@Gabriel España That's a great reason to buy them. I love Allen's styles, especially the Indy, but I never found them all that comfortable to my feet. I still think they're good boots and great options for people who benefit from the last shapes. Still overpriced? Definitely, unless you benefit in other ways not associated with comparable build quality.
my friend, you should wear a heavy leather glove on your free hand while you’re cutting through the boots. i’m sorry but it would save you from serious injury if you were to slip up. anyway thanks for your awesome videos. Those G/Stones are really nice.
I have both Red Wing 877 and Grant Stone field boots, and I'll say that both are totally excellent. While Badalassi Carlo Minerva is excellent leather, there's something special about SB Foot Oro Legacy leather. It feels so waxy, has a distinct color that's recognized as the color of Red Wing moc toes, and it gains a lot of character as it patinas with age.
One thing to consider is the traction you get from different soles. I live in alaska and always walk on ice or snow for about 5-6 months of the year. Different rubber types have performed better than others on snow or ice. This year I’ve been using the redwing with the cristi wedge sole and my whites with the vibram 2021 wedge sole. The foamy rubber grips ice really well, especially the softer 2021, but it suffers in soft snow due to the lack of any lugs. I actually cut grooves into the 2021 soles to help on fresh snow and it’s been beneficial.
I dont know if you've already tried it, but vibram makes an "arctic grip" sole that has little fibreglass-like pads for gripping on ice. It'll wear out pretty quick on rocks/concrete etc, but is just about the only thing that grips on wet ice. Might be worth putting on a pair of your boots!
@@TillmansFX I’ve seen them but havent tried them myself. I have heard good things about them, though. I bought a pair of white’s smoke jumpers a few years ago and they had V100 soles on them that were made of a special cold weather rubber. They gripped ice really well! Better than any other boot i’ve had. I was pleasantly surprised. Different ingredients can have a large effect on how well it grips ice and snow.
Colorado isn’t anywhere as icy as Alaska but I slide all over the place if I wear my 8in 877s with the wedge sole. Cutting groves might make all the difference!
This man's knowledge of boots and boot making is unmatched. The way the knowledge is conveyed is unmatched. By far one of the best channels. Thank you and pls keep it up. Cheers!
I’ve recently bought a pair of 877s, they are easily one of my favourite boots, second only to the iron ranger. The leather is something else and they’re built like iron. I’d be swayed by these though for sure!
@@markopolo9936 not sure if you’re in the U.S., but White’s is running up the 6” Perry Moc Toe for $260 for Black Friday. Insane price point considering other brands increased prices over the pandemic. I know Thorogood’s moc toe went up in price.
Those GS mocs are nice, no doubt, and they're apparently a well-made boot. They seem like a great choice and a good buy. I could see myself in a pair one day. That said, the RW 875 is suuuch a classic. So good. The original. I have a pair and I'm always catching myself looking down at my own feet 😄 (my first pair of mocks had to be the O.G.)
Honestly I have several Grant Stone boots now, and I can say they're by far in a class of their own for the price. The quality is incredible, and Wyatt and the kind folks working there always go above and beyond. If you're considering a pair, just do it! I'll be buying more for sure.
Nice review, but as a cobbler, I take exception to the comment that rubber mids stick better to rubber outsoles. Rubber to rubber is not nearly as strong as rubber to leather. Anyone who has ever resoled a boot would understand. I am not alone in this - Trenton & Heath mention it constantly and will deliberately replace a rubber mid with leather when rebuilding because the outsole will stick better to the leather.
Your videos are the best source of reference if you plan on buying a particular boot, shoe or sneaker ..thanks for the information very helpful . I was in the air about buying grant stone but this video helped me make my decision. 👍🏼
I really like this channel! I never realized how much I needed to see boots cut in half 😄. Thank you so much! I like how passionate you are about shoes, your great knowledge and your humor. Also, Toaster is a star 😂! I love that cat! Wish I get to see him more often, but having a cat of my own, I understand. I doubt the cat bed will attract him though, perhaps you could try to leave some empty shoe boxes around
I have a pair of Grand Stone Field boots and I love them. Happy to see the review come through on Rose Anvil. One of the things I didn't expect was the comfort level of these boots out of the box. The are very comfy.
Been watching your videos for a few years now. Absolutely love your work! One of the moc toes you should look at is the redwing traction tread lite. Been wearing a pair for a while now and I absolutely love them. Give ‘em a look. Keep up the great work!!!!!!!!!
I have 3 pairs of grant stones (diesel boots and cap toe boots) and love them. But I really like my red wing Moc toe, I love the profile of the boot and prefer it over the brass boot based on looks, to me, the brass boot looks funny and the creases looks too gnarly after long use.. As for the field boot, I love that boot and will eventually pick up a pair. I sort of view it as a boot I would wear while camping or going on a adventure. The Red wing is more of a work boot/hanging out boot. I would probably wear the red wing more.
I have 6 pairs of Redwings and just started with 2 Grant Stones (Chelsey and Brass boot). I now use my Redwings for motorcycle riding and when I’m at work. My Grant Stones are for when I’m dressed a little better. They are better looking than Redwings and I want to keep them looking nice with no motorcycle shifter marks.
I’ll agree objectively the Grant Stone is better. That said I’d prefer the Red Wing for the shorter shaft, no collar padding, and iconic look, MITUSA is a plus too.
