Samelin
517 Aviator Boots – White Leather Ankle Boots
517 Aviator Boots – White Leather Ankle Boots
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Ankle boots that work anywhere. In white.
The 517 Aviator is a no-nonsense ankle boot in water-repellent genuine leather — built for the city, the woods, and everything in between. White is the boldest colorway in the range. Same Samelin construction, same NATO-certified factory in Tartu, Estonia.
Why these boots
- Water-repellent genuine leather upper — handles rain, mud, and daily use
- Direct-injected PU sole — durable, lightweight, grippy
- Anatomical insole — antibacterial and washable
- Minimal leather lining — keeps the boot lightweight and breathable
- Made by Samelin, Estonia — same factory as Norwegian M77 military boots
- NATO AQAP 2110 / ISO 9001 certified
- Unisex sizing, EU 36–46
Built for real-world use
The 517 was designed to handle varied conditions without being a dedicated outdoor boot. Practical enough for rough weather, clean enough for the city.
- City commuting and everyday wear
- Light hiking and trail walking
- Variable weather — rain, slush, mild cold
- Travel — versatile enough for multiple contexts
Construction details
Upper: Water-repellent genuine leather Outsole: Direct-injected PU sole Lining: Leather (single layer, minimal) Insole: Anatomical, antibacterial, washable Weight: 1.2 kg (size 41) Standards: NATO AQAP 2110 / ISO 9001 Origin: Tartu, Estonia
Fit and sizing
True to size for men. Women should size down one full size.
The minimal lining keeps the boot light and breathable — in freezing temperatures, wear a thicker wool or thermal sock for warmth.
FAQ
How does white differ from the other Aviator colorways? Same boot, same construction. Black is the most versatile everyday choice; red and brown offer character without standing out. White is the most distinctive — it marks and ages visibly, which some wearers prefer.
Will white leather mark easily? Yes, more than darker colorways. The water-repellent treatment helps with wet conditions, but scuffs will show. Clean with a damp cloth and apply leather conditioner regularly to maintain the finish.
Is the minimal lining a problem in cold weather? In mild to moderate cold, no. In freezing temperatures, pair with a thicker wool or thermal sock. The boot is not insulated — it is designed for breathability and versatility rather than extreme cold.
Are these suitable for hiking? Light hiking and trail walking, yes. For demanding terrain or extended outdoor use, the M77 or 553 hiking boots are a better choice.
Who makes these? Samelin OÜ, Tartu, Estonia. NATO-certified, 75+ years in production.
Order with confidence
- Made by Samelin — NATO-certified manufacturer, Estonia
- Ships to EU in 3–7 working days
- Free shipping available — check if you qualify at checkout
- 30-day returns on unused, unworn items
- Questions? hello@whatshoes.co
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2-year warranty
2-year warranty on manufacturing defects. If something's wrong, we fix it, replace it, or refund it — no runaround. Write to hello@whatshoes.co