Red Wing Boots: Are They Worth It? - Men's Iconic American Work Boot Review
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- Опубліковано 25 сер 2024
- Do Red Wing Iron Ranger and Classic 6-Inch Moc-Toe Boots on the 23 last as good as they say it does? gentl.mn/red-w...
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#RedWingBoots #WorkBoots #notsponsored
Our Chosen Styles:
Iron Ranger 8111
This style was originally built for iron miners on the Minnesota Iron Range in the 1930s. Each pair of boots take on a personalized fit through to the cork midsoles and the leather insoles that form to the wearer's feet. The style features a Goodyear welt, a steel shank, and a puritan triple stitch construction. Also, there are brass speed hooks for precise lacing.
This Iron Ranger style is made with a Vibram 430 mini lug sole. According to Red Wing, the Iron Ranger style should fit comfortably tight on your foot while still allowing for enough room for you to freely move your toes. The Iron Ranger style was built on the No. 8 last. This boot designed features a bump toe which allows you to freely move your toes. This style fits a variety of foot shapes and retails for $330.
Classic 6-Inch Moc-Toe
The classic moc-toe has gained a lot of popularity over the years in part because of the Goodyear construction and also, the contrasting sole with Traction Tred. This boot was created using Red Wing's No. 23 last. This was developed in the 1950s and is arguably one of the most popular last styles.
The style provides extra room in the forefoot and instep to be able to fit a wide variety of foot shapes. It is sold by Red Wing in eight different color options and Red Wing actually recommends that you size down ½ to 1 full size when making your selections.
Red Wing Shoe Experience
A number of years ago while I worked for Brooks Brothers, we temporarily sold shoes and boots out of the Red Wing Heritage Collection. At that time, I was offered a sizable discount and I decided to purchase two pairs of boots. The amber-colored Iron Ranger and the light brown 6-inch Classic Moc-Toe.
Out of the box, I distinctly remember noticing the quality and the craftsmanship of the boots. The clean precision mixed with the handmade details was fantastic and the scent of the leather reminded me of the long history of this great brand.
Break-In Period
From the beginning, I was told to make sure that I took time to break in the boots. I thought I was well aware of the process of breaking in shoes as I had been through this process with other footwear purchases. In the end, I found myself wishing that I had taken much more time for this break-in period. I decided to wear my brand new boots to work all day long and I immediately regretted that footwear choice. Over time, my feet got used to the boots, the leather softened, and they have since become some of my favorite boots to wear.
The Big Question: Is it truly worth it? Please find out by watching the video.
14:39 Outfit Rundown
I love my iron rangers! I can empathize with your break in story because I made the same mistake. They’re a hard break in but they’re worth it once you’re done because they really feel like they’re made for your feet.
how long was the break-in period and how did you do it?
@@samuelbrainsample I wore mine around the house for a couple nights and they were good to go.
I usually wear new boots on weekends for a while to break them in before I bring them to work.
My Iron Rangers are first-rate. I bought the leather insoles for them, and, unusually for me, they were comfortable from the first time I put them on. The downsides for a UK buyer is that they're very expensive, and I'm not looking forward to trying to get them resoled over here.
I had my local RW condition them before I took them home. Not one blister in the break-in period, which took about 2 months of casual use. Totally worth it.
I wore red wing leather boots as an industrial electrician in Canada. Typical boots would last a year and the Redwings although they cost double would last about 4. For your average hipster wearing these as part of a fashionable urban waxed moustache lumberjack costume they should last about 30 years.
I love how you expressed all those ideas so concisely. Is there anyone who doesn't loathe hipsters?
@@agentx250 sometimes ill see one with redwings and some carharts and ill think i should buy some pvc conduit glue and market it to hipsters as credibility paint, just splash a little on your carharts to give them that "worn in look"
@@RC-bl2pm lol Unfortunately for them the illusion would fade as soon as they start talking.
Lol
It'll take four years for them to break in
I am a locomotive engineer and I wear Red Wings, been wearing them since i was about 14 on the farm, factory and railroad. I'm 50 now and will wear them till I die.
My father was a computer programmer so he didn't know how to teach me how to be a real man.
Can you teach me?
@@totigerus Ouch
I feel like your dad needed a real son
@@nkoui Why are you the way that you are?