Great video, as usual! My thoughts on the Grant Stone is that it is a very well-made casual boot as opposed to the Red Wings being more of a purpose-built work boot that doubles as a casual boot. That doesn't mean the Grant Stones are of inferior quality: far from it, they are excellent boots. They are, however, made for strolling down the boulevard rather than slogging around a work site as are the Red Wings. Your ranking is correct, in my opinion, but it's important to understand where both manufacturers are coming from before making a purchasing decision. Again, excellent video! Thanks!
These Grant Stone Moc toe, kind of remind me of the red wing canoe moc toe model 9850 or 9851. Certainly a unique look that has grown on me over time (hated the look at first) Btw my red wing 9850 is very well made feels more comfortable than my other red wing moc toes, would be interesting to see what differences there are (if any) between it and the 875.
Thanks to this review, I bought my first quality and dressy boots, a pair of Grant Stone Brass Boots. At the GS site, I was riveted by the Brass Boot in Black Chromexcel Wedge Sole, and I forgot all about the veg tanned one I'd planned to buy and bought the black! Going into my second week with them, I am thrilled. By their beauty, of course, but increasingly by their feel. Having walked the dog through our neighborhood for an hour each evening while wearing them, off and on for a week, they are starting to feel really good on my feet. Thank you, Weston! If you come to Blacksburg, VA, and see a geezer walking around in cool black hipster books, that's me, having come in from the sticks wearing my go-to-town boots. Rose Anvil's look at Redback boots also cemented my decision to buy a pair of Great Barrier boots in steel toe as my everyday work boots. They have not arrived yet but I am hopeful. I got so lucky with the Brass Boots, following Weston's advice, sure, but there are so many variables, that I am trying not to get TOO hopeful. But secretly I am . . .
I have been wanting to get a rings and once I found out my fiancé is pregnant and due in January we haven't been planning for a wedding recently, but now with 30% off ill be ordering one!
I know there are companies that sale high price boots and are praying RA do not review there boots . Just like how the internet came into existence and exposed alot of lies , same as RA , here for the truth ..Great job love the channel.
I always thought i will be more in to veg tan leather. I got boots in bouth and i kind of lean more to oiled chrome tanned. Also this might be because i found in my parents home 2 of the same unworn bags one from veg tan and other from crome, and chrome tanned was way easier to bring back and rehydrating it to usable non papery leather. Veg tan was pain to bring back but now is fine so i can enjoy them bouth
Stitch density is a mixed bag. Having more stitches sounds like it would be stronger but you also made a lot more holes, closer together, perforating the leather. The same thing they do to paper when they want to make it easier to tear
I’d really like to see you cut into some mountaineering boots. Like kenetreks, Miendls or Crispis. They are my favorite boots, would be curious to see hour they are built.
Could you do an outsole wear test on the moctoes?Maybe set one on a belt sander for a minute and compare the amount of material removed or weigh the boots after?
Been a big fan of your channel for a couple years now. Love the content. I also like how you tell us up front this is a sponsored video and who it’s sponsored by. Bias can occur even when there are no incentives involved, but I think recognizing that bias goes a long ways. Which you do. Keep up the good work!
Nice review and comparo to the 875. I had been debating which Moc toe I wanted to get and recently ordered the Grant Stone Field. I ordered my Brannock size and mine were a bit long and wide. So, sending them back for 1/2 size smaller. YMMV. I agree with your comments about the overall quality of the boot. Stitching and overall finish is top notch. Their customer service is excellent by the way.
@@BOOGiNS 1/2 size down from Brannock works well for me. Grant Stone boots fit much larger for me than some of my other boots. I also wear 8D in Nicks 55 last and Viberg 8E on 2030 last. Truman boots 8.5D on 79 last and Red Wing 8.5D on #8 last. The Grant Stone feels roomy all around, but not sloppy. After listening to a few interviews with Wyatt Gilmore, it seems that is the intent of the design.
I have these in the saddle veg tan and they are by far my most comfortable boot. I will say though, I have 8 pairs of Grant Stones and these are easily the roomiest. I could have gone down a half size to my Brannock. These boots are worth it.
In boots I don't care, but veg tanned leather is what I want in knife sheaths and holsters because the chrome tanning chemicals can corrode knives and guns if you store them in their sheaths and holsters.
@@sallys2423 If you ever see a knife with green verdigris coated brass bolsters or pins or guard / pommel, it's usually because it was stored long term in it's sheath which was chrome tanned. If you're using the knife all the time it's no big deal.
Off topic, but as much as I totally dig and appreciate what you do... the RUclips infected my mind and made me watch classic P.J. Harvey. I feel bad, but.. ✨😸
I know no one has said this, but I would like to say it out loud in public to the skillful and dedicated shoemakers in Xiamen, Fujiang: Good job! You guys’ great efforts and fantastic skills in shoemaking has earned my full respect!
Your videos are great. I enjoy watching them and love seeing the cross section of a boot/shoe and all the layers. Although it’s sometimes painful to see a nice boot cut up. 😊
I have the GS Field Boot in Earth and they are great. My only problem is that they can look a bit large. They fit as recommended based on GS's sizing guide, but the larger toe box combined with GS's larger sizing can make my feet look abnormally large with some outfits.
I've got a pair of Brass Boots in color 8 (basically oxblood), they're great :). I was surprised how huge they were when I got them, the toe box is VERY generous, but I've gotten used to it and they're very comfortable
You should do a ranking system for the best waterproof Moc Toe if you don't already have one! Being from the northwest where it rains alot as well as me riding motorcycles all year around would really be interested in this video idea. Thank you for the great content!
