Alden shoes are phenomenal. I spent thousands of dollars on high quality shoes working in car sales until I found Alden shoes. I bought two pairs, one black and one brown. I got them in the nick of time because my feet were in bad shape. I'm a polio survivor and one foot was a few sizes smaller than the other. Alden accommodated me by selling me mismatched shoes for a little more than the normal cost. We took careful measurements of both feet and sent them to Alden. When they arrived they were a perfect fit, something I had never experienced in my life. They wore like iron and looked and felt perfect.
I LOVE this story for so many reasons. That white glove support that higher end companies offer make it all worth it. Well, to a lot of guys anyway. Glad they're still lasting you and glad we put them at the top of the list!
@@DavidP793 than Alden??! No sir. I do love Allen Edmonds and own a few pairs. I have one pair of Alden’s that I got at a thrift store used and the quality of materials, attention to detail, and craftsmanship is better. Allen Edmonds has slipped in quality over the years and their products aren’t fully made in the US anymore but with “globally sourced” supplies…
@@fossil-bit8439 I didn't know that. I have 4 or 5 pairs from AE but they were all purchased at least 10 yrs ago. I send them in every 2-3 years to be restored and they come back in great shape. Too bad the quality has slipped.
As a power lineman for over 4 decades, I’ve climbed in Knapps, Lehighs, Chipewas, Red Wings, White’s and IMHO the best climbing boots are Wesco Highliner. Wesco will send a ruler and instructions to measure and trace your feet to build a custom shoe and if they wear out, they’ll rebuild them for you. Best boot I ever climbed in.
I have a pair of those I’ve worn less than 15 minutes in the house. They fit well, but because of the way they are constructed, they are painful to wear. I have a pair each of White’s and Nick’s that feel fine because they are constructed differently. Sometime I’ll take them to Trenton & Heath and see if they can straighten them out.
Can attest to Thorogood boots, particularly the Moc Toe Wedge being great. Worn it for 3 years, day in and day out in wet, rough conditions and they've held up well. My tan Thorogoods formed a dark patina and are now a fairly dark brown color. They still clean up okay, but I recently bought a second pair to have the originals sent out to be redyed and resoled. For comparison, a pair of Red Wing blacksmith boots worn for a year in roughly the same conditions were letting water in through the stitching and eventually wore a hole in the leather where my pinky toe was. The Thorogoods are also way more comfortable. I don't think I'd work in a heeled boot ever again unless I was up on a latter all day.
All I ever wear are heeled boots you just gotta find comfortable ones. I need the heel because I do line work so the heel makes me feel safer when I climb. I have waterproof red wings with the supersole 2.0 and comfortable are as hell. I'm on my feet all day and I'll wear them over my sneakers on weekends since they feel more comfortable.
Little update: Chippewa's Heritage boots have been discontinued and Parkhurst moved production to Spain and increased in price! Also White's is technically Japanese owned, but American made. Also, check out THE TOP 10 BOOTS you can buy (in under 10 minutes!)! ua-cam.com/video/9kuHyyefNGE/v-deo.html
Love the Wisconsin connection in many of these brands. I bought a pair of the Thorogood’s with steel toes and didn’t even know they were a Wisconsin brand. Grew up 40 minutes from the factory.
I started wearing Danner's hiking boots in 1975 and I've never looked back. They are extremely well made with top quality leather and other materials. But, the most important attribute is they fit well. I have wide feet and high arches and Danner just seems to get it right. The reason I don't try other boot makers is fit and comfort. I've never been disappointed with Danner's and I don't want to spend $300+ dollars for a "fashion" boot. I want comfort, support, and durability in the terrain that I use them. I'm 77 and I just got a new pair of Danner 650's for my birthday and they are super.
I bought a pair of the Thorogood Moc Toe boot for my work, and they are probably my MOST comfortable boot. I work in a glass shop, on hard concrete floors all day long, I used to have hip and knee pain on my left side from wearing cheap, improper footwear. Decided to spend some money and get these Thorogoods, and I love them. I almost want a second pair that I can wear casually around town but its a want, not a need. Definitely recommend these if you're working on hard floors for long periods and need support for your feet.
i was wearing timberland but they were severly hurting my feet ,,,, i got a pair of red wing boots with a nonmetallic safety toe and metatarsal protection on the box they are marked 4456 and they instantly stopped my feet hurting they are very comfortable i work in a foundry and they are holding up very well ,,,,, the best work boot ive ever worn
OriginUSA is making 100% USA boots. Would love to hear your thoughts about them. They are doing a lot of good stuff up in Maine and now North Carolina.
I have found that Peter Limmer in New Hampshire makes a great hiking boot, The problem is the wait time for a custom boot (a couple of years), the cost (500-750 per pair) and the weight (4-5 lbs per pair)
I bought 2 pair of Axel 1000 Mile boots. I returned 4 pairs, before I felt I received pairs that were acceptable for a $400 pair of boots (I wanted the Vibram lug soles on the Axels, wish I did more research or saw this video to open my eyes to some real boots) There were quality control issues with straight stitching, blemished leather and crookedness of the leather. I wouldn't buy Wolverines again, they are focused on the "hipster duchbags" as another person said on here.
Ever heard of Mason Shoes of Chippewa Falls, W I? We were given a pair of high ankle lace-up men's boots, over 1" heel but smooth (no tread) bottom. Are these for certain kinds of work floors?
Being from the Pacific Northwest, I am always gratified to hear mention of WESCOS's, White's and Nick's boots. But I am always baffled that Danners get left off of that list as well! They build some high quality boots, but they have become a big company making shoes for Cabellas, Eddie Bauer, REI and other outdoor stores, at a price point where the retail shop can make a profit and still offer a decent boot. I used to be mostly interested in hiking boot brands growing up in the 60's and 70's, like Vasque, Asolo and Danners. Now, there are just so many good brands out there that to make up an exclusive list tends to leave off several brands of high quality, rebuildable, long lasting boots.