@@totigerus it's a dad's obligation to educate his son about the duties and labors of a man. How to work hard and get down an dirty. The backbone of america come from the hands of the working man. Not computer tech/coders. I'm sure your father is a great dad. But a man is not born. But built from a hard life.
Leather laces are for welders, when welding sparks and hot metal bits can melt the regular laces right off the shoe.
Never knew that, thanks for that little nugget 👍
@@dees9502 Makes sense. I have leather welding gloves and leather apron. Never really put it together, though, since my boaters also have leather laces.
Roofers that do torch down need leather laces as well.
Leather laces are also used in dress shoes and boots because they wear in cleanly. But they tend to be not ideal for work boots unless as Roberto says, you are a welder or you work around slag like an ironworker.
They're also just drippy
I’m a Power Engineer in Albert, Canada. I got the steel toe boots, supersole 2.0 to be exact. 400$ but amazing support, beautiful craftsmanship and extremely comfortable especially with the Cork insole. Waterproof and insulated makes working in winter a breeze. Definitely more expensive then the competition but 400% better. I even feel bad about getting them dirty. I’ll be getting the moc toes soon for an everyday use. Thank you for the amazing video I really appreciate the history to this brand I’ve really come to enjoy!
Short answer: Yes, they are worth it.
I dont watch these videos for the obvious but for the history of these items.
Years ago I used to go through 2 pairs of boots a year and my legs hurt and feet were tired. Then I got a pair of Red Wing boots. It was a life changing experience. No kidding! Now one pair of RW boots last over two years and the best part is my legs and feet feel great! They are worth every penny! Plus you get free laces and free repairs when stitches break. True story!
Which kind of leather has the least upkeep? I honestly don't want to have to worry about all the care. I just want a shoe I can put on everyday that won't fall apart after a year or 2.
Thanks for the tl;dr
@@bikeryder757 same !
I'm sticking with Red Wing; my dad has pairs that are well over 30-35 years old that he still wears.
I can believe it
Yeah, the biggest complaint is the drop in quality. Most blue collar guys I know swear by the old ways of Red Wings.
Post midlife crisis shoes
@@lillexus5589 I'm only 23 and haven't even hit my midlife crisis and I want a new pair to keep for ever. I stopped growing so its the perfect time
I hope the new ones are just as durable. I want to get my first pair soon
My dad goes to a lot of yard sales, he unknowingly got sold a almost new pair of iron rangers for $20.
Bargain
That is an insane find. You can’t even get the good ones anymore
That is about what you would expect to pay for a new set of laces.
Bravo.
And here I was proud to have found a deal for $175. That is awesome. I think I’ll hit up a yard sale later today…
I bought my pair of Moc Toes 15 years ago at the Rider's Room in Hamburg and they still are in such a great condition! Well let's put it like this... buying a quality product pays always off!
Cheers from Germany.
Johnny
I just bought my first pair of Iron Rangers yesterday, I'm familiar with Red Wings since about 30 years ago. Yes, their require a short break-in wear, but is totally worth it.
How short of a break in period
@@richardball7251 about three times in first week for about thirty minutes (say Monday, Wednesday and Friday and they're good to go. The more you wear them the more comfortable they become.
One of my sons works for our local water department. He's on his feet most of the time, only sits while driving. He's usually always working to repair water leaks, knocked over fire hydrants, shutting off water supplies or back on. He wears only the Red Wing brand of boots. They are the only brand he will buy.
A lot of businesses partner with Red Wing to give employees discounts on the work boots.
Would you please ask him if he recommends these shoes for someone who has to power walk all day in 100° plus weather conditions?
You should let him know about Viberg boots and whites boots they are a bit higher end
@@sunnyrachelsson3169 👍 I'm not familiar with Viberg boots myself but, my ex son-in-law's father recommended the White's to him. Bob's dad, years ago, worked in the forestry. Bob bought a pair and I was impressed with the workmanship, quality and, the customer service. They went out of their way to satisfy Bob's wishes/needs. The boots are handmade to the dimensions of each customer's feet..
@@harrisonmantooth3647 yeah great boots or Nick's boots as well same quality as whites
I Had Redwing Boots In The 90s,Working At A Powertrain Location For General Motors. They Are Worth The Money Excellent Quality😃
In London ON?
