Been using 1000 mile for 4 years ( same pair). I’ve visited a cobbler for a resole about every 15 months. Although the last time around I had them install a Danite sole and that seems to be holding up for the long haul. I don’t blame Wolverine for the resoles as I use these boots on all terrains. Rock scrambling in the mojave granite will chew through the leather sole in only a matter of months but something was wonderful about scrambling on leather. I wouldn’t recommend it for most people but I enjoyed the experience. I continue to wear the 1000 mile in the streets of Hong Kong and I take them into about every venue formal or non formal. I like the simplicity and versatility of the Wolverine. With that said I’ll be happy to purchase a Redwing next time I’m in the states. Bottom line is that a boot that lends itself to repair and aging is a worthwhile investment. Really makes wearing “disposable” shoes much less appealing. And as for leather - the more character the better. My preference isn’t to wear a perfect brand new looking shoe - hence the name 1000 mile. Cheers
I have both and honestly, I like them both. IR is more rugged and tough looking and 1000 miles is more heritage look and sometimes you could even pull if off in semi-formal events. 1000 miles have better leather because it's chromexel (Not bashing on Red Wing's tannery but Horween is more prestige). Red Wing Iron Rangers have better soles as it is vibram sole and original 1000 Miles is leather sole which is more prone to slipping. I'd recommend both to people in a condition that if they are getting 1000 Miles, get the Evan 1000 Mile which comes with Vibram sole.
Good comparison, saying the IR is hard to break in is an understatement if you go out with a new pair of these puppies you better bring some sneakers along, you will need them before the day is over. I totally love my 1000 mile, but they scuff sooooooo easy
I've yet to own IR but my 1000 mile i love so much! Although I think its a little overpriced, also the leather sole just isn't for me, took them to the cobbler and added rubber half soles :) best decision I ever made. Great vid!
Hey William, great review! I agree that the Iron Ranger is the better choice. The cap toe and silver hardware give it a lot more character than the plain toe of the 1000 mile. And while leather soles are great, I don't like wearing my leather soles and it starts raining since they will wear out much faster when wet! The Vibram sole will give people like I piece of mind when walking through a puddle, or being in a surprise rain storm. Awesome video, and keep it up!
Awesome, thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the review. I just walked through a ton of mud this morning with the Iron Ranger and I definitely would've ate it if I was wearing the 1000 Mile.
yeah, so I'm torn---wolverine themselves say they don't have a shank, but trenton and heathe have a video where there's clearly a shank in the 1000 mile. I don't know what to believe anymore.
Love my 1000 mile. The break in was non existent, like this video said. But I can’t wait to get ahold of some Iron Rangers. It’s just impossible to get them on sale it seems. Wolverine has occasional sales where you can pick up a pair for about $200. I never see sales for red wing.
The Danner Quarry is made in USA at $290.. hmm.. Just looked at the Danner loggers, $230- now 'imported'] Its what I wore running big saws in the big woods. They're not what they used to be. But still good for logging and chain saw work. [they look great with kevlar chaps!]
I've always loved the classic simplicity of the Wolverine but sadly neither boot is made in my size. I don't think a 15 is that big but in boots it's pretty hard to find.
The thing I don’t like is how tight they are around the mid foot. Maybe mine are too small but I have plenty of room everywhere else. I attribute this to the outsole. It really gets skinny right at the heel block. Is this normal?
I have the same problem when trying to give Redwing a chance. Asked for wide and it still felt it squished my heels and midfoot. I wear 11wide when I can and size 12 pumas and jordan 1s. My feet literally measure at 10 and 5/8.
I have two pair of 1000 mile boots and love them. But I only love them because I put Vibram V Bar soles on them. I don't like the leather soles or heels that come from the factory.
I just got my first pair of the 1000 mile I went with the spice leather because it was a full grain vegetable tanned leather. The leather is really nice and soft out of the box but I found alot of quality control issues like loose threats uneven stitching. Is it normal for there to be so many QC issues on these things?
