I am the market for this. The market is an everyday lifestyle boot that isnt too precious for a dress boot but has more subtlety than a red wing moc. just a great all rounder that becomes a part of normal life.
Hey Carl I've got 2 video suggestions for you, I know you probably got plenty planned but I'd love to see you check out Stormy Kromer hats and vests, and hickory work shirts. Stormy Kromer is an awesome american company made in the upper peninsula of Michigan, their hats are legendary winter wear and their vests are very competitive with filson. Hickory shirts aren't a brand but more of a style kinda like flannels, they're well loved by loggers and foresters, they're not necessarily sexy but they're just really durable hard wearing workwear made for some of the hardest work out there
I personally don't care who makes it, or where it's made......quality is quality. And it's hard to argue w/ results. Thank you Carl, for being willing to bring values like this, to our awareness. All the while giving them a fair shake. It speaks a lot to your character, I believe. Cheers, and best wishes, to you and yours, from the keystone state.....🥃
Got the diesel boots in vegetable tanned tan leather and I love them. Very roomy and comfortable. I definitely want to pick up their Chelsea boots in the future
Corr: Alden Indys traditionally come w/ a cork neoprene sole standard. Unbelievably hard wearing sole, but not for inclimate weather, oddly enough. Most special makeups use a commando similar to this, though with a somewhat shallow lug depth. A leather sole indy boot is quite rare indeed, probably more common to find them w/ crepe (I have some crepe barrie lasted natural cxls for like 6-7 years now, some of my favorite boots). In any case, I have a pair of black brass boots on their way (the crimsons look cool, but I have several 8 shell and brown/natty cxl footwear, and nothing black). Hopefully these will be a great winter boot with the light snow that's been on the ground during much of the winter here in Denver. Even with my Danner 600s I've slipped around a bit and my Dainite soled Vibergs are downright dangerous, so the weight and tread of these may be a welcome improvement.
@@davel2734 Only wore them maybe half a dozen times in snow. They seem to work very well for that application. Heavy, and Leo has less volume but structurally they feel the same size (ie. how the footbed seats). If there were narrow sizes I'd probably opt to get a C and keep Leo at a D.
Carl. I bought these boots over Christmas break and I searched and searched for a video review on these boots. I tried to reach out to some other RUclipsrs for opinions. Glad to see your the first one to get the brass boot review out there.
Love your reviews. I've been looking for something a little more dressy than my (13 pairs) of Redwings. Yes, I have a Redwing problem. I think this might just be the boot. Nice, but rugged. Exactly my style. Keep up the good work and thank you for the excellent videos. Don't change anything.
Making the argument of monolithic quality of manufacturing in China (or really any other country with a similar reputation, though perhaps without the geopolitical position) is equally as silly as saying all cars made in England or Italy or the US will be reliable. Ask yourself, did you stop buying American, British, Australian, Polish, Italian, or Dutch products because of the attack on Iraq and the hundreds of thousands of civilians killed as a result? No, I didn't think so. Anyways, I enjoy the content, and like that you bring some nuance to the black or white world that many people seem to live in.
Yo that's not why I won't go for anything by this business, I have no doubt that their stuff if immaculately built and done so by well paid good people. But I won't stand to have a major purchase of mine support a CCP concentration camp run by an organisation who would happily think me and the people I know deserve to suffer for existing. Otherwise good stuff!
@@Udhwjzjsnxjs China is not an isolated country (on the contrary, it's now the engine of globalization). If there were concentration camps, people would know. The enemy of civil society is ignorance. I don't think you know anything real about either China or the CCP. Stop spreading rumors.
@@Udhwjzjsnxjs Yeah I don't know how you can say you don't want politics when anything to do with with China is political. They enslave their people to drive prices down to put American workers out of work. Essentially it's I'm going to help fund the CCP or buy ethically made shoes at these prices. And for anyone saying they do that ask why Foxconn put suicide nets outside their factories and look up a video of chinese businessmen when talking about their workers its disgusting how they brag about being able treat them like garbage and drive their wages down.
I have 5 pair of Grand Stone’s and i really love them. The quality is amazing because the owners care. American materials and done right. I’ve decided not to buy anymore Red Wings and go with Grand Stone. I don’t really care that they’re made in China as long as the boots are made right. At the end of the day is my hard earned money and I buy whatever I want, this is a free market plus everything we consume here in the US is mostly made in China….. just look around your house .. even your underwear… 😂
Thanks for the video and review of Grantstone. I've been watching them for a while. The founder's grandfather I believe worked for Alden so the genealogy is there. And I have to say I laughed when you mentioned the state of Alden's website. My sentiments exactly. Keep up the great content and more importantly, great presentation and delivery. Happy new year.
