I'd choose Nick's over a Redwing any day. Oh you meant the compliment. But know what goes into both the iron ranger and a few pairs of Nick's now, I know that tho yr boots might be $300 more than a pair of Redwing IR, the materials, craftsmanship, actual leather heel stack, the list goes on, it's definitely a better boot. Basically, like my buddy Weston says, more leather is more better.
@@yankeesfanforlife506 well I hope to own a pair one day. I'm a sheetmetal worker so I'm not sure what I'd get. I don't need anything over the top. Their moc-toes look nice and I typically go with a wedge but who knows. I gotta get back to work first tho... always slow around the holidays, unless yr locked into a long-term job. Might travel.
Over the last 50 years ( damn, when did I get old ), I have worked in boots daily. For Lace ups in Shop use; Red Wings, - Patrol; Danner, - Outfitting; Wesco. These 3 have given me good service, and have been worth every dime that I have paid for them. Cheapo boots will hurt your feet, hips, knees, and back over time. Do yourself a favor and save money elsewhere. Your feet are your body's foundation, treat them well and wear quality boots. Your whole body will thank you.
I just watched you do a factory tour at JK boots. Was very surprised they didn’t make your list, actually as far as quality of boots I was shocked they didn’t make the list?
I'm very interested to have my own experience, I have urban loggers that I absolutely love and my first pair of white are shipping out hopefully today or next week.
I used to wear my Iron Rangers most consistently until I got a pair of Truman oxblood double shot with the cap toe. I love the thickness of the leather and the overall look of these boots.
I was driving through and stopped in Spokane for 2 nights. I went to Nick's and the salesman did several measurements of my feet and said my feet are actually extra wide I never knew that. They also gave me a veteran discount. I got my boots in about 4 months. You can send them the boots if they don't feel like the right size and will fix modify it. I also went to a Red Wing store and they did a 3D scan of my feet and had me walk on a floor sensor. They emailed me the results. They then told me the proper size to buy. I bought some that were in stock.
Having grown up wearing steel toed Red Wing work boots for highway construction, I found myself in need of new boots for hunting a few years back and bought a pair of Red Wing Super Sole 2.0 work boots. After my hunting trip I put them in the back of my closet and forgot about them for at least three years. But about 8-9 months ago I pulled them back out and put them on again (mostly from curiosity to be honest)and have worn them nearly every day since. I've never worn a more comfortable pair of boots in my life. I expected you to put Red Wing somewhere in the middle of the pack in your rating. Was completely taken aback when you named them first. But my Red Wings are definitely first on my list. Thanks, BootSpy!
@salazam I should have clarified my comment. They are very well made and rugged boots. My problem was they were always very uncomfortable. They killed me. And I was in the Marines for several years in the Infantry and wore combat boots the entire time. Well, maybe that was the problem. The military issue boots destroyed my feet? LOL!
@@DaveCM No they are not well made anymore. So I found a Red Wing outlet and they had a backstock of the version I had, but steel-toe. Sole wore through within 2 years. Not re-soleable. They don't do their lifetime warranty anymore either. Funny, I was actually considering some Altamas.
What about Frank's Boot Company in Spokane, WA showing the owner helping customers himself sizing boot's, why aren't they on your list? I personally don't own a pair, but I have heard only good things about the company and owner giving outstanding customer service!
You missed the 5th and 4th best American made boot manufacturers: Yuketen and Rancourt. Great field and dress boots. All the other brands you listed basically produce the same style work/service boot. The materials used by Rancourt and Yuketen are second to none and they actually wear super comfortable due to their construction.
Exactly. So many of the crying Alden fans are basically admitting to being bent over a barrel without admitting it. They admit that they'd pay whatever they had to because of the comfortable last, not realizing that that's the point. I would put thorogood way above Alden, because they are a tool that does their job well. A work boot you can wear right away, fairly long lasting, and affordable enough. They prioritize function and reliability at an affordable cost, vs prioritizing premium leather at a hugely inflated cost like Alden does.
justins are shit. my 500$ elephant exotics from them have some sort of plastic piping down the shafts and has cracked. completely unacceptable for a 500$ boot, although i understand the alden indy thing going on too.
@@1hdoilfielddad244 well that's because you payed for the exotic leather. My conductor lace up boots are a decent enough reliable work boot for just under $200 ( the first pair was $175 a few years ago ) but they are discontinued now or at least the black ones are. They are very average and on par with most other sub $200 American made work boot, but I wouldn't pay more than $200+ shipping for anything from justin or chippewa. I really hate the carpet foam shit they use as a filler material instead of cork, I resoled a pair of mine and that shit was a real pain in the ass to remove.
@@1hdoilfielddad244 yeah,the exotic leather you got was where most of your money went. Without the exotic leather they would have probably been $175 and maybe not great but about on par with others for the price. A budget boot that's good enough for the price, but not spectacular. That's what justin does, entry level boots. You did pretty much did get ripped off just as you say, because they were just a budget boot with budget construction in an expensive exotic leather. The place you bought them may also have been responsible for the high price as well.
Totally blown away that you didn't rank Russells boots. I've seen, used an d tried on many including Nick's and Whites and Russell's are a step up for certain!
Just like Star Wars, they're riding on branding established from previous years and release nothing but crap now. Only a matter of time till people catch on. There's a reason they don't have a lifetime warranty anymore.
I've got at least 25 pairs of various styles of boots. The boot I grab when I don't want to think is the Red Wing Muleskinners. They're just insanely comfy and will last longer than me. That said, I have some vintage Chippewa and a bunch of Thorogood 1892 which are insanely great too. Nice thing is we have choices.
Thorogoods all the way, been using them for the last let’s say 6 years and they hold up, tried ariat (crap), Carolina (crap), Wolverine (absolute crap). For the price and the comfort I’ll be doing Thorogood for a while until something or someone can convince me otherwise.
I wore wolverines for years. A good, waterproof boot that was comfortable. As a laborer in an intermodal yard, all day was walking, climbing up and down on the rail cars. Then I went to get a pair and they were half price. I bought 2 pairs. When I finally went to buy another pair, they were made in china and twice the cost. I switched brands. When did the company come back to the USA?
Very nicely done. I enjoyed watching your presentation and I learned a few things, in spite of having been in and out of the boot business since the early 1980’s. I am currently the territory manager for one of the boot manufacturers on your list( I’ll leave out the company and the territory), and in years past worked for two others you covered. I have no great objection to our numerical position on your list - it was a reasonably fair assessment, even if not totally accurate. My only question is how you had Whites ahead of Nicks (even with your explanation). Also, it would be hard to argue with the selection of Red Wing as your number one. Their price points for US manufactured boots are $300.00 or more (seems a little elevated to me) and other boots don’t require the break in period Red Wing do. All that aside, they have been the premier American made work boot for “Joe Blue collar” for over a century (with all due respect to Wolverine). I hope they are able to keep making their Heritage line in the USA for another 100 years. Not many US companies are left. It was sad to see Wolverine quit making boots here, then Chippewa shut their last US plant down. Hopefully most of, if not all of the US companies will survive. BTW, I am not employed by Red Wing, Nicks or Whites. My employer is further down your list.