Not all IR are the same, use the same leather or same hardware! I prefer my 8119 and 4606 over any other IR! I own a few 1000 milers in different styles. The 1000 milers are a lot, a lot more fragile than anything RW makes. I still like them both, but I certainly do not beat my 1000 milers as much as I beat my RW.
Love my 1000 mile boots. Comfort is great out the box. Wolverine offers different types of outer sole styles based on where you live. The leather characteristics are great on them and I enjoy them look, beat up or worn. 🤘🏻
BootSpy, you are right on, agree with your assessment,100%...! I can tell you are really into the boots...! I have the 1000 mile and to improve the grip on the leather sole I took some Sno Seal beeswax and applied it to the bottom of the sole and it seals the bottom and adds some grip in wet slick weather... I wouldn't dare put it though on the uppers, it will kill the breathing of the leather... Great video...! GG...IN
The 1000 mile seems more sleek whereas the red wings look more rugged. Would you say the 1000 mile would work better for business casual and the iron rangers are better for more rugged activities.
If you're looking for business casual, I would probably go Thursday President over either of these. They're both definitely more on the rugged side of things
Yeah, Wolverin does make a 1000 mile with the Vibram heel. so I think I know what I'm getting. Sense I'm sixty nine now and don't feel like going through the sore feet breaking-in pain, which I'm sure is nothing like what it was like in the 60's , I just don't have the time for it. LOL
I have the red 1000 mile loafers and the 1000 mile boot in brown! I like Redwing have worn since late 80’s but NO Boot is sexier than Wolverine 1000 mile!#Boot❤️#Leathertop/bottom
Have and love both, but I’m a plumber and wear my Red Wings to work and feel like my 1000 mile are too nice to crawl under a house or dig a hole in Lol
I have 1000 miles I got the evans - which has the vibram on the front And the cap toe My reasoning for not going red wing was the “clown shoe” thing everyone says happens to them I’ve considered getting some red wings because they’re a bit wider I wear a 10-10.5 in sneakers and got initially 10 in 1000mile but after about a week I noticed they were a half size too big And tried thick socks etc but couldn’t get over feeling they were too big So I buckled and ordered 9.5s and they are much much better But I wanna get some iron rangers, and John lofgren combat boots Will likely get the lofgrens first and then the iron rangers But have the size 10 1000miles sitting in the box Waiting till I can find a buyer at 325 Which is a decent discount Would be cool if I found someone I could trade them for some 9.5 iron rangers even.
im STANDING on a forklift 6 days a week 10 to 12 hours a day,,, my feet hurt with regular lernman shoes from amazon with a composite toe.. are these really that comfortable,,
I still dont understand why people never compare the iron rangers with the Wolverine 1000 mile cap toe. that shoe should be the one to be compared with the iron ranger. And it also has a vibram sole
Because nobody gives 2 shits about IR uglyass toe cap. If I’m that worried I will just get steel toe boots. Wolverine 1000 Miles are best looking boot ever!
Sometimes it comes down to your feet. We all have different feet. 1000 Mile Boots fit my feet just a little better than Red Wing Heritage. Red Wing is not a bad fit. Your feet will "feel" different. I own both. They are both well constructed. Both come in different configurations. Both offer several types of leather. Both offer different soles.
Why didn't you compare apples to apples? Wolverine 1000 Mile Red Wing BlackSmith Boot? Wasn't the BlackSmith Boot a response to Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot "Rounded Toe" ? Thanks for your video. Wish You would of compared the BlackSmiths :o/
Good review and points...The wolverine cap toe also has the vibrum sole option...I also think that the red wing toe being so bulbous, makes them look like clown shoes...🙂
The bulbous toe on the Iron Ranger makes them look like clown shoes from certain angles. I think the leather on the IR, or something like the Red Wing 1907, ages better than the 1000 mile, but I think the 1000 mile has the best overall shape.
@@BootSpy yeah probably but they use leather board insoles which is leftover leather that is ground up. Definitely doesn’t compare to red wing’s vegetable tanned leather insoles. If you want a classic plain boot then just get the red wing blacksmith. Better quality and 100$ less compared to the wolverines.
