9" Pecos Hawthorne Abilene #8168

Red Wing officially registered the Pecos boot trademark in 1959. In its earliest form, every Pecos boot was built with a heel. Two years later, in 1961, the #866 was introduced—distinguished by its Traction Tread sole, a design already highly regarded in workwear for its comfort and practicality.

Its thick, white, cushioned flat sole delivered exceptional comfort across a variety of surfaces while reducing fatigue during extended wear. Paired with a slightly shorter shaft, a rounded Western-style toe, and a highly functional sole, the #866 quickly gained popularity and became a long-standing favorite. To this day, it remains a trusted work boot in regions with strong Western boot culture, particularly across the American Southwest and Texas.

In 1996, the #8168 was developed as a Japan-designed reinterpretation of the #866. It was released in Hawthorne “Abilene” Roughout, a beige leather that, at the time, stood alongside Aurorasette Portage (#8866) and Black Chrome (#8169) as one of Red Wing’s three core leathers.

Unlike conventional suede—typically produced by splitting and brushing the inner layers of leather—this roughout leather is constructed by turning full-grain leather inside out. The dense grain layer remains on the interior, while the brushed surface faces outward. Originally favored for outdoor footwear, this construction is exceptionally durable and develops a rich, expressive patina through wear and exposure to the elements—allowing each pair to age uniquely over time.

Specifications

• Style: #8168 (Width E)

• Leather: Hawthorne “Abilene” Roughout

• Outsole: Traction Tread

• Insole: Leather

• Manufacturing Method: Goodyear leather welt

• Last (Wooden Form): No. 17