti89

2 жыл бұрын

@@LeahandLevi no worries 😄

What brand are your old boots by?

I was one of them!!!! I go to him now cause of you

Calling Viberg to buy Canada West Boots is pretty hilarious!

Whats the color on the Canada West boots?

Hey Levi if you ever decide you want to get rid of those boots can I have them because they're awesome and I love collecting old beat-up boots by like those kind of boots in particular cuz you can just slide them on and slide them off no laces I don't like laces and I also have a pair of blood stones that I've had for years but I really like those brown ones you got so let me know.

I love Mr. Chin! I hope to find my own Mr. Chin someday

Can you buy Canada West boots outside of Canada?

I've actually been eyeing Canada West boots for a while now. There's actually a shop here in Montreal which carries them so I feel really lucky. Great video!

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

You're very lucky! Hopefully you find something that works!

What blundstones are Leah’s?

Hey I recently get to know this company,and start searching for its info. Can u tell me about its sizing? Is it true to size like other American work boot brand ?

Amamos !

Thanks for the update! I was actually wondering the other day if you had found another pair of boots! One thing I often see neglected are people with orthotic issues, so I hope you don’t mind me making my spiel: I have special needs with regard to my feet (early onset arthritis, permanent nerve damage, etc) that unfortunately have to take priority when boot and shoe searching and I’ve found that work-oriented boots tend to be my best bet since they’re built for people on their feet all day. I got a pair of Danners after tons of research - recraftable (in certain styles), fashionable, and most importantly, with comfort as a priority for working people. Most styles have removable insoles so you can place specialty orthotics in if needed. And I have to say, 10/10, absolutely 0 break-in; this is important to me especially because I’m already in near constant pain - why would I add more? If you have busted, raggedy with your feet like I do, check them out. I’ll be up front, they’re not 100% perfect in an eco-sense, but a pretty good compromise and absolutely worth the investment. I can walk for more than 20 minutes now. It’s insane.

We love Jim 😄

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha he is truly a legend. Although I was corrected by his niece in the last video. His name is Chim!

@belovedsummerdays

2 жыл бұрын

@@LeahandLevi I was wondering if I heard that right! We love Chim!

For some Australian made Chelsea boots, try Rossi boots. They are made in South Australia

And dog-content is always welcome ;)

@LeahandLevi

2 жыл бұрын

Everyone loves a good doggo visit. 🥰

Nice video! Worth pointing out that blundstones can absolutely be resoled. A Goodyear welted boot will certainly produce a nicer and somewhat more straightforward repair(superior construction method, no question), but the PU/TPU blundstone sole can be removed and replaced, often with the very soles you have on your old pair (Vibram Gumlite)

What is the name of your old pair of boots?

you should check out Obenauf's Heavy Duty leather protector

How about an update on these boots?