@@CarlMurawski lol I broke down and bought the saddle tanned after watching this and aerosurferlv. I just couldn’t help myself after seeing the quality that Grant Stone puts out. I agree these things will look amazing after a few years. Thanks again for your reviews.
excellent review 👌 perfect description of reasons I would buy them. hard to find boot that can fit into all the aspects of my lifestyle. refined yet rugged
Hey Carl! Fellow sparky and boot lover here. I have always enjoyed your videos, no less this one. I was particularly excited about your video on this because the brass boots in mine are the veg tan makeup, which is obviously a different leather and also a different sole. I would love to see your opinion on these ones after you have broken them in for several months. It is very interesting how the same exact boot with a different leather and sole can take on a completely different personality! Keep it up👊🏽
I do think it looks nice. I feel like Red Wing’s 1930s Sport Boot (an Asian-market exclusive and essentially a men’s version of their “Clara” model) is a bit more successful in what it’s going for, but I would be totally on board with these if I had a space in my rotation for them.
Had the same exact issue with my Brass Boots with the D hooks. Grant Stone said it was normal. Maybe normal for them but not right. And, I have a lot of boots and none of them have spinning D hooks. Poor customer service too trying to justify a faulty component. Other than that I like the boots.
Great review Carl, as always. Your comparison to a functional Alden Indy is spot on, I literally thought the exact same thing the first time I saw these. Truly a wonderful boot. Well done. T
I have spinning lace hooks with my Allen Edmonds Higgins Mill in black CXL, which leads me to wonder if it has something to do with the leather itself. CXL is so rich in oil and waxes that it’s natural stretch may make eye hooks difficult to retain its proper installation.
Would this work as a PM visiting the job site boot? So one could finish the day in the office with something that isn’t a hard core work boot? Edit: their Ottawa boot looks like a straight Indie clone, solid option. Thanks for the review.
The Brass boot reminds me a bit of the Alden 404 model with its lugged sole and more causal look. I was in the market for just such a boot in the fall. Ordered the AE Higgins Mill weatherproof that comes with a ExtraLight lugged sole. It sorta fits the same casual role. In the middle of some sizing difficulty I discovered the Brass boot. Would have bought it if the AE hadn’t finally worked out.
Hi Carl really like your channel, would be intrested in seeing a review on Russell moccasin company boots and shoes as I have five pair ,I really love my Russell moccasins, they are in Berlin WI been around a long time, thanks William
I agree that quality stuff is made in China, like Milwaukee tools. But then, there isn't really any USA made match for Milwaukee in terms of quality and availability. But there are TONS of excellent American boot makers, especially in that price range
While I prefer to buy American, what I'm looking for is craftsmanship. If Chinese craftsmen are making something just as well as craftsmen anywhere else in the world, I will consider purchasing their product. My most expensive and possibly my favorite pipe is a $500 briar with a 14" bamboo churchwarden stem handmade by a very friendly and incredibly skilled Chinese artisan named Jieo.
1. The construction seems great. 2. The leather and other materials are great. 3. I am not a fan of the casual-rugged crossover. I think it makes it not look as nice as a casual boot, but too nice to actually do any work in. It is like the multitool of a boot: No tool in a multitool is as good as the base tool alone, so as a result when doing something, you usually use the full tool and only the multitool if that is all you have. If you are going to do work outdoors or in a warehouse or construction site (assuming your work allows non-steel toe, which is rare), and you get them dirty and scuffed up, you will likely not wear those same boots in a casual setting, and if these are your casual boots, you will not likely wear them on a construction site, warehouse job, or outdoors. If you can only afford one pair of boots, then these are probably already out of your price range. 4. Personally with these, I hate the look of those big lugs with the relatively classy looking uppers. It is just not my style. I like my casual boots to have fairly low profile soles, and I like my big lugged work boots to have uppers just as rugged looking. 5. These are trying way too hard to look like Alden Indy's. It is not a similarity, it is someone copying someone else's homework and changing a few things so it does not look too suspicious. Although, these are probably higher quality than the Alden's, which I do own a pair of and have had terrible experiences with: When I first got my pair, the heel area was ever so slightly loose on both boots, leading me to believe that that part of the sole was not attached well to the uppers. Since they are not work boots at all, they are very much dress boots, I just took it as a loss and wore them anyway, as I was only ever going to wear them around town. On the third time that I wore them, I got a tiny little bit of fresh asphalt on the toe of them, and when I wiped it off, it left a stain that has never come out regardless of what leather cleaner or conditioner I have tried, it has only gotten worse to the point where I would never wear them out in public again. When I contacted Alden and asked if they had any recommendations, they were no help at all and basically told me that I was fucked. And I have gotten asphalt on my Iron Rangers before and it just wiped right off, no problem, so I do not know what Alden's Work Boot Leather is, but it is shit. So there you have it, Americans can make shit too, and it will cost a lot more money. In that respect, these are a much better value, quality, and everything than the Alden's. The only thing Alden has on them is the originality of the design. 6. I know you do not want to hear it, but this is my opinion on buying goods that were made in China: My problem with things being made in China is not the quality of products coming from there, because they can make great things just as easy as they can make crap, as can any other country. My problem with manufacturing things is China is that I do not want to support the Chinese government in any way. Buying Chinese made goods now is like buying German made goods in early 1939. The Germans made some great quality things in early 1939, but I still would not have wanted to fund their genocides and invasions of their neighbors, just as today, I am going to do my best to not fund the genocides and incursions of their neighbors, done by the Chinese government. And this is nothing to say of the Chinese people, most of whom are likely oblivious to what is going on in Xinjiang due to their government's censorship. I obviously cannot live my life without buying things that were made in China, but I only do whenever there is no other option, and with luxury goods like high end boots, there is an option, so I will not. Not everyone criticizing Chinese made goods is just an idiot stuck in the mindset that every single thing that is made there must be bad, some of us just have moral red line.