Love this video and Love seeing you guys together! Over the past couple of years I have developed a passion for boots and Stridewise and Trenton and Heath have had a lot to do with this new interest. Thank you for the education and inspiration!
Man, I love my Danners, but I also really understand why they aren't anywhere on this list. Really wish they tried harder to compete with redwing and thorogood in general.
I agree but associate Danner with "hiking" boots vs work boots. I have a pair of Danner Mountain lights that are amazing after they have been broken in.
I really enjoy OakStreet Boot Company. A small company, that has multiple limited editions; so you can have a boot that you may never see someone else wear. Great quality, and looks. 100% made in USA.
Yeah I have a 2 pair of trench oxfords, 2 pairs of derbies and a pair of storm boots. I plan on getting a pair of natty cxl trench with dainite soles for my next purchase with them. I also have 2 cxl belts from them.
Not surprised to not see wolverine in the lineup. They were my first pair of nice boots I purchased. The 1000 mile boot looks nice and broke in pretty easily but I ended up getting a small rip in the leather on the side of the boot. I know I can repair it but I ended up buying a pair of Chippewa boots and they've been holding up better for a few years now. The leather is better than in the wolverine boots and with my work I don't have to worry about it falling apart.
Parkhurst !! oh yea, West New York Representing! just got my new pair of shoes there. met with one of the owners and tried on multiple pairs. found my size, talked all sorts of shoe and boot talk. Those people are giving it their all to be in the top tier, please consider them everybody. The shoes fit amazing and are absolutely beautiful.
I’ve worn Whites work boots for work work, their packer boots for farm work. I’ve worn Red Wing iron rangers for daily wear and their super sole 606’s for work (still US made) these are the most comfortable work boot by far. Danner Quarry USA for work and their Bull Run for daily wear. Danner are great too but, I tend to lean toward the whites and Redwing because I don’t like lined boots and they have a larger selection of unlined actual work boots. They’re all great though. I also have a pair of Allen Edmonds shell cordovans that I love but their a bit dressy for me and a bit too casual for dress up if you know what I mean.
Give them a few months and keep conditioning them. They'll fit like slippers Edit: I'm only familiar with their heritage boots. I can't speak to the quality of their standard work boots.
You started out with my personal fave - ALDEN! Admittedly they are more expensive than many of my other boots but I feel that they're worth it. Redwing are my daily go to boots but I have taken it personally that they've discontinued the Beckman model! As a Canadian I really like buying boots made by my neighbours to the south. I only regret that I can only wear one pair at a time...
Have you ever though of trying Waldviertler Tramper Flex boots? They are hand-sewn in Austria and still very affordable. Soles can be changed of course. Really long living boots and not made in Asia, but by hand in Austria
So which has a better footbed out of the three? I'm still undecided out of the three my Red Wing loggers are a little small for me now the steel toe caps do not stretch hahaha and they've taken forever to break in and are now just getting comfortable being in for 8 hours I think I'm going to have to go to Washington State and get a custom fitment but I'm undecided on which of the three I want to go with.
I haven't owned boots in such a long time now, I have recently started to think about getting some, but not just any Doc Martin. I'd like to invest in some boots that will last me a long time now that I'm a little older. Where do I even start? I've been interested in Nick's and JK boots so far.
Frank's boots are also made in Spokane and to my eye look like they are constructed identically to Nick's (many of the employees have worked at both companies)
I can send you a video of why if you want 😆 my wolverines have only half a sole left after about 5-6 months on a sawmill my chippewas have scratches in the leather and other than that look new after almost a year at the sawmill
Last I checked, 99% of Wolverine boots are made in the far east. Didn't used to be, but that was then. Sort of like Carolina boots. People bring up Danners, but they are about the same anymore, like 1 or 2 models made here that cost $500 and have iffy quality because some parts were made elsewhere and the rest are chinesium to compete with wally world.
Great video.. I wish you'd have included Rancourt from Maine. Though Rancourt is more casual than workwear, and are blake stitched, rather than Goodyear, they are still very underrated in my opinion. Cheers.
Hi Stridewise! Could you make similar video for boots from Europe? Sometimes is quite tricky to buy boots from USA as the return's policy is not on our favour, additional taxes and shipping can add additional 100$ to boots and also there is no possibility of free return. It would help a lot of us to find really good bots made in Europe. Thank you, wish u a lovely day! :D
Two entertaining experts! Btw I recently bought a pair of Allen Edmonds Rainier boots on sale for $199 (!) and they are flawless. No QC issues at all. And, I love my Higgins Mills, so I continue to enjoy Allen Edmonds and that they are American made is a plus.
I would love to see a video of the most comfortable boots. I am on my feet all day but not in construction. I am always looking for American made have looked at some Redwings but the leather is as stiff as steel.
Ive bought 3 pairs of Whites starting in 1981. The second and third pair I still have. They are great boots if you need heavy boots. Btw my last name is King and I have a brother Todd King.
Caught this one brand new. Have you ever heard of Kreosote boots? I learned about them from Carl Murawski, and he just made this video about a fantastic interview with the owner of Kreosote, I think those boots are amazingly unique and impressive.
You guys were the start of my boot obsession. I bought my first set of “nice” boots with the redwing iron ranger in copper rough and tough. I absolutely LOVE them. I’m looking at a pair of nicks as a step up!
how many weeks did it take for them to get more "comfortable"? Just ordered same redwings as you because I am tired of shit falling apart every 6 months.
@@khancrow8212 For me not that long. After about 2 or three days, but I coulda got lucky. I got a redwing store 5 mins down the road so I got the perfect fit.
Same here. Have had mine for many years and they still look great. Not surprised they weren't included as Stridewise has negatively reviewed them in the past due to having purchased a pair that have ''loose grain" problems in which the leather develops weird unsightly wrinkles that happens sometimes with Chromexel leather. My pair have no such problems.
The majority of Danner's lineup is made in the far east now. They still make a few here though. But that might have been an influence in these rankings.
