Great review! Yes, we have been doing the 3/4'' sole option for decades. It has slightly more flex. Might be cool for you try one of our wedge sole boots to see how they compare with your current pair of wedges. Thanks again!
Hey guys thanks for checking out my video. My next wedge sole moc toe will definitely be coming from you folks. Your boots are just fantastic, I can’t speak highly enough of them!
@@evergreenorganicsIt's normal to strike on the outside rear of the heel and roll to the big toe in a sort of S pattern. If your gate is odd a wedge on the heel might help. Ask Nick's about it on the next set.
I am a pipefitter and baught nicks a year and a half ago... the hype is real, they look almost new, and they are without a doubt the most comfortable boots, shoes, or basically any footwear ive ever owned
Fellow pipefitter here. I’ve worn mine everyday for 2 years in our local refinery. Mine are still holding up great even after all the chemicals and oils on them. They are going in for a resole at the end of the summer.
Pipefitter as well. Local32. Thankfully, I found out about PNW Boots about 15 years ago when I started in the trades even after all this time, it's hard to get even my good friends to try them out. Pains me to hear them complain about foot this and that and they just refused to get good boots.
I have 2 pairs of nicks and my thorogoods are easily more comfortable. Nicks form to your foot great but be real throrogood with the wedge sole and the foam insert are work slippers
I deeply appreciate your comment. I try to just relay my experience as a tradesman and farmer and leave the fluff and the nonsense out. Although I do like to have fun making these videos. Can’t be serious all the time can we?
I have been wearing Nicks boots for about 5 years and I love them. The feeling you get when slipping your foot into a quality boot that fits perfectly, priceless. I didn’t get the extra thick soles and the boot bends easily.
@@evergreenorganics need to wax to make waterproof. I would recommend SnoSeal. Put them in the oven on warm for a bit before you put it on. Nicks and JK are both great boots. I have both. The JK break in easier and slightly roomier toe box even with safety toe and have a lot shorter lead time. I wear my JK with honey sole on concrete and Nicks around the farm.
For waterproofing my Nicks, I use 100% bees wax they are damn near waterproof after melting in a couple layers. However, the color will darken significantly.
I heated bees wax into my nicks builder pro boots right out of the box, two years in november, zero water intrusion. Hot tip: use a heat gun, skip the hair dryer. Go slow, take your time. That said my only issue with the nicks is cold climate. They DO NOT hold heat in winter no matter the thickness or quantity of wool sox. Though i see they now make a winter specific boot. May need to order a set for the coming winter.
This was a useful video with good practical advice. My favorite parts were 1) they cost 600 dollars and take months to show up - spend 15 minutes measuring your feet and then 2) the part at the end about his friends who balk at expensive boots but have suppressors for their multiple ar 15s. Because i know people like that who are cheap when it comes to some reasonable things but very extravagant for pointless stuff. and i agree that even a cheap pair of boots is 200 plus and they arent any good and in a year or so they are garbage.
I think '6 months' for hand made, made to order boots to show up is great. Honestly I would rather everything be made to order. I'd probably buy a lot less useless stuff. 😂
My coworkers always make fun of me for spending money on my work boots but within a year they’ve both replaced their boots twice and I’m still wearing the same redwings I’ve had since 2017 and I just bought a new pair just to have a logging boot for cutting on steep hills and my regular boots for working around the shop
"Buy nice boots and a nice bed, cause if ya ain't in one you're in the other" but those guys cheaped out on both so they could buy a nice $65,000 truck for their 15 minute drive to work
Yes, absolutely critical to print out their form and measure twice (or more) and cut once, especially at their price point. Sorry for you issues and thanks for pointing them out.
Yes sizing is very important, I am lucky to be living in Washington so I just drove to the store and got fitted. Defiantly the best boots I have ever had. I am really hard on footwear, especially being around 330 pounds. Most boots feel like walking on concrete after 8 months to a year. Or if they're Danner's they just start falling apart at the seams. But these have just only been feeling better! I feel like they just reached there peak comfort about 3 months ago. I have absolutely loved these so far. And even at 330 pounds, the tread is still perfectly fine. I expect it should last at least two years before a resole. Really helped my back out too!
I wear the hotshots every day! I did the custom fitting. Nicks did an amazing job. I have a very hard to fit foot. My arch is back further than average and I lift so my calves are larger than average. They built two pairs of boots to get it right at no extra expense to me. After they got the right fit, those measurements were on file. I loved my hotshots so much, I ordered a second pair of insulated ones with a softer vibram (yellow) sole. I wear these elk hunting and all winter. The second pair came to me perfectly built because of the time they spent on the first custom pair. It wasn’t a fast process to get the first ones dialed in, but it’s why we get custom boots. I’ve worn both pairs for over 6 years and will wear Nicks the rest of my life.
Im with you ! Im a union carpenter in washington state. Ive done the redwing/ thourgood for years . Theyd wearout in 6-8 mo. Ive paid so much for workboots. Got my first pair of Nicks in dec. I love them . They are a whole new world of boot. The mid size arch took a while to get use to .but i dont want to wear anything but my nicks. Thanks!
To improve the water resistance instead of oil, try using SNO-SEAL and a hairdryer to melt it into the seams. Other than standing in deep water my Nicks are dry.
Better than that is a small bar of pure beeswax, and a hair dryer , repeat until the leather will not soke any more in i can go through water in ditches and stand there for a good few minutes no leaks 👍
Interesting review.... I have worn custom boots made in Spokane, both White's and Nick's, since the mid 1970's. My latest pair are Frank's... love them...Highly recommended! You are correct in recommending spending the extra time to insure the best fit possible... I don't live far from there so for the most part fit had never been a big issue for me, and Honey Vibram soles for concrete is a better choice. BTW... some of White's boots are Handsewn Stitchdown construction thus may be one of the differences in price.
I work with a guy who swears by Redwings. In the 4 years I have had my Nicks he has gone through 3 pairs of Redwings. I also bought another pair of Nicks that I use on the weekends and I am ready for when my first pair need to go for a resole.
I agree with you one hundred percent. The people that don't know just don't know. I've been wearing Pacific Northwest boots since I was 18 years old. I am now 52 and have 2 pairs of Whites ready. Was a wildland firefighter for 7 years. When I first got introduced to the boots, they have never let me down. Rebuilt them several times. I'm currently in the electrical Line construction for more than 20 years. I greatly recommend Pacific Northwest boots awesome.
My Builder pro’s should ship May 18th, cant wait!! Tired of buying a boot just to have it discontinued when its time for a replacement. Thanks for review, all good info
@@evergreenorganics I keep telling myself that. And i keep looking at Ready to Ship options as well! Patience is a virtue, unless you’re waiting for Nick’s!
As a guy lucky enough to live 50 miles from Spokane and have the ability to go to Whites, Nick’s, Franks, and JK is pretty awesome. Got my Whites in 2005 very tough break in. They are lace to toe, probably didn’t need that feature! they are still going after a few resoles, got my Nicks in 2008, they were way easier to break in, like them a lot more than the whites, they’ve had a few resoles, probably in need of a full rebuild next go round. I probably spend at least 325 days a year in my boots. Prior to this I was wearing out a pair of Danner Quary’s every 6 months, so these handmade boots are so worth the money. Also Danner bought out Whites so now I’ll stay with the locally owned companies, not the offshore ones. I recently got a pair of JK’s, seem to be a great boot so far.i already ordered a 2nd pair from them. I plan on getting a pair of Franks soon, probably a lower top like 6” for more comfortable driving. I also have Hoffman rebuildable packs, as well as whites. I have the while’s Snowcat too, not sure if that one is rebuildable.
I tell the same thing to all the people that had questioned me about the price " you don't understand if you dont or ever had a pair of Nick's." They are amazing boots.. I have overlanders and 365 (360 stitched down) boots. I also have a pair of White's and an O.T from JK. The PNW boots are on another level. I smile everytime the ball of my heel falls into place inside of the boot. You know what i am talking about..!
I bought a pair of Overlanders not because I have a super demanding job... I just like having boots that will last me a lifetime with proper care. Not to mention the blackout configuration looks so damn sexy for heavy duty boots. Yeah, the thick lug soles have a lot of downsides like how I am always picking random crud out of the lugs before walking through my door so I don't track it on my floor, hard rubber on veg tan leather is like walking with wood strapped to your feet, and I felt a little clumsy walking around with them for the first several weeks of wearing them. That all being said, I love them. I love that feeling of slipping them on, I love how they've molded to my feet the HNW last provides a decent amount of support for my high arches. I love the extra height they give me (especially when I go to live shows). I've worn them in pouring rain, through ankle-high flooded areas around town, over broken glass, and have had them stepped on in several mosh pits... and they clean up like none of it ever happened. I go places my sneaker-wearing friends could never follow. I also get the, "I COULD NEVER SPEND THAT MUCH ON FOOTWEAR!" as they're wearing $200 Nikes that become worthless and unwearable as soon as anything punctures that air cushion or when that soft sole eventually wears out. I will absolutely be buying another pair of Nicks... but most likely a pair with the wedge soles.