Been using 1000 mile for 4 years ( same pair). I’ve visited a cobbler for a resole about every 15 months. Although the last time around I had them install a Danite sole and that seems to be holding up for the long haul. I don’t blame Wolverine for the resoles as I use these boots on all terrains. Rock scrambling in the mojave granite will chew through the leather sole in only a matter of months but something was wonderful about scrambling on leather. I wouldn’t recommend it for most people but I enjoyed the experience. I continue to wear the 1000 mile in the streets of Hong Kong and I take them into about every venue formal or non formal. I like the simplicity and versatility of the Wolverine. With that said I’ll be happy to purchase a Redwing next time I’m in the states. Bottom line is that a boot that lends itself to repair and aging is a worthwhile investment. Really makes wearing “disposable” shoes much less appealing. And as for leather - the more character the better. My preference isn’t to wear a perfect brand new looking shoe - hence the name 1000 mile. Cheers
I have both and honestly, I like them both. IR is more rugged and tough looking and 1000 miles is more heritage look and sometimes you could even pull if off in semi-formal events. 1000 miles have better leather because it's chromexel (Not bashing on Red Wing's tannery but Horween is more prestige). Red Wing Iron Rangers have better soles as it is vibram sole and original 1000 Miles is leather sole which is more prone to slipping. I'd recommend both to people in a condition that if they are getting 1000 Miles, get the Evan 1000 Mile which comes with Vibram sole.
Nice analysis! Thank you for watching and commenting---I really appreciate it!
Enjoyed the head to head. I think you can't go wrong either way but somebody has to be crowned king. 👍
I'd recommend the 1000 mile Evans. It adds a Vibram sole which gives them a nice grip and a more rugged look
That sounds like a nice middle ground right there!
How much do they run?
I just wish Red Wing would make their boots in a wide size. I live 35 miles from Red Wing and would love to support my local company..
Good comparison, saying the IR is hard to break in is an understatement if you go out with a new pair of these puppies you better bring some sneakers along, you will need them before the day is over. I totally love my 1000 mile, but they scuff sooooooo easy
I've yet to own IR but my 1000 mile i love so much! Although I think its a little overpriced, also the leather sole just isn't for me, took them to the cobbler and added rubber half soles :) best decision I ever made. Great vid!
Nice, great workaround--- I love my Wolverine's too. But I already have the feeling you're saving for some IRs haha
Dont forget the wolverine has a leather vamp lining compared to IR cotton
It matters to some
Hey William, great review! I agree that the Iron Ranger is the better choice. The cap toe and silver hardware give it a lot more character than the plain toe of the 1000 mile. And while leather soles are great, I don't like wearing my leather soles and it starts raining since they will wear out much faster when wet! The Vibram sole will give people like I piece of mind when walking through a puddle, or being in a surprise rain storm. Awesome video, and keep it up!
Awesome, thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the review. I just walked through a ton of mud this morning with the Iron Ranger and I definitely would've ate it if I was wearing the 1000 Mile.
Imo the main problem of the 1000 miles is they don’t have shank in them,the support is just so good in IR
yeah, so I'm torn---wolverine themselves say they don't have a shank, but trenton and heathe have a video where there's clearly a shank in the 1000 mile. I don't know what to believe anymore.
Love my 1000 mile. The break in was non existent, like this video said.
But I can’t wait to get ahold of some Iron Rangers. It’s just impossible to get them on sale it seems. Wolverine has occasional sales where you can pick up a pair for about $200. I never see sales for red wing.
Would love to see a wolverine vs Thursday match up!
great idea! i'll start working on it---thank you for the feedback, watching, and subscribing! I really appreciate it!
The Danner Quarry is made in USA at $290.. hmm..
Just looked at the Danner loggers, $230- now 'imported'] Its what I wore running big saws in the big woods. They're not what they used to be. But still good for logging and chain saw work. [they look great with kevlar chaps!]
I've always loved the classic simplicity of the Wolverine but sadly neither boot is made in my size. I don't think a 15 is that big but in boots it's pretty hard to find.