I just bought Red Wing Setters for work and I got tricked in the store by fake stitching. It's glued together, but I haven't broken them in yet and I love how they look, so hopefully they'll still hold up well.
I have owned 3 pairs of Alden, (2) 403 (1) 405, Red Wing Iron Ranger, Red Wing 875, Wolverine 1000 mile. Red Wing Iron Ranger are absolute beasts and Red Wing, in general, were the best-built of the three brands. Red wing sizing is nuts! The Alden Chromexcel leather is luxurious.
I like the Thorogood moc toe boots. My old feet appreciate wedge soles and there really is no a break in period. I keep tow pair in rotation and my third is my oldest pair for really crap work or really muddy conditions on a particular day. I work in these. They go on in the morning, come off in the evening. One pair is on the third resole! I get my money back out of these things. Not trying to make a fashion statement. Just want a boot my feet like for working every day.
I guess I'm sticking with my Carolina Logger boots. I've owned 3 pair in 30 years (I just purchased the 3rd pair last year, in fact) and for a work boot, working in a warehouse on concrete floors, I find them supportive of my heel and the insole keeps my feet comfortable all day long. Glad to see they made this list, I just don't agree they're that far down on it. For $210, I think they're damn good.
If you try out a boot that’s designed for concrete work, you won’t ever wear a logger on concrete again. I used to wear logger boots and always wondered why I’d get random back and leg pains. Now I’ve switched to a sneaker style boot and now I’m more comfortable than ever. I really recommend trying something different and seeing what happens.
Very much appreciate this informative video. Especially for people like me who wants to know more about American brands. (Just recently got my Iron Ranger 8111, my first pair of American boots from Amazon JP.)
I agree with your comment about Red Wing Sawmills...it wasn't easy for me to find a pair in the US, when I was looking last year...but, I found them on a website of a store in Sweden. They are a solid made boot and great for winter.
While I appreciate the American Made list, it seems that 75% of these boots were only being modeled as Fashion. When I think of boots, I think of grease, oil, mud, rain, logging, hiking, etc. Most of the boots you showed I would never wear outside the house because A: they looked too prissy, and B: the soles wouldn't offer any traction, C: they cost too damn much to subject to the elements. The PNW brands you listed of all the manufacturers should know that us whom live in the PNW expect something durable while dealing with the climate around here. Thanks for your time, but next time I will search "work boots".
I got a pair of Parkhurst last year and absolutely love them. As you mentioned, they have trouble getting things in stock and are a much smaller operation. To combat that, I believe, they have outsourced their construction to Spain so they are no longer a truly made in America boot.
For me as an Electrician, nothing beats Thorogoods! Great American union made boots, very comfortable and look GREAT! I wear them 5 days a week, walking on concrete, asphalt, uneven terrain...My feet are Happy!
Currently trying to find my next work boots, I work in construction and om on my 2nd pair of thorogoods, they're extremely comfortable but my gripe with them is the tread in the soles give out after a year. You can get them resoled but it costs 70% of the price of a new pair
Always enjoy your videos. Surprised you didn't mention one of your (former?) faves, Thursday, which I don't own, but Red Wings are my faves. We have a Red Wing store dangerously close to my house. Thanks man~
Thanks for taking the time to make this video, I found it informative. Also despite your very clear disclaimer’s regarding this list I’m sure some people are mad at you now 😂😂
For thirty years I wore Westco Job Masters for ranch work, logging, and road construction. I always had two pairs which I alternated daily. Some of my friends liked Whites, but I always thought the Westcos looked better. All to say, I agree with your pick of Westco for number 2, although I've heard nothing good about Redwings for many years.
Red wings can suck a fat one. Most of their shit is made in Asia now. I wore their loggers for ten years and the quality in each pair got worse and worse. And don’t let me get going about their customer service. Last pair of loggers the inside liner was destroyed within six months with holes in the upper as well. Went with thorogoods few months ago and love them. Just ordered a pair of whites on sale to try them out also. Hope I love them as much as my thorogoods
I find it cool everyone has different experiences with boots. I got a pair of Thorogood slip on boots and they were comfy from the very beginning. People I know who have redwing say the same thing for slip on however laced boots they say feel uncomfortable because the leather has to break in some areas. The moment my coworker told me he has had his thorogoods for 5 years, that was the final push for me to buy some
Pretty good list. One question: since you listed a couple of bespoke brands, how in the world could you not have Limmer on your list??? They are world renowned in the hiking arena.
I want a pair of engineer boots. I’ve looked at the White’s online several times. I’ve heard of Wesco but have never really looked into them, they do look really good though. My experience with Red Wing has been really good. I appreciate the fact that they have retail stores all over the country, and maybe overseas too. I like being able to try on the boots before buying them, also the clerk that sold me my Iron Rangers was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.
My dad wore the same pair of Redwings for as long as I can remember. I bought a pair of Thorogood on a whim, kind of, and they were comfortable the moment I put them on. I also had a pair of Danner Ft. Lewis for 20 years. After 20 years I had them re-soled and fixed up nice - they looked brand-new. Sold them and bought a pair of Nick’s Overlanders. Six month wait and they arrived 7 months ago. Easily worth the wait and the best $500 I’ve ever spent. I’d like to grab a pair of Redwings eventually, but my next purchase will probably be another pair of Nick’s. Simply put - you feel invincible in those things.
Gosh. Thanks for not making the video overly long. Nicely done. In the future I'd ask to leave up the name of the company/topic you're talking about onscreen while you're still talking about it. I reach for my Iron Rangers a lot...and might more than my White's once I get them upgraded with a leather mid-sole so they don't feel like sandals. 😅
I have a Laredo 8” shaft, slip on work boot bought in 1974 while working as an Ironworker connector for 17 yrs and multiple resoles to now , in 2022 where as a retired guy I had them resoled again by an incredibly talented Shoe / boot craftsman at Hanlin Shoe Repair. I had to get them repaired since the uppers are just too good and of thick leather twice as thick as new boot makers are using. I have only treated them with mink oil for all those years and they will outlive me . Sadly, there is no one to take these through another lifetime of use. They are Laredo boots with a 8 “ shaft. I want to die with my boots on.