@@Bodudus I know right. As a nurse it's not really normal to wear leather shoes in the work place. But those $150 sneakers that are breathable last about 1 year tops. My last pair got a hole from my toe going through the top within 4 months lol. Comfy but annoying
Good stuff. Really glad you took the time to share your experience and even your mistakes so the rest of us can benefit from it. Don't waste your time arguing with haters in your videos. There's no winning that battle. Just let it go.
Interesting first comment about the waterproofness. I purchased a pair of Nicks Americanas a few years back in Predator Orange Leather. They're pretty much totally waterproof, but my feet don't really sweat in them. Maybe the fact that you got roughout leather has something to do with it. You might also want to try something like Obenauf's on the leather to help with water resistance. And please please don't wear cotton socks ever. MERINO WOOL ONLY!!!
Thanks for the tip. I just got my first jug of Obenauf’s that I applied to my boots right after I filmed this. Hopefully it makes a difference. I wear wool socks for most of the year, never tried them in the summer though. Do they keep your feet cool?
I did a custom fit tactical boot with Nick's sizing guide and I am ashamed to have waited so long to get good boots like this. Truly the best boot I have ever worked in.
I bought Nick boots because of Buckin Billy Ray. I use sno seal on mine.. never had an issue. Just make sure to get the beeswax down into the seams before you use a blow dryer to melt it in.
Ariat western boots for the win for me anyhow. However i have been looking at Nicks boots because I don't climb in them. I have but I need a pair of dedicated climb boots. I get about 2 yrs out of a set of my Ariats and they are the only thing I even wear. I only have shoes now because my wife bought them for me lol. She said i need to actually show my tattoos on my legs and I have abided. Shoes don't get worn much on me 😮 And you're absolutely right a quality boot is worth every penny. Preach it brother..preach I LOVE IT! Excellent review and video.
Thanks for watching!!! If you need a pair of boots for climbing I would definitely recommend these. The extra thick soles I ordered like an idiot are for exactly that. I’ve never worn Ariat boots but I’ve heard great things about them. Are they like pull on style?
@Evergreen Organics yes..your typical sqaure toe western boot and not steel or composite toe. The boots I wear are not classified as "work boots" I find most work boots to be very heavy and that drives me nuts and the sole isn't flexible
Ariat just sells a bunch of overpriced Chinese junk dude. Terrible boots. Their made with cheap Chinese materials. Unless you ride horses why you wearing cowboy boots anyhow? You can wear these nicks to ride horses the heel works great for it. Quit paying for the overpriced Chinese stuff man!! Anyway sorry for sounding like an asshole I just hate companies like ariat they claim to be “American western” and it’s all Chinese made lol
I use leather insoles to take up some of the room in my Nicks when wearing thinner socks. The same issue, so I trimmed off the toe part. I then sanded the bottom of the ball down for the transition. Then there is no insole under your toes and they have the room they had before. Looks like you know how to cut and sand stuff, so should be easy for you.
Your brutally honest review was much appreciated! To your point, I’ve taken the extra time to do the measurements, I’m just going back and forth btwn Nick’s and JK as I have to wait 18-35 weeks for the Nicks I’d like. However, as luck would have it, JK actually has the boot I’d like (although maybe not quite as much as the Nicks) and my size in stock and 5-7 business days sure beats 18-35 weeks. Ps. Absolutely loved the $80 Walmart boots and multiple $1k+ suppressor anecdote. Had me laughing lol👍👍
Loved that ending bit, yeah they cost double what most boots cost but they more than make up for it in quality and comfort, as well as longevity. It's pretty easy to make up that extra cost when you can work more overtime without your feet killing you I got the same Thorogoods a year and a half ago and its time to upgrade them. Think I'm about to pull the trigger on my first PNW boots, either the JK OTs or their Forefronts haven't decided yet
Wearing boots every day is OK, but they really need to fully dry out between wearings. I've found the best way is to put a fan in front of them. Works like a charm. Then a good brushing to get the worst of the dirt off, and periodic oiling, but not too often.
I have has Nick's Whites and Cruz boots and love all 3! My dad was buying whites in the 70s then Nick's came along way after whites Nick's shop was just down the road from me!!
@@evergreenorganics there was a Basc dude that had a boot place down town he ran it by his self and his boots were called Cruz boots boots I had a pair of them. When he passed his boots went with him!
Thank you, I really appreciate your feedback. I agree, $600 is a lot of coin to drop on the wrong size boots or boots you’ve accidentally custom built to be something you don’t actually want or need.
I definitely agree with taking the extra time to make sure you order the proper size. Their website recommends 1/2 size down from your normal shoe size, but I also ended up needing a full size smaller in Nick’s.
Back in my twenties I did a lot of backpacking. To gear up for a trip to Alaska, I bought a stiffer version of my favorite hiking boots, they were essentially mountaineering boots, way more boot than I needed. I bought the boots and had a month to break them in. I should not have ignored the warning signs. I’m not sure I ever broke them in. Even with a fully loaded backpack, there was no give in the soles, no flex. Come trip time, I quickly began to suffer and developed what I assume was some kind of a stress fracture. The entire trip was torture, every step a struggle. It took me well over a year to recover, for much of that time, I could hike, but as soon as I had a load on my back, it was game over, very frustrating, can’t imagine how long the recovery time would be at 53. Fit is key, there is such a thing as too much boot. Finding a good balance between comfort and support is key. Zero desire for a repeat attempt at breaking in a pair of 2x4’s that’s for sure.
I'm shocked you bought a pair of Nicks without measuring, lesson learned I'm sure. When I decided to buy Nicks boots 10 years ago(time flies) I took the train from here in Vancouver,BC all the way down to Spokane and spent a few hours in the store with the guys sizing and trying on different boots. I ended up buying a pair for the wife and two pairs for myself. It still makes me laugh because I'm spent way less time buying a truck. I don't think it's absolutely necessary to physically travel to Nicks but definitely call them and work your way through the measuring process. They are awesome boots.
What worked for me, on a pair of Side Zip Station boots that turned out slightly bigger, was a Dr Scholl’s half insert from Walmart. This saved my toes from being jammed up in the top part of the toe box and fixed the fit issue.
To add to your rant the high end boots from redwing and thorogood are not that much cheaper. The last pair Red wings I bought before I shelled out the cash for Nick's were $350 pair of boots and they were worn out in less than a year. Those boots weren't even the most expensive they offered. There was a pair I was looking at that would run me close to $500 back in 2021. Great video thanks
Hey mate, just stumbled over this review. Regarding your sizing and insole issue with thinner socks, I cut the toe part of some cheap extra insoles (some times two at a time) and just place the below the manufacturer's insole so as to have them take up the play of my foot inside the boot in general, while still leaving enough play for my toes in the toe box. Hope this helps... didn't see if somebody else commented this already hope it helps
@Evergreen Organics not that close, but coming up in June and then every few months for inspections. Funny thing is that I started looking for boots when informed that your place requires all leather uppers (including tongue) and my safeties are composite construction.
Question: hows the toe leather holding up? I'm getting a pair made & don't know if I should spend the extra $ on a toe cap (steel toe). But I'm going to WA in June & getting sized at their store. Comment: Don't get Wesco. They rebuilt mine wrong. Wrong sole, took out my steel toe, rebuilt them with a soft toe and put on a toecap. This isn't the 1st time they did this (at least to me).
I think the steel toe is bulky enough without a toe cap. If you wanted extra protection I would use something like KG’s boot guard on the toe. That stuff is phenomenally strong. Yeah I have no plans to get Wesco.
Oh but to answer your question the toe leather is holding up great. I also have not done a ton of kneeling on concrete with them though which is the real toe killer.
I am in love with my Nick’s Overlanders. They’re way more flexible than the high arch boots. Might be a great option for your non logging/forestry work. I’m already looking at getting a full custom version done for no reason. It is an addiction!
The Whites boots are $100 more expensive due to the handwelted norwegian construction, this brings some pluses, including for the break-in period. Whites also have a line of regular stitchdown shoes (same construction as the Nicks) in the $490-$580 range. The production time is acceptable, I received my stockman boots 2 months after payment on black Friday.
@@steveeab2364 after digging into it I believe you’re right. Whites is owned by a Japanese corporation that also owns LaCrosse boots. Gotta be corporate overhead.