I have a few pairs of Danners I wear weekly. My pair just of Recons celebrated their 20th birthday this year and they still look nearly new. Once broken in, they're so comfortable I could easily sleep in them. The hiking boots were built on the same last and look similar to my Recons but in DARK chocolate leather and are the best hiking boots I've owned, and I think I've owned every brand of hiking boots REI has to offer. I owned a pair of imported Danner boots and although decent, didn't measure up to Danner's boots that are handmade in Portland, Oregon.
Great collaboration guys....love & subscribe to both of your channels. I've learned so much over the last year about boot making, quality and value. Got burned a while back on a pair of Wolverine chukkas that I thought were stitched, until the faux welt started peeling off and found that they were cemented! Not again. You guys are boot rock stars, you know that, right? Right?? ;-)
A list of best American made boots and Justin's or Lucchese's aren't on the list? I just stopped by Baker shoes today driving through Eugene and I think their Drew boots measure up with Nicks and Whites. They are made in Spokane just like the other two. Is this a list of best boots worn on pavement to the local pubs?
@@mimas120 the your comment is curious. I have some 45 year old Justin’s in my closet and when I was young the higher end western clothing stores around stocked Justin’s more than any other brand. They were a premium brand on par with Tony Llamas. Out sold TLs four or five to one. This list is for the little trendy boot wearers who need something to wear on pub crawls. Whites, Nicks, sure, but some of the other choices are questionable.
@@Kingfisher1215 I just find the quality of Justin has gone down hill compared to a lot of other boot companies. Hell they look nice for sure and they last, but they wouldn't be my first pick against some other brands. No hate intended friend.
Very enjoyable video. I'm sure I'll end up watching it again before long. More journalists, former or otherwise, could stand spending some genuine time in heart of America workshops.
Excellent video. So glad to see Parkhurst getting well deserved props. The feature on the Parkhurst Boots that really stands out for me is the actual weight of the boot itself. Solid construction without the weight. Great styling as well.
love my Parkhurst. I know they're experiencing a backlog but I'm hoping it all works out for them and they get back to it. I'd love another pair and I love to represent Buffalo.
Wolverine quality is poor. I own 3 pairs, and 3 of them have failed. One pair the rubber vibram delaminated from the leather sole. On my other pair, the heel literally detached from the sole. I sent photos to a couple cobblers and both pointed out that Wolverine should have used nails to attach the heel to the sole of shoe, but it seems they relied on cement, which failed. I will never buy another pair of Wolverine 1000 Mile boots. They are not worth the money. It’s a $200 boot being sold for almost $400.
@@EDHBlvd I lucked out and got mine for $189...cheaper than my Thursdsy Boots. I enjoy my 1000 miles so far, but they don't get a ton of wear or abuse. I will keep an eye on the heels. Thinking a 360 welt would be a nice upgrade. Maybe if I ever get them re-soled.
I was surprised to hear you mention Nick, White and Wesco, but you need boot update. Nick and White both sold out. White sold to Danner, and are now mass produced. Nick sold out to some d-bag from Seattle I believe, and half the crew left and started Frank's boots. I used to wear Nick's, I now wear Frank's. There is also a new boot maker that I have heard good things about. JK boots are made in Spokane and I believe that they splintered off of White, whey they sold to Danner. I have not tried these boots yet, but I think they will be the next pair I buy. I like my Frank's boots, but Frank's are so busy that there is a 10 month waiting period from what I have been told.
I'm the "ham and egger". The "brown bagger". I wash dishes at Panda Express. I make the prevailing wage. There is no way that I can afford to buy boots which cost more than a week's wages.
While I love my red wing weekender chelseas, I feel like they got away with selling us a $150 boot for $250 because it is in the heritage lineup. Again, love them, but do feel they are overpriced, especially when considering the type of stitch out construction
Great video! Sometimes it can be hard to decipher who makes what and where these days. I have a question for the experts! I am looking to buy a good quality boot/work shoe. My days of needing safety toe is over, but I work in manufacturing and have to walk on concrete all day, and my shoes/boots can be exposed to very high temps on occasion(melted plastic, 400+ degrees) but only briefly. With that in mind, here's the kicker: I weigh 285 lbs. I am not fat(I used to pick my buddies Plymouth up by the back bumper) and it just strikes me that I am unable to find a pair of shoes, workboots, whatever that are designed to take the beating my weight puts on them. Almost every pair of sports shoes, hiking boots, whatever I have had has had the insole and whatever is under it crushed/squashed out before the rest of the shoe is worn out. Occasioanlly I will have one hold up but the sole gets thin and worn funny, which is bad on concrete. I haven't had an upper wear out on me in at least 30 years now on any footwear. Most workboots are the same, I destroy the insides of them before the outer parts go bad. Can you recommend a nice leather shoe-ish boot that will hold up to working on concrete under my weight?
I just bought a pair of Irish Fitters (by RedWing) for hunting. Quality seems amazing but I was a bit bummed to learn they were made in Vietnam. We will see how they hold up
I wear 11.5 A dress shoes, usually Allen Edmonds or Johnston Murphy. Do you know of anyone who makes such a size in boots anymore? Red Wing used to. I have a nice pair of Red Wing pull-on boots that I bought about 40 years ago, when they offered more size options.
@ pmwheatley Allen Edmonds still do narrow lasts, as do Alden, Nicks, Whites, & Wesco. Just be prepared for a wait, as anything overly narrow/wide tends to be special order only...
Manhattanite to Volunteer: What do you call a place where you repair things? Volunteer: A shop. alternate convo: Manhattanite 1 to Manhattanite 2 : What do you call a place where you repair things? Manhattanite 2: This is my Atelier.
Hey Nick. I love it when you do these videos with Trenton and Heath . It always looks like you have a lot of fun. If you ever get over to the UK you should do a video with Dan at Tring shoe repair and key shop. I'd get a front row seat for that one. : )
I spent 55 years in heavy work boots, not the heavy tennis shoes mostly featured in your video. I started with Red Wings that were readily available locally. They didn't last long. I found Nick's 14 inch loggers with Vibram sole, and never looked back.