I'm guessing you've never put on a pair of Georgia Boots huh? I found them to be more comfortable than the last 2 pairs of Red Wings I've owned. I didn't even have to break them in. It's also worth mentioning that the "SPR" leather they use makes them 2 or 3 times stronger & more abrasion resistant than most of the boots available on the market today
Bean boots are great for specific scenarios. I own two pairs - one unlined and one lined. The unlined are for very rainy days and times I am going to muddy areas like horse farms; the unlined I use as snow boots. These boots are very high quality for these purposes. Most of the other stuff Bean carries has unfortunately gone downhill in quality over the years.
That was one hell of a list for sure. Obviously there are rankings that I'd do differently (I'd of ranked Thorogood a bit higher and maybe Wolverine too. I'd of ordered Nicks, Whites, and Wesco in reverse order to yours). But that being said? You did a great job. And I liked the fact that you didn't just pick Whites, Nicks, or Wesco as your 1, 2, 3 boots. They are the most durable but price and lead time are huge factors that nobody ever accounts for. You did just that. Also, I am a Red Wing fanboy. So seeing them at the top of the list was awesome from my perspective. Yes, Whites, Nicks, and Wesco make a better boot overall. Thing is? They are almost and in some cases double the price of Red Wings. For me, Red Wing makes the most classic/best looking Moc Toes of all time. And Moc Toes are my favorite style of boot. Not to mention that for the money? You'd be really hard pressed to find a more durable/well constructed boot that's made in the USA. Or the world for that matter. Grant Stone is really the only brand in basically that price range that rivals Red Wing IMO. And in ways Grant Stone boots are better. They are nicer and quality control is a bit better when it comes to leather selection and such. Still though, Red Wings are just as robust and durable without a doubt. Not to mention for a boot? Although I do like a good classy looking boot from time to time, Red Wings appear a bit more rugged/classic than Grant Stone in appearance and that's more my style. Good stuff man. Good stuff.
They don't finish assembly abroad, that would disqualify them from the MADE IN USA claim because we have laws / standards regarding percentages. They are made in the USA with some materials that are not domestic. Maybe the footbed and counter / toe stiffener are imported, maybe the thread or vamp lining material. Thorogood and Carolina both use the same Horween leather and make their boots here in the USA, they just do it using some components that aren't made here.
@@aaronminkenberg8386 There are labor and material percentage requirements. I know thorogood clicks and sews their uppers in the USA using Horween leather. The work is all done here, it's just that some of the components aren't made here. Justin's I don't know, but don't really care. I wear Justin's at work because they fit my job requirements but they're not that great and my model / size is discontinued so I'm no longer buying from them.
I bought the Red Wing iron rangers on a whim after stopping in a store. This video had me on edge. I was relieved you spoke so highly of them and ranked the Brand number..
I agree, but I guess as most of their boots are made in Mexico they don't really qualify. But I think, based on some videos of e.g. Rose Anvil, the US made Line of Thursday sometimes beats the Wolverine quality etc. thus it would bring it roughly up to place 11. Which I think is quite strong for the price point and not being focussed on being a stylish boot instead of being a work boot.
Great list, I'll likely always be a Red Wing customer since they seem to be pretty much the only brand of quality boots you can still go out and try on in a store! I'm sure its because I'm an old chunk of coal (RIP Norm Macdonald), but I could never buy any piece of apparel on-line, especially when it comes to footwear as fit and comfort is as much about my purchase as is the style you can really only see when you try em on. So many of the manufacturers are just amazing and I would love to try some out, but where can you even hold a pair in your hand before you buy em?
Couple things, first; just bought both socks. I'm guessing with a name like Camel City their made in Winston? Either way, you had me at made in North Carolina. Second; the Origin denim jeans is now made in Asheboro NC. Everything else I believe is made in Main. But the jeans are manufactured in North Carolina with all products to make them coming in from other parts of the US (the cotton is from Texas I believe)
Thank you so much! I really appreciate it! They're made near Burlington, NC actually, but the company (and I) are based in Winston. And that's interesting re: Origin being made in Asheboro. I didn't know we still had denim factories here - I'll have to look into that! Again, thank you so much for supporting Camel City Mill and the BootSpy channel!
@@BootSpy thanks for making a North Carolina product. As for Origin, just their jeans are made here. There's a great RUclips video of the owner flying down to purchase an old textile plant and turn it into where they make their jeans. I love that, bringing that back to NC. Also, Devil Dog jeans is a NC product.
From my own research, considering over all quality, and price, and available/accessibility, id score it JK Parkhurst Randcourt Wesco Truman Origin Redwing Danner Nicks Whites Allen edmonds Wolverine Justin's Chippewa Carolina Georgia Thorogood L L bean Keen Alden Thursday (logger and vangaurd)
First video of yours I've seen. Why it took so long for your channel to pop up in my recommended list??? Didn't quite understand how you rated a few pairs you don't have but will continue to watch your channel. I definitely like your no BS, straightforward presentation. Yep, I subscribed.
You should definitely try a pair of Russell Moccasins. The original true moccasin boot for outdoorsmen and the first to complete the Appalachian trail.
You are a boot pro! I have six pairs of Redwings. Some I've bought used and some I have re-sold if I didn't love them. Watching the vid and getting down to #2 I thought gee, I wonder why Red Wing never made the list. LOL Pretty remarkable considering the cost of some of the others. Pretty much I cannot justify more than $400 for a pair of boots, but that's just me. Brian the boot maker convinced me to take up cobbling myself. I don't sew, but nearly bought a stitcher, but have resoled a lot of my boots with Cristys and Vibrams. I prefer oil-tanned leathers over chrome finish as they take oil well and always look good. Brian is also really good with how to refinish or restore boots, polishes, buffing, etc. I love my Iron Rangers but they're not all that comfortable. Maybe I need to put some insoles in them. I still prefer my work chukkas as I don't really work in my boots. The ones I do work in are a standard mock-toe briar oil slick, just putting a new black Cristy sole on them. Glued on soles are easy to remove, you have to be careful not to damage the last - you can do this a couple of times and then they should probly be re-lasted/sewn. I do like to put heel-type soles on my chukkas, I like brown or black better than the cream-colored crepe soles. I actually broke down and bought a bench sander for finishing soles. Thank you for GREAT content. 👍
I think you should make a distinction between 'dress', or 'casual' boots, or those worn for fashion, and actual work boots. I've worn Redwing mostly for 45 years in construction. My gripe is that so many boots have a deep lug sole, which is terrible for tracking mud indoors. I always got the smooth cork/rubber sole when it was available from Redwing.
Haha! Nice Filson Jacket! Whites, should be below Nicks. Their QC is lacking and they are also not a small mom and pops….. Red Wing is still my favorite boot brand and they are hard to beat for their price! So on that I totally agree!