I hope the new ones are just as durable. I want to get my first pair soon
The later the worst the quality @@Floof_Factory
Kyle, this was a fantastic video. The insights and information you shared are valuable, covering the history and significance of the company and their products, and you presented other options in the market for those looking for something similar. As someone who enjoys a bit of retail therapy now and then (and has a personal style similar to yours), this is just the kind of content that I enjoy. Furthermore, your on-camera presence and confidence has improved leaps and bounds from the first video you did with the channel, where you admitted to being a bit nervous. Excellent work, and please continue sharing your insights! Thank you!
I wear my Red Wings when working on my cars. They recently saved my toes when a Porsche transaxle slipped from the transmission jack. They also protect well from welding sparks and are easy to clean after worn in our horse pasture. It’s a great work boot.
what style were you wearing? I work at a steel warehouse and state dock and want something that will protect my toes well
@@siphono44 the Dynaforce.
I love my Red Wing shoes! They’re practically indestructible. I’ve had my pair for 20 years. I’ve used them working in mud and rain and they still look almost new. Such quality, comfortable shoes.
Even before watching, I can tell you my Redwings are worth it. I received a free handed down pair of their 1178 Nailseat Pecos cowboy boots with steel toes from my Dad when he retired. They are the best boots I've ever owned. They're rough'n'ready looking (they were actually worn at shipyards) but that's part of the charm. The leather is soft, aged well, and have a great patina.
I wear them just about everywhere, from working outside to dinner out on the town, to 5 hrs straight on my feet at the Houston Auto Show. My heels have never felt better in a cowboy boot, and I've had "fancier" made in Texas ones!
My favorite pair of footwear hands down!
I've had the same 3 pairs of red wings shoes since I was 15. Bought them periodically during my time as a dishwasher and none of them have required any resoles or recrafts since then. Pay the extra money if you can, they'll last you forever if you take care of them.
I wore redwing 8 inch steeltoe rangers for 26 years as a newspaper pressman and my back gave out before my redwings did .
Back in the early 70s, I bought a pair of Irish Setters. Lasted me 35 years. One resole. Best boot I ever owned.
I hope the new ones are just as durable. I want to get my first pair soon
I'm an engineer at a factory. I don't have to do manual labor but I do have to be on my feet a lot. The Iron Ranger is easily the best boot I've ever owned. My feet are never sore, and they look good even for an impromptu meeting. Highly recommend them if you're not doing something that requires a steel toe/extra protection.
@chief tp haha true enough. Just didn't want the avalanche of "what kinda factory doesn't make you wear steel toe!"
This channel always has a magical way of popping out videos about what I'm researching on at the moment.
Pro-tip:
It’s not magic :)
To get the full value out of Redwing boots I would suggest going to their store fronts to have them fitted and get instructions for care and where. Also most stores offer once a month leather conditioning and lace replacement . The quality and customer service really make Redwing a great value.
Exactly! It is the best part of the purchase and honestly was unexpected. To have my work boots professionally cleaned once a month is a fabulous perk indeed. In my opinion, it more than offsets the cost.
I had a pair of red wings that lasted me about 20 years of average wear. The sole fell apart on a caving trip and I sadly had to toss the boots due to weight restrictions. I feel that if I could have gotten them resoled, they could easily have lasted at least another decade.
Visited the red wing shop yesterday and tried on my first pairs ever. The 8” moc toe and the iron ranger, and I was totally blown away by how good they both felt on my feet. Definitely a future purchase.
Great fit, btw. 👌
This video just popped up in my timeline. Your video is great, the calm tone of voice and not rushing through anything makes it so nice to watch.
Unfortunately I will have to buy some Red Wing boots now.
I'm in the minority. I own three pairs of Red Wing boots. Never Again!
I love my Iron Rangers, how they feel and how it was breaking in. I got mine years back when they aren’t as hard to find now with the original cork sole instead of the vibram sole. There is a clear difference between the old models and new models.
Listen "Muffin Man". The new mini lugs are great for Toronto Winters and wet floors.
I still have and use my Iron Rangers. I forgot how long I've owned them, but I think it's close to a decade. They have been resoled 3 times so far.
Worn for work or pleasure?
