Anybody own these what are your thoughts?
I don't own them, but (speaking as a reenactor), they are generally not regarded as being "historically correct"... on the other hand, in the "buckskinning" community, they are widely used. I have friends who love them... they are well made, durable and comfortable. Some other makers along these same lines are Arrow Moccasins and Poppen Moccasins. Of all of these, Arrow's "Ligonier" shoepack is a close approximation to a known museum piece.
If historical authenticity is any concern to you, there are other options (kits, video instructions, some online instructions, other individual makers, etc.). Authentic mocs will definitely not be as durable or comfortable. One document from the 18th century states that moccasins were a "respectable way of going barefoot". Again, if authenticity is your goal, there are regional considerations... Eastern, Western, etc.
I have two pair and love them. Great stalking shoes. If I lived in an area without a lot of sharp rocks and cacti I would get the single thickness sole. The double is great for here in WY and very durable but a little more feel for the ground would be perfect. Folks talk/complain about how slick they are when moving tru wet ground and pine needles, and they are. But what it does for me is make me aware of how I walk makes me slow down. I believe that the combo of moving slow and quietness of these mocs has allowed me to see a lot more game. Getting close for the shot is another issue. I have tried two different stalking shoes so far and come back to the Dyers. I have been considering adding a pair of goretex socks underneath for more waterproffing but not very traditional.
how much do these usually cost. And what sole thickness would you recommened for illinois hunting.
Loved mine,had apair about 20yrs ago wore them for about 4yrs,then they up and vanished? dont know what happened to them.
Seems to me Carl's daughter took over the production several years ago. I met her at Fort Frederick's annual spring weekend a few years back.
I have had a pair for about 3 years and I am very happy with them.
I would recommend them to anyone!
I went to ETAR for the first time this year. I was looking for a custom R/D long bow, I found a very nice one. I was then just walking around looking at all the great stuff, and enjoying meeting very nice people. I came across the Dyer's booth and they were so nice I couldn't say no to trying on a pair of their moccasins. I figured I would try them on and then say thank you very much and leave.
They were so comfortable I had to have a pair and told them I would take them before I even knew how much they were. They told me the price and I thought for a moment and asked if they took credit cards.
Ken
P.S, They are double thick soles and great for finding buried arrows, and I will order another pair.