For my use a set-up like that on comfy boots I already own might work. It might even work as a separate piece. I had not thought of that ! I am a fair hand at leather, though not as good as some others who are real leather pros hereabouts.

I appreciate the logger boot suggestion too, Ron. Though the ones I have found so far are pretty serious heavy soles and arch reinforcements. It may be what I end up with though.

I had been considering making grieves that were just leather, and not armor.

I don't think it is a look I would do out and about though, unless it was a quick dash to the local (10 miles) hardware store or something.