At Australian Boot Company, we deeply appreciate the rich heritage and timeless appeal of iconic boot brands. A recent Forbes article by David Hochman, titled "It Took 30 Years To Buy These Australian Boots. The Wait Was Worth It," beautifully captures the essence of one such legendary brand: R.M. Williams.
David Hochman's journey with R.M. Williams began thirty years ago when he first noticed their distinctive Chelsea boots at a Sydney department store. Back then, fresh out of journalism school and traveling through Australia, he opted for a more affordable pair of Blundstone boots. Yet, the sleek and sophisticated design of R.M. Williams' boots left a lasting impression. It wasn't until three decades later that Hochman finally acquired his dream boots—a testament to their enduring allure and unmatched quality.
Founded in 1932 by Reginald Murray Williams, the brand seamlessly blends outback ruggedness with urban sophistication. As Hochman notes, R.M. Williams boots are meticulously handcrafted using a single piece of leather, a construction method that not only enhances their durability but also provides unparalleled comfort. This unique craftsmanship, coupled with Goodyear-welted construction, ensures that these boots can be fully repaired, allowing them to be passed down through generations.
In his conversation with Paul Grossmann, R.M. Williams' CEO, Hochman delves deeper into what sets the brand apart. Grossmann highlights the company's commitment to Australian craftsmanship, with each boot crafted by 88 pairs of skilled hands in their Adelaide workshop. This dedication to quality and heritage has allowed R.M. Williams to maintain its core values while evolving into a global luxury brand.
Despite its expansion and global recognition, R.M. Williams remains firmly rooted in its Australian heritage. Grossmann emphasizes the brand's connection to rural communities and its role in sharing unique stories from the outback. The company's recent initiatives, such as expanding their Adelaide workshop and introducing new training opportunities for Australian craftspeople, underscore their commitment to preserving traditional techniques while embracing future growth.
Hochman's personal experience with his new R.M. Williams boots echoes the sentiments of many loyal customers. Whether for travel, adventure, or a fancy night out, these boots embody a versatile style that transitions seamlessly from the bush to the boardroom. It's this unique blend of rugged durability and refined elegance that continues to captivate boot enthusiasts.
At Australian Boot Company, we celebrate the legacy and craftsmanship of iconic brands like R.M. Williams. As David Hochman's story illustrates, the allure of a well-crafted boot transcends time and trends, embodying a blend of heritage, quality, and timeless style. For those inspired by Hochman's journey, we invite you to explore the Best Selection of R.M.Williams boots with the Best Service and Best Care at Australian Boot Company. Retail locations are in Vancouver and Toronto or find R.M.Wiliams online at https://australianboot.com/pages/r-m-williams
Read the full article by David Hochman on Forbes
