Stitchdown construction is the older method, what you might call "old school." It has many virtues, but comes at a certain price, which we'll cover momentarily. How stitchdown construction works is the leather of the uppers is pulled down onto the midsole, and then stitched to the midsole.

What is Stitchdown boot construction?

When a boot is made utilizing a stitchdown construction the upper leather and textile is pulled down around the anatomical last, flared out and cemented to the midsole, then stitched to the outsole. The result is a rebuildable boot that has a 360-degree stitch for added durability and comfort.

Is Stitchdown construction waterproof?

Some consumers are surprised to find that stitchdown construction is more waterproof than normal Goodyear welt construction, as the actual upper is sewn and glued to the midsole, preventing water from entering if constructed properly.