Glad to hear; I started in shipbuilding industry in 92’ (30 yrs now) and “ONLY” Redwing for me. I’ve even had loggers on one end of my spectrum(work) and then there is my Redwing Engineer slip-ons; they are expensive but feel like slippers yr when I put on my feet. I went outside of Redwing this year since I moved in a classroom setting/environment teaching Sheet Metal ( still wearing the Redwing Engineer&Redwing NailSeat 1155) but had to try Wolverine 1000 Mile Oxblood loafers. I hate Wolverine work boots but let me tell you these are on another whole plane of comfort. Don’t know why, I just like the feel of leather soled shoes and till you have worn them; you will “Never” find comfort in your day to day activities!#Redwing#Engineers#NailSeat1155#Wolverine1000Mile
Don’t quite agree with Vanguard. I really wanted to like it, but the sole on it went bad (broken and wore out) and stitches came out several areas within a year of normal everyday wear. I took care of them well even conditioning them every two months. Really wanted to like them, but a bit disappointed how quickly the soles wore out on them.
Thanks for the video guys! But a point of clarification....The Red Wing "Iron Rangers" is a reference to the Iron Range in Northern MN where they mine iron ore, not coal.
Alden shoes are phenomenal. I spent thousands of dollars on high quality shoes working in car sales until I found Alden shoes. I bought two pairs, one black and one brown. I got them in the nick of time because my feet were in bad shape. I'm a polio survivor and one foot was a few sizes smaller than the other. Alden accommodated me by selling me mismatched shoes for a little more than the normal cost. We took careful measurements of both feet and sent them to Alden. When they arrived they were a perfect fit, something I had never experienced in my life. They wore like iron and looked and felt perfect.
I LOVE this story for so many reasons. That white glove support that higher end companies offer make it all worth it. Well, to a lot of guys anyway. Glad they're still lasting you and glad we put them at the top of the list!
Allen Edmonds far better shoe.
@@DavidP793 than Alden??! No sir. I do love Allen Edmonds and own a few pairs. I have one pair of Alden’s that I got at a thrift store used and the quality of materials, attention to detail, and craftsmanship is better. Allen Edmonds has slipped in quality over the years and their products aren’t fully made in the US anymore but with “globally sourced” supplies…
@@fossil-bit8439 I didn't know that. I have 4 or 5 pairs from AE but they were all purchased at least 10 yrs ago. I send them in every 2-3 years to be restored and they come back in great shape. Too bad the quality has slipped.
they’re litteraly made out of dog shit materials 😂
As a power lineman for over 4 decades, I’ve climbed in Knapps, Lehighs, Chipewas, Red Wings, White’s and IMHO the best climbing boots are Wesco Highliner. Wesco will send a ruler and instructions to measure and trace your feet to build a custom shoe and if they wear out, they’ll rebuild them for you. Best boot I ever climbed in.
Wow I haven’t heard Knapp boots in a while.
I have a pair of those I’ve worn less than 15 minutes in the house. They fit well, but because of the way they are constructed, they are painful to wear. I have a pair each of White’s and Nick’s that feel fine because they are constructed differently. Sometime I’ll take them to Trenton & Heath and see if they can straighten them out.
Yes, Wesco are hard to get but I've only heard good things. I added them to the written article, thanks for the push Edge!
You are right my cousins are lineman and that’s what they wesr
What are you trying to say? You won't climb a pole in Thursday Boots? Online shills are paid a lot of money, to tell you that those boots are great.
Can attest to Thorogood boots, particularly the Moc Toe Wedge being great. Worn it for 3 years, day in and day out in wet, rough conditions and they've held up well. My tan Thorogoods formed a dark patina and are now a fairly dark brown color. They still clean up okay, but I recently bought a second pair to have the originals sent out to be redyed and resoled. For comparison, a pair of Red Wing blacksmith boots worn for a year in roughly the same conditions were letting water in through the stitching and eventually wore a hole in the leather where my pinky toe was. The Thorogoods are also way more comfortable. I don't think I'd work in a heeled boot ever again unless I was up on a latter all day.
All I ever wear are heeled boots you just gotta find comfortable ones. I need the heel because I do line work so the heel makes me feel safer when I climb. I have waterproof red wings with the supersole 2.0 and comfortable are as hell. I'm on my feet all day and I'll wear them over my sneakers on weekends since they feel more comfortable.
Hope you guys can do a review on Origin boots...
Little update: Chippewa's Heritage boots have been discontinued and Parkhurst moved production to Spain and increased in price! Also White's is technically Japanese owned, but American made.
Also, check out THE TOP 10 BOOTS you can buy (in under 10 minutes!)! ua-cam.com/video/9kuHyyefNGE/v-deo.html
Love the Wisconsin connection in many of these brands. I bought a pair of the Thorogood’s with steel toes and didn’t even know they were a Wisconsin brand. Grew up 40 minutes from the factory.
The crossover we all deserve
I started wearing Danner's hiking boots in 1975 and I've never looked back. They are extremely well made with top quality leather and other materials. But, the most important attribute is they fit well. I have wide feet and high arches and Danner just seems to get it right. The reason I don't try other boot makers is fit and comfort. I've never been disappointed with Danner's and I don't want to spend $300+ dollars for a "fashion" boot. I want comfort, support, and durability in the terrain that I use them. I'm 77 and I just got a new pair of Danner 650's for my birthday and they are super.
The triple threat of adding the Kavalier is needed!
UA-cam dork.
@@edmundooliver7584 you are so right.
You next.
I bought a pair of the Thorogood Moc Toe boot for my work, and they are probably my MOST comfortable boot. I work in a glass shop, on hard concrete floors all day long, I used to have hip and knee pain on my left side from wearing cheap, improper footwear. Decided to spend some money and get these Thorogoods, and I love them. I almost want a second pair that I can wear casually around town but its a want, not a need. Definitely recommend these if you're working on hard floors for long periods and need support for your feet.