@@matttherrien9608 back then they were worn for work and currently they still are for work. Its included in a rotation with 2 other boots, so 3 boots that are for work only. I change pairs each workday and won't wear the same pair 2 days in a row. The other 2 boots in rotation are a pair of Wolverine's 1000 miles and Thursday Cadets.
I'm glad you've joined the channel (yes, I know it's been a while) because you offer a different perspective and style than the other hosts while still adhering to the philosophy of the channel.
I own a pair of Beckman-Chukkas - had them for 7 years now, just re-soled. Took forever to break them, they’re getting better w/ age. Redwings definitely worth the price.
That was a great video. I wore Red Wing boots in the 80s when I worked on an archaeological site in central Pennsylvania on the Susquehanna River. I beat mine to death, but they lasted 6-7 years. I'd recommend them but they are indeed expensive.
I work on log homes, climbing ladders, and walking through uneven ground all day long. I personally favor the supersole 2.0 series. These are the most comfortable work boot you could ever buy. They provide toe protection, electrical protection, puncture protection, and the extremely sought-after gortex waterproofing
THANK YOU my man. I worked 32 years in my Red Wings in Gary Indiana ( several pair, of course...). Never expected to stumble onto your video here on UA-cam. I fondly remember the Christmas mornings that I unwrapped the new pairs....! Nothing but red wings for this American worker.
Good morning to all at Gentleman's Gazette, I watched a few of your videos last year and was impressed by your content, however I was not in a position to make any significant steps towards upgrading my wardrobe. I am now in a better position and although still have a very modest budget I feel that your videos show how ,even with limited funds, I can become a much more stylish Gent. Now a subscriber I enjoy new and old content alike, thanks to you all Derek.
I’ve owned many shoe brads over the years, and Red Wing makes the best boots I have found so far. That said, I buy them because I work in them. They are comfortable all day, have great traction, oil resistant soles, and can also be electrical hazard resistant, waterproof, insulated, plus the safety toe. I’ve worn my 8 inch 2412 style for a half decade, and I’ve never found a better all around boot.
From substations, to workshop, clearing fallen trees and shoveling snow, these boots have done it all. When I travel in winter, these boots always go with me. Great traction and comfortable lets me be and stay on my feet all day. I would highly recommend them. I also have big/wide feet (12 EEE). I can find these in that size, and if you need bigger/wider, they have you covered. Try to find that in a cheaper brand. It’s not about fashion, it’s about finding a boot that will work as hard as you do, and Red Wing fits that bill. The one downside is that it’s a BIG boot, so if you have bigger feet and a car with only a little bit of room for your feet, you might need to get a pair of shoes to drive in, and then change them at the job site. However, I don’t have a problem in my truck, only when trying to drive my wife’s car,
I love my red wing roughnecks. I especially love the no-branding. They let the quality speak for itself. Great video, thank you.
I hope the new ones are just as durable. I want to get my first pair soon
I’ve owned three different pairs of redwings and they are by far my favorite off the shelf boot I’ve ever purchased. They make so many widths and lengths that it’s easier to find the right fitting boot.
Thank you for the high production value in all areas of information provided. Highest praise in speed, articulation, video editing and succinct information displayed. 5 stars out of 5. I look forward to seeing you more at this level of production in quality videos.
great video, would have never considered buying Red Wing Boots, but now i will. Thanks
I know the answer is "Yes", even before watching. I'm pretty sure I need to go buy a pair of those Iron Ranger. I do have a pair of the Timberlands, which are great and held up amazingly over the decades, but they sure are clod-hopperish. I only really wear them after a big snow.
Love my Redwing. Got them when working my summer job in college. Now 42 years later they look a little worn, but still fit like a glove. Bought a new pair a few years back for sales calls in industrial plants and swear by them. Only steel toe boot I’ll wear.
Great review as well as a history lesson about Red Wing Shoes! I have had a few pairs of their boots, all have been excellent. Your passion and knowledge of the product shows, awesome presentation, thank you! 👍🏼
i use Obenauf's Heavy Duty leather preservative on my Iron Rangers.
Their oiled leather shouldn't need a heavy duty conditioner.
I never knew any of this. Awesome video. Makes me want to get a pair of Red Wing boots now! Another great job Kyle!
My wife and I have had ours for nearly 40 years. When I put them on, it’s like putting on a glove. Heavier than some of my other boots, but when I need to walk a while, working in the woods, and to keep my feet completely dry, I grab for my Redwings. Do yourself a favor and get some.