I'd love to see you cut Zamberlan Vios 966 in half. I've worn them for years and years and have loved them. Two pair of JK boots coming so I'll be trying them out soon!
I would still give the win to Redwing. The largest flaw grant stone has is the sole design. With the narrow ridges on such a soft type of sole means that the will very quickly wear through the tred. The other issue I have with the grant stone is that the way they made the moc toe, it looks like a boat shoe instead of a boot.
I think Trenton and Heath would disagree with you on bonding rubber on rubber. They seem to prefer rubber to leather for bonding soles to mid soles. Your videos are great and always on my must watch list.
Love your channel. I work in civil construction (earthwork and pipe) in Seattle. And just like you say, we are boot proud. What you wear in the field says a lot about you. Everyone has a favored brand and type, but the most popular leather boots I have seen worn are usually 8". The Danner Super Rain Forest, Georgia Insulated Lace-To-Toe Work Boot G8040 and, occasionally Redwings or a set of fancy White Smoke Jumpers. The best Rubbers out there are, no doubt; XTRATUF Insulated Legacy's and, the LaCross Burly insulated. If you don't have a set or XTRATUF's of LaCross's you will by the end of winter...lol. In fact there are guys who will wear their rubbers all year long because they say they are more comfortable then reg leather work boots. I'd love to see a video on these. Maybe settle the dispute between the cost difference of the Georgia vs Danner, vs Whites. and the which rubber boot is better Xtratuff vs LaCross.
I have the GS field boot. The quality is incredible. They are also comfortable for long hours of standing. It is great vacation boot: you can go on a light hike and then look sharp afterwards at a stylish cafe. The big drawback is that the roominess makes them difficult to size. Many people must go a full size down from brannock and also play around with the width. Be prepared to return them multiple times. BTW, they are on sale this Labor Day for about $240. They are easily worth double!
It is probably pretty hard to do this accurately, but it would be really interesting to see a comparison in consistency of quality amongst the top boot brands on the market. Maybe the top 3 brands all source leather from the same tannery, but which brands seem to consistently have the best clicking and ultimately the best looking leather after use? Which brands consistently ship without defects in stitching, etc? I'm not sure how you could go about doing this without just bringing in the bias of whoever you consult, but these are things I always wonder. So many brands use Horween Chromexcel... other than the difference in materials used in construction, do some brands use that leather more expertly than others, etc...
I have a deep respect for the build and feel of grant stones, and I have several of them. However, their leather soles are pretty weak and wear out quickly
I don't like the look of the field boot, but I own 2 pairs of GS boots and 2 pairs of GS loafers. The loafers are my favorite shoes, period, and I love the boots, although the veg tanned (I think? GS calls it antique pebble grain, think it's Horween veg tanned) split toe boots were frankly kind of hellish to break in.
I like the look of the Grant Stone mocktoes, how they have a smaller toebox. One thing I don't like about traditional mocktoes is how high the toebox is it just makes the boots look really clunky, so these Grant Stones are awesome. I have a pair of Timberline mocktoes and they have a smaller toebox also.
These are nice, and I would love to buy a pair (especially with the Black Friday thing). Unfortunately this is yet another brand where multiple widths are only available for the men's line, and the men's sizes do not go low enough. Bummer.
Could you get your hands on a pair of boots from Butts and Shoulders? I've always been intrigued about those, they seem to specialize in natural looking veg tan boots.
I know Grant Stone wanted to push the field boot, but the moc toes would have been a more direct comparison. They do have a tan version on the wedge so it's 1:1.
I can't find any Allen Edmonds reviews or cut in half videos. Do you have any or plan to do some? Not knowing anything about shoes, I went all in on Allen Edmonds and have many, many pairs without comparison to other brands. Just curious as to where you would rank AE with MITUSA and others.
I have every pair of GS in the veg tan Badalassi leather. Great leather that is very rich in character but definitely a tougher break-in. The new GS Field moc toes take a bit of getting used to but have become some of my favorite boots. Good looking but not too dressy. I have my third pair of field boots, the Dark Burgundy Kudu, sitting in my mailbox when I get home. Wasn't feeling them when they first came out but they obviously grew on me once I took a closer look at the amount of detail and build quality.
I would love it if the moc ranking system could be categorized by whether or not the boots are authentic moccasin stitched and/or an authentic moccasin construction with stitching. The true Mocs would have to include Yuketen, Rancourt, Quoddy, and Red Wing without a doubt. Most of the Mocs on the current ranking system are faux Mocs.
Very nice video! Really love your channel. Can we have more European brands on here? Like Tricker’s from the UK? Or Diemme, Fracap or Corvari from Italy? Magnanni from Spain?
I love Grant Stones! Started with Red Wings. Alden and even have a pair of Truman (expensive for a very specialized boot) and I wear my Field boots, the Diesel and my Brass Boots way more often. Very comfortable and very well made. Had to waterproof the Field boots though as they did let in some moisture fairly early. Otherwise I’m all in on Grant Stone boots (quality, price, leathers and boot and shoe options are incredible and they have E and EEE widths!)
One thing missed.... The RWs have triple stitching while the GS don't. These two serve somewhat different purposes. RWs are more for real work be style. Buy American made.