I can appreciate the quality of their boots, and the craftsmanship is undeniable. That said, I like to support domestic US companies as a matter of personal principle, so I can't see myself in these. But, shoot, I can't see a difference between these and a fancy pair of Italian dress shoes or similar
Great review! I'm a huge fan of my diesel boots and I wasn't sure what to make of these. For some reason the pseudo Moc toe on these doesn't totally work for me, but I appreciate the look. Now, the Ottawa boot actually does a lot more for me. Will you review a pair of them in the future? Cheers!
In my opinion it is neither dress nor a winter boot because a dress boot has cleaner lines and a winter boot should have a warm lining. Is it a nice looking boot? Indeed. What is the best winter / snow boot in your mind, that you can wear on the snow and ice and that is flexible enough to do activities in, that does not look ugly?
There is a small, family-owned company based in Berlin, Wisconsin named Russell Mocassins. I have heard a lot about their boots and would like to know your take on them. I know you like family-owned businesses, would you consider taking a look at them?
Here I am 1.5 yrs. after this video was released and in MOctober! I'm debating between the GS Brass and the Red Wing Moc. It seems they are quite similar in build and quality, but I like the idea of the lug sole better than the wedge/crepe sole on the Red Wing. I've heard that the Red Wings can be tough to break in as well. Open to any advice from your viewers, especially from those who have tried both boots.
@@patrickmiao1698 I just ordered a pair of the Grant Stone Field boots. I'm looking forward to putting them too work in my garage, home projects and on the trail.
The Alden traditional Indy Boots 403/405 don't come with a leather sole. They come with a rubberized cork sole. The Indy boots crease normally in the forefoot area. I don't like the way the Brass Boot creases. I'm glad I saw this video or else I wouldn't have known about the weird creasing on the Grant Stone boot. Thanks, you do great work.
I don’t think they look like indy boots at all. The toe box is too high and bulky. I dream of an Ottawa boot without the camel toe, that would be closer to an indy boot (not for the heel counter though).
Really wanted the wedge sole veg tan version but they didn't give a lot of info about the sole. The Grant Stone shoes I have use Vibram wedge soles but not on these boots.
The links you have in the description don't work Europe, So I can't check your recommendations, instead I allways ens up on the startpage for the European site but I can't know what your recommendations are.
Good video Carl. I was wondering if you could compare Grant Stone shoes with Thursday shoes to see if Grant Stone's are worth the extra $100..Wondering also if you could do a review of your Maine Origin boots from last year...?
I’ve got a pair of Thursday president boots and 3 pairs of GS boots. Thursday boots are decent boots and comfortable but I find the GS are a sturdier boot with thicker leather. Easily worth the $$
I am at the beginning of my shoe journey...I mostly need something casual and outdoors. i have my eyes on Nicks, redwings, grant stone, rm williams, truman, and grenson. i think maybe truman boots are hearty but not so over the top as say Nicks. Rm williams for my chelsea boot although i would like black i mostly wear jeans so may have to go brown or suede. These grant stones may also just fit in. I mostly wore sneakers and some clarks for formal stuff but i think it is time to take advantage of the finer things in life....big fan of your vids any advice?
Grant Stone is fantastic, I really think they could fit the bill for anything less than a hardcore work boot or hiker. Definitely don’t sleep on them!!!
Well Thursday is made in Mexico, but Grant Stone isnt some Chinese sweatshop. They have a whole writeup about their workshop on their website. I really dont know much about the labor rate differences between Mexico and China.
I don't think China's labor cost in general is cheaper than Mexico's these days. In recent years, the lower-end factories (the clothing industry, for example) are moving out from China to Southeast Asia because the cheap labor they used to benefit from no longer exists. China has been actively upgrading its economy to be more competitive in the mid- to higher-end range categories. In this process the labor-intensive industries have to move overseas. Look at the labels on your cheap clothes, they are probably no longer made in China but more likely in Vietnam or Thailand.
I own Thursday boots and Grant stones and can honestly say the GS are a more sturdy boot with thicker leather. Very high quality boots. You get more for your money IMO.