You guys need to take a look at Origin boots. Made in Maine.
Origin are trash. I'd rather have a pair of JK 300's
i was wearing timberland but they were severly hurting my feet ,,,, i got a pair of red wing boots with a nonmetallic safety toe and metatarsal protection on the box they are marked 4456 and they instantly stopped my feet hurting they are very comfortable i work in a foundry and they are holding up very well ,,,,, the best work boot ive ever worn
OriginUSA is making 100% USA boots. Would love to hear your thoughts about them. They are doing a lot of good stuff up in Maine and now North Carolina.
Their midsoles are sourced from Brazil.
I've been wearing my Redwing Irish Setters for years . I get them resoled as needed and they are great. Thanks for sharing.
I have found that Peter Limmer in New Hampshire makes a great hiking boot, The problem is the wait time for a custom boot (a couple of years), the cost (500-750 per pair) and the weight (4-5 lbs per pair)
Russell Boot company in Wisconsin. Handmade, custom boots with a moccasin build. Amazing boots. Have been wearing them daily for a decade
I certainly enjoy my pairs of 1000 Mile boots made in Rockford, MI.
I have a pair that I love. I was told Wolverine has them built by Allen Edmonds in Wisconsin, but I have never dug into it.
im surprised Wolverine didnt make the list..ive heard great things about them
I bought 2 pair of Axel 1000 Mile boots. I returned 4 pairs, before I felt I received pairs that were acceptable for a $400 pair of boots (I wanted the Vibram lug soles on the Axels, wish I did more research or saw this video to open my eyes to some real boots) There were quality control issues with straight stitching, blemished leather and crookedness of the leather. I wouldn't buy Wolverines again, they are focused on the "hipster duchbags" as another person said on here.
Sucks about the pollution in Rockford bc of Wolverine though.
Ever heard of Mason Shoes of Chippewa Falls, W I? We were given a pair of high ankle lace-up men's boots, over 1" heel but smooth (no tread) bottom. Are these for certain kinds of work floors?
I wore danner when working ( L E ) , still wear them . ive had them re-soled at the factory 2 x. I believe they are all USA . ~ JDS/CT
I've been wearing Danner GTX Footwear for 12 years . I'll honestly never change .
I absolutely love Danner Boots
Being from the Pacific Northwest, I am always gratified to hear mention of WESCOS's, White's and Nick's boots. But I am always baffled that Danners get left off of that list as well! They build some high quality boots, but they have become a big company making shoes for Cabellas, Eddie Bauer, REI and other outdoor stores, at a price point where the retail shop can make a profit and still offer a decent boot.
I used to be mostly interested in hiking boot brands growing up in the 60's and 70's, like Vasque, Asolo and Danners. Now, there are just so many good brands out there that to make up an exclusive list tends to leave off several brands of high quality, rebuildable, long lasting boots.
Due to recently going to business for myself I’ve been able to buy some premium American made boots. I appreciate the craftsmanship.
What boot did you go with?
Hey love the video, but I have to say the audio seems really weird with an odd split between l/r channels. It is a bit jarring.
A problem that occurred during recording and overlooked in post
No Danner boots. Wow. Mountain Lights, Explorers (full grain leather), Fort Lewis, Rain Forest ..
Are these models made in USA? I know a lot of danner boots are now outsourced.
Love this video and Love seeing you guys together! Over the past couple of years I have developed a passion for boots and Stridewise and Trenton and Heath have had a lot to do with this new interest. Thank you for the education and inspiration!
Thanks for sharing Shayne!! Delighted this was useful for you and glad to meet another boot dude.
I have the mock toe TG boots . Best pair I’ve ever had period.
Nice video. I really like my Chippewa boots. Made in the use and super durable and comfortable!
i recently got a pair of Chippewa boots on sale for $80, and i am extremely impressed
Man, I love my Danners, but I also really understand why they aren't anywhere on this list. Really wish they tried harder to compete with redwing and thorogood in general.
I agree but associate Danner with "hiking" boots vs work boots. I have a pair of Danner Mountain lights that are amazing after they have been broken in.
I think Danner makes great boots. They just serve a different market. I would never take Red Wings into the mountains.
Danners aren't worn by hipsters.
@@Kingfisher1215 I wear fort Lewis's so you're clearly wrong
krian13 so pavement pounders. They never see mud, sawdust, or grease and oil stained work floors.
Thanks for the reviews. !
I really enjoy OakStreet Boot Company. A small company, that has multiple limited editions; so you can have a boot that you may never see someone else wear.
Great quality, and looks. 100% made in USA.
Love their boots! :)
Yeah I have a 2 pair of trench oxfords, 2 pairs of derbies and a pair of storm boots. I plan on getting a pair of natty cxl trench with dainite soles for my next purchase with them. I also have 2 cxl belts from them.
Not surprised to not see wolverine in the lineup. They were my first pair of nice boots I purchased. The 1000 mile boot looks nice and broke in pretty easily but I ended up getting a small rip in the leather on the side of the boot. I know I can repair it but I ended up buying a pair of Chippewa boots and they've been holding up better for a few years now. The leather is better than in the wolverine boots and with my work I don't have to worry about it falling apart.
Would love to see a breakdown of Origin boots. They are a fast growing company. I also love their jeans.
🤣
Parkhurst !! oh yea, West New York Representing! just got my new pair of shoes there. met with one of the owners and tried on multiple pairs. found my size, talked all sorts of shoe and boot talk. Those people are giving it their all to be in the top tier, please consider them everybody. The shoes fit amazing and are absolutely beautiful.
Awesome collab guys. Weirdly I watch T&H to relax. These guys are the best.
Oh same. I loooove the ASMR boot repair.
I was gonna say, one of the most ambitious crossovers
@@danshakuimo Excellent comment
It's not weird. Watching artisans artisan is a universal pleasure.
What about Origin boots made in Maine?