According to trenton and heath, they always try to bond rubber to leather, because they say rubber to rubber doesnt bond as well, but idk to be honest thats just what they say alot
In a sewing perspective, I would think more stitches would affect the durability since you’re making more perforations in the leather. Leading to less structural integrity along that line of punctures.
Can you do a review on a Sears DieHard Moc toe boot? Essential Craftsman says they are his go to boot that he uses and I am interested on your breakdown on them.
The insole is the foundation of any boot, and in that regard, Red Wing undoubtedly beats Grant Stone. Sure, the Grant Stone might have a leather midsole, but it sits underneath a very thin insole that doesn’t offer anywhere the support and wear resistance that the Red Wing insole does. I’ve owned over 5 pairs of Red Wings and 6 pairs of Grant Stone, and not once have I had an issue with the Red Wing’s insoles breaking down or cracking. Unfortunately I can’t say the same about the Grant Stones; the insoles on my Chelsea boots from them cracked within the first 3 months of wear, and that was with regular rest between wears and shoe trees inserted. Once the insole breaks down, you’re no longer able to resole them without a complete rebuild, which 99% of the time costs more than the boots themselves. IMO the insole differences weren’t highlighted enough in this video.
I call BS on this statement. Both Grant Stone and Reg Wing utilize a very thick veg tan leather insole. You aren't cracking the Grant Stone insole in 3 months unless you are repeatedly soaking it and drying it in front of a heat source. But then the same thing would happen to the Red Wing with such treatment. You can see how thick the Grant Stone insoles are in any of the Rose Anvil videos where they are cut in half.
The insole of the Red Wings is substantially thicker than the Grant Stones. That’s self evident when you watch the videos. Even a little difference in thickness provides a noticeable impact on durability and longevity. I religiously take care of my boots (brushing after every wear, inserting shoe trees, resting them between wears, etc…) and I live in a dry climate so humidity doesn’t play a role in degrading the leather. I love my Grant Stones, but they could benefit from a thicker insole. My chelseas from Grant Stone are phenomenal boots, but I was disappointed that the insoles cracked within a matter of months. The cracks don’t go all the way through the insoles, they’re slightly deeper than surface level. That said, it’s very noticeable when you run your hand over the insoles. I’ve never had that issue with my Red Wings, despite subjecting them to the same wear patterns. I’ve documented my experiences with both brands on Reddit as well. I believe the best way to combat premature wear of the insole is to employ the technique that Truman uses, utilizing a full length sockliner over the insole itself, to absorb excess moisture and sweat.
I agree that the moc finishing is better on the GS. That's a clean finished look. I also agree that more leather under foot is good. But, how much does that cost? The nmber of stitches is aesthetic, isn't it. These boots aren't coming unsown at the welt! On the upper the RW has three rows of stitches done by thier famous machines.
Get a high quality wallet, belt or MORE in the Rose Anvil shop here - bit.ly/44jXLNu
Ladies and gentlemen... the man single-handedly responsible for setting the alden PR machine into overdrive
Seeing Alden get exposed was one of the best things that happened this year. Don’t dare say that on Reddit though lol.
Alden doesn't have a PR machine. They have not responded in any way because they don't care what people on the internet think.
I still bought em cause I have really fucked up feet and they’re some of the only boots I can comfortably wear all day.
@Gabriel España That's a great reason to buy them. I love Allen's styles, especially the Indy, but I never found them all that comfortable to my feet. I still think they're good boots and great options for people who benefit from the last shapes.
Still overpriced? Definitely, unless you benefit in other ways not associated with comparable build quality.
my friend, you should wear a heavy leather glove on your
free hand while you’re cutting
through the boots. i’m sorry
but it would save you from
serious injury if you were to
slip up. anyway thanks for your
awesome videos. Those G/Stones are really nice.
I would love to see a Rose Anvil analysis of popular thru-hiking shoes.
Yes like a pair of asoló 520
Thanks for explaining the differences between veg/chrome tanned leathers.
I have both Red Wing 877 and Grant Stone field boots, and I'll say that both are totally excellent. While Badalassi Carlo Minerva is excellent leather, there's something special about SB Foot Oro Legacy leather. It feels so waxy, has a distinct color that's recognized as the color of Red Wing moc toes, and it gains a lot of character as it patinas with age.
One thing to consider is the traction you get from different soles. I live in alaska and always walk on ice or snow for about 5-6 months of the year. Different rubber types have performed better than others on snow or ice. This year I’ve been using the redwing with the cristi wedge sole and my whites with the vibram 2021 wedge sole. The foamy rubber grips ice really well, especially the softer 2021, but it suffers in soft snow due to the lack of any lugs. I actually cut grooves into the 2021 soles to help on fresh snow and it’s been beneficial.
I dont know if you've already tried it, but vibram makes an "arctic grip" sole that has little fibreglass-like pads for gripping on ice. It'll wear out pretty quick on rocks/concrete etc, but is just about the only thing that grips on wet ice. Might be worth putting on a pair of your boots!
@@TillmansFX I’ve seen them but havent tried them myself. I have heard good things about them, though. I bought a pair of white’s smoke jumpers a few years ago and they had V100 soles on them that were made of a special cold weather rubber. They gripped ice really well! Better than any other boot i’ve had. I was pleasantly surprised. Different ingredients can have a large effect on how well it grips ice and snow.