To ease up the sole - I put my PNW boots (toe to heel) in 'vice" & screw it in so the sole is bent up - leave it there for a week - then screw it in a bit more till you figure you don't need to anymore. Makes a huge difference in how it fits initially & helps the break in a bit as well.
I’ve had my builder pros now for exactly two weeks. Been wearing in the evenings and weekends and already getting pretty comfortable. I found that type of sock that I wear makes a big difference. Best for me is a medium weight merino wool sock with cushioning all the way around the foot top and bottom. I’m really happy with the size;went one half smaller than Brannock, but went with EE although Brannock had closer to an E. Glad I went with EE. I agree with your take on the value of these; worth every penny. One pair of these will outlast several pair of $200 dollar boots. In addition,these feel like no other.boots I have worn. They are that good.
@@evergreenorganics I have several pairs and you're right about picking the right boot for the job. The honey sole is much better on concrete but I prefer the 2021 wedge if that's an option. The comfort is unreal. FYI, Nick's quick ship boots are free shipping so I'd check there first before placing another order.
Cool video! I've heard Sno Seal does a pretty good job with waterproofing. Also, I'd say White's cost more because of their "hand-sewn stitch-down construction." Rose Anvil has a good video explaining it. In theory, you could get more resoles before a full rebuild is necessary. So, maybe worth it 🤷
@@evergreenorganics sno seal is definitely the way to go. I’ve used it, my father who was a custom boot maker uses and recommends it, and you hear many other industry experts vouch for it. Not sure that rough out is the best for waterproofing, but if it can be done, Sno seal is the product
I have a pair of JK Arctic 1s, with the WhiteX sole and the sizing is really different from other PNW boots. I measured a 6.5 2E in the store but they were awfully uncomfortable and switched to a 5.5 5E and that really works. Considering my normal size is 8.5 D women’s, I never would have guessed I would need a boot 3 sizes smaller. Frank’s fit me a lot better, got a 6 2E, and they’re more comfortable for me than my JKs. Oh and Frank and his wife are absolutely awesome, got amazing customer service from them, highly recommended! I do love my JKs, they’re my work boots for scrabbling around on rocks and mine sites, but the break in period is brutal. From my experience with these two PNW companies I don’t think I would ever buy online, but that’s me.
I checked out your channel and it’s awesome! I hope you keep making more videos. I’m no geologist but I’m definitely an amateur rock hound. I took a trip out to the petrified forest NP a few years ago and was really blown away. We don’t have any petrified wood that I know of here in the Midwest.
@@evergreenorganics Thanks! I hope to get back to making content again one of these days! I have to travel for rockhounding now here in the PNW, where back home in New Mexico I was 5 miles from a field of petrified wood! There are some good rockhounding spots in the midwest, depends what state though, I know some do have pet wood and agates etc. The Petrified Forest NP is a place of torture for geologists/rockhounds 😆 I had to keep my hands in my pockets the whole time cause the urge to take everything was overwhelming!
I am definitely not as had on boots as a lot of guys, I’ve had a pair of red wings for about 3 years now and I haven’t warn them out. I also don’t wear boots a lot in the summer. I do plan on buying a pair of hand made boots so this was a great insight for the fitting proses.
Great video man! I have four pairs of whites and two pairs of nicks now and have been wearing these foods for many years. Cody at wranglerstar says it best on one of his videos and this is a man that has been wearing these kind of foods since 1983 and he's had multiple multiple pair and more whites for years and love them and they are an excellent excellent boot. But he says when he bought his Nick's they are the biggest baddest buriest food on the planet. They are barbarically, tough and insanely difficult to break in. So that's got to tell you something about the longevity. I would say stay with your Nick's bud.
In 2020 I ordered a pair of whites smoke jumpers. I wear them 7 days a week. I do everything from standing on concrete to working in mud. I clean and oil once a month and they are still the best fitting and wearing boot I've ever had. They actually get more comfortable at the end of the day. I don't even use insoles. I think the Nick's seem to be a little heavier duty than the White's but this is just observation for I haven't had hands on any. I can kneel for a long time without toes hurting. I like the logger heels when driving long distance they don't get in the way or hold the foot at weird angles. Unfortunately White's aren't waterproof either. And when they get get a little dry they squeak when walking drives me nuts. But still the best shoe I have ever had and I won't ever own something else period
Nice review. I got the Urban Loggers with the honey sole on new years, should be here mid june... but yeah, very exited. Never really had a pair of boots before, so should be interesting. I've worn my friend's iron rangers a few days here and there, but from what I hear, a pair of nicks should be even better
I have the spenco comfort insole in mine. Not sure if Nicks still offers it although can be found many places online. It's pretty thin and helps for sure.
I have two pairs of nicks that are a size large in width. I order them ready to ship so I knew I’d need a insole to help the fit. Spenco was too thick. Nicks leather insole is perfect and has the added benefit of protecting the footbed of the boot with a replaceable piece of leather. Win win.
I can’t personally speak to whites boots but I have been extremely impressed with not only the quality of my Nicks, but their customer service. You can go on Reddit and send a message to the owner at any time and he will get back to you with any questions you have. Pretty incredible.
I definitely agree with the honey Vibram! My use case for my Nicks brings me outside most of the time, however I’m in a warehouse a lot and I just don’t wear my black V100 soles when I am
I have 3 pairs of JK boots and I love them. I would like to try Nicks boots but I already know my sizing from JK and they have a store in the Phoenix area where I live. So, it’s hard to switch. I highly recommend trying JK if you’re curious about them. I agree about the haters too. I have had Danners, redwing, and Thorogoods. Of those, three, Thorogoods are the winner all day. But, the PNW boots are in a whole other league.
Thanks for sharing your experience with JK's boots. I am kind of in the same boat now that i've found my right size for Franks and Nicks i'm a bit nervous to switch it up. Another thing is that Nicks has provided me with such outstanding customer service that I have no desire to search elsewhere unless something major changed at Nicks. I've heard good things about JK's boots though.
This was very helpful to hear. My issue is I am on concrete all day but also need something durable. Those two needs are very opposed to eachother. Right now I wear White's Perrys and the Vibram crepe sole is wearing down pretty fast. Man are they comfortable, but my boots are exposed to a lot of junk and I need more durability. My plans were to get a 2nd pair of boots for a rotation, then when these need it to resole with a good lug. Ive been considering the honey lug, and man I dont like how they look, but I should probably just bite the bullet and resole with those when needed. The other boots Im thinking about getting come with White's Unit Lug sole, and maybe this is something I should also reconsider. Its difficut to find information about the softness and durability of that sole.
what i like is blundstone insoles their simple but get the job done and their quite thin just alittle extra padding and reducing room had them in my redwings and it worked like a charm
I do a good mix of both indoor and outdoor. I'm in industrial services so sometimes I'm doing work on concrete or parking lots, then I ill be working in dirt for 2 weeks. Would yoh recommend honey or regular vibram
Love my builder pros. I think I have one very similar to yours. Same everything, but a 3/4 inch red x sole. Gotta say even the thinner sole doesn’t bend very well. When I kneel, I just turn my foot sideways. Good review man.
If you want Wesco boots, they do make the Jobmasters (premade) that are available immediately from many sellers online. I have a pair of Jobmasters, and like them a lot. They don't have as much arch support as Nicks Builder Pro, but they are comfortable, and you can always add an arch support if needed.
@@evergreenorganics You're right about Nicks. I ordered a pair of Nicks Roberts, and they are slightly too long. I wish I had ordered at least 1/2 size shorter. They are fantastic boots, but their sizing is big.
I would get the V100 lug sole. It’s the standard sole for the builder pro. Those soles last for years. I’m 18 months into daily wear on my current boots and they’re nowhere near needing a resole.
My Nick's with the extra thick sole took a good 6 months to break in. I'm a year and half into them and in need of a resole now, still doesn't flex much. Mine are the waxed flesh and pretty water resistant. They get wet every day doing animals, started to soak up water after a year and some good coats of obenaufs have them beading up and shedding water again.
Have been wearing mine for two years, the best boots money can buy. I wear them to work and casually. I wish I picked low or medium arch tho but other than that I don’t wear no other boot or shoe.
For better waterproofing try Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP or Huberd's Shoe Grease after, or even instead of oiling. Go heavy on the seams. Won't be like GoreTex, but unless you're standing in water up to your ankles for long periods, it should work pretty well in snow or in most wet conditions.
100% with you. My Thorogoods are super comfy, but aren't half as tough as handmade Spokane loggers. Just like you, I have black soles and my bones wish I'd gotten honey.
Use two pairs of the cheap perforated insoles trimmed back to around the ball of your foot and place them under a high quality insole in order to have room in the toe box. If it works, glue them together.
I also have the nicks builder pro and have the same opinion on wearing them on concrete. I recently got some franks boots and in my opinion they gave me a better fitting boot. Nicks are great but I think I prefer Franks.