Beautiful boot indeed. Creasing on the Brass boots look fairly ugly (just my opinion). Also reminds me a lot of Red Wings 8075 model, which unlike the Indy is really hard to get especially in Europe (Japan special unfortunately). Concerning your point that it is a more functional Indy: Why? I mean the Indy boot is for a reason a quite high standard. Leather lined, excellent last, super comfy (in fact for me the most comfy boot I have). The only negative point so far for me being the low durability of the Thomas heel (which one can overcome by choosing Indys with the Commando sole). I would like to hear facts supporting your point/claim though. You simply stated your opinion but however without any real comparison between both boots. In fact, some of your claims aren´t accurate. Alden Indy boots do not come with a leather sole, they have neocork sole and a footbalance heel. These are the classic 405 and 403. Some Indy makeups also come with Alden´s Commando sole (with lugs). Concerning the leather, the 403 would be the correct comparison as it is also made from Horween CXl. IMHO this is not the best for Indys and I prefer the standard 405 in calfskin that ages nicer and feels more robust. Best and thanks for the excellent content.
My issue with things being made in mainland Asia isn't a lack of quality; It's the exploitation of unethical labor shops to make an absurd amount of profit. If Grant Stone isn't like that, then I'm all for it.
The iPhone is made in China, most medicine is manufactured in China. If you don’t want to buy Chinese because you’re not a fan of the regime I agree more or less with that sentiment. But the idea they don’t make good stuff is fanciful
Dress boot? No. The lines aren't there for it, in my opinion, and I don't think it is sleek enough for a suit. Its not designed for it, though, and I think that's obvious. The toe box is too big and the thread contrast on the vamp just takes it out of the dress category.
I have these boots and couldn't agree more with your review. To me they look like an Alden Indy and a Red Wing Moc Toe 8146 had a baby.
I have an Eastman guitar and those are made in China and it is made to a very high quality
I have had several Eastman guitars. They are great!
I am the market for this. The market is an everyday lifestyle boot that isnt too precious for a dress boot but has more subtlety than a red wing moc. just a great all rounder that becomes a part of normal life.
Hey Carl I've got 2 video suggestions for you, I know you probably got plenty planned but I'd love to see you check out Stormy Kromer hats and vests, and hickory work shirts. Stormy Kromer is an awesome american company made in the upper peninsula of Michigan, their hats are legendary winter wear and their vests are very competitive with filson. Hickory shirts aren't a brand but more of a style kinda like flannels, they're well loved by loggers and foresters, they're not necessarily sexy but they're just really durable hard wearing workwear made for some of the hardest work out there
Yes!!! Stormy Kromer is a brand that so many people look past. Definitely more of them coming, and your comment just made me more sure of that!
I live my stormy Kramer hat man looks good and wears like iron wear it hunting working around the house and out on the town in the winter time
I completely agree with your assessment. I have several pairs of Grant Stone boots and love them.
Seriously great for what you're paying, but even then I feel like it sells them short. They're really nice shoes and boots by any measure.
Beautiful boots. Grant Stone never disappoints!
I absolutely agree!
I personally don't care who makes it, or where it's made......quality is quality. And it's hard to argue w/ results. Thank you Carl, for being willing to bring values like this, to our awareness. All the while giving them a fair shake. It speaks a lot to your character, I believe. Cheers, and best wishes, to you and yours, from the keystone state.....🥃
Big fan of Grant Stone here, I’ve bought 6 pairs. Thanks for weighing in on these - I wasn’t sure what to think of them when they were announced.
Got the diesel boots in vegetable tanned tan leather and I love them. Very roomy and comfortable. I definitely want to pick up their Chelsea boots in the future
Great choice!
This is a great boot I can see my self wearing this with a nice leather jacket and raw denim.
Corr: Alden Indys traditionally come w/ a cork neoprene sole standard. Unbelievably hard wearing sole, but not for inclimate weather, oddly enough. Most special makeups use a commando similar to this, though with a somewhat shallow lug depth. A leather sole indy boot is quite rare indeed, probably more common to find them w/ crepe (I have some crepe barrie lasted natural cxls for like 6-7 years now, some of my favorite boots).
In any case, I have a pair of black brass boots on their way (the crimsons look cool, but I have several 8 shell and brown/natty cxl footwear, and nothing black). Hopefully these will be a great winter boot with the light snow that's been on the ground during much of the winter here in Denver. Even with my Danner 600s I've slipped around a bit and my Dainite soled Vibergs are downright dangerous, so the weight and tread of these may be a welcome improvement.
How are you liking your brass boots? Do they size the same as the GS Leo last?
@@davel2734 Only wore them maybe half a dozen times in snow. They seem to work very well for that application. Heavy, and Leo has less volume but structurally they feel the same size (ie. how the footbed seats). If there were narrow sizes I'd probably opt to get a C and keep Leo at a D.
just a suggestion. you should look into william lennons boots from england, the company seems right up your alley.
Oh absolutely!!!!
yeah they're a fantastic company. Total family run small operation.
Carl. I bought these boots over Christmas break and I searched and searched for a video review on these boots. I tried to reach out to some other RUclipsrs for opinions. Glad to see your the first one to get the brass boot review out there.
I had to walk that line between releasing a video too early and being the first. I hope it was helpful
Love your reviews. I've been looking for something a little more dressy than my (13 pairs) of Redwings. Yes, I have a Redwing problem. I think this might just be the boot. Nice, but rugged. Exactly my style. Keep up the good work and thank you for the excellent videos. Don't change anything.