Cut grooves you say? Interested in seeing how that looks like lol
Colorado isn’t anywhere as icy as Alaska but I slide all over the place if I wear my 8in 877s with the wedge sole. Cutting groves might make all the difference!
@@The1860th yea, snow traction is pretty bad on mine, too. Especially if the snow is a little wet.
This man's knowledge of boots and boot making is unmatched. The way the knowledge is conveyed is unmatched. By far one of the best channels. Thank you and pls keep it up. Cheers!
I love horween Dublin leather, love how natural it looks and love how it ages!
All my leather watch bands are Horween Dublin.
I’ve recently bought a pair of 877s, they are easily one of my favourite boots, second only to the iron ranger. The leather is something else and they’re built like iron. I’d be swayed by these though for sure!
877's are my favorite as well.
Ever try White’s moc toe?
@@ianturnbow7011 no but they are very cool 👍
@@markopolo9936 not sure if you’re in the U.S., but White’s is running up the 6” Perry Moc Toe for $260 for Black Friday. Insane price point considering other brands increased prices over the pandemic. I know Thorogood’s moc toe went up in price.
Those GS mocs are nice, no doubt, and they're apparently a well-made boot. They seem like a great choice and a good buy. I could see myself in a pair one day. That said, the RW 875 is suuuch a classic. So good. The original. I have a pair and I'm always catching myself looking down at my own feet 😄 (my first pair of mocks had to be the O.G.)
Honestly I have several Grant Stone boots now, and I can say they're by far in a class of their own for the price. The quality is incredible, and Wyatt and the kind folks working there always go above and beyond. If you're considering a pair, just do it! I'll be buying more for sure.
Nice review, but as a cobbler, I take exception to the comment that rubber mids stick better to rubber outsoles. Rubber to rubber is not nearly as strong as rubber to leather. Anyone who has ever resoled a boot would understand. I am not alone in this - Trenton & Heath mention it constantly and will deliberately replace a rubber mid with leather when rebuilding because the outsole will stick better to the leather.
Your videos are the best source of reference if you plan on buying a particular boot, shoe or sneaker ..thanks for the information very helpful . I was in the air about buying grant stone but this video helped me make my decision. 👍🏼
14:55-14:58: "And Toaster still hasn't shown up, so let's cut em in half..." don't cut Toaster in half! Love that cat. 😍🤣
I really like this channel! I never realized how much I needed to see boots cut in half 😄. Thank you so much! I like how passionate you are about shoes, your great knowledge and your humor. Also, Toaster is a star 😂! I love that cat! Wish I get to see him more often, but having a cat of my own, I understand. I doubt the cat bed will attract him though, perhaps you could try to leave some empty shoe boxes around
Glad this channel exists. I've seen other reviews where they do say it's double stacked leather.
Yeah I’m kind of annoyed that it’s not double stacked…
I have a pair of Grand Stone Field boots and I love them. Happy to see the review come through on Rose Anvil.
One of the things I didn't expect was the comfort level of these boots out of the box. The are very comfy.
I’d love to see your review on some of the Higgins mill offerings from Allen Edmonds
Been watching your videos for a few years now. Absolutely love your work! One of the moc toes you should look at is the redwing traction tread lite. Been wearing a pair for a while now and I absolutely love them. Give ‘em a look. Keep up the great work!!!!!!!!!
I have 3 pairs of grant stones (diesel boots and cap toe boots) and love them. But I really like my red wing Moc toe, I love the profile of the boot and prefer it over the brass boot based on looks, to me, the brass boot looks funny and the creases looks too gnarly after long use.. As for the field boot, I love that boot and will eventually pick up a pair. I sort of view it as a boot I would wear while camping or going on a adventure. The Red wing is more of a work boot/hanging out boot. I would probably wear the red wing more.
I have 6 pairs of Redwings and just started with 2 Grant Stones (Chelsey and Brass boot). I now use my Redwings for motorcycle riding and when I’m at work. My Grant Stones are for when I’m dressed a little better. They are better looking than Redwings and I want to keep them looking nice with no motorcycle shifter marks.
I’ll agree objectively the Grant Stone is better. That said I’d prefer the Red Wing for the shorter shaft, no collar padding, and iconic look, MITUSA is a plus too.
I would love to see you cut apart true moccasin constructed boots! Yuketen or Russell boots would be a big hit.
Great video, as usual! My thoughts on the Grant Stone is that it is a very well-made casual boot as opposed to the Red Wings being more of a purpose-built work boot that doubles as a casual boot. That doesn't mean the Grant Stones are of inferior quality: far from it, they are excellent boots. They are, however, made for strolling down the boulevard rather than slogging around a work site as are the Red Wings. Your ranking is correct, in my opinion, but it's important to understand where both manufacturers are coming from before making a purchasing decision. Again, excellent video! Thanks!
I was starting to wonder where the cat was. Glad he's doing ok!
These Grant Stone Moc toe, kind of remind me of the red wing canoe moc toe model 9850 or 9851. Certainly a unique look that has grown on me over time (hated the look at first) Btw my red wing 9850 is very well made feels more comfortable than my other red wing moc toes, would be interesting to see what differences there are (if any) between it and the 875.