I actually just reached out to Franks, JKs, and Drew’s to see if they would send me some boots so I can make a comparison video series. Hopefully that pans out.
A new pair of Nicks Boots is tight, a half size smaller than I wear in other boots. But when they break in, stretch and mold to your feet, they fit like a glove. I can wear my builder pros all day, no additional insole insert, almost all on concrete. The most comfortable boots I've ever worn. (in Nicks shop they take measurements in 11 different places on each foot!)
@@leifforrest I did. My comment isn't directly for you. I apologize if UA-cam tags you in it. I'm commenting ON your input. It's for others reading it. That said, you may be very correct for 99% of folks. I'm not sure. Per my experience, I wear many sizes depending on brand and model of boots.
Try obenauf's heavy duty LP to get them more water tight. I put a good layer on hit it with a hair dryer then add a second coat and let set overnight. I cross creeks or in mud regularly and my feet stay dry, cant say about hours in snow.
hi my friend, i m sorry i think i missed it. but what model is your boots i just love’em. so ya thanks for sharing. my friends, thorough goods, and that level of boot can not old candle to Nicks boots. so worth the money. a 20 year boot at least.
@@evergreenorganics I've used Westco's "Bee Oil" and Obenauf's leather preservative for many years. No "liner" just a great boot made for logging and running heavy equipment in the Montana woods.
Have u tried Hoffman boots .. I've had 2 pair as a lineman they where the best I could afford and where the best boots I ever owned 5 yr life cycle as compared to Redwings less then a year .. they are great for climbing and ground work ... I would like to get nicks thou Hoffmann worked well
Great video and info my next boots are going to be from nicks been wearing cody james and only last 10-12 months im very rough on my boots and my trade don’t help i been using Huberds saddle soap then oil after that drys in use the grease then repeat grease as needed im in all types of weather in up state ny for 10-12hrs a day and my feet nvr get wet also always wear darn tuff socks all yr long nothing worse then having wet feet all day that makes for a bad day keep videos coming 👍have a great weekend be kind over n out
Awesome review! I'm here doing my research so I can figure out what exactly I want out of a pair of boots before I drop a chunk. So true though, guys will buy 3 cans for 3k that sit in a safe 99% of the time but hate on you for paying a fraction of that for something you'll wear 12 hours a day 6 days a week and is custom made to your foot. 🥴
I have two pairs of Nicks and cant say good enough about it. Working construction and farming and hunting and hiking and jeeping and everything they are amazing. If you want water proof you can bes wax one of the pairs but you loose out of on the great breathability of these leather boots. If you work hard and wear out boots save up a little and you will not regret it.
Mostly got the second set to slow down the wear, have a second if one gets wet so the other can dry out cause boot driers aren't good for he leather, and have a set when they other are getting rebuilt.
I have the exta thick sole on the BP. I love it but I am 230lbs. My usual complaint is I hate feeling too much through the sole or my plantar fatigues too much after many miles because a sole flexes too easily. Never going back!
Nicks now makes a leather half insole to take up some of the space and support your arch. You can also go on Reddit and ask their cobblers what they recommend.
Are the redwings truly that waterproof, I'm a land surveyor if a property corner is 2 miles in a the woods in a creek then I am 2 miles in the woods in the creek i truly need WATERPROOF boot but i really really like 8inch or 10 inch lace up loggers or moctoes do you know of anything that is fool proof
The redwing waterproof loggers are literally waterproof. you could stand in water all day and your fee will not get wet. That said the gortex liner that makes them waterproof will crap out after a year of daily wear.
Great review. Good points and recommendations. As for Whites boots...careful. They are only 1 for 4 with me. That said, I do LOVE that 1 pair that worked out. (Disclaimer; that loved pair came with multiple quality control issues.)
So I know a little late but I have a pair of the JK custom and they cost me 575 (not including shipping) but they have been great boots for me so far. They showed up middle of March and broke in fairly quick, my left one took about four weeks to break in while my right one took only two weeks. While I don't work 12-15 hour days in them I wear them at least that long every day and hardly want to take them off. Obviously take my opinion with a grain of salt because I don't have a lot of time in them yet so we will see how well they hold after 6/8/12 months, however I definitely will have a difficult decision on Nicks or these to buy during this next fire season.
Im a heavy equipment mechanic and everyone at the shop I work at says I was crazy to spend nearly $630 on a pair of boots from nicks, then I ask why wouldnt you spend a lot of money on something you are in and use more than almost anything you own. And they still think there is no reason to spend over ~250 on a pair of boots. If there are 2 things you should spend as much money as you can on its your footwear and your mattress
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Great review! Yes, we have been doing the 3/4'' sole option for decades. It has slightly more flex. Might be cool for you try one of our wedge sole boots to see how they compare with your current pair of wedges. Thanks again!
Hey guys thanks for checking out my video. My next wedge sole moc toe will definitely be coming from you folks. Your boots are just fantastic, I can’t speak highly enough of them!
@@evergreenorganics Fantastic! 🙂
@@evergreenorganicsIt's normal to strike on the outside rear of the heel and roll to the big toe in a sort of S pattern. If your gate is odd a wedge on the heel might help. Ask Nick's about it on the next set.
How do I get the paper to size my feet? I been wanting Nick's for a long time. Been to the site buy can't find where I get the nicks foot size sheet
@@BoozeandNewswithTimandDut you print it off their website
I am a pipefitter and baught nicks a year and a half ago... the hype is real, they look almost new, and they are without a doubt the most comfortable boots, shoes, or basically any footwear ive ever owned
Fellow pipefitter here. I’ve worn mine everyday for 2 years in our local refinery. Mine are still holding up great even after all the chemicals and oils on them. They are going in for a resole at the end of the summer.
Pipefitter as well. Local32. Thankfully, I found out about PNW Boots about 15 years ago when I started in the trades even after all this time, it's hard to get even my good friends to try them out. Pains me to hear them complain about foot this and that and they just refused to get good boots.
@@fishtailfuture local 486 over here!
I have 2 pairs of nicks and my thorogoods are easily more comfortable. Nicks form to your foot great but be real throrogood with the wedge sole and the foam insert are work slippers
Pipefitter here these boots are no better or more comfortable then a $100 pair from the feed store.
I think this is about as genuine a review as I’ve seen on anything in a long time. Excellent job.
I deeply appreciate your comment. I try to just relay my experience as a tradesman and farmer and leave the fluff and the nonsense out. Although I do like to have fun making these videos. Can’t be serious all the time can we?
I have been wearing Nicks boots for about 5 years and I love them. The feeling you get when slipping your foot into a quality boot that fits perfectly, priceless. I didn’t get the extra thick soles and the boot bends easily.
Thanks for sharing! I definitely will be going with a thinner sole next time.
@@evergreenorganics need to wax to make waterproof. I would recommend SnoSeal. Put them in the oven on warm for a bit before you put it on. Nicks and JK are both great boots. I have both. The JK break in easier and slightly roomier toe box even with safety toe and have a lot shorter lead time. I wear my JK with honey sole on concrete and Nicks around the farm.
For waterproofing my Nicks, I use 100% bees wax they are damn near waterproof after melting in a couple layers. However, the color will darken significantly.
Nicks made a UA-cam video doing this and it was a disaster. I’m glad it worked better for you.
I heated bees wax into my nicks builder pro boots right out of the box, two years in november, zero water intrusion. Hot tip: use a heat gun, skip the hair dryer. Go slow, take your time.
That said my only issue with the nicks is cold climate. They DO NOT hold heat in winter no matter the thickness or quantity of wool sox. Though i see they now make a winter specific boot. May need to order a set for the coming winter.
100% agreed. I've had my Nick's about a year. $550 and worth every single penny.
Couldn’t agree more.
This was a useful video with good practical advice. My favorite parts were 1) they cost 600 dollars and take months to show up - spend 15 minutes measuring your feet and then 2) the part at the end about his friends who balk at expensive boots but have suppressors for their multiple ar 15s. Because i know people like that who are cheap when it comes to some reasonable things but very extravagant for pointless stuff. and i agree that even a cheap pair of boots is 200 plus and they arent any good and in a year or so they are garbage.
Thanks for checking my review out!
I think '6 months' for hand made, made to order boots to show up is great.
Honestly I would rather everything be made to order. I'd probably buy a lot less useless stuff. 😂
My coworkers always make fun of me for spending money on my work boots but within a year they’ve both replaced their boots twice and I’m still wearing the same redwings I’ve had since 2017 and I just bought a new pair just to have a logging boot for cutting on steep hills and my regular boots for working around the shop
"Buy nice boots and a nice bed, cause if ya ain't in one you're in the other"
but those guys cheaped out on both so they could buy a nice $65,000 truck for their 15 minute drive to work
Yes, absolutely critical to print out their form and measure twice (or more) and cut once, especially at their price point. Sorry for you issues and thanks for pointing them out.
