Frye Boots Identification

Founded in 1863, Frye is the oldest continuous boot manufacturer in the United States, and its rugged and recognizable styles continue to be featured in high-fashion spreads today. How do you identify the right Frye boot styles for you?

Frye boots have been distinctive since 1863 for their full-grain, genuine leather uppers and premium rubber soles. After John A. Frye cobbled the first pair for Civil War troops, the boots have evolved, but have remained linked by their quality craftsmanship.

Riding boots have a smooth exterior free of adornment. Frye riding boots have shock-absorbing, cushioned insoles, raised stacked heels and pull-on straps. Some styles have antique brass zippers, and like all Frye boots, have leather uppers and rubber soles.

Whatever job you're doing, Frye makes rugged boots for getting it done. With extra-thick, oil-resistant neoprene soles and laces, the popular Engineer style has a rounded toe and adjustable buckle straps across the shaft, in nickel hardware. The lace-up Logger has a lug sole for extra traction.

The harness style was reintroduced in the '60s as the campus boot, and has been a hit with young trendsetters ever since. The traditional Campus style removes the hardware buckle and adds Western detailing to a bulky toe and chunky heel. Others sport fold-over cuffs or tooled leather detailing.

The distinct feature of Frye harness boots (the original Frye boot style) is their antique brass O-ring and square toe. Other styles have added hardware details on the shaft.

With such a long history, vintage Frye boots are available at vintage shops, thrift stores and on eBay. It's hard to fake a genuine Frye boot, but be sure to look for the imprint on the inside of the shaft and the Frye logo on the bottom of the sole.