For dress boots, you cannot beat Grant Stone boots for style and quality. Truman has the best range of leathers, including rough outs, and top quality. Wearing leather dress boots is the best decision I ever made and enjoy it tremendously every day.
As a power lineman for over 4 decades, I’ve climbed in Red Wing Lineman’s boots, Knapp’s, Lehigh’s, Whites, Chippewa, IMHO only the Whites can compare with Westco lineman’s boots, they’re the best there is. You’re going to pay for them and wait for them, but they’re worth it and when your boots are worn out, they’ll rebuild them for you.
Red wing wears out to fast and wolverine always falls apart! The best boots I ever wore were thorogood. The last 5 years on the job I couldn't wear them out and are still in almost new condition! What a great foundation to walk on!
I've been wearing my current pair of Red Wings for 4 years in a VERY heavy industrial environment. I had a pair that lasted 8 years. The problem is that there are 2 tiers of boots now. One is made in Red Wing, MN and the other is made in China. The ones mad in Red Wing are expensive, but worth every penny.
My oldest date code redwings are 1994. Worn daily for casual wear and for a few years as work boots. Took a beating on the ranch but are still completely serviceable. I get new wings every year from work and at this point I am just stockpiling as they don't wear out in a year, so I rotate throughout the week. I do have a set of danners that I abused hard at work and made it 4 years and now use as a hunting boot. My justins are just show boots and nothing more.
I am with you on Redwings wearing out to fast, but not in the way your thinking. I have been in construction 34 years and for my it is the soles. they wear very fast. Never had a problem with the uppers. I currently have two pair of Iron rangers. the one pair I have in the shoe shop right now to be resoled. they are rewelting them and putting on a wedge sole. the 2nd pair are still in the box and will be brought out when i retire.
Has anyone tried Rancourt & Co boots? Noticed they were not on this list and I have been eyeing their moc toe boots which I think look incredible. They're made in Maine and I have not heard any negatives about their construction, but curious if anyone has other experiences.
I got a pair of Byron Kudus. They’re very well built and they’re flawless. Comfortable after a few wears. Can often be had at a great price during crowd funding they do a few times a year.
I love my Wesco boots, but have found that Red Wings don’t fit my feet properly, which is a bummer because they have a design that I want SO BAD but I can’t wear them. 😢
Rose Anvil just demolished the Crap Alden boot. Used Wescos all over the Oregon mountain side and woods. Wesco makes boots for fireman and fire season used to be back order time and there was generally a wait period.
I bought Red Wings for years. I stopped because quality has gone down and price went up. I recently tried the mock toe and what a mistake. I even had to purchase insoles that were standered before. Never again.
"Probably the toughest, most sturdy boot I've ever put on my foot". Love it! I'd take that over the #1 spot 👍
I'd choose Nick's over a Redwing any day. Oh you meant the compliment. But know what goes into both the iron ranger and a few pairs of Nick's now, I know that tho yr boots might be $300 more than a pair of Redwing IR, the materials, craftsmanship, actual leather heel stack, the list goes on, it's definitely a better boot. Basically, like my buddy Weston says, more leather is more better.
@@JoeyDecay Nick’s are great boots I have a couple pairs .. the Americana boots are my favorite
@@yankeesfanforlife506 well I hope to own a pair one day. I'm a sheetmetal worker so I'm not sure what I'd get. I don't need anything over the top. Their moc-toes look nice and I typically go with a wedge but who knows. I gotta get back to work first tho... always slow around the holidays, unless yr locked into a long-term job. Might travel.
Tough and sturdy are important. Other nuances can make a big difference when it comes to everyday wear
Nick’s boots are in a class by themselves 👍🏼
Over the last 50 years ( damn, when did I get old ), I have worked in boots daily. For Lace ups in Shop use; Red Wings, - Patrol; Danner, - Outfitting; Wesco. These 3 have given me good service, and have been worth every dime that I have paid for them. Cheapo boots will hurt your feet, hips, knees, and back over time. Do yourself a favor and save money elsewhere. Your feet are your body's foundation, treat them well and wear quality boots. Your whole body will thank you.
I don’t know about old, but that’s straight wisdom there…
I just watched you do a factory tour at JK boots. Was very surprised they didn’t make your list, actually as far as quality of boots I was shocked they didn’t make the list?
Red Wings gave this channel money.
21Justin
20 LL Bean
Tie 19 Carolina/chippewa
17Keen
16Frye
15Thorogood
14Allen Edmonds
13 Danner
12 Wolverine
11 Origin
10 Alden
9 Parkhurst
8 Kreosote
7 Role Club (Brian the Bootmaker)
6 Oak Street
5 Truman
4 Nick's
3 White's
2 Wesco
1 Red Wing
Props to you for actually ranking Nicks, Whites, and Wesco. I think most people would have chickened out and declared a 3 way tie.
that's where it helps to lean on subjectivity 😅
I'm very interested to have my own experience, I have urban loggers that I absolutely love and my first pair of white are shipping out hopefully today or next week.
I'm happy to see wesco rank the best, those are going to be my next pair of uninsulated boots
What about JK?
@@BootSpy soon Numzaan by Jim Green Footwear from South Africa. Construction and Value
I used to wear my Iron Rangers most consistently until I got a pair of Truman oxblood double shot with the cap toe. I love the thickness of the leather and the overall look of these boots.
I got some in black Osmonda recently, they're definitely pretty comfy right out the box
I was driving through and stopped in Spokane for 2 nights. I went to Nick's and the salesman did several measurements of my feet and said my feet are actually extra wide I never knew that. They also gave me a veteran discount. I got my boots in about 4 months. You can send them the boots if they don't feel like the right size and will fix modify it. I also went to a Red Wing store and they did a 3D scan of my feet and had me walk on a floor sensor. They emailed me the results. They then told me the proper size to buy. I bought some that were in stock.
Having grown up wearing steel toed Red Wing work boots for highway construction, I found myself in need of new boots for hunting a few years back and bought a pair of Red Wing Super Sole 2.0 work boots. After my hunting trip I put them in the back of my closet and forgot about them for at least three years. But about 8-9 months ago I pulled them back out and put them on again (mostly from curiosity to be honest)and have worn them nearly every day since. I've never worn a more comfortable pair of boots in my life. I expected you to put Red Wing somewhere in the middle of the pack in your rating. Was completely taken aback when you named them first. But my Red Wings are definitely first on my list. Thanks, BootSpy!
I have never had a good experience with Red Wing boots. They always sucked for me. Everyone is different though.
@@DaveCM I had a pair that was great. Lasted 15 years of constant use. Lo and behold they discontinued the model.