Yes sizing is very important, I am lucky to be living in Washington so I just drove to the store and got fitted. Defiantly the best boots I have ever had. I am really hard on footwear, especially being around 330 pounds. Most boots feel like walking on concrete after 8 months to a year. Or if they're Danner's they just start falling apart at the seams. But these have just only been feeling better! I feel like they just reached there peak comfort about 3 months ago.
I have absolutely loved these so far. And even at 330 pounds, the tread is still perfectly fine. I expect it should last at least two years before a resole. Really helped my back out too!
Im glad you finally found some boots that work for you!
I wear the hotshots every day! I did the custom fitting. Nicks did an amazing job. I have a very hard to fit foot. My arch is back further than average and I lift so my calves are larger than average. They built two pairs of boots to get it right at no extra expense to me. After they got the right fit, those measurements were on file. I loved my hotshots so much, I ordered a second pair of insulated ones with a softer vibram (yellow) sole. I wear these elk hunting and all winter. The second pair came to me perfectly built because of the time they spent on the first custom pair. It wasn’t a fast process to get the first ones dialed in, but it’s why we get custom boots. I’ve worn both pairs for over 6 years and will wear Nicks the rest of my life.
Im with you ! Im a union carpenter in washington state. Ive done the redwing/ thourgood for years . Theyd wearout in 6-8 mo. Ive paid so much for workboots. Got my first pair of Nicks in dec. I love them . They are a whole new world of boot. The mid size arch took a while to get use to .but i dont want to wear anything but my nicks. Thanks!
I hear ya. They’re another level. Thanks for checking out the video.
To improve the water resistance instead of oil, try using SNO-SEAL and a hairdryer to melt it into the seams. Other than standing in deep water my Nicks are dry.
100% agree. If you’re going to get your leather boots wet, SNO-SEAL is the way to go.
Better than that is a small bar of pure beeswax, and a hair dryer , repeat until the leather will not soke any more in i can go through water in ditches and stand there for a good few minutes no leaks 👍
Do you oil the welt? Some guys say it rots the welt.
I tend to agree oil will weaken the welt , from my past boots the boot oil did deteriorate the leather if over done, not pure wax.
@@davidmartinez1870 If you use mink oil it will! And saddle soap will also too! Everything else is 100% fine!
Interesting review.... I have worn custom boots made in Spokane, both White's and Nick's, since the mid 1970's. My latest pair are Frank's... love them...Highly recommended! You are correct in recommending spending the extra time to insure the best fit possible... I don't live far from there so for the most part fit had never been a big issue for me, and Honey Vibram soles for concrete is a better choice. BTW... some of White's boots are Handsewn Stitchdown construction thus may be one of the differences in price.
I work with a guy who swears by Redwings. In the 4 years I have had my Nicks he has gone through 3 pairs of Redwings. I also bought another pair of Nicks that I use on the weekends and I am ready for when my first pair need to go for a resole.
Some people just love to spend a dollar to save a dime. That guy bought $900 or more worth of boots in that timeframe.
What toy do for a living?
I agree with you one hundred percent. The people that don't know just don't know. I've been wearing Pacific Northwest boots since I was 18 years old. I am now 52 and have 2 pairs of Whites ready. Was a wildland firefighter for 7 years. When I first got introduced to the boots, they have never let me down. Rebuilt them several times. I'm currently in the electrical Line construction for more than 20 years. I greatly recommend Pacific Northwest boots awesome.
Nick's Boots , the best boot I've ever owned . Worth the money !!
My Builder pro’s should ship May 18th, cant wait!! Tired of buying a boot just to have it discontinued when its time for a replacement. Thanks for review, all good info
You’re in for a treat. Also don’t be surprised if they don’t ship for another 2 months. Mine took 6 months to get.
@@evergreenorganics I keep telling myself that. And i keep looking at Ready to Ship options as well! Patience is a virtue, unless you’re waiting for Nick’s!
@@CigarSnob87 I hear ya. It was torture waiting for my boots.
As a guy lucky enough to live 50 miles from Spokane and have the ability to go to Whites, Nick’s, Franks, and JK is pretty awesome. Got my Whites in 2005 very tough break in. They are lace to toe, probably didn’t need that feature! they are still going after a few resoles, got my Nicks in 2008, they were way easier to break in, like them a lot more than the whites, they’ve had a few resoles, probably in need of a full rebuild next go round. I probably spend at least 325 days a year in my boots. Prior to this I was wearing out a pair of Danner Quary’s every 6 months, so these handmade boots are so worth the money. Also Danner bought out Whites so now I’ll stay with the locally owned companies, not the offshore ones. I recently got a pair of JK’s, seem to be a great boot so far.i already ordered a 2nd pair from them. I plan on getting a pair of Franks soon, probably a lower top like 6” for more comfortable driving. I also have Hoffman rebuildable packs, as well as whites. I have the while’s Snowcat too, not sure if that one is rebuildable.
I tell the same thing to all the people that had questioned me about the price " you don't understand if you dont or ever had a pair of Nick's."
They are amazing boots.. I have overlanders and 365 (360 stitched down) boots. I also have a pair of White's and an O.T from JK.
The PNW boots are on another level. I smile everytime the ball of my heel falls into place inside of the boot. You know what i am talking about..!
Oh I absolutely do know friend. They’re worth every penny. Thanks for watching.
After getting my first pair of White's, we both 100% understand. Just bought a pair of Nick's for a good friend. He deserves it.
You sir, are the good friend.
I bought a pair of Overlanders not because I have a super demanding job... I just like having boots that will last me a lifetime with proper care. Not to mention the blackout configuration looks so damn sexy for heavy duty boots. Yeah, the thick lug soles have a lot of downsides like how I am always picking random crud out of the lugs before walking through my door so I don't track it on my floor, hard rubber on veg tan leather is like walking with wood strapped to your feet, and I felt a little clumsy walking around with them for the first several weeks of wearing them.
That all being said, I love them. I love that feeling of slipping them on, I love how they've molded to my feet the HNW last provides a decent amount of support for my high arches. I love the extra height they give me (especially when I go to live shows). I've worn them in pouring rain, through ankle-high flooded areas around town, over broken glass, and have had them stepped on in several mosh pits... and they clean up like none of it ever happened.
I go places my sneaker-wearing friends could never follow. I also get the, "I COULD NEVER SPEND THAT MUCH ON FOOTWEAR!" as they're wearing $200 Nikes that become worthless and unwearable as soon as anything punctures that air cushion or when that soft sole eventually wears out. I will absolutely be buying another pair of Nicks... but most likely a pair with the wedge soles.
I’ve heard good things about their moc toe wedge sole. Thanks for sharing friend.
@@Bodudus I know right. As a nurse it's not really normal to wear leather shoes in the work place. But those $150 sneakers that are breathable last about 1 year tops. My last pair got a hole from my toe going through the top within 4 months lol. Comfy but annoying
This was very helpful for someone thinking of purchasing these boots thanks
Glad it was helpful, thank you for checking out my little channel.
I only want them more after watching this. Great job, dude!
Thanks man! Just get them. It’s worth it.
Good stuff. Really glad you took the time to share your experience and even your mistakes so the rest of us can benefit from it.
Don't waste your time arguing with haters in your videos. There's no winning that battle. Just let it go.
I appreciate your advice friend. Thank you.
Interesting first comment about the waterproofness. I purchased a pair of Nicks Americanas a few years back in Predator Orange Leather. They're pretty much totally waterproof, but my feet don't really sweat in them. Maybe the fact that you got roughout leather has something to do with it. You might also want to try something like Obenauf's on the leather to help with water resistance. And please please don't wear cotton socks ever. MERINO WOOL ONLY!!!
Thanks for the tip. I just got my first jug of Obenauf’s that I applied to my boots right after I filmed this. Hopefully it makes a difference. I wear wool socks for most of the year, never tried them in the summer though. Do they keep your feet cool?
@@evergreenorganics They keep your feet dry which in turns keeps them cool. I highly recommend Darn Tough socks.
Yea cotton is really no good it absorbs moisture. Merino wool the way to go. Also for waterproofing you want the paste not the oil
@@evergreenorganics use Sno Seal it waterproofs the boots
I did a custom fit tactical boot with Nick's sizing guide and I am ashamed to have waited so long to get good boots like this. Truly the best boot I have ever worked in.
That’s awesome man, I’m glad you took the leap. You’re a tinner I take it? Union?
Oh and get the obenauf's heavy duty LP. It's a paste instead of an oil and it seems to be a lot more waterproof
I bought Nick boots because of Buckin Billy Ray. I use sno seal on mine.. never had an issue. Just make sure to get the beeswax down into the seams before you use a blow dryer to melt it in.