Well it’s a good thing you included Nicks and Whites. Personally I favor Nick’s overall Quality and attention to detail.
I’ve worn Whites work boots for work work, their packer boots for farm work. I’ve worn Red Wing iron rangers for daily wear and their super sole 606’s for work (still US made) these are the most comfortable work boot by far. Danner Quarry USA for work and their Bull Run for daily wear. Danner are great too but, I tend to lean toward the whites and Redwing because I don’t like lined boots and they have a larger selection of unlined actual work boots. They’re all great though.
I also have a pair of Allen Edmonds shell cordovans that I love but their a bit dressy for me and a bit too casual for dress up if you know what I mean.
I've tried Red Wing. My feet where never so sore as being in those.
Red Wing went to hell about 30 years ago.
Give them a few months and keep conditioning them. They'll fit like slippers
Edit: I'm only familiar with their heritage boots. I can't speak to the quality of their standard work boots.
Just picked up Nicks/Rose Anvil boot.
Look at origin boots. Made in Maine. Love my bison boots.
Would love to see another video like this but with cowboy boot brands!
You started out with my personal fave - ALDEN! Admittedly they are more expensive than many of my other boots but I feel that they're worth it. Redwing are my daily go to boots but I have taken it personally that they've discontinued the Beckman model!
As a Canadian I really like buying boots made by my neighbours to the south.
I only regret that I can only wear one pair at a time...
Spoke with Redwing most likely releasing Beckmans later this year on a different last!
Love Alden’s cordovan boots.
You guys didn't mention anything about Kreosote boots...🤔
Have you ever though of trying Waldviertler Tramper Flex boots? They are hand-sewn in Austria and still very affordable. Soles can be changed of course. Really long living boots and not made in Asia, but by hand in Austria
Can't go wrong with Wesco, Nick's or White's. Basically comes down to style, as quality and durability is a non issue.
So which has a better footbed out of the three?
I'm still undecided out of the three my Red Wing loggers are a little small for me now the steel toe caps do not stretch hahaha and they've taken forever to break in and are now just getting comfortable being in for 8 hours I think I'm going to have to go to Washington State and get a custom fitment but I'm undecided on which of the three I want to go with.
Gokey boots are also incredible. Made in Missouri
Russell boots are very similar to Gokey but hand made.
Wolverine 1000 Mile are super comfortable once you break in the leather footbed
Not to mention they're affordable and not overpriced like the boots in this list.
I haven't owned boots in such a long time now, I have recently started to think about getting some, but not just any Doc Martin. I'd like to invest in some boots that will last me a long time now that I'm a little older. Where do I even start? I've been interested in Nick's and JK boots so far.
Frank's boots are also made in Spokane and to my eye look like they are constructed identically to Nick's (many of the employees have worked at both companies)
So I’m wondering why you choose Chippewa over Wolverine? I would’ve thought the 1000 mile would’ve made the cut?
I can send you a video of why if you want 😆 my wolverines have only half a sole left after about 5-6 months on a sawmill my chippewas have scratches in the leather and other than that look new after almost a year at the sawmill
Last I checked, 99% of Wolverine boots are made in the far east. Didn't used to be, but that was then. Sort of like Carolina boots. People bring up Danners, but they are about the same anymore, like 1 or 2 models made here that cost $500 and have iffy quality because some parts were made elsewhere and the rest are chinesium to compete with wally world.
Fucking China.
Very well done. Straight to the point. Time stamps. Good information. Thank you!
Glad someone appreciates the time stamps :D
Alden were pretty much roasted in Rose Anvil, what‘s your statement about the test and the cheap materials that were discovered?
Great video.. I wish you'd have included Rancourt from Maine.
Though Rancourt is more casual than workwear, and are blake stitched, rather than Goodyear, they are still very underrated in my opinion.
Cheers.
There's nothing wrong with Blake stitching
Lots of red wing work boots (not heritage) are also made in USA. Check the tags or the website but many of them are.
Hi Stridewise!
Could you make similar video for boots from Europe?
Sometimes is quite tricky to buy boots from USA as the return's policy is not on our favour, additional taxes and shipping can add additional 100$ to boots and also there is no possibility of free return.
It would help a lot of us to find really good bots made in Europe.
Thank you, wish u a lovely day! :D
Red wing Beckman are good looking and sturdy - but too narrow to be comfortable. What would you recommend. I like the quality and style.
Two entertaining experts! Btw I recently bought a pair of Allen Edmonds Rainier boots on sale for $199 (!) and they are flawless. No QC issues at all. And, I love my Higgins Mills, so I continue to enjoy Allen Edmonds and that they are American made is a plus.
Excellent video …what’s your opinion about the Schott boots?
I would love to see a video of the most comfortable boots. I am on my feet all day but not in construction. I am always looking for American made have looked at some Redwings but the leather is as stiff as steel.
Takes a while but they break in
Oh boy and when they do nothing beats redwings
I use whites for construction in the pnw. I've had them rebuilt once and they hold up great highly recommend them
Ive bought 3 pairs of Whites starting in 1981. The second and third pair I still have. They are great boots if you need heavy boots. Btw my last name is King and I have a brother Todd King.
Caught this one brand new. Have you ever heard of Kreosote boots? I learned about them from Carl Murawski, and he just made this video about a fantastic interview with the owner of Kreosote, I think those boots are amazingly unique and impressive.
I put Kreosote in the article! stridewise.com/best-american-made-boots/
@@Stridewise Thank you, that’s a great article. I love that you included a category for “best chicago boot”, that’s pretty funny.
Hi. Great Video. Thanks for Making this Video. Sad a lot of USA Made Products are not made here anymore.
@@nunkoboys2865 I couldn’t think of something specific for oak street but I still wanted them in there lol, that’s internet marketing for you
Were they introduced by Mr.Creosote?
I’ve owned White boots for years. I had a couple pairs rebuilt. Also I am a fan of Danner boots made in Portland.