You are so welcome! I appreciate the kind words
Did you get one? If so, how did you find the Grant Stone sizing for the brass boots, after all?
Making the argument of monolithic quality of manufacturing in China (or really any other country with a similar reputation, though perhaps without the geopolitical position) is equally as silly as saying all cars made in England or Italy or the US will be reliable.
Ask yourself, did you stop buying American, British, Australian, Polish, Italian, or Dutch products because of the attack on Iraq and the hundreds of thousands of civilians killed as a result? No, I didn't think so.
Anyways, I enjoy the content, and like that you bring some nuance to the black or white world that many people seem to live in.
I agree with everything except for the car analogy. English, Italian, and American cars were never considered reliable.
@@renzokukenleonhart hahaha my thoughts exactly
Yo that's not why I won't go for anything by this business, I have no doubt that their stuff if immaculately built and done so by well paid good people. But I won't stand to have a major purchase of mine support a CCP concentration camp run by an organisation who would happily think me and the people I know deserve to suffer for existing. Otherwise good stuff!
@@Udhwjzjsnxjs China is not an isolated country (on the contrary, it's now the engine of globalization). If there were concentration camps, people would know. The enemy of civil society is ignorance. I don't think you know anything real about either China or the CCP. Stop spreading rumors.
@@Udhwjzjsnxjs Yeah I don't know how you can say you don't want politics when anything to do with with China is political. They enslave their people to drive prices down to put American workers out of work. Essentially it's I'm going to help fund the CCP or buy ethically made shoes at these prices.
And for anyone saying they do that ask why Foxconn put suicide nets outside their factories and look up a video of chinese businessmen when talking about their workers its disgusting how they brag about being able treat them like garbage and drive their wages down.
Nice, more like this. I would like to see a video about a more rugged/everyday winter boots aswell.
I was going to order some winter packet boots from Hoffman Boot but they want $60 for shipping!!! So I have a couple other options coming.
What?! 60$ 😅
Thank you for all the great videos.
Keep it up!
I have 5 pair of Grand Stone’s and i really love them. The quality is amazing because the owners care. American materials and done right. I’ve decided not to buy anymore Red Wings and go with Grand Stone. I don’t really care that they’re made in China as long as the boots are made right. At the end of the day is my hard earned money and I buy whatever I want, this is a free market plus everything we consume here in the US is mostly made in China….. just look around your house .. even your underwear… 😂
Thanks for the video and review of Grantstone. I've been watching them for a while. The founder's grandfather I believe worked for Alden so the genealogy is there. And I have to say I laughed when you mentioned the state of Alden's website. My sentiments exactly. Keep up the great content and more importantly, great presentation and delivery. Happy new year.
Happy New Year man!!! Lets hope Alden hires a web developer soon!
@@CarlMurawski Appreciate the response, Mr. Carl. Have a good one.
High quality, low key. Absolutely love that! Keep up the good work Carl!
These are definitely some sweet boots. I love their veg tanned brass boots.
Me too! Those will look amazing after a few years.
@@CarlMurawski lol I broke down and bought the saddle tanned after watching this and aerosurferlv. I just couldn’t help myself after seeing the quality that Grant Stone puts out. I agree these things will look amazing after a few years. Thanks again for your reviews.
This review put me over the edge. Looks like I'm buying a pair.
Years later and I still love these boots man. I think you'll be happy with them!
Love your reviews Carl. Glad to see your subs are increasing as its very much deserved. One of my favorite channels on RUclips.
Much appreciated! Slowly but surely getting there. RUclips gives you a little plaque when a channel hits 100K, so I guess after that its all downhill!
@@CarlMurawski haha you never know! Do a couple more collaborations with other channels for the exposure. You'll hit that 100k in no time
excellent review 👌
perfect description of reasons I would buy them. hard to find boot that can fit into all the aspects of my lifestyle. refined yet rugged
When I first saw the pic of these boots, the Alden Indy is the first thing I thought of.
Hey Carl! Fellow sparky and boot lover here. I have always enjoyed your videos, no less this one. I was particularly excited about your video on this because the brass boots in mine are the veg tan makeup, which is obviously a different leather and also a different sole. I would love to see your opinion on these ones after you have broken them in for several months. It is very interesting how the same exact boot with a different leather and sole can take on a completely different personality! Keep it up👊🏽
For sure man!!! Watch out for that 277V hot leg!!
Carl Murawski 🤘🏽
I do think it looks nice. I feel like Red Wing’s 1930s Sport Boot (an Asian-market exclusive and essentially a men’s version of their “Clara” model) is a bit more successful in what it’s going for, but I would be totally on board with these if I had a space in my rotation for them.
Just bought the Double RL Brunel moc toe. Got super lucky to find a brand new pair on eBay my size 🔥🔥
Had the same exact issue with my Brass Boots with the D hooks. Grant Stone said it was normal. Maybe normal for them but not right. And, I have a lot of boots and none of them have spinning D hooks. Poor customer service too trying to justify a faulty component. Other than that I like the boots.