Thanks for the video. I think the undervalued component is the fact that for only slightly more than cheaply made boots, these boots can be resoled indefinitely and will last anyone a lifetime with even negligent care. For example, Red Wing offers a Chelsea boot that is only about $60 more than the mass-produced Blundstones. It is made in MN by properly paid workers, is signficantly higher quality, and will last for decades as it has much thicker leather and can be resoled. As a MN resident, I try to support small, local businesses rather than giant companies that make profits elsewhere. Red Wing has an added bonus of supporting local business and encouraging traditional manufacturing processes. Red Wing's machinery is so old, they had to make their own tools to service it. I have a lot of respect for the people doing this, and for making a boot that survives trends and appeals to a broad variety of people. When you think about the longevity, the price is minimal. For example, you can buy a $250 boot from a department store that might only last a year with heavy use. With Red Wing Heritage boots, you pay about the same and get handmade, higher quality boots that will last a minimum of 10 years. That's a mere $25 a year...
You’re an inspiration brother!!
You inspired me to open my own channel 🤜🤛
subscribed bro!
Nice channel bro!
Definitely subscribing man
You should do shoes reviews too
Si i am subscribed man
One of my biggest objects of desire. Too bad they're out of my budget range.
Watch for sales. They are worth it
I don't know if every store does it but where i live they have a black Friday sale(they don't advertise it) 25% off. Call to see if your store has the same offer.
Yes! Jump when they're on sail and don't second guess!
My dad bought me mine when I was 18 for about 60 bucks. Still wear them 50 years later. Have been resoled, rest of the boot has held up fine. Have always used Neatsfoot oil applied liberally.
Have a pair of redwings that have lasted about 5 years. Buying a new pair this Friday and will never buy another brand for work again. Most comfortable boots out of the box I've ever owned.
I’d say they’re worth it. I have some Iron Rangers and Blacksmiths; the construction is amazing.
Bring them into any Red Wing store. They’ll clean them, oil them and give you new laces for free!
@Star Trek Theory This didn't age well.
They used to resole them for free as well but that stopped.
@Star Trek Theory Good.
@@MrVIrginiaLUV honestly everyplace is doing this and yea good , people like him are making this quarantine take longer and longer
This amazing well done video! About the history and the Quality put into each Red Wong Boot. I can’t wait to buy a pair for my self when I go back to work in the hvac field. So I can move on from the Caterpillar boots. I’m a big believer in quality and not quantity. Thank you for this informative video Gentleman Gazette. 🙏🏻
My grandpa bought me a pair 20 years ago to use on our ranch. I still use them to this day!
If you've got the cash, Nick's handmade boots have yet to fail me, they're made on custom lasts made for your feet. Break in sucks but I've had my pair for about a year now and they show virtually no signs of wear and have only got more comfortable with each wear. Sometimes I come home and forget I have them on.
Markarth City Guard - I’m actually planning on purchasing a pair of Nicks custom-made Traveler boots soon. After spending hour upon hour researching U.S.-made work boots online through the company’s websites, assorted ‘zine reviews and a few UA-cam video reviews, I came to the realization that this particular brand/model is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Some of the other American-made brands of boots I was looking at: White’s, Wolverine’s 1000 mile, Quoddy, Wesco, Oak Street, Origin Maine, Truman and Mark Albert. They all have various elements of construction, material and style that I very much like, but also ones that I don’t like. Generally, it comes down to the heel/soles and the toe-shape. I like a rounded toe but not a bulbous one. Also not a fan of blocky heels. The Traveler has the perfect toe-shape and a slightly arched Cristy-style sole that I really like, which is fairly flat and streamlined. I’m also stoked about the super-heavy-duty 7-8oz. leather that is used in this model. Yes, it is expensive. But I figure that it will likely be the last pair of boots that I’ll ever have to buy. The $130 I (unfortunately) spent on a pair of Merrell’s less than a year ago was a total fu*king waste because they’re already wearing down pretty bad. It did prompt me however, to start looking for something of far better quality that’s going to go the long haul... so I suppose it was my sign!
Great piece on the iconic Iron Rangers! These boots look great new and aged and offer versatility in a casual wardrobe. Your length of ownership is a testament to the longevity of a pair of these boots and they can be essentially everlasting with proper care and maintenance.