@salazam I should have clarified my comment. They are very well made and rugged boots. My problem was they were always very uncomfortable. They killed me. And I was in the Marines for several years in the Infantry and wore combat boots the entire time. Well, maybe that was the problem. The military issue boots destroyed my feet? LOL!
@@DaveCM No they are not well made anymore. So I found a Red Wing outlet and they had a backstock of the version I had, but steel-toe. Sole wore through within 2 years. Not re-soleable. They don't do their lifetime warranty anymore either.
Funny, I was actually considering some Altamas.
@salazam That absolutely sucks. I hate to hear that. And, let me guess. They still charge a premium price for them?
What about Frank's Boot Company in Spokane, WA showing the owner helping customers himself sizing boot's, why aren't they on your list? I personally don't own a pair, but I have heard only good things about the company and owner giving outstanding customer service!
This!! Think I am on pair #4 with Franks. Frank and Michelle treat you like family. They are at the top of my list along with Wesco.
You missed the 5th and 4th best American made boot manufacturers: Yuketen and Rancourt. Great field and dress boots. All the other brands you listed basically produce the same style work/service boot. The materials used by Rancourt and Yuketen are second to none and they actually wear super comfortable due to their construction.
Put Alden at the bottom for using cheap materials and having bad qc but charging a premium.
Exactly.
So many of the crying Alden fans are basically admitting to being bent over a barrel without admitting it.
They admit that they'd pay whatever they had to because of the comfortable last, not realizing that that's the point.
I would put thorogood way above Alden, because they are a tool that does their job well.
A work boot you can wear right away, fairly long lasting, and affordable enough.
They prioritize function and reliability at an affordable cost, vs prioritizing premium leather at a hugely inflated cost like Alden does.
justins are shit. my 500$ elephant exotics from them have some sort of plastic piping down the shafts and has cracked. completely unacceptable for a 500$ boot, although i understand the alden indy thing going on too.
@@1hdoilfielddad244 well that's because you payed for the exotic leather.
My conductor lace up boots are a decent enough reliable work boot for just under $200 ( the first pair was $175 a few years ago ) but they are discontinued now or at least the black ones are.
They are very average and on par with most other sub $200 American made work boot, but I wouldn't pay more than $200+ shipping for anything from justin or chippewa.
I really hate the carpet foam shit they use as a filler material instead of cork, I resoled a pair of mine and that shit was a real pain in the ass to remove.
@@TylerSnyder305 right, i paid for exotic leather, not plastic.
@@1hdoilfielddad244 yeah,the exotic leather you got was where most of your money went.
Without the exotic leather they would have probably been $175 and maybe not great but about on par with others for the price.
A budget boot that's good enough for the price, but not spectacular.
That's what justin does, entry level boots.
You did pretty much did get ripped off just as you say, because they were just a budget boot with budget construction in an expensive exotic leather.
The place you bought them may also have been responsible for the high price as well.
Thought for a minute the Iron Ranger wasn’t going to be on the list. I was pleasantly surprised you put Red Wing Iron Ranger as #1. Truly great boots.
Totally blown away that you didn't rank Russells boots. I've seen, used an d tried on many including Nick's and Whites and Russell's are a step up for certain!
Same with JK boots. I can't believe he didn't even mention JK
Been wearing redwing 2406's for years. Indoors on concrete, sticky sole very comfortable. Nearly everything I want in a boot
I have Keen American made boots, and while you think they are ugly, they are comfortable and solidly made.
Red Wimg work boots have taken a dump. Just ordered my first non-Red Wing work boot ever.
Just like Star Wars, they're riding on branding established from previous years and release nothing but crap now. Only a matter of time till people catch on. There's a reason they don't have a lifetime warranty anymore.
I've got at least 25 pairs of various styles of boots. The boot I grab when I don't want to think is the Red Wing Muleskinners. They're just insanely comfy and will last longer than me.
That said, I have some vintage Chippewa and a bunch of Thorogood 1892 which are insanely great too.
Nice thing is we have choices.
Thorogoods all the way, been using them for the last let’s say 6 years and they hold up, tried ariat (crap), Carolina (crap), Wolverine (absolute crap). For the price and the comfort I’ll be doing Thorogood for a while until something or someone can convince me otherwise.
I wore wolverines for years. A good, waterproof boot that was comfortable. As a laborer in an intermodal yard, all day was walking, climbing up and down on the rail cars. Then I went to get a pair and they were half price. I bought 2 pairs. When I finally went to buy another pair, they were made in china and twice the cost. I switched brands. When did the company come back to the USA?
Redwing is hands down the worst company to deal with online. Dealing with their stores has been ok, but online has been a nightmare.
Very nicely done. I enjoyed watching your presentation and I learned a few things, in spite of having been in and out of the boot business since the early 1980’s. I am currently the territory manager for one of the boot manufacturers on your list( I’ll leave out the company and the territory), and in years past worked for two others you covered. I have no great objection to our numerical position on your list - it was a reasonably fair assessment, even if not totally accurate. My only question is how you had Whites ahead of Nicks (even with your explanation). Also, it would be hard to argue with the selection of Red Wing as your number one. Their price points for US manufactured boots are $300.00 or more (seems a little elevated to me) and other boots don’t require the break in period Red Wing do. All that aside, they have been the premier American made work boot for “Joe Blue collar” for over a century (with all due respect to Wolverine). I hope they are able to keep making their Heritage line in the USA for another 100 years. Not many US companies are left. It was sad to see Wolverine quit making boots here, then Chippewa shut their last US plant down. Hopefully most of, if not all of the US companies will survive. BTW, I am not employed by Red Wing, Nicks or Whites. My employer is further down your list.
Nick’s is definitely #1 but I’m sure it was really hard ranking all these boots.
I just bought Red Wing Setters for work and I got tricked in the store by fake stitching. It's glued together, but I haven't broken them in yet and I love how they look, so hopefully they'll still hold up well.
The made in China tag should have been a clue.
@@thenomenclature7243 they're not made in China bud
@@thr0w407 Cambodia, Vietnam and Republic of China. Irish Setter from Red Wing aren't USA made.
@@jeffdemarcus160 yeah Vietnam and China are different places. Mine are made in Vietnam.
@@thr0w407 Republic of China AKA Taiwan. better than China but not USA made.
Jk definitely belongs on this list somewhere in the top 5 if not top 3
I have owned 3 pairs of Alden, (2) 403 (1) 405, Red Wing Iron Ranger, Red Wing 875, Wolverine 1000 mile. Red Wing Iron Ranger are absolute beasts and Red Wing, in general, were the best-built of the three brands. Red wing sizing is nuts! The Alden Chromexcel leather is luxurious.