Indy boots have cork sole not leather Are these similar to the Allen Edmonds Higgins boot with a more aggressive sole?
Would love to see a best insulated winter work boot video!!
Carl, you need to checkout Parkhurst out of New York...I don't think you've done a review of their boots yet
Another fantastic review Carl! Those are sharp looking!
Great review Carl, as always. Your comparison to a functional Alden Indy is spot on, I literally thought the exact same thing the first time I saw these. Truly a wonderful boot. Well done. T
I bought my redwing moc toe right before these came out with the saddle veg tan leather and wedge sole and I was just like 😳
Oh no!
You do these reviews justice. Great job man!
Thank you brother!!!
Damn, now I'm gonna put these on my list. Thanks for the review Carl!
Thank you for watching!
Grant stone boots are great. I enjoy wearing them. I get a lot of compliments.
I have spinning lace hooks with my Allen Edmonds Higgins Mill in black CXL, which leads me to wonder if it has something to do with the leather itself. CXL is so rich in oil and waxes that it’s natural stretch may make eye hooks difficult to retain its proper installation.
Good analysis and nice insight on where this boot fits in the casual/work boot spectrum. Always look forward to your videos...
Would this work as a PM visiting the job site boot? So one could finish the day in the office with something that isn’t a hard core work boot?
Edit: their Ottawa boot looks like a straight Indie clone, solid option. Thanks for the review.
The Brass boot reminds me a bit of the Alden 404 model with its lugged sole and more causal look. I was in the market for just such a boot in the fall. Ordered the AE Higgins Mill weatherproof that comes with a ExtraLight lugged sole. It sorta fits the same casual role. In the middle of some sizing difficulty I discovered the Brass boot. Would have bought it if the AE hadn’t finally worked out.
Hi Carl really like your channel, would be intrested in seeing a review on Russell moccasin company boots and shoes as I have five pair ,I really love my Russell moccasins, they are in Berlin WI been around a long time, thanks William
I agree that quality stuff is made in China, like Milwaukee tools. But then, there isn't really any USA made match for Milwaukee in terms of quality and availability. But there are TONS of excellent American boot makers, especially in that price range
I've been eyeing the Ottawa boot in Crimson for B grade or last chance option. It doesn't come by often so Imma keep looking.
While I prefer to buy American, what I'm looking for is craftsmanship. If Chinese craftsmen are making something just as well as craftsmen anywhere else in the world, I will consider purchasing their product. My most expensive and possibly my favorite pipe is a $500 briar with a 14" bamboo churchwarden stem handmade by a very friendly and incredibly skilled Chinese artisan named Jieo.
1. The construction seems great.
2. The leather and other materials are great.
3. I am not a fan of the casual-rugged crossover. I think it makes it not look as nice as a casual boot, but too nice to actually do any work in. It is like the multitool of a boot: No tool in a multitool is as good as the base tool alone, so as a result when doing something, you usually use the full tool and only the multitool if that is all you have. If you are going to do work outdoors or in a warehouse or construction site (assuming your work allows non-steel toe, which is rare), and you get them dirty and scuffed up, you will likely not wear those same boots in a casual setting, and if these are your casual boots, you will not likely wear them on a construction site, warehouse job, or outdoors. If you can only afford one pair of boots, then these are probably already out of your price range.
4. Personally with these, I hate the look of those big lugs with the relatively classy looking uppers. It is just not my style. I like my casual boots to have fairly low profile soles, and I like my big lugged work boots to have uppers just as rugged looking.
5. These are trying way too hard to look like Alden Indy's. It is not a similarity, it is someone copying someone else's homework and changing a few things so it does not look too suspicious. Although, these are probably higher quality than the Alden's, which I do own a pair of and have had terrible experiences with: When I first got my pair, the heel area was ever so slightly loose on both boots, leading me to believe that that part of the sole was not attached well to the uppers. Since they are not work boots at all, they are very much dress boots, I just took it as a loss and wore them anyway, as I was only ever going to wear them around town. On the third time that I wore them, I got a tiny little bit of fresh asphalt on the toe of them, and when I wiped it off, it left a stain that has never come out regardless of what leather cleaner or conditioner I have tried, it has only gotten worse to the point where I would never wear them out in public again. When I contacted Alden and asked if they had any recommendations, they were no help at all and basically told me that I was fucked. And I have gotten asphalt on my Iron Rangers before and it just wiped right off, no problem, so I do not know what Alden's Work Boot Leather is, but it is shit. So there you have it, Americans can make shit too, and it will cost a lot more money. In that respect, these are a much better value, quality, and everything than the Alden's. The only thing Alden has on them is the originality of the design.