A review on oak street boots would be really cool
Thanks to this review, I bought my first quality and dressy boots, a pair of Grant Stone Brass Boots. At the GS site, I was riveted by the Brass Boot in Black Chromexcel Wedge Sole, and I forgot all about the veg tanned one I'd planned to buy and bought the black! Going into my second week with them, I am thrilled. By their beauty, of course, but increasingly by their feel. Having walked the dog through our neighborhood for an hour each evening while wearing them, off and on for a week, they are starting to feel really good on my feet. Thank you, Weston! If you come to Blacksburg, VA, and see a geezer walking around in cool black hipster books, that's me, having come in from the sticks wearing my go-to-town boots.
Rose Anvil's look at Redback boots also cemented my decision to buy a pair of Great Barrier boots in steel toe as my everyday work boots. They have not arrived yet but I am hopeful. I got so lucky with the Brass Boots, following Weston's advice, sure, but there are so many variables, that I am trying not to get TOO hopeful. But secretly I am . . .
I have been wanting to get a rings and once I found out my fiancé is pregnant and due in January we haven't been planning for a wedding recently, but now with 30% off ill be ordering one!
I know there are companies that sale high price boots and are praying RA do not review there boots . Just like how the internet came into existence and exposed alot of lies , same as RA , here for the truth ..Great job love the channel.
agree with the ranking, got the bison one and it is awesome and much more confortable than my 875.
90% of my leather goods knowledge is from here
This channel is GOAT
I always thought i will be more in to veg tan leather. I got boots in bouth and i kind of lean more to oiled chrome tanned. Also this might be because i found in my parents home 2 of the same unworn bags one from veg tan and other from crome, and chrome tanned was way easier to bring back and rehydrating it to usable non papery leather. Veg tan was pain to bring back but now is fine so i can enjoy them bouth
Stitch density is a mixed bag. Having more stitches sounds like it would be stronger but you also made a lot more holes, closer together, perforating the leather. The same thing they do to paper when they want to make it easier to tear
I’d really like to see you cut into some mountaineering boots. Like kenetreks, Miendls or Crispis. They are my favorite boots, would be curious to see hour they are built.
Could you do an outsole wear test on the moctoes?Maybe set one on a belt sander for a minute and compare the amount of material removed or weigh the boots after?
I like this idea 👍
I really appreciate the unbiased reviews. Nice.
Love the GS Brass Boot! Not a fan of the field boot styling but the quality is undeniable
Been a big fan of your channel for a couple years now. Love the content. I also like how you tell us up front this is a sponsored video and who it’s sponsored by. Bias can occur even when there are no incentives involved, but I think recognizing that bias goes a long ways. Which you do.
Keep up the good work!
Lol, it is illegal to not disclose that it's a sponsored video.
You should do a cut in half review of the Trickers Stow boot! Trickers is a great heritage country boot company with a lot of history.
Nice review and comparo to the 875. I had been debating which Moc toe I wanted to get and recently ordered the Grant Stone Field. I ordered my Brannock size and mine were a bit long and wide. So, sending them back for 1/2 size smaller. YMMV.
I agree with your comments about the overall quality of the boot. Stitching and overall finish is top notch. Their customer service is excellent by the way.
How does the half size down fit?
@@BOOGiNS 1/2 size down from Brannock works well for me. Grant Stone boots fit much larger for me than some of my other boots. I also wear 8D in Nicks 55 last and Viberg 8E on 2030 last. Truman boots 8.5D on 79 last and Red Wing 8.5D on #8 last. The Grant Stone feels roomy all around, but not sloppy. After listening to a few interviews with Wyatt Gilmore, it seems that is the intent of the design.
I have these in the saddle veg tan and they are by far my most comfortable boot. I will say though, I have 8 pairs of Grant Stones and these are easily the roomiest. I could have gone down a half size to my Brannock. These boots are worth it.
Good info, a mini history of veg tan. Would enjoy an expanded history of leather tanning series.
Id love to see a review of Limmer boots. Limmer and Sons is a great NH custom boot brand that not on allot of people's radar.
In boots I don't care, but veg tanned leather is what I want in knife sheaths and holsters because the chrome tanning chemicals can corrode knives and guns if you store them in their sheaths and holsters.
Good to know.
@@sallys2423
If you ever see a knife with green verdigris coated brass bolsters or pins or guard / pommel, it's usually because it was stored long term in it's sheath which was chrome tanned.
If you're using the knife all the time it's no big deal.
Clarkes does the moc-toe stitching better than anybody else.
The way they do it looks really clean.
Off topic, but as much as I totally dig and appreciate what you do... the RUclips infected my mind and made me watch classic P.J. Harvey. I feel bad, but.. ✨😸
I have my second pair of Chippawa Arctic 50s in 15 years.
I'd like to see you examine a pair of these winter boots!
Hoffman Boots review would be nice if able . Love your channel, good to know that I'm not the only one obsessed with boots .
I know no one has said this, but I would like to say it out loud in public to the skillful and dedicated shoemakers in Xiamen, Fujiang: Good job! You guys’ great efforts and fantastic skills in shoemaking has earned my full respect!
Xiamen is not located inside guangzhou province haha
The kitty is hanging out by the space heater. Very typical of cats. Smart. They get cold easily. As always, great video.
Your videos are great. I enjoy watching them and love seeing the cross section of a boot/shoe and all the layers. Although it’s sometimes painful to see a nice boot cut up. 😊
I would love to see Weston take a look at some leather gloves from brands like Hestra and Wells Lamont.
I have the GS Field Boot in Earth and they are great. My only problem is that they can look a bit large. They fit as recommended based on GS's sizing guide, but the larger toe box combined with GS's larger sizing can make my feet look abnormally large with some outfits.