I got my iron rangers in cambridge u.k in 2009 , I have looked after them and still going strong .
amen to that! had my redwings resoled after 8 years of wear 3years ago and wear them happyly ever since.
10 years old pair of boots, I think that says a lot about quality!
Redwing seems to have made the transition from work boot to casual boot. Their casual boots seem to be well made and often American made with top grade materials. Their work line has been farmed out overseas and are currently no better then a run of the mill boot
Depends what work boots you get. Some are made overseas but some are still made in USA and great boots.
@@christopherwallace5425 few red wings are made here and fewer actual work boots. They are not what they once were
The overseas boots have different brand names, like Irish Setters.
@d.b.1176 no, Redwing has most of their products made overseas. They have white and black labors that distinguish us from imports
I have a pair of red wing steel toe boots my dad wore on the job for 4 years. I picked them out of the trash, washed them up good and have been wearing them for the past 5 years. Couple scratches but barely any signs of wear.
Thank you for putting a book breakdown video. I grew up with a Red Wings shoe shop in the neighborhood in the early 80’s, but never went inside. Recently reintroduced to this line and have since discovered that a good quality pair of these boots are multigenerational. With good care and maintenance, they will last.
Thanks again
I work at redwing shoes and I wear my iron rangers everyday for the last 2 years!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Do you wear the women's or did you opt for the men's?
How did you know my wallet was feeling heavy and I have been looking for the right boots to buy for everyday wear.
How heavy? Might as well get a pair of Wolverine 1000 mile boots if you don't need them for work.
UA-cam knows all
Do yourself a favour and go with Thorogood man.
You must have been talking about it with a co-worker and your phone heard you lol, scary but true
My dad , grandpa and myself all wore Redwing boots when I was growing up. The key to break in is give them a good coat of pure neetsfoot oil before you wear them. It will darken them but they’re work boots. Also the new boots are going to town boots until the old boots wear out. That takes about a year of farm work but a pair should last the average hipster the rest of their lives.
growing up, my father wore redwings for his work boots, he was a maint/elect in a big factory. they were always non insulated redwings, he would get about 6-8 years out of every pair.... i imagine he wore those boots far beyond what they should have lasted... saying that, im 5 years in on my second pair at the moment. i keep them oiled, keep toe caps on them, and dont drag your heels
I have an extremely wide foot, size 12, 6E wide and Redwings were the only boots available in that size and at an affordable price.
These were the best, most comfortable boots I have ever worn! It was like wearing slippers all day.
I had them resoled once, and eventually had to buy another pair. Break in was easy, wearing the new ones for two hours, then the old ones and gradually increasing the time.
I love these boots!!
100% worth it. Wouldn’t invest in any other boot brand. Also, 8” are so much better than the 6”. I think you’ll enjoy them
How is the break in with the 8"? Is it harsh on the calves?
@@JoseContreras-mv5yz they moo little more often but I don't think they mind.
The pair you have are actually NOT the classic 6-inch Moc 875 that you referred to. The ones you have are the model 1907 Moc toe in the 45 last. Just wanted to clarify for the viewers. Great video!
Just thought I'd say that this was one of the best videos I have ever seen on UA-cam on any subject. Great work =)
No one wears these boots to look like a construction worker or an outdoorsman. We wear these boots because we simply appreciate the history behind the company and their products as well as their quality and craftsmanship.
I like Rossi boots 1910 established and the mulga boot is awesome as well as the ripples made in Australia, and half the price of redwings
The support is indescribable. You feel like a man compared to wearing sneakers/Jordan's!
Please get a real job you're ruining this boot for me and the rest of real Americans
Absolutely they’re worth it! I work heavy construction and mine have the upgraded red wing sole insert which makes them even more comfortable and they are fantastic on the feet!!! I wear Irish Setters and they’re worth every penny!
Red Wing 2416, worn all day, every day in snow, mud, and all points in between. On my third pair in the last 20 years... well worth it
I own lots of pairs of boots, Red Wings, Danner, Thorogood, Thursday, Allen Edmonds, etc. For quality nothing beats Red Wing but Thursday Boots run a close second, which is surprising given their price. For style, it's hard to beat a pair of Allen Edmonds Daltons. For function, gotta go with Thorogood.