Sorry bud. That's a bigass foot.
He doesn’t think a size 15 is big?#Lol
Damn thats a big ass foot. Wish you luck on your boot discoveries
The thing I don’t like is how tight they are around the mid foot. Maybe mine are too small but I have plenty of room everywhere else. I attribute this to the outsole. It really gets skinny right at the heel block. Is this normal?
are you referring to the Red Wing or the Wolverine?
@@BootSpy redwing
I have the same problem when trying to give Redwing a chance. Asked for wide and it still felt it squished my heels and midfoot. I wear 11wide when I can and size 12 pumas and jordan 1s. My feet literally measure at 10 and 5/8.
Great channel. Question. I have a bit of a flatfoot. Is Iron Ranger a good choice for me?
I have two pair of 1000 mile boots and love them. But I only love them because I put Vibram V Bar soles on them. I don't like the leather soles or heels that come from the factory.
isnt the beckman the original boot from the original owner? so ud think beckman vs wolverine wich is same style boot aswell
I just got my first pair of the 1000 mile I went with the spice leather because it was a full grain vegetable tanned leather. The leather is really nice and soft out of the box but I found alot of quality control issues like loose threats uneven stitching. Is it normal for there to be so many QC issues on these things?
I've heard some people say similar things, so it may be an overall QC issue. Thank you for watching!
what about for a guy that works his butt off everyday farming? Will they hold up like the pecos and old 402 redwings? thanks
Not all IR are the same, use the same leather or same hardware! I prefer my 8119 and 4606 over any other IR!
I own a few 1000 milers in different styles. The 1000 milers are a lot, a lot more fragile than anything RW makes. I still like them both, but I certainly do not beat my 1000 milers as much as I beat my RW.
Love my 1000 mile boots. Comfort is great out the box. Wolverine offers different types of outer sole styles based on where you live. The leather characteristics are great on them and I enjoy them look, beat up or worn. 🤘🏻
Would have been more credible if you compared apples to apples. Wolverine makes a cap toe 1000 mile with a Vibram heel and rubber sole.
Thank you!!
Yes, agree. However, choosing the most popular from each is fair as well.
BootSpy, you are right on, agree with your assessment,100%...! I can tell you are really into the boots...! I have the 1000 mile and to improve the grip on the leather sole I took some Sno Seal beeswax and applied it to the bottom of the sole and it seals the bottom and adds some grip in wet slick weather... I wouldn't dare put it though on the uppers, it will kill the breathing of the leather... Great video...! GG...IN
thats a really interesting technique! I'll have to try that myself
What can you tell me about the insole? I had to quit wearing the blacksmiths because I couldn’t switch out for an orthotic insoles.
I’m lovin my Wolverine 1000 mile in Stead rough out with wedge soles
The 1000 mile seems more sleek whereas the red wings look more rugged. Would you say the 1000 mile would work better for business casual and the iron rangers are better for more rugged activities.
If you're looking for business casual, I would probably go Thursday President over either of these. They're both definitely more on the rugged side of things
Yeah, Wolverin does make a 1000 mile with the Vibram heel. so I think I know what I'm getting. Sense I'm sixty nine now and don't feel like going through the sore feet breaking-in pain, which I'm sure is nothing like what it was like in the 60's , I just don't have the time for it. LOL
I have the red 1000 mile loafers and the 1000 mile boot in brown! I like Redwing have worn since late 80’s but NO Boot is sexier than Wolverine 1000 mile!#Boot❤️#Leathertop/bottom
Some reviews complain about the star back rivet on the 1000 Mile boot eating into the tongue. Did you find that problem?
Hey William, what are your favorite jeans to pair with those Red Wings?