I agree with you 💯 about priorities. Spending money on good footwear for work is money well spent.
Agreed
Just ordered a pair after a long period of procrastination and worrying that I may size them wrong! Cannot wait
Ariat western boots for the win for me anyhow. However i have been looking at Nicks boots because I don't climb in them. I have but I need a pair of dedicated climb boots.
I get about 2 yrs out of a set of my Ariats and they are the only thing I even wear. I only have shoes now because my wife bought them for me lol. She said i need to actually show my tattoos on my legs and I have abided. Shoes don't get worn much on me 😮
And you're absolutely right a quality boot is worth every penny. Preach it brother..preach I LOVE IT!
Excellent review and video.
Thanks for watching!!! If you need a pair of boots for climbing I would definitely recommend these. The extra thick soles I ordered like an idiot are for exactly that. I’ve never worn Ariat boots but I’ve heard great things about them. Are they like pull on style?
@Evergreen Organics yes..your typical sqaure toe western boot and not steel or composite toe. The boots I wear are not classified as "work boots"
I find most work boots to be very heavy and that drives me nuts and the sole isn't flexible
Ariat just sells a bunch of overpriced Chinese junk dude. Terrible boots. Their made with cheap Chinese materials. Unless you ride horses why you wearing cowboy boots anyhow? You can wear these nicks to ride horses the heel works great for it. Quit paying for the overpriced Chinese stuff man!! Anyway sorry for sounding like an asshole I just hate companies like ariat they claim to be “American western” and it’s all Chinese made lol
I use leather insoles to take up some of the room in my Nicks when wearing thinner socks. The same issue, so I trimmed off the toe part. I then sanded the bottom of the ball down for the transition. Then there is no insole under your toes and they have the room they had before. Looks like you know how to cut and sand stuff, so should be easy for you.
I’ve thought about doing exactly this! I’m glad it worked for you.
Your brutally honest review was much appreciated! To your point, I’ve taken the extra time to do the measurements, I’m just going back and forth btwn Nick’s and JK as I have to wait 18-35 weeks for the Nicks I’d like. However, as luck would have it, JK actually has the boot I’d like (although maybe not quite as much as the Nicks) and my size in stock and 5-7 business days sure beats 18-35 weeks.
Ps. Absolutely loved the $80 Walmart boots and multiple $1k+ suppressor anecdote. Had me laughing lol👍👍
I’m really glad you liked my review. Did you go with the Nicks or the JK?
Loved that ending bit, yeah they cost double what most boots cost but they more than make up for it in quality and comfort, as well as longevity. It's pretty easy to make up that extra cost when you can work more overtime without your feet killing you
I got the same Thorogoods a year and a half ago and its time to upgrade them. Think I'm about to pull the trigger on my first PNW boots, either the JK OTs or their Forefronts haven't decided yet
Good luck man, thanks for watching.
Wearing boots every day is OK, but they really need to fully dry out between wearings. I've found the best way is to put a fan in front of them. Works like a charm. Then a good brushing to get the worst of the dirt off, and periodic oiling, but not too often.
I have has Nick's Whites and Cruz boots and love all 3! My dad was buying whites in the 70s then Nick's came along way after whites Nick's shop was just down the road from me!!
Nicks actually started in 1964! Thanks for checking out my video friend.
@@evergreenorganics and I think the guy that started Nick's worked for whites. I know whites was the first boot maker in Spokane.
@@slayer6936 I could see that. I know Frank was the GM of Nicks before he left to start his boot company in 2016.
@@evergreenorganics there was a Basc dude that had a boot place down town he ran it by his self and his boots were called Cruz boots boots I had a pair of them. When he passed his boots went with him!
Good video. Valuable information for anyone who is gonna spend $600 on a pair of new boots and avoid disappointment.
Thank you, I really appreciate your feedback. I agree, $600 is a lot of coin to drop on the wrong size boots or boots you’ve accidentally custom built to be something you don’t actually want or need.
I definitely agree with taking the extra time to make sure you order the proper size. Their website recommends 1/2 size down from your normal shoe size, but I also ended up needing a full size smaller in Nick’s.
It’s just too much of a gamble to try to guess based on other boot sizes. Thanks for checking out my video!
Back in my twenties I did a lot of backpacking. To gear up for a trip to Alaska, I bought a stiffer version of my favorite hiking boots, they were essentially mountaineering boots, way more boot than I needed.
I bought the boots and had a month to break them in. I should not have ignored the warning signs. I’m not sure I ever broke them in. Even with a fully loaded backpack, there was no give in the soles, no flex. Come trip time, I quickly began to suffer and developed what I assume was some kind of a stress fracture. The entire trip was torture, every step a struggle. It took me well over a year to recover, for much of that time, I could hike, but as soon as I had a load on my back, it was game over, very frustrating, can’t imagine how long the recovery time would be at 53.
Fit is key, there is such a thing as too much boot. Finding a good balance between comfort and support is key. Zero desire for a repeat attempt at breaking in a pair of 2x4’s that’s for sure.
Yikes! That sounds like hell. Did you at least bring your old pair of hiking boots for backup?
@@evergreenorganics hell no, not on a backpacking trip. That would be like packing a second fridge. It was rather unpleasant to say the least.
Thanks for the honest review. No dancing around straight to point thanks again.
You’re very welcome. I appreciate you commenting, it helps my little channel grow.
What did you use for boot treatment ? Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP Leather and Sno Seal are my favorites. Thanks for the review.
I use Obenauf’s.
I'm shocked you bought a pair of Nicks without measuring, lesson learned I'm sure. When I decided to buy Nicks boots 10 years ago(time flies) I took the train from here in Vancouver,BC all the way down to Spokane and spent a few hours in the store with the guys sizing and trying on different boots. I ended up buying a pair for the wife and two pairs for myself. It still makes me laugh because I'm spent way less time buying a truck. I don't think it's absolutely necessary to physically travel to Nicks but definitely call them and work your way through the measuring process. They are awesome boots.
What worked for me, on a pair of Side Zip Station boots that turned out slightly bigger, was a Dr Scholl’s half insert from Walmart. This saved my toes from being jammed up in the top part of the toe box and fixed the fit issue.
Thanks for sharing, I just might have to try that!
To add to your rant the high end boots from redwing and thorogood are not that much cheaper. The last pair Red wings I bought before I shelled out the cash for Nick's were $350 pair of boots and they were worn out in less than a year. Those boots weren't even the most expensive they offered. There was a pair I was looking at that would run me close to $500 back in 2021. Great video thanks
I agree. The cost to quality ratio just isn’t there in those mass produced brands nowadays.
Hey mate, just stumbled over this review. Regarding your sizing and insole issue with thinner socks, I cut the toe part of some cheap extra insoles (some times two at a time) and just place the below the manufacturer's insole so as to have them take up the play of my foot inside the boot in general, while still leaving enough play for my toes in the toe box. Hope this helps... didn't see if somebody else commented this already hope it helps
That’s a pretty brilliant strategy. I will try that, thank you.
Thank you for the detailed review!
Gotta find you to buy you a beer the next time I'm at FMM
Holy smokes. You’re in my neck of the woods eh?
@Evergreen Organics not that close, but coming up in June and then every few months for inspections. Funny thing is that I started looking for boots when informed that your place requires all leather uppers (including tongue) and my safeties are composite construction.
Question: hows the toe leather holding up? I'm getting a pair made & don't know if I should spend the extra $ on a toe cap (steel toe). But I'm going to WA in June & getting sized at their store.
Comment: Don't get Wesco. They rebuilt mine wrong. Wrong sole, took out my steel toe, rebuilt them with a soft toe and put on a toecap. This isn't the 1st time they did this (at least to me).
I think the steel toe is bulky enough without a toe cap. If you wanted extra protection I would use something like KG’s boot guard on the toe. That stuff is phenomenally strong. Yeah I have no plans to get Wesco.
Oh but to answer your question the toe leather is holding up great. I also have not done a ton of kneeling on concrete with them though which is the real toe killer.
I am in love with my Nick’s Overlanders. They’re way more flexible than the high arch boots. Might be a great option for your non logging/forestry work.
I’m already looking at getting a full custom version done for no reason. It is an addiction!
It sure is an addiction. I’d have 10 pairs if I could afford it.
The Whites boots are $100 more expensive due to the handwelted norwegian construction, this brings some pluses, including for the break-in period.
Whites also have a line of regular stitchdown shoes (same construction as the Nicks) in the $490-$580 range.
The production time is acceptable, I received my stockman boots 2 months after payment on black Friday.
Did not know that, thanks for filling us in!
