The B.O.G. Prototype Has Arrived!
The 1st generation Boots on the Ground (B.O.G.) prototype is here!
We are in the midst of a journey that started in late November 2014 to answer the call made by our neighbors, elders, and community leaders in Detroit to create living wage work that restores our connection to humanity and the life giving systems around us and Leaves No One Behind!
That call to action evolved into project Boots on the Ground. We are thrilled to bring you the 1st images of our B.O.G. prototype (yet to be named) that will be built in Detroit by veterans transitioning out of homelessness in the coming months. Sign up here to receive updates about our progress and be among the first to get a pair of these durable boots and other B.O.G apparel.
This prototype was hand-made in Detroit by the unbelievably talented hand-craftsman and maker Tom Carbone(pictured on the left) with the boot design conceptualized by the artist, teacher, and reason this project is where it is today, Steve Schock.
See more pics and Follow the exciting photo journey that brings you into the world of how Tom took these boots from concept into being.
Next Steps:
As we prepare for our crowdfunding campaign the B.O.G. design team is researching and testing a variety of durable and sustainable materials sourced from the US including synthetic leather, hemp, and other recycled and upcycled materials. More exciting updates including our new Logo will be shared next week!
Fun Facts:
This boot was constructed using a Munson Last originally crafted for making boots for the U.S. Army in 1912. A last is a tool that has a shape similar to that of a human foot and is what our shoemakers use to build the entire boot around.
The Munson Army Last has been around since 1912. Named after its inventor, Edward Luman Munson, A.M., -M.D., Lt. Col. Medial Corps, United States Army, the Munson Army Last was adopted by the U.S. Army to enhance the fit and comfort of military boots issued to soldiers. The Munson Army Last was and is one of the few lasts that ever approached normal feet shape and contour.