Have and love both, but I’m a plumber and wear my Red Wings to work and feel like my 1000 mile are too nice to crawl under a house or dig a hole in
Lol
I feel that! That's why I wear sandals when I dig holes (I only dig holes at the beach)
@@BootSpy lol
I have 1000 miles
I got the evans - which has the vibram on the front
And the cap toe
My reasoning for not going red wing was the “clown shoe” thing everyone says happens to them
I’ve considered getting some red wings because they’re a bit wider
I wear a 10-10.5 in sneakers and got initially 10 in 1000mile but after about a week I noticed they were a half size too big
And tried thick socks etc but couldn’t get over feeling they were too big
So I buckled and ordered 9.5s and they are much much better
But I wanna get some iron rangers, and John lofgren combat boots
Will likely get the lofgrens first and then the iron rangers
But have the size 10 1000miles sitting in the box
Waiting till I can find a buyer at 325
Which is a decent discount
Would be cool if I found someone I could trade them for some 9.5 iron rangers even.
For years I contemplated wolverine 1000m but the redwing sole was always the deciding factor. Leather soles aren't rugged enough for me
that's exactly what did it for me too!
Oh shit man; you only live once! Drink the finest wine, smoke the kindest Bud, and walk in Wolverine 1000 Mile LEATHER soles!!!
You can actually work in the IR. I wear 1000 mile for fashion only.
I have both and I agree.
im STANDING on a forklift 6 days a week 10 to 12 hours a day,,, my feet hurt with regular lernman shoes from amazon with a composite toe.. are these really that comfortable,,
Iron Ranger is better. First comment 🙌
You did it!
I couldn’t decide, so I got both 😬
I still dont understand why people never compare the iron rangers with the Wolverine 1000 mile cap toe. that shoe should be the one to be compared with the iron ranger. And it also has a vibram sole
Because nobody gives 2 shits about IR uglyass toe cap. If I’m that worried I will just get steel toe boots. Wolverine 1000 Miles are best looking boot ever!
Well, Wolverine is more classy than RW. I own one of each. I love them both
Sometimes it comes down to your feet. We all have different feet. 1000 Mile Boots fit my feet just a little better than Red Wing Heritage. Red Wing is not a bad fit. Your feet will "feel" different. I own both. They are both well constructed. Both come in different configurations. Both offer several types of leather. Both offer different soles.
IR looks more manly and rugged. So if someone wants just only one pair of boots he should get them!
Looks more clownish or clodhopperish you mean
Why didn't you compare apples to apples? Wolverine 1000 Mile Red Wing BlackSmith Boot? Wasn't the BlackSmith Boot a response to Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot "Rounded Toe" ?
Thanks for your video. Wish You would of compared the BlackSmiths :o/
It's on the way!!
@@BootSpy Awesome, Can't wait.
Good review and points...The wolverine cap toe also has the vibrum sole option...I also think that the red wing toe being so bulbous, makes them look like clown shoes...🙂
This is exactly why I can’t make myself buy IRs. Have many 1000ks and love them and every time I try on an IR I think I look like a court jester
Glad I went with the iron rangers. Plus I'm a native Minnesotan so it's supporting a local business. They're made literally an hour from where I live.
Have IR oxblood love it
This comparison is silly, should have compared the blacksmith vice the iron ranger.
The bulbous toe on the Iron Ranger makes them look like clown shoes from certain angles. I think the leather on the IR, or something like the Red Wing 1907, ages better than the 1000 mile, but I think the 1000 mile has the best overall shape.
Hard to beat RW Moc Toe and Iron Ranger
I wear 10-10.5 in shoes and had to go down to 8.5D for Iron Ranger and 9D for Moc Toe.
Red wings need to change that clown boot toe box look.
Iron ranger for the win...
Neither of these boots come in 13EE. Pretty pathetic for companies with their reputations.
this is an old battle and rw wins every time
don't give away all my future boot battle winners!
Red white no all day long thanks
1000 mile come with vibram soles now.
Wolverine is overpriced by about $100.
They have some pretty baller deals right about now---you might be able to find them in the $200 range
@@BootSpy yeah probably but they use leather board insoles which is leftover leather that is ground up. Definitely doesn’t compare to red wing’s vegetable tanned leather insoles. If you want a classic plain boot then just get the red wing blacksmith. Better quality and 100$ less compared to the wolverines.