Stitchdown Boot Camp 2025

Wow. What a weekend in Chicago. Stitchdown Boot Camp was everything a boot enthusiast could dream of: an incredible expo, passionate makers, and a community that feels like family. If you love boots, shoes, leather, or just good people and good times, this is the can't-miss-it event of the year.

For me, the highlight was getting to meet in person all the folks who inspired me from the very beginning. Catching up with Grant and Isaac from Unsung House, dinner with the S.B. Foot Tanning Co. and Red Wing crew, and getting to know Adam from Limmer Boots were just a few of the best parts of three incredible days. But it wasn't just business in Chicago: I was lucky enough to take a tour of the storied Horween Tannery Co. with some of the most talented cordwainers in the community and sit in on a recording of Stitchdown's Shoecast.

These are the voices and people that shaped my journey, and getting to shake their hands and swap stories was surreal. On top of that, there is no feeling better than meeting the people who love my work and are happily wearing my boots. Being a member of this community is a gift, and I’m already counting down the days until next year.

The city of Chicago brought the energy, and the boot community brought the heart. From deep dives into construction techniques to brainstorming new builds over coffee, every moment reminded me why we do what we do. This craft isn’t just about boots, it’s about connection, creativity, and keeping traditions alive.

A huge thank you to everyone who welcomed me into this event, to all who make Oldspeed MFG part of their world, and most of all to Stitchdown for the months of hard work that make this crazy weekend happen. It’s no small feat, and it’s so worth it.

Until next November, keep your boots polished and your calendar empty.

-Dave