6. I know you do not want to hear it, but this is my opinion on buying goods that were made in China: My problem with things being made in China is not the quality of products coming from there, because they can make great things just as easy as they can make crap, as can any other country. My problem with manufacturing things is China is that I do not want to support the Chinese government in any way. Buying Chinese made goods now is like buying German made goods in early 1939. The Germans made some great quality things in early 1939, but I still would not have wanted to fund their genocides and invasions of their neighbors, just as today, I am going to do my best to not fund the genocides and incursions of their neighbors, done by the Chinese government. And this is nothing to say of the Chinese people, most of whom are likely oblivious to what is going on in Xinjiang due to their government's censorship. I obviously cannot live my life without buying things that were made in China, but I only do whenever there is no other option, and with luxury goods like high end boots, there is an option, so I will not. Not everyone criticizing Chinese made goods is just an idiot stuck in the mindset that every single thing that is made there must be bad, some of us just have moral red line.
Good points
The Brass Boot is definitely something I've been looking for! Great video. 👍🏼👍🏼
It's so good! Damn sexy boot.
I can appreciate the quality of their boots, and the craftsmanship is undeniable. That said, I like to support domestic US companies as a matter of personal principle, so I can't see myself in these. But, shoot, I can't see a difference between these and a fancy pair of Italian dress shoes or similar
Great review! I'm a huge fan of my diesel boots and I wasn't sure what to make of these. For some reason the pseudo Moc toe on these doesn't totally work for me, but I appreciate the look. Now, the Ottawa boot actually does a lot more for me. Will you review a pair of them in the future? Cheers!
I just got midnight suede Ottawas and they exceeded all expectations! I love them
I have the Edward and Brass boot , would love to see a cap toe on the Floyd last.
In my opinion it is neither dress nor a winter boot because a dress boot has cleaner lines and a winter boot should have a warm lining. Is it a nice looking boot? Indeed. What is the best winter / snow boot in your mind, that you can wear on the snow and ice and that is flexible enough to do activities in, that does not look ugly?
First thing I thought when I saw these were - more rugged Indys
Damn these boots do look good
There is a small, family-owned company based in Berlin, Wisconsin named Russell Mocassins. I have heard a lot about their boots and would like to know your take on them. I know you like family-owned businesses, would you consider taking a look at them?
Here I am 1.5 yrs. after this video was released and in MOctober! I'm debating between the GS Brass and the Red Wing Moc. It seems they are quite similar in build and quality, but I like the idea of the lug sole better than the wedge/crepe sole on the Red Wing. I've heard that the Red Wings can be tough to break in as well. Open to any advice from your viewers, especially from those who have tried both boots.
Get both, they are both great.
@@patrickmiao1698 I just ordered a pair of the Grant Stone Field boots. I'm looking forward to putting them too work in my garage, home projects and on the trail.
The Alden traditional Indy Boots 403/405 don't come with a leather sole. They come with a rubberized cork sole. The Indy boots crease normally in the forefoot area. I don't like the way the Brass Boot creases. I'm glad I saw this video or else I wouldn't have known about the weird creasing on the Grant Stone boot. Thanks, you do great work.
Shame that I bought Thursday Diplomats few months back. They are ok but these looks much better. Anyways, thank you for this video, Carl.
Eh, no worries man I'll bet those Thursdays are great too.
Great review Carl! Grant Stone really feel like the Alden 70 years ago, price wise.
Nice looking boot, looks a lot like the Indy boot
Definitely! There arent a lot of boots that pull off the toe detail very well imo.
@@CarlMurawski great video as usual Carl , I can’t tell you how many times your reviews have influenced me ! Lol
I don’t think they look like indy boots at all. The toe box is too high and bulky. I dream of an Ottawa boot without the camel toe, that would be closer to an indy boot (not for the heel counter though).
I wish these were available prior to ordering a similar pair from another company. They do look like high quality.
I can definitely say they're much better than other options I've tried at this price.
Grant Stone boots forever I love my pairs of Grant Stones so much
Such a great brand!!!!
@@CarlMurawski It's really is
Can you do a review of the new rugged and resilient Thursday boots such as the new version of the captains
Really wanted the wedge sole veg tan version but they didn't give a lot of info about the sole. The Grant Stone shoes I have use Vibram wedge soles but not on these boots.
Awesome review, could you please link where you got the leather laces from?
Not bad.
I don't like the tractor tread lug soles. My opinion.
I'd like to see what they look like broken in.
does anyone know how these fit compared to the Redwing 1907 ?
Look into Bludstone boots!
Greetings from GA! Think you could do a review on the Georgia Boot Logger?
They look like a sweet pair of boots.
The links you have in the description don't work Europe, So I can't check your recommendations, instead I allways ens up on the startpage for the European site but I can't know what your recommendations are.
Thanks for the vid-I enjoyed it.
Glad to hear it!
Good video Carl. I was wondering if you could compare Grant Stone shoes with Thursday shoes to see if Grant Stone's are worth the extra $100..Wondering also if you could do a review of your Maine Origin boots from last year...?
I’ve got a pair of Thursday president boots and 3 pairs of GS boots. Thursday boots are decent boots and comfortable but I find the GS are a sturdier boot with thicker leather. Easily worth the $$
Nice review
Can you please review a pair Corcoran jump boots
What brand of boot besides pacific boots (whites wesco nicks etc...) Have the widest toebox looking for a work boot but most company's don't make a 4e
Allen Edmonds has the biggest size range of any company that I know.