I figured they were more due to more corporate Overhead
@@steveeab2364 after digging into it I believe you’re right. Whites is owned by a Japanese corporation that also owns LaCrosse boots. Gotta be corporate overhead.
Wesco job master would serve your needs well. Very well. I would size them so you have enough room for a insole for concrete
To ease up the sole - I put my PNW boots (toe to heel) in 'vice" & screw it in so the sole is bent up - leave it there for a week - then screw it in a bit more till you figure you don't need to anymore.
Makes a huge difference in how it fits initially & helps the break in a bit as well.
I’ve had my builder pros now for exactly two weeks. Been wearing in the evenings and weekends and already getting pretty comfortable. I found that type of sock that I wear makes a big difference. Best for me is a medium weight merino wool sock with cushioning all the way around the foot top and bottom.
I’m really happy with the size;went one half smaller than Brannock, but went with EE although Brannock had closer to an E. Glad I went with EE.
I agree with your take on the value of these; worth every penny. One pair of these will outlast several pair of $200 dollar boots.
In addition,these feel like no other.boots I have worn. They are that good.
I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for checking out the video! Give us an update on those boots when you get them fully broken in will ya?
@@evergreenorganics I have several pairs and you're right about picking the right boot for the job. The honey sole is much better on concrete but I prefer the 2021 wedge if that's an option. The comfort is unreal. FYI, Nick's quick ship boots are free shipping so I'd check there first before placing another order.
Cool video! I've heard Sno Seal does a pretty good job with waterproofing. Also, I'd say White's cost more because of their "hand-sewn stitch-down construction." Rose Anvil has a good video explaining it. In theory, you could get more resoles before a full rebuild is necessary. So, maybe worth it 🤷
Thanks for letting me know. I’ll check out that Rose Anvil video.
@@evergreenorganics sno seal is definitely the way to go. I’ve used it, my father who was a custom boot maker uses and recommends it, and you hear many other industry experts vouch for it. Not sure that rough out is the best for waterproofing, but if it can be done, Sno seal is the product
I have a pair of JK Arctic 1s, with the WhiteX sole and the sizing is really different from other PNW boots. I measured a 6.5 2E in the store but they were awfully uncomfortable and switched to a 5.5 5E and that really works. Considering my normal size is 8.5 D women’s, I never would have guessed I would need a boot 3 sizes smaller. Frank’s fit me a lot better, got a 6 2E, and they’re more comfortable for me than my JKs. Oh and Frank and his wife are absolutely awesome, got amazing customer service from them, highly recommended! I do love my JKs, they’re my work boots for scrabbling around on rocks and mine sites, but the break in period is brutal. From my experience with these two PNW companies I don’t think I would ever buy online, but that’s me.
I checked out your channel and it’s awesome! I hope you keep making more videos. I’m no geologist but I’m definitely an amateur rock hound. I took a trip out to the petrified forest NP a few years ago and was really blown away. We don’t have any petrified wood that I know of here in the Midwest.
@@evergreenorganics Thanks! I hope to get back to making content again one of these days! I have to travel for rockhounding now here in the PNW, where back home in New Mexico I was 5 miles from a field of petrified wood! There are some good rockhounding spots in the midwest, depends what state though, I know some do have pet wood and agates etc. The Petrified Forest NP is a place of torture for geologists/rockhounds 😆 I had to keep my hands in my pockets the whole time cause the urge to take everything was overwhelming!
I am definitely not as had on boots as a lot of guys, I’ve had a pair of red wings for about 3 years now and I haven’t warn them out. I also don’t wear boots a lot in the summer. I do plan on buying a pair of hand made boots so this was a great insight for the fitting proses.
If that’s the case a pair of Nicks will be the last boots you ever buy.
You're so right, people who have never worn them will never understand.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone who has worn nicks for any length of time who doesn’t swear up and down how great they are. Me included.
True that.
Great video man! I have four pairs of whites and two pairs of nicks now and have been wearing these foods for many years. Cody at wranglerstar says it best on one of his videos and this is a man that has been wearing these kind of foods since 1983 and he's had multiple multiple pair and more whites for years and love them and they are an excellent excellent boot. But he says when he bought his Nick's they are the biggest baddest buriest food on the planet. They are barbarically, tough and insanely difficult to break in. So that's got to tell you something about the longevity. I would say stay with your Nick's bud.
Those Nicks are so damn indestructible I kinda have to stay with them, they just won’t quit!
In 2020 I ordered a pair of whites smoke jumpers. I wear them 7 days a week. I do everything from standing on concrete to working in mud. I clean and oil once a month and they are still the best fitting and wearing boot I've ever had. They actually get more comfortable at the end of the day. I don't even use insoles. I think the Nick's seem to be a little heavier duty than the White's but this is just observation for I haven't had hands on any. I can kneel for a long time without toes hurting. I like the logger heels when driving long distance they don't get in the way or hold the foot at weird angles. Unfortunately White's aren't waterproof either. And when they get get a little dry they squeak when walking drives me nuts. But still the best shoe I have ever had and I won't ever own something else period
I’ve heard treating the midsole with obenaufs will take care of that squeak.
Nice review. I got the Urban Loggers with the honey sole on new years, should be here mid june... but yeah, very exited. Never really had a pair of boots before, so should be interesting. I've worn my friend's iron rangers a few days here and there, but from what I hear, a pair of nicks should be even better
I have iron rangers and Nicks are another level. Thanks for watching!
Did your boots arrive? What do you think?
I have the spenco comfort insole in mine. Not sure if Nicks still offers it although can be found many places online. It's pretty thin and helps for sure.
I actually ordered that insole, it should arrive any day now. I’m glad it worked for you.
I have two pairs of nicks that are a size large in width. I order them ready to ship so I knew I’d need a insole to help the fit. Spenco was too thick. Nicks leather insole is perfect and has the added benefit of protecting the footbed of the boot with a replaceable piece of leather. Win win.
Awesome info. I just ordered the spenco so we’ll see how they work.
I don't know about Nicks boots but I've had numerous Whites and I'll never get another pair. Good review.
I can’t personally speak to whites boots but I have been extremely impressed with not only the quality of my Nicks, but their customer service. You can go on Reddit and send a message to the owner at any time and he will get back to you with any questions you have. Pretty incredible.
I definitely agree with the honey Vibram! My use case for my Nicks brings me outside most of the time, however I’m in a warehouse a lot and I just don’t wear my black V100 soles when I am
Yeah I think I’m gonna go honey Vibram on my next pair.
I have 3 pairs of JK boots and I love them. I would like to try Nicks boots but I already know my sizing from JK and they have a store in the Phoenix area where I live. So, it’s hard to switch. I highly recommend trying JK if you’re curious about them. I agree about the haters too. I have had Danners, redwing, and Thorogoods. Of those, three, Thorogoods are the winner all day. But, the PNW boots are in a whole other league.
Thanks for sharing your experience with JK's boots. I am kind of in the same boat now that i've found my right size for Franks and Nicks i'm a bit nervous to switch it up. Another thing is that Nicks has provided me with such outstanding customer service that I have no desire to search elsewhere unless something major changed at Nicks. I've heard good things about JK's boots though.
"...for God sakes, take the time to measure your foot." 😂😂Brilliant! Truer words were never spoken.
Ha! Some of us learned that the hard way.
This was very helpful to hear. My issue is I am on concrete all day but also need something durable. Those two needs are very opposed to eachother. Right now I wear White's Perrys and the Vibram crepe sole is wearing down pretty fast. Man are they comfortable, but my boots are exposed to a lot of junk and I need more durability. My plans were to get a 2nd pair of boots for a rotation, then when these need it to resole with a good lug. Ive been considering the honey lug, and man I dont like how they look, but I should probably just bite the bullet and resole with those when needed. The other boots Im thinking about getting come with White's Unit Lug sole, and maybe this is something I should also reconsider. Its difficut to find information about the softness and durability of that sole.
I like my Thorogood wedge sole boots for standing on concrete all day.
I’m not a fan of how the honey lugs look either.
what i like is blundstone insoles their simple but get the job done and their quite thin just alittle extra padding and reducing room had them in my redwings and it worked like a charm
Ok cool, thanks for the input. My wife loves Blundstones.
I do a good mix of both indoor and outdoor. I'm in industrial services so sometimes I'm doing work on concrete or parking lots, then I ill be working in dirt for 2 weeks. Would yoh recommend honey or regular vibram
I would personally go with honey if you’re going to be spending time on concrete.
Love my builder pros. I think I have one very similar to yours. Same everything, but a 3/4 inch red x sole. Gotta say even the thinner sole doesn’t bend very well. When I kneel, I just turn my foot sideways.
Good review man.
Thank you and thanks for checking out my video.