Danner used to make great hunting boots,but the boots now have no ankle support,but I loved the air bob sole!
As a retired lineman, Red Wings were about all I wore. For gaffing and just overall comfort, nothing else came close.
I tried on a pair after being properly fitted and couldn't stand on how big they felt on my feet. It felt like I was wearing clown shoes.
The disclaimer is totally gentlemanly. Cheers!
I like the Thorogood moc toe boots. My old feet appreciate wedge soles and there really is no a break in period. I keep tow pair in rotation and my third is my oldest pair for really crap work or really muddy conditions on a particular day. I work in these. They go on in the morning, come off in the evening. One pair is on the third resole! I get my money back out of these things. Not trying to make a fashion statement. Just want a boot my feet like for working every day.
ranking Nicks below Red Wing is insulting. Nicks belongs at the top of this list.
Luchesse should be on any top American boot list. Good list.
I guess I'm sticking with my Carolina Logger boots. I've owned 3 pair in 30 years (I just purchased the 3rd pair last year, in fact) and for a work boot, working in a warehouse on concrete floors, I find them supportive of my heel and the insole keeps my feet comfortable all day long.
Glad to see they made this list, I just don't agree they're that far down on it. For $210, I think they're damn good.
If you try out a boot that’s designed for concrete work, you won’t ever wear a logger on concrete again. I used to wear logger boots and always wondered why I’d get random back and leg pains. Now I’ve switched to a sneaker style boot and now I’m more comfortable than ever. I really recommend trying something different and seeing what happens.
Very much appreciate this informative video. Especially for people like me who wants to know more about American brands. (Just recently got my Iron Ranger 8111, my first pair of American boots from Amazon JP.)
I was getting concerned when I wasn’t hearing redwing on your list but you shocked me when you rated them # 1 😂
I agree with your comment about Red Wing Sawmills...it wasn't easy for me to find a pair in the US, when I was looking last year...but, I found them on a website of a store in Sweden. They are a solid made boot and great for winter.
yeah, I'm surprised there aren't more and I hope they start up production again in winter
While I appreciate the American Made list, it seems that 75% of these boots were only being modeled as Fashion. When I think of boots, I think of grease, oil, mud, rain, logging, hiking, etc. Most of the boots you showed I would never wear outside the house because A: they looked too prissy, and B: the soles wouldn't offer any traction, C: they cost too damn much to subject to the elements. The PNW brands you listed of all the manufacturers should know that us whom live in the PNW expect something durable while dealing with the climate around here. Thanks for your time, but next time I will search "work boots".
I got a pair of Parkhurst last year and absolutely love them. As you mentioned, they have trouble getting things in stock and are a much smaller operation. To combat that, I believe, they have outsourced their construction to Spain so they are no longer a truly made in America boot.
For me as an Electrician, nothing beats Thorogoods! Great American union made boots, very comfortable and look GREAT! I wear them 5 days a week, walking on concrete, asphalt, uneven terrain...My feet are Happy!
Red Wing is my favorite. Chipewaa used to be All American . However, most of their shoes are NOW "imported" meaning probably made outside of USA.
Currently trying to find my next work boots, I work in construction and om on my 2nd pair of thorogoods, they're extremely comfortable but my gripe with them is the tread in the soles give out after a year. You can get them resoled but it costs 70% of the price of a new pair
Always enjoy your videos. Surprised you didn't mention one of your (former?) faves, Thursday, which I don't own, but Red Wings are my faves. We have a Red Wing store dangerously close to my house. Thanks man~
I was looking for Thursday. Have two pair. Love them!!
How could you forget Russell's? Berlin, WI.
Danner ! #1 !!, I’ve worn Danner combat boots since 1990- Ft Lewis model
Also can be recrafted and great customer service
Am I the only one who's more interested in that jacket? Lol. Great vid man!
Interested in getting my first pair of boots, I've been seeing ads on Thursday Boots and they look pretty stylish, are they a good pair to get?
I love them, have a captain in brandy and just got the new moc toe is adobe. I can't believe they didn't make this list.
@@TandemKnightsis an american made boots list. Thursday made 90% of his products in Mexico.
My mexican Captains are very good quality. Also have Thursdayl Loggers, Made in USA, very good quality.
@@rogeliopitti7120 Ah yes, that makes sense.
Thanks for taking the time to make this video, I found it informative. Also despite your very clear disclaimer’s regarding this list I’m sure some people are mad at you now 😂😂
For thirty years I wore Westco Job Masters for ranch work, logging, and road construction. I always had two pairs which I alternated daily. Some of my friends liked Whites, but I always thought the Westcos looked better. All to say, I agree with your pick of Westco for number 2, although I've heard nothing good about Redwings for many years.
Red wings can suck a fat one. Most of their shit is made in Asia now. I wore their loggers for ten years and the quality in each pair got worse and worse. And don’t let me get going about their customer service. Last pair of loggers the inside liner was destroyed within six months with holes in the upper as well. Went with thorogoods few months ago and love them. Just ordered a pair of whites on sale to try them out also. Hope I love them as much as my thorogoods
Sounds right. If your Whites don't work out, try Wesco Jobmasters. They're good boots.@@johnsylvester3374
Daaang that Wesco engineer style is classyyyy 😍
Allen Edmonds is not what they use to be but they are my everyday wear
Wow I was blown away when you said Redwing in first place !!!! Lol
I find it cool everyone has different experiences with boots. I got a pair of Thorogood slip on boots and they were comfy from the very beginning. People I know who have redwing say the same thing for slip on however laced boots they say feel uncomfortable because the leather has to break in some areas. The moment my coworker told me he has had his thorogoods for 5 years, that was the final push for me to buy some
Pretty good list. One question: since you listed a couple of bespoke brands, how in the world could you not have Limmer on your list??? They are world renowned in the hiking arena.
Wow. I would have never have guessed redwing rated so high. I love them, but never thought they were a top 10 boot.
I want a pair of engineer boots. I’ve looked at the White’s online several times. I’ve heard of Wesco but have never really looked into them, they do look really good though. My experience with Red Wing has been really good. I appreciate the fact that they have retail stores all over the country, and maybe overseas too. I like being able to try on the boots before buying them, also the clerk that sold me my Iron Rangers was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.
Wesco engineers are the best
My dad wore the same pair of Redwings for as long as I can remember. I bought a pair of Thorogood on a whim, kind of, and they were comfortable the moment I put them on. I also had a pair of Danner Ft. Lewis for 20 years. After 20 years I had them re-soled and fixed up nice - they looked brand-new. Sold them and bought a pair of Nick’s Overlanders. Six month wait and they arrived 7 months ago. Easily worth the wait and the best $500 I’ve ever spent. I’d like to grab a pair of Redwings eventually, but my next purchase will probably be another pair of Nick’s. Simply put - you feel invincible in those things.