I’d argue the Brass Boot is the prettiest moc toe I’ve ever seen. These new ones by GS are nice though.
I would be in 100% agreement if the placement of the moc stitch wasn't on top of the toe and instead at the leading "edge" of the toe
I love their brass boots
@@jmarth523 in my opinion, the placement of the stitching gives the toe box a sleeker look
Their saddle tan, crimson and color 8 🤤
I've got a pair of Brass Boots in color 8 (basically oxblood), they're great :). I was surprised how huge they were when I got them, the toe box is VERY generous, but I've gotten used to it and they're very comfortable
Red Wing kills it, can't be beat in this price range
I bought Whites based on your channel broke in easy ad feeling great
Now you’ve mentioned Yuketen, any chance you could strip down a pair of their Maine Guides? Fulfils Mocvember and MITUSA challenges. Love the channel.
You should do a ranking system for the best waterproof Moc Toe if you don't already have one! Being from the northwest where it rains alot as well as me riding motorcycles all year around would really be interested in this video idea. Thank you for the great content!
I'd love to see you cut Zamberlan Vios 966 in half. I've worn them for years and years and have loved them. Two pair of JK boots coming so I'll be trying them out soon!
I would still give the win to Redwing. The largest flaw grant stone has is the sole design. With the narrow ridges on such a soft type of sole means that the will very quickly wear through the tred. The other issue I have with the grant stone is that the way they made the moc toe, it looks like a boat shoe instead of a boot.
I think Trenton and Heath would disagree with you on bonding rubber on rubber. They seem to prefer rubber to leather for bonding soles to mid soles.
Your videos are great and always on my must watch list.
Is this response real?
Love your channel. I work in civil construction (earthwork and pipe) in Seattle. And just like you say, we are boot proud. What you wear in the field says a lot about you. Everyone has a favored brand and type, but the most popular leather boots I have seen worn are usually 8". The Danner Super Rain Forest, Georgia Insulated Lace-To-Toe Work Boot G8040 and, occasionally Redwings or a set of fancy White Smoke Jumpers. The best Rubbers out there are, no doubt; XTRATUF Insulated Legacy's and, the LaCross Burly insulated. If you don't have a set or XTRATUF's of LaCross's you will by the end of winter...lol. In fact there are guys who will wear their rubbers all year long because they say they are more comfortable then reg leather work boots. I'd love to see a video on these. Maybe settle the dispute between the cost difference of the Georgia vs Danner, vs Whites. and the which rubber boot is better Xtratuff vs LaCross.
I like this suggestion ⬆
I have the GS field boot. The quality is incredible. They are also comfortable for long hours of standing. It is great vacation boot: you can go on a light hike and then look sharp afterwards at a stylish cafe. The big drawback is that the roominess makes them difficult to size. Many people must go a full size down from brannock and also play around with the width. Be prepared to return them multiple times. BTW, they are on sale this Labor Day for about $240. They are easily worth double!
It is probably pretty hard to do this accurately, but it would be really interesting to see a comparison in consistency of quality amongst the top boot brands on the market. Maybe the top 3 brands all source leather from the same tannery, but which brands seem to consistently have the best clicking and ultimately the best looking leather after use? Which brands consistently ship without defects in stitching, etc? I'm not sure how you could go about doing this without just bringing in the bias of whoever you consult, but these are things I always wonder. So many brands use Horween Chromexcel... other than the difference in materials used in construction, do some brands use that leather more expertly than others, etc...
💟 Weston's Vids. Honest and real. Keep doing what you do bud!
I have a deep respect for the build and feel of grant stones, and I have several of them. However, their leather soles are pretty weak and wear out quickly
I don't like the look of the field boot, but I own 2 pairs of GS boots and 2 pairs of GS loafers. The loafers are my favorite shoes, period, and I love the boots, although the veg tanned (I think? GS calls it antique pebble grain, think it's Horween veg tanned) split toe boots were frankly kind of hellish to break in.
I like the look of the Grant Stone mocktoes, how they have a smaller toebox. One thing I don't like about traditional mocktoes is how high the toebox is it just makes the boots look really clunky, so these Grant Stones are awesome. I have a pair of Timberline mocktoes and they have a smaller toebox also.
For me and my fat toes the deep toebox fits better than anything!
the UK brand KICKERS makes a moc toe might be worth a look, they make great shoes and their leather is buttery
God bless you Weston and Happy Thanksgiving.
These are nice, and I would love to buy a pair (especially with the Black Friday thing). Unfortunately this is yet another brand where multiple widths are only available for the men's line, and the men's sizes do not go low enough. Bummer.
Could you get your hands on a pair of boots from Butts and Shoulders? I've always been intrigued about those, they seem to specialize in natural looking veg tan boots.
I know Grant Stone wanted to push the field boot, but the moc toes would have been a more direct comparison. They do have a tan version on the wedge so it's 1:1.
Need a steel toe series. Maybe a comp toe series as well
When you did the brass boot you said the field boot had some points that might fail. I didn't see where you touched on that in this video
I can't find any Allen Edmonds reviews or cut in half videos. Do you have any or plan to do some?
Not knowing anything about shoes, I went all in on Allen Edmonds and have many, many pairs without comparison to other brands. Just curious as to where you would rank AE with MITUSA and others.