If you want Wesco boots, they do make the Jobmasters (premade) that are available immediately from many sellers online. I have a pair of Jobmasters, and like them a lot. They don't have as much arch support as Nicks Builder Pro, but they are comfortable, and you can always add an arch support if needed.
Hey good to know! Thanks for the info friend.
@@evergreenorganics You're right about Nicks. I ordered a pair of Nicks Roberts, and they are slightly too long. I wish I had ordered at least 1/2 size shorter. They are fantastic boots, but their sizing is big.
Well said brother I am gonna be getting a pair! Awesome video!! I’m a laborer so I usually do a lot of digging what sole would you recommend??
I would get the V100 lug sole. It’s the standard sole for the builder pro. Those soles last for years. I’m 18 months into daily wear on my current boots and they’re nowhere near needing a resole.
@ awesome thank you
My Nick's with the extra thick sole took a good 6 months to break in. I'm a year and half into them and in need of a resole now, still doesn't flex much. Mine are the waxed flesh and pretty water resistant. They get wet every day doing animals, started to soak up water after a year and some good coats of obenaufs have them beading up and shedding water again.
Awesome, good to know! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks!
Holy cow my first Super Thanks!!! Appreciate you my dude!
I have builder pros with the thick soles and I stand on concrete all day without insoles. Still the most comfortable boot I've ever worn.
Have been wearing mine for two years, the best boots money can buy. I wear them to work and casually. I wish I picked low or medium arch tho but other than that I don’t wear no other boot or shoe.
For better waterproofing try Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP or Huberd's Shoe Grease after, or even instead of oiling. Go heavy on the seams. Won't be like GoreTex, but unless you're standing in water up to your ankles for long periods, it should work pretty well in snow or in most wet conditions.
100% with you. My Thorogoods are super comfy, but aren't half as tough as handmade Spokane loggers. Just like you, I have black soles and my bones wish I'd gotten honey.
I just got some insoles from Nicks. We’ll see how they do! Maybe I’ll throw a review of the insoles on here.
Use two pairs of the cheap perforated insoles trimmed back to around the ball of your foot and place them under a high quality insole in order to have room in the toe box. If it works, glue them together.
I also have the nicks builder pro and have the same opinion on wearing them on concrete. I recently got some franks boots and in my opinion they gave me a better fitting boot. Nicks are great but I think I prefer Franks.
I actually just reached out to Franks, JKs, and Drew’s to see if they would send me some boots so I can make a comparison video series. Hopefully that pans out.
A new pair of Nicks Boots is tight, a half size smaller than I wear in other boots. But when they break in, stretch and mold to your feet, they fit like a glove. I can wear my builder pros all day, no additional insole insert, almost all on concrete. The most comfortable boots I've ever worn. (in Nicks shop they take measurements in 11 different places on each foot!)
Awesome! Thanks for sharing.
I personally do not advise sizing up or down from your other boots. Use this man's advice, research the appropriate size.
@@gqfiend I'm not sure if you read my whole comment, I went into Nicks Boots shop in Spokane, WA and they measured my feet.
@@leifforrest I did. My comment isn't directly for you. I apologize if UA-cam tags you in it. I'm commenting ON your input. It's for others reading it.
That said, you may be very correct for 99% of folks. I'm not sure. Per my experience, I wear many sizes depending on brand and model of boots.
Try obenauf's heavy duty LP to get them more water tight. I put a good layer on hit it with a hair dryer then add a second coat and let set overnight. I cross creeks or in mud regularly and my feet stay dry, cant say about hours in snow.
Great tips especially when it comes to sizing cause I'm the same like you I would just order half size smaller than my redwings
hi my friend,
i m sorry i think i missed it.
but what model is your boots
i just love’em. so ya thanks for
sharing. my friends, thorough goods, and that level of boot
can not old candle to Nicks boots. so worth the money.
a 20 year boot at least.
Thanks for watching! They are builder pros with steel toe and the extra thick sole in walnut brown extra support leather.
My Westco Jobmasters did not and do no leak/absorb water.
Do you treat them or do they have a liner
@@evergreenorganics I've used Westco's "Bee Oil" and Obenauf's leather preservative for many years. No "liner" just a great boot made for logging and running heavy equipment in the Montana woods.
Have u tried Hoffman boots .. I've had 2 pair as a lineman they where the best I could afford and where the best boots I ever owned 5 yr life cycle as compared to Redwings less then a year .. they are great for climbing and ground work ... I would like to get nicks thou Hoffmann worked well
I haven’t tried Hoffman but I’ve heard really good things about them.
Great video and info my next boots are going to be from nicks been wearing cody james and only last 10-12 months im very rough on my boots and my trade don’t help i been using Huberds saddle soap then oil after that drys in use the grease then repeat grease as needed im in all types of weather in up state ny for 10-12hrs a day and my feet nvr get wet also always wear darn tuff socks all yr long nothing worse then having wet feet all day that makes for a bad day keep videos coming 👍have a great weekend be kind over n out
Thanks for watching friend! I’ll keep ‘em coming.
Fixin on gettin a pair, thank you for the review!
Thanks for watching!
Awesome review! I'm here doing my research so I can figure out what exactly I want out of a pair of boots before I drop a chunk.
So true though, guys will buy 3 cans for 3k that sit in a safe 99% of the time but hate on you for paying a fraction of that for something you'll wear 12 hours a day 6 days a week and is custom made to your foot. 🥴
The best question you can ask is what will you be doing in your boots?
Franks is excellent. Had Wesco before, which were very good. Got JK, which are quite good. Try Franks on your next pair. Honey Vibram sole is great.
I have the same boots try a3/4 insert what a difference it makes still have room in the toes but helps with the sloppy boot feeling.
Ok will do. Thanks for the tip!
I have two pairs of Nicks and cant say good enough about it. Working construction and farming and hunting and hiking and jeeping and everything they are amazing. If you want water proof you can bes wax one of the pairs but you loose out of on the great breathability of these leather boots. If you work hard and wear out boots save up a little and you will not regret it.
Right on man! Yeah I’m already eyeing up my next pair.
Mostly got the second set to slow down the wear, have a second if one gets wet so the other can dry out cause boot driers aren't good for he leather, and have a set when they other are getting rebuilt.
I have the exta thick sole on the BP. I love it but I am 230lbs. My usual complaint is I hate feeling too much through the sole or my plantar fatigues too much after many miles because a sole flexes too easily. Never going back!
I think I may have had a better experience with the thicker sole had my boots fit properly in the first place. Thanks for sharing your experience!
What insoles do you recommend? I am having the same issue. I have to wear heavy socks. But heavy socks in the Texas Heat is unbearable.
Great video!!!
Nicks now makes a leather half insole to take up some of the space and support your arch. You can also go on Reddit and ask their cobblers what they recommend.
Where do you live in Texas? I went to high school in Keller, TX
@@evergreenorganics Houston
@@evergreenorganics Thanks for the information
I love wearing my custom Nicks
Are the redwings truly that waterproof, I'm a land surveyor if a property corner is 2 miles in a the woods in a creek then I am 2 miles in the woods in the creek i truly need WATERPROOF boot but i really really like 8inch or 10 inch lace up loggers or moctoes do you know of anything that is fool proof
@@grant1497 ymmv but i’ve always been happy with the waterproofing on my red wings.
The redwing waterproof loggers are literally waterproof. you could stand in water all day and your fee will not get wet. That said the gortex liner that makes them waterproof will crap out after a year of daily wear.
Hello I use superfeet insoles in my nicks and they fit great, The toe are of the insoles is very thin.
Thanks for sharing. That’s good to know. I ended up getting the spenco insoles from Nicks and they worked out great.
Great review. Good points and recommendations. As for Whites boots...careful. They are only 1 for 4 with me. That said, I do LOVE that 1 pair that worked out. (Disclaimer; that loved pair came with multiple quality control issues.)
Good to know! Thank you!
So I know a little late but I have a pair of the JK custom and they cost me 575 (not including shipping) but they have been great boots for me so far. They showed up middle of March and broke in fairly quick, my left one took about four weeks to break in while my right one took only two weeks. While I don't work 12-15 hour days in them I wear them at least that long every day and hardly want to take them off. Obviously take my opinion with a grain of salt because I don't have a lot of time in them yet so we will see how well they hold after 6/8/12 months, however I definitely will have a difficult decision on Nicks or these to buy during this next fire season.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I would bet dollars to donuts Nicks and JKs both make great boots. I’m sure you can’t go wrong with either.
Im a heavy equipment mechanic and everyone at the shop I work at says I was crazy to spend nearly $630 on a pair of boots from nicks, then I ask why wouldnt you spend a lot of money on something you are in and use more than almost anything you own. And they still think there is no reason to spend over ~250 on a pair of boots. If there are 2 things you should spend as much money as you can on its your footwear and your mattress
If you’re not in one, you’re in the other.