Great Video! Redwing has been my only boot choice for over 20 years!
Gosh. Thanks for not making the video overly long. Nicely done. In the future I'd ask to leave up the name of the company/topic you're talking about onscreen while you're still talking about it.
I reach for my Iron Rangers a lot...and might more than my White's once I get them upgraded with a leather mid-sole so they don't feel like sandals. 😅
I have a Laredo 8” shaft, slip on work boot bought in 1974 while working as an Ironworker connector for 17 yrs and multiple resoles to now , in 2022 where as a retired guy I had them resoled again by an incredibly talented Shoe / boot craftsman at Hanlin Shoe Repair. I had to get them repaired since the uppers are just too good and of thick leather twice as thick as new boot makers are using. I have only treated them with mink oil for all those years and they will outlive me . Sadly, there is no one to take these through another lifetime of use. They are Laredo boots with a 8 “ shaft. I want to die with my boots on.
I'm guessing you've never put on a pair of Georgia Boots huh? I found them to be more comfortable than the last 2 pairs of Red Wings I've owned. I didn't even have to break them in.
It's also worth mentioning that the "SPR" leather they use makes them 2 or 3 times stronger & more abrasion resistant than most of the boots available on the market today
Bean boots are great for specific scenarios. I own two pairs - one unlined and one lined. The unlined are for very rainy days and times I am going to muddy areas like horse farms; the unlined I use as snow boots. These boots are very high quality for these purposes. Most of the other stuff Bean carries has unfortunately gone downhill in quality over the years.
That was one hell of a list for sure. Obviously there are rankings that I'd do differently (I'd of ranked Thorogood a bit higher and maybe Wolverine too. I'd of ordered Nicks, Whites, and Wesco in reverse order to yours). But that being said? You did a great job. And I liked the fact that you didn't just pick Whites, Nicks, or Wesco as your 1, 2, 3 boots. They are the most durable but price and lead time are huge factors that nobody ever accounts for. You did just that. Also, I am a Red Wing fanboy. So seeing them at the top of the list was awesome from my perspective. Yes, Whites, Nicks, and Wesco make a better boot overall. Thing is? They are almost and in some cases double the price of Red Wings.
For me, Red Wing makes the most classic/best looking Moc Toes of all time. And Moc Toes are my favorite style of boot. Not to mention that for the money? You'd be really hard pressed to find a more durable/well constructed boot that's made in the USA. Or the world for that matter. Grant Stone is really the only brand in basically that price range that rivals Red Wing IMO. And in ways Grant Stone boots are better. They are nicer and quality control is a bit better when it comes to leather selection and such. Still though, Red Wings are just as robust and durable without a doubt. Not to mention for a boot? Although I do like a good classy looking boot from time to time, Red Wings appear a bit more rugged/classic than Grant Stone in appearance and that's more my style.
Good stuff man. Good stuff.
Thanks man so glad you found it helpful/enjoyable!
They don't finish assembly abroad, that would disqualify them from the MADE IN USA claim because we have laws / standards regarding percentages.
They are made in the USA with some materials that are not domestic.
Maybe the footbed and counter / toe stiffener are imported, maybe the thread or vamp lining material.
Thorogood and Carolina both use the same Horween leather and make their boots here in the USA, they just do it using some components that aren't made here.
It is still possibly to do the upper making abroad, and assemble the boot in the USA
And call it Made in USA
As far as I know
@@aaronminkenberg8386
There are labor and material percentage requirements.
I know thorogood clicks and sews their uppers in the USA using Horween leather.
The work is all done here, it's just that some of the components aren't made here.
Justin's I don't know, but don't really care.
I wear Justin's at work because they fit my job requirements but they're not that great and my model / size is discontinued so I'm no longer buying from them.
I bought the Red Wing iron rangers on a whim after stopping in a store. This video had me on edge. I was relieved you spoke so highly of them and ranked the Brand number..
Shocked Thursday wasn’t on the list at all, considering they have a made in America line.
I agree, but I guess as most of their boots are made in Mexico they don't really qualify. But I think, based on some videos of e.g. Rose Anvil, the US made Line of Thursday sometimes beats the Wolverine quality etc. thus it would bring it roughly up to place 11. Which I think is quite strong for the price point and not being focussed on being a stylish boot instead of being a work boot.
Thursday has better jackets than boots plus made in mexico
I was thinking the same. Especially after watching him rebuild his own pair of Thursday boots on the Wyatt and Dad RUclips channel.
@@Trains-With-Shane Thursdays are made in mexico
Great list, I'll likely always be a Red Wing customer since they seem to be pretty much the only brand of quality boots you can still go out and try on in a store!
I'm sure its because I'm an old chunk of coal (RIP Norm Macdonald), but I could never buy any piece of apparel on-line, especially when it comes to footwear as fit and comfort is as much about my purchase as is the style you can really only see when you try em on.
So many of the manufacturers are just amazing and I would love to try some out, but where can you even hold a pair in your hand before you buy em?
No sweat! I'm 37 and the same way!
I like Redwing and have worn them for years but also have a pair of Double H American made bison leather boots that are outstanding.
Couple things, first; just bought both socks. I'm guessing with a name like Camel City their made in Winston? Either way, you had me at made in North Carolina. Second; the Origin denim jeans is now made in Asheboro NC. Everything else I believe is made in Main. But the jeans are manufactured in North Carolina with all products to make them coming in from other parts of the US (the cotton is from Texas I believe)
Thank you so much! I really appreciate it! They're made near Burlington, NC actually, but the company (and I) are based in Winston. And that's interesting re: Origin being made in Asheboro. I didn't know we still had denim factories here - I'll have to look into that! Again, thank you so much for supporting Camel City Mill and the BootSpy channel!
@@BootSpy thanks for making a North Carolina product. As for Origin, just their jeans are made here. There's a great RUclips video of the owner flying down to purchase an old textile plant and turn it into where they make their jeans. I love that, bringing that back to NC. Also, Devil Dog jeans is a NC product.
The largest denim plant in the U S was/is in Littlefield, Tx. NW of Lubbock. Littlefield is the home of the Jennings family, as in Waylon!!!
From my own research, considering over all quality, and price, and available/accessibility, id score it
JK
Parkhurst
Randcourt
Wesco
Truman
Origin
Redwing
Danner
Nicks
Whites
Allen edmonds
Wolverine
Justin's
Chippewa
Carolina
Georgia
Thorogood
L L bean
Keen
Alden
Thursday (logger and vangaurd)
nice, very fair!