They look great
I am at the beginning of my shoe journey...I mostly need something casual and outdoors. i have my eyes on Nicks, redwings, grant stone, rm williams, truman, and grenson. i think maybe truman boots are hearty but not so over the top as say Nicks. Rm williams for my chelsea boot although i would like black i mostly wear jeans so may have to go brown or suede. These grant stones may also just fit in. I mostly wore sneakers and some clarks for formal stuff but i think it is time to take advantage of the finer things in life....big fan of your vids any advice?
Grant Stone is fantastic, I really think they could fit the bill for anything less than a hardcore work boot or hiker. Definitely don’t sleep on them!!!
@@CarlMurawski Thanks ill send you pic when i get them thanks so much, great channel!!!
Thanks!
My favorite shoe company!
I love speed laces. 😢
The Indy doesn’t traditionally come in a leather sole, it comes in a neo cork sole.
Alden/Redwing have some competition
They look like nice boots. However, Why would they cost much more than Thursday Boots given they are using much cheaper labor? Thanks for the video.
Well Thursday is made in Mexico, but Grant Stone isnt some Chinese sweatshop. They have a whole writeup about their workshop on their website. I really dont know much about the labor rate differences between Mexico and China.
I don't think China's labor cost in general is cheaper than Mexico's these days. In recent years, the lower-end factories (the clothing industry, for example) are moving out from China to Southeast Asia because the cheap labor they used to benefit from no longer exists. China has been actively upgrading its economy to be more competitive in the mid- to higher-end range categories. In this process the labor-intensive industries have to move overseas. Look at the labels on your cheap clothes, they are probably no longer made in China but more likely in Vietnam or Thailand.
I own Thursday boots and Grant stones and can honestly say the GS are a more sturdy boot with thicker leather. Very high quality boots. You get more for your money IMO.
@@Ya0Yao Someone has their head buried in the sand
Brass boot sexier then diesel imho
Wore them today! Fantastic boots
Doesn’t grant stone speed hook always rotate? I have 5 grant stone 3 with speed hook and they all rotate. I thought that’s normal on grant stone.
I dont know if it is or not... seems like an odd feature if it is.
Every Alden I’ve owned also rotates.
Look into Bludstone boots, super comfy, last forever, and they’re pretty stylish. The work boots are great!
AHAHAHAHAHA
Beautiful boot indeed. Creasing on the Brass boots look fairly ugly (just my opinion). Also reminds me a lot of Red Wings 8075 model, which unlike the Indy is really hard to get especially in Europe (Japan special unfortunately).
Concerning your point that it is a more functional Indy: Why? I mean the Indy boot is for a reason a quite high standard. Leather lined, excellent last, super comfy (in fact for me the most comfy boot I have). The only negative point so far for me being the low durability of the Thomas heel (which one can overcome by choosing Indys with the Commando sole). I would like to hear facts supporting your point/claim though. You simply stated your opinion but however without any real comparison between both boots. In fact, some of your claims aren´t accurate. Alden Indy boots do not come with a leather sole, they have neocork sole and a footbalance heel. These are the classic 405 and 403. Some Indy makeups also come with Alden´s Commando sole (with lugs). Concerning the leather, the 403 would be the correct comparison as it is also made from Horween CXl. IMHO this is not the best for Indys and I prefer the standard 405 in calfskin that ages nicer and feels more robust.
Best and thanks for the excellent content.
Man those are some dead sexy looking boots!
They are boss boots.
Mouth watering
Can we get a few on feet shots?
Good looking boot. If you like hats, check out penman hats. Hand made.
My issue with things being made in mainland Asia isn't a lack of quality; It's the exploitation of unethical labor shops to make an absurd amount of profit. If Grant Stone isn't like that, then I'm all for it.
For what I know, it's not a "slave" factory. Grant Stone owner and their producer are personal friends.
Lol really bro? Like 99% of the crap we buy comes from there don’t act like you’re morally above others for just saying that
@@akgreene518 I said no such thing. Are you okay?
@@SquishedToesI literally never responded to any of your comments. Are you okay? Lol
@@SquishedToesis your username @mattno8074? I’m confused
Grant Stone should unline their boots to make them viable summer boots.
The iPhone is made in China, most medicine is manufactured in China. If you don’t want to buy Chinese because you’re not a fan of the regime I agree more or less with that sentiment. But the idea they don’t make good stuff is fanciful
Dress boot? No. The lines aren't there for it, in my opinion, and I don't think it is sleek enough for a suit. Its not designed for it, though, and I think that's obvious. The toe box is too big and the thread contrast on the vamp just takes it out of the dress category.
I only buy boots made in Beverley Hills USA 🇺🇸
Lol
Just not a fan of the Moc-Toe style
SUPPORT AMERICAN MADE!!!
You can learn English by just listening to this shoe expert. He might try doing some language lessons. "What a load of cobblers" - idioms, slang etc.