J. Crew Kenton Pacer boots: size and fit?

[Howard Weinstein]

For anyone who has the very-close-enough J. Crew Kenton Pacer boots, do they fit true to size? And how comfortable are they?
Thanks!

[mr_alex]

I ordered a pair after Christmas. They fit true to size but are very stiff. I'm not sure what the best way to soften them up will be, but it is definitely a process that takes more than just breaking them in. They're good looking boots but I don't wear them for any long walks because they cut into my ankles so much.

[Indywanabe91]

I’m trying to find a pair of size 13s but they’re sold out

[Howard Weinstein]

I’m trying to find a pair of size 13s but they’re sold out

It does appear that J. Crew is phasing out this more affordable favorite close-enough boot. Have you tried searching eBay, where you may find new or gently-used Pacers at a good price? Or used-clothing websites Poshmark.com, Grailed.com and Mercari.com?

I lucked out and found a nearly-new pair of close-enough Bostonian Walker boots for an incredible $35. At that price (after thoroughly disinfecting them inside just to be on the cautious side, and replacing the insoles with more supportive running insoles), I didn't mind beating them up and giving them a weathered look.

[Dr. Jones, Jr.]

I ordered a pair after Christmas. They fit true to size but are very stiff. I'm not sure what the best way to soften them up will be, but it is definitely a process that takes more than just breaking them in. They're good looking boots but I don't wear them for any long walks because they cut into my ankles so much.

I have the same issue with a pair of Wested boots that I got. Had them for a couple years now and have barely started to break them in because I literally end up with bloody heels every time I wear them for more than very short distances.

[Howard Weinstein]

I’m trying to find a pair of size 13s but they’re sold out

It does appear that J. Crew is phasing out this more affordable favorite close-enough boot. Have you tried searching eBay, where you may find new or gently-used Pacers at a good price? Or used-clothing websites Poshmark.com, Grailed.com and Mercari.com?

I lucked out and found a nearly-new pair of close-enough Bostonian Walker boots for an incredible $35. At that price (after thoroughly disinfecting them inside just to be on the cautious side, and replacing the insoles with more supportive running insoles), I didn't mind beating them up and giving them a weathered look.

For instance, these are on Mercari.com, but they're only a size 12...darn. Almost what you needed, Indywanabe91. https://www.mercari.com/us/item/m566277 ... ch_results

[Indywanabe91]

Thanks for helping to search! Everywhere I’ve looked it’s only been size 12s that I’ve found sadly.

[Howard Weinstein]

Thanks for helping to search! Everywhere I’ve looked it’s only been size 12s that I’ve found sadly.

Don't give up! You do have to check these websites every few days, and there is turnover in the listings. I never thought I'd find a pair of the Bostonian Walker close-enoughs in size 8.5 (let alone for only $35) -- and then suddenly they popped up.

Your size might not be common, but I'm pretty sure I've seen some size 13 Pacers for sale on one or more of these sites. Good luck on your hunt!

[Indywanabe91]

Thanks! I may just get the wested boots. They seem to have my size and fairly priced. I just don’t know how true to size they are.

[mr_alex]

Magnoli has Indy boots in standard sizes, and I'd recommend those. They're pretty comfortable, especially compared to the Pacer boots. The leather is much thinner, and the dye rubs off easily (great for distressing! not great for sneaking Indy gear into a nice outfit - hence why I got the Pacer's as my 'Indy dress boots'). I've had the Magnoli's for a few years, taken them on long walks, and I've never had a bloody heel or anything like what folks are describing with Wested. If you're looking for an affordable boot option, I'd go for Magnoli's!

[Indywanabe91]

Good point! I check those out. It slipped my mind that Magnoli made some boots too.