I have every pair of GS in the veg tan Badalassi leather. Great leather that is very rich in character but definitely a tougher break-in. The new GS Field moc toes take a bit of getting used to but have become some of my favorite boots. Good looking but not too dressy. I have my third pair of field boots, the Dark Burgundy Kudu, sitting in my mailbox when I get home. Wasn't feeling them when they first came out but they obviously grew on me once I took a closer look at the amount of detail and build quality.
One day you should cut up a pair of Vasque Hiking Boots. I love mine. Bought in the 90's, and hiked 7 of the Colorado 14'ers in them .
I don't need a moc toe for work and I love making small leather goods out of this Badalassi Carlo leather myself. I might be sold on the Grant Stones
GS is unbeatable… I own 5 pairs and am worried I still want some more. I like more their Brass model than the Field boot, though
I would love it if the moc ranking system could be categorized by whether or not the boots are authentic moccasin stitched and/or an authentic moccasin construction with stitching. The true Mocs would have to include Yuketen, Rancourt, Quoddy, and Red Wing without a doubt. Most of the Mocs on the current ranking system are faux Mocs.
Very nice video! Really love your channel. Can we have more European brands on here? Like Tricker’s from the UK? Or Diemme, Fracap or Corvari from Italy? Magnanni from Spain?
I love Grant Stones! Started with Red Wings. Alden and even have a pair of Truman (expensive for a very specialized boot) and I wear my Field boots, the Diesel and my Brass Boots way more often. Very comfortable and very well made. Had to waterproof the Field boots though as they did let in some moisture fairly early. Otherwise I’m all in on Grant Stone boots (quality, price, leathers and boot and shoe options are incredible and they have E and EEE widths!)
One thing missed....
The RWs have triple stitching while the GS don't.
These two serve somewhat different purposes.
RWs are more for real work be style.
Buy American made.
According to trenton and heath, they always try to bond rubber to leather, because they say rubber to rubber doesnt bond as well, but idk to be honest thats just what they say alot
In a sewing perspective, I would think more stitches would affect the durability since you’re making more perforations in the leather. Leading to less structural integrity along that line of punctures.
Exactly my thought.
It’s not going to make a difference. I’ve never seen a boot fail at the stitching
To the Peirce! Merry holidays!
14:55 I really hope toaster is alright😢
Would be interesting to see the Vans Sk8-Hi MTE shoes tested
I need a “more leather, more better” shirt
We need a video of Toaster on the Rose Anvil 2 channel!
Nice review but I only buy USA made boots.
For anyone who is interested, Grant Stone had some Field boots in their B grades page on the website.
I would like to see a Rose Anvil built Moctoe.
Can you do a review on a Sears DieHard Moc toe boot? Essential Craftsman says they are his go to boot that he uses and I am interested on your breakdown on them.
Can you do the White’s Fulton Moc Toe boot?
I'm pretty confident in saying the three peice toe is more likely to come apart
The insole is the foundation of any boot, and in that regard, Red Wing undoubtedly beats Grant Stone.
Sure, the Grant Stone might have a leather midsole, but it sits underneath a very thin insole that doesn’t offer anywhere the support and wear resistance that the Red Wing insole does.
I’ve owned over 5 pairs of Red Wings and 6 pairs of Grant Stone, and not once have I had an issue with the Red Wing’s insoles breaking down or cracking. Unfortunately I can’t say the same about the Grant Stones; the insoles on my Chelsea boots from them cracked within the first 3 months of wear, and that was with regular rest between wears and shoe trees inserted.
Once the insole breaks down, you’re no longer able to resole them without a complete rebuild, which 99% of the time costs more than the boots themselves.
IMO the insole differences weren’t highlighted enough in this video.
I call BS on this statement. Both Grant Stone and Reg Wing utilize a very thick veg tan leather insole. You aren't cracking the Grant Stone insole in 3 months unless you are repeatedly soaking it and drying it in front of a heat source. But then the same thing would happen to the Red Wing with such treatment. You can see how thick the Grant Stone insoles are in any of the Rose Anvil videos where they are cut in half.
The insole of the Red Wings is substantially thicker than the Grant Stones. That’s self evident when you watch the videos. Even a little difference in thickness provides a noticeable impact on durability and longevity.
I religiously take care of my boots (brushing after every wear, inserting shoe trees, resting them between wears, etc…) and I live in a dry climate so humidity doesn’t play a role in degrading the leather. I love my Grant Stones, but they could benefit from a thicker insole. My chelseas from Grant Stone are phenomenal boots, but I was disappointed that the insoles cracked within a matter of months. The cracks don’t go all the way through the insoles, they’re slightly deeper than surface level. That said, it’s very noticeable when you run your hand over the insoles. I’ve never had that issue with my Red Wings, despite subjecting them to the same wear patterns. I’ve documented my experiences with both brands on Reddit as well. I believe the best way to combat premature wear of the insole is to employ the technique that Truman uses, utilizing a full length sockliner over the insole itself, to absorb excess moisture and sweat.
@@zachp5291 They are both 7-8mm thick insoles. There is not much difference between them.
Eh, sponsored video what can I say. Yeah, the insole is a big difference!
I agree that the moc finishing is better on the GS. That's a clean finished look. I also agree that more leather under foot is good. But, how much does that cost? The nmber of stitches is aesthetic, isn't it. These boots aren't coming unsown at the welt! On the upper the RW has three rows of stitches done by thier famous machines.