THE LAST; From a Vintage Munson Last to Last No.3

A vintage Munson last viewed from the side, showing its low toe spring and distinctive stance.

Origin

The last for Product No.1 began with a vintage last from the 1940s marked “MUNSON LAST.”

We reproduced the last and reduced its size while preserving its original form and balance as closely as possible. This became Last No.1.

Fitting and Revision

When we made and wore the first prototype, however, the fit felt different from that of vintage boots made on Munson lasts.

We therefore reconsidered the size and volume and produced two further versions: Last No.2 and Last No.3. Prototypes were made on both lasts, and after comparing their fit and proportions, Last No.3 was selected as the basis for Product No.1.

Measurement and Verification

We also wanted to verify whether Last No.3 had been produced with the dimensions and balance we intended.

A specialist measured Last No.3 alongside three vintage lasts in different sizes, all made by the same manufacturer and marked “MUNSON LAST.”

The measurements confirmed that the principal dimensions and balance of the vintage Munson lasts had been carried over into Last No.3 as intended.

What We Learned

The examination also revealed a characteristic shared by both the vintage lasts and Last No.3 that we had not initially anticipated.

To preserve the intended stance of the finished boot, we decided to revise the heel height in response to this finding.

Alongside this work on the last, we have continued to review and revise the finer details of the boot. Product No.1 has now reached its fifth prototype.

We measure, wear, compare, and revise whenever necessary.
We will continue this process until the boot is complete.