FYI - Years ago I worked for Danner. In the Danner plant, we also made Whites Boots.
You guys were the start of my boot obsession. I bought my first set of “nice” boots with the redwing iron ranger in copper rough and tough. I absolutely LOVE them. I’m looking at a pair of nicks as a step up!
how many weeks did it take for them to get more "comfortable"? Just ordered same redwings as you because I am tired of shit falling apart every 6 months.
@@khancrow8212
For me not that long. After about 2 or three days, but I coulda got lucky. I got a redwing store 5 mins down the road so I got the perfect fit.
@@dillonquick5134 intelligent choice haha thanks for the info, i will soon find out
@@khancrow8212
Congrats on the boots and good luck. Those boots have started a boot obsession for me
Good vid. Good info
Love my Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boots. Classic, handmade in the USA!
Love mine also!
Same here. Have had mine for many years and they still look great. Not surprised they weren't included as Stridewise has negatively reviewed them in the past due to having purchased a pair that have ''loose grain" problems in which the leather develops weird unsightly wrinkles that happens sometimes with Chromexel leather. My pair have no such problems.
I own most of the above and concur. I recently discovered Oak Street Boots. Their Trench Boot in Color 8 is fantastic.
oak street are SO GOOD! just filmed a new video on them out soon
Pretty thorough, although I would include Danner in this lineup, awesome boots.
Absolutely 🇺🇸
Filson make great boots also
The majority of Danner's lineup is made in the far east now. They still make a few here though. But that might have been an influence in these rankings.
I have a few pairs of Danners I wear weekly. My pair just of Recons celebrated their 20th birthday this year and they still look nearly new. Once broken in, they're so comfortable I could easily sleep in them. The hiking boots were built on the same last and look similar to my Recons but in DARK chocolate leather and are the best hiking boots I've owned, and I think I've owned every brand of hiking boots REI has to offer. I owned a pair of imported Danner boots and although decent, didn't measure up to Danner's boots that are handmade in Portland, Oregon.
Thanks for the very informative video
Wow, I thought just deciding USA made was going to be easy. Now I've got to consider what state I want mine made in. Very cool! 👍
Great problem to have!
1st world problems!😂
Very good video. Comprehensive. I liked how both of you pointed out the working man boots. Good job.
Great collaboration guys....love & subscribe to both of your channels. I've learned so much over the last year about boot making, quality and value. Got burned a while back on a pair of Wolverine chukkas that I thought were stitched, until the faux welt started peeling off and found that they were cemented! Not again. You guys are boot rock stars, you know that, right? Right?? ;-)
Great review - thank you for taking the time to make this!
A list of best American made boots and Justin's or Lucchese's aren't on the list? I just stopped by Baker shoes today driving through Eugene and I think their Drew boots measure up with Nicks and Whites. They are made in Spokane just like the other two. Is this a list of best boots worn on pavement to the local pubs?
Maybe, Lucchese, but get out of dodge with Justin.
@@mimas120 clearly you didn’t grow up in cattle country.
@@Kingfisher1215 bold assumption... I'm a son of a dairy farmer. Milked cows my whole childhood.
@@mimas120 the your comment is curious. I have some 45 year old Justin’s in my closet and when I was young the higher end western clothing stores around stocked Justin’s more than any other brand. They were a premium brand on par with Tony Llamas. Out sold TLs four or five to one. This list is for the little trendy boot wearers who need something to wear on pub crawls. Whites, Nicks, sure, but some of the other choices are questionable.
@@Kingfisher1215 I just find the quality of Justin has gone down hill compared to a lot of other boot companies. Hell they look nice for sure and they last, but they wouldn't be my first pick against some other brands. No hate intended friend.
This is awesome, guys. The video I've been waiting for. Thanks for the depth, haven't heard of many of these!
Our pleasure! Glad you liked it Rex
Very enjoyable video. I'm sure I'll end up watching it again before long. More journalists, former or otherwise, could stand spending some genuine time in heart of America workshops.
Haha did you know I used to be a journalist? I still host/write from time to time, Stridewise keeps my camera skills sharp!
@@Stridewise I believe I heard you mention it in a video somewhere along the line.
Got my sz12 Danner USMC stichdowns for $85 new. Waxed them up real good. They will last forever doing moderate forestry work.
Video hype! Been keeping an eye out for this since that Instagram post. Parkhurst so deserves the value kudos on there, amazing value and quality.
Wolverine boots were left out. I own 7 pairs, and rotate them weekly. Great boot and price!!!
Low end
Excellent video. So glad to see Parkhurst getting well deserved props. The feature on the Parkhurst Boots that really stands out for me is the actual weight of the boot itself. Solid construction without the weight. Great styling as well.
love my Parkhurst. I know they're experiencing a backlog but I'm hoping it all works out for them and they get back to it. I'd love another pair and I love to represent Buffalo.
I was not aware of all the boot companies in my home state of Wisconsin!
No mention of Wolverine boots? Are they not made in U.S.? That surprised me. I need some Red Wings though!!
Wolverine quality is poor. I own 3 pairs, and 3 of them have failed. One pair the rubber vibram delaminated from the leather sole. On my other pair, the heel literally detached from the sole. I sent photos to a couple cobblers and both pointed out that Wolverine should have used nails to attach the heel to the sole of shoe, but it seems they relied on cement, which failed. I will never buy another pair of Wolverine 1000 Mile boots. They are not worth the money. It’s a $200 boot being sold for almost $400.
@@EDHBlvd I lucked out and got mine for $189...cheaper than my Thursdsy Boots. I enjoy my 1000 miles so far, but they don't get a ton of wear or abuse. I will keep an eye on the heels. Thinking a 360 welt would be a nice upgrade. Maybe if I ever get them re-soled.
EDHblvd my Krause models are very well made. The heels are nailed to the soles. But the Krause might have been higher end.
I was surprised to hear you mention Nick, White and Wesco, but you need boot update. Nick and White both sold out. White sold to Danner, and are now mass produced. Nick sold out to some d-bag from Seattle I believe, and half the crew left and started Frank's boots. I used to wear Nick's, I now wear Frank's.