The jacket hes wearing is the Filson Lined Denim Short Cruiser Jacket. It retails for $495. Made in the USA with imported materials
Awesome to see a fellow NC native!💪🏼
I stumbled the other day across JK boots that are also made in Spokane. I'm really interested in their new 300. Hope you do a review of them soon.
I have two pairs of JK boots. I love them. Great customer service too.
First video of yours I've seen. Why it took so long for your channel to pop up in my recommended list??? Didn't quite understand how you rated a few pairs you don't have but will continue to watch your channel. I definitely like your no BS, straightforward presentation. Yep, I subscribed.
You should do a ranking video for UK, EURO, and Asia
No mention of Russell?! They are hand made in Wisconsin after tracing an outline of your foot - all for about $500!
your delivery of the content was great.
100% agree with you on White’s. They’re ready to ship selection is top grade
@Matt Word brother! Duck feet unite!!! (9-1/2 EEE)
Some list you put together. You did not include WC RUSSEL MOCCASIN FROM BERLIN WISCONSIN. Hand made to order if you like.
My take:
#5: Kreosote
#4: Red Wing
#3: Indy (notice I didn't write Alden)
#1: White's and Nick's
All great comments, but also wondering where your denim jacket (looks like a good liner also) is from? Thanks for informative video
Origin big lug work boot are awesome !crazy well made and comfortable out of the box .I’m an electrician of 17 yrs so I put my boots to the test .
Red wing? Seriously? No way they beat out some of the other boots in the top 5.
You should definitely try a pair of Russell Moccasins. The original true moccasin boot for outdoorsmen and the first to complete the Appalachian trail.
The most comfortable boot but not my favorite is Alden Indy’s. The Trubalance last is extremely comfortable
You are a boot pro! I have six pairs of Redwings. Some I've bought used and some I have re-sold if I didn't love them. Watching the vid and getting down to #2 I thought gee, I wonder why Red Wing never made the list. LOL Pretty remarkable considering the cost of some of the others. Pretty much I cannot justify more than $400 for a pair of boots, but that's just me.
Brian the boot maker convinced me to take up cobbling myself. I don't sew, but nearly bought a stitcher, but have resoled a lot of my boots with Cristys and Vibrams. I prefer oil-tanned leathers over chrome finish as they take oil well and always look good. Brian is also really good with how to refinish or restore boots, polishes, buffing, etc.
I love my Iron Rangers but they're not all that comfortable. Maybe I need to put some insoles in them. I still prefer my work chukkas as I don't really work in my boots. The ones I do work in are a standard mock-toe briar oil slick, just putting a new black Cristy sole on them. Glued on soles are easy to remove, you have to be careful not to damage the last - you can do this a couple of times and then they should probly be re-lasted/sewn.
I do like to put heel-type soles on my chukkas, I like brown or black better than the cream-colored crepe soles. I actually broke down and bought a bench sander for finishing soles.
Thank you for GREAT content. 👍
I think you should make a distinction between 'dress', or 'casual' boots, or those worn for fashion, and actual work boots. I've worn Redwing mostly for 45 years in construction. My gripe is that so many boots have a deep lug sole, which is terrible for tracking mud indoors. I always got the smooth cork/rubber sole when it was available from Redwing.
Haha! Nice Filson Jacket!
Whites, should be below Nicks. Their QC is lacking and they are also not a small mom and pops…..
Red Wing is still my favorite boot brand and they are hard to beat for their price! So on that I totally agree!
I think Drew’s and JK Boots are worth taking a gander at if you haven’t already. Great video.
For dress boots, you cannot beat Grant Stone boots for style and quality. Truman has the best range of leathers, including rough outs, and top quality. Wearing leather dress boots is the best decision I ever made and enjoy it tremendously every day.
Ya done swatted a hornet's nest here, my dude..
had to be done
As a power lineman for over 4 decades, I’ve climbed in Red Wing Lineman’s boots, Knapp’s, Lehigh’s, Whites, Chippewa, IMHO only the Whites can compare with Westco lineman’s boots, they’re the best there is. You’re going to pay for them and wait for them, but they’re worth it and when your boots are worn out, they’ll rebuild them for you.
Red WIng delivers “Many Happy Steps” without making a fuss.
Great presentation, especially considering you covered 21 different brands. Not a lot of extra yapping, just a quick overview. Excellent video!
Red wing wears out to fast and wolverine always falls apart! The best boots I ever wore were thorogood. The last 5 years on the job I couldn't wear them out and are still in almost new condition! What a great foundation to walk on!
I've been wearing my current pair of Red Wings for 4 years in a VERY heavy industrial environment. I had a pair that lasted 8 years. The problem is that there are 2 tiers of boots now. One is made in Red Wing, MN and the other is made in China. The ones mad in Red Wing are expensive, but worth every penny.
My oldest date code redwings are 1994. Worn daily for casual wear and for a few years as work boots. Took a beating on the ranch but are still completely serviceable. I get new wings every year from work and at this point I am just stockpiling as they don't wear out in a year, so I rotate throughout the week. I do have a set of danners that I abused hard at work and made it 4 years and now use as a hunting boot. My justins are just show boots and nothing more.
I am with you on Redwings wearing out to fast, but not in the way your thinking. I have been in construction 34 years and for my it is the soles. they wear very fast. Never had a problem with the uppers. I currently have two pair of Iron rangers. the one pair I have in the shoe shop right now to be resoled. they are rewelting them and putting on a wedge sole. the 2nd pair are still in the box and will be brought out when i retire.
Your editing is on point homie
Has anyone tried Rancourt & Co boots? Noticed they were not on this list and I have been eyeing their moc toe boots which I think look incredible. They're made in Maine and I have not heard any negatives about their construction, but curious if anyone has other experiences.
I got a pair of Byron Kudus. They’re very well built and they’re flawless. Comfortable after a few wears. Can often be had at a great price during crowd funding they do a few times a year.
I love my Wesco boots, but have found that Red Wings don’t fit my feet properly, which is a bummer because they have a design that I want SO BAD but I can’t wear them. 😢
Gonna try the socks when you get a smaller size! Men's size 5-6 boots or women's 6-7 wide.
I've had Carolina and Chippewa logging boots both are good but Georgia logging boots are the best boots I've ever worn
Rose Anvil just demolished the Crap Alden boot. Used Wescos all over the Oregon mountain side and woods. Wesco makes boots for fireman and fire season used to be back order time and there was generally a wait period.
Redwing every boot or show I have bought from them is unsurpassed quality. Best leather, best soles, best craftsmanship.
I bought Red Wings for years. I stopped because quality has gone down and price went up. I recently tried the mock toe and what a mistake. I even had to purchase insoles that were standered before. Never again.