There is also a new boot maker that I have heard good things about. JK boots are made in Spokane and I believe that they splintered off of White, whey they sold to Danner. I have not tried these boots yet, but I think they will be the next pair I buy. I like my Frank's boots, but Frank's are so busy that there is a 10 month waiting period from what I have been told.
I'm the "ham and egger". The "brown bagger". I wash dishes at Panda Express. I make the prevailing wage. There is no way that I can afford to buy boots which cost more than a week's wages.
You need a real trade or start your own thing. Life is to short to wear converses
There's another boot company in Spokane that makes an identical boot to Whites & Nicks. The company is called JK boots and is family-operated.
Your all forgot to mention Wolverine boots, some good ones still made in USA !
what is sold at the local stores are made in China, have to order from their website for usa made
I absolutely love the jacket, man. Do you mind telling me what brand it is? Gotta love an a2!
That one is Thursday's! They changed the model a bit since I got it but t hey still have good flight jackets :)
While I love my red wing weekender chelseas, I feel like they got away with selling us a $150 boot for $250 because it is in the heritage lineup. Again, love them, but do feel they are overpriced, especially when considering the type of stitch out construction
Yeah don’t forget the cardboard insole layer 🤦🏻♂️
How does Origin boots compare to any of these boots?
Great video! Sometimes it can be hard to decipher who makes what and where these days.
I have a question for the experts!
I am looking to buy a good quality boot/work shoe. My days of needing safety toe is over, but I work in manufacturing and have to walk on concrete all day, and my shoes/boots can be exposed to very high temps on occasion(melted plastic, 400+ degrees) but only briefly.
With that in mind, here's the kicker: I weigh 285 lbs. I am not fat(I used to pick my buddies Plymouth up by the back bumper) and it just strikes me that I am unable to find a pair of shoes, workboots, whatever that are designed to take the beating my weight puts on them. Almost every pair of sports shoes, hiking boots, whatever I have had has had the insole and whatever is under it crushed/squashed out before the rest of the shoe is worn out. Occasioanlly I will have one hold up but the sole gets thin and worn funny, which is bad on concrete. I haven't had an upper wear out on me in at least 30 years now on any footwear.
Most workboots are the same, I destroy the insides of them before the outer parts go bad.
Can you recommend a nice leather shoe-ish boot that will hold up to working on concrete under my weight?
I just bought a pair of Irish Fitters (by RedWing) for hunting. Quality seems amazing but I was a bit bummed to learn they were made in Vietnam. We will see how they hold up
Surprised Danner didn't come up given their Military quality. Good video regardless
Have you read the reviews on Danners own website? I was shocked as I’ve worn Danners for years. Their work and hunting boots are great!
I wear 11.5 A dress shoes, usually Allen Edmonds or Johnston Murphy. Do you know of anyone who makes such a size in boots anymore? Red Wing used to. I have a nice pair of Red Wing pull-on boots that I bought about 40 years ago, when they offered more size options.
@ pmwheatley Allen Edmonds still do narrow lasts, as do Alden, Nicks, Whites, & Wesco. Just be prepared for a wait, as anything overly narrow/wide tends to be special order only...
Manhattanite to Volunteer: What do you call a place where you repair things?
Volunteer: A shop.
alternate convo:
Manhattanite 1 to Manhattanite 2 : What do you call a place where you repair things?
Manhattanite 2: This is my Atelier.
I just bought a new pair of *Chippewa Ellison* 6" lace-up boots about 2 or 3 weeks ago. So far I love them, they're breaking in well. :)
I was turned on to Chippewas and now I don’t buy anything else
The guy in the leather coat is near totally in coherent or understandable.
Excellent stuff bro
Thanks Clarence!
Hey Nick. I love it when you do these videos with Trenton and Heath . It always looks like you have a lot of fun. If you ever get over to the UK you should do a video with Dan at Tring shoe repair and key shop. I'd get a front row seat for that one. : )
Two pair of the same model Carolinas’ five years apart. I don’t have to think about’em “They got me”.
I spent 55 years in heavy work boots, not the heavy tennis shoes mostly featured in your video. I started with Red Wings that were readily available locally. They didn't last long. I found Nick's 14 inch loggers with Vibram sole, and never looked back.
Glad to hear; I started in shipbuilding industry in 92’ (30 yrs now) and “ONLY” Redwing for me. I’ve even had loggers on one end of my spectrum(work) and then there is my Redwing Engineer slip-ons; they are expensive but feel like slippers yr when I put on my feet. I went outside of Redwing this year since I moved in a classroom setting/environment teaching Sheet Metal ( still wearing the Redwing Engineer&Redwing NailSeat 1155) but had to try Wolverine 1000 Mile Oxblood loafers. I hate Wolverine work boots but let me tell you these are on another whole plane of comfort. Don’t know why, I just like the feel of leather soled shoes and till you have worn them; you will “Never” find comfort in your day to day activities!#Redwing#Engineers#NailSeat1155#Wolverine1000Mile
Don’t quite agree with Vanguard. I really wanted to like it, but the sole on it went bad (broken and wore out) and stitches came out several areas within a year of normal everyday wear.
I took care of them well even conditioning them every two months. Really wanted to like them, but a bit disappointed how quickly the soles wore out on them.
Yup, my first quality boot.
Red Wing Iron Ranger
It's been great very durable and comfortable.
Iron Rangers are my first as well. What comes next? God knows! All I know is that there is no going back!
any opinion on Danner Boots? I have had several pair that are made in the USA. My first pair is 14 years old and still in great shape.
Thanks for the video guys! But a point of clarification....The Red Wing "Iron Rangers" is a reference to the Iron Range in Northern MN where they mine iron ore, not coal.
(That's what was in the script, Trent misremembered it!!!!!)
Do you have a boot made for thru-hiking, durable, light, fast to dry after wet? Kentucky