Got three pair- - love them! But also love my wolverines. My complaint against redwing is that they should offer to the U.S. market the special and awesome styles sold to Japan and Europe.
Got 4 pairs
some outlet stores do receive these exclusive boots. I recommend looking at the store in Orem, Utah. they have a few currently that are japan exclusive. Feel free to call the store and ask them what they have.
@@marcuspthomas wow thanks for the 411! Cheers!
Might invest in a pair some day, greetings from Norway!.
Best boots ever
Probably the best everyday boots you'll find. Remember to size down when buying.
Judging by the comments, I am an anomaly. I bought a pair of Red Wings based on their reputation and on a recommendation from a friend. The boots cost twice as much as what I'd been buying, but my feet hurt so I figured you get what you paid for. They were great...for a year. The uppers were the best I've ever owned, bar none. But the soles fell apart. It was a three-layer soles with a presumably shock-absorbing dense foam layer in the middle, and the foam layer collapsed and disintegrated. As the uppers were still in great condition, I considered getting them resoled, but the repair would cost as much or more than a new pair of fairly good boots would cost. If only the sole had been half as good as the upper, Is be a Red Wing fan-boy.
For years I wore nothing but Lecki boots for work. I never had any problems with them until they sold out to another manufacturer in the late 1960's and the quality slowly went down but the price kept going up. The last pair of Lecki's I had had to be taken back to the place of purchase about once a month for a year because nails kept coming through in the heel area making them virtually unwearable. I wore several different makes of boots for years and I decided based on their reputation to buy a set of Red Wings. Initially, they were okay but after about a month, they were unbelievably uncomfortable so I took them back to the Red Wing store. They looked at them and said nothing was wrong with them but they would replace them free of charge. The second set was about the same. Not bad to start but within a month they were junk. Back to the store once more but this time they essentially told me it was all in my head and they were not prepared to do anything. I bought another pair of boots fro SECO and finished my working career in them without incident. I still have the Red Wings and whenever I try them on they still don't fit right. Would I ever buy another pair if required? Not a chance. Would I ever recommend them to anyone? Nope. You see, for me, Red Wing did not live up to their reputation.
First video I see with Kyle. He's a great host!
Thank you!
is this his channel?
They are made in America: worth every penny!
Just the Heritage line of boots.
I'm a retired Local 1 boilermaker and my last pair of 877s lasted 10 years on the job with 4 resolings. But I was going out of the hall as a steward, foreman or GF so the uppers had little wear. When I bought new boots I soaked them every night with Redwing oil. When my socks turned orange they were all set. Every year they'd get another soaking. Thorogoods are good union made in America shoes and are not on hipster radar.
My uncle works in an industrial warehouse and he gets a footwear stipend every year from his employer to buy new work boots. So he basically gets new boots every year. He came over once to help us build a shed and accidentally left his boots in our backyard. When I told him, he just said toss 'em......they were his "old" ones and were like 3 years old. I kept them in the garage for a while, but soon found myself wearing them more and more when working outside or in the woodshop. That was 10 years ago. Those Redwing King steel toed boots are still going strong and are the most comfortable pair of shoes I own.
Question. If the leather insole bends to your foot shape overtime wouldn’t that mean that if you have a low arch then it’ll do little to counter that?
Yep, for people with low arches who like having arch support, most Red Wing models are super uncomfortable. They do sell insoles, but they discourage you using them in the Iron Ranger specifically... It doesnt matter how well they break in, if my arch isn't supported by something the shoe is worthless.
Very informative and good knowledge of the history. I started off my first pairs ten years ago (875) and now I have 8 pairs in total!!! Keep it up mate
I’ve been working for red wing shoes for over 3 years now one of the best companies to work for and the best boots🤙🏻
@Star Trek Theory it's the basic minimum you can do to respect human life. People like you are the reason we lead the world in Covid cases and deaths. Thanks, clown!
I bought my first pair in 2006, my first paycheck.
Fresh outta high that was my first goal.
But still carried my stacy's in my trunk just in case
Never regretted buying Red Wings. I now refuse to wear any other shoe!
A pity
Chad agreed. Red wings are where your boot journey should begin, not end.
I hope the new ones are just as durable. I want to get my first pair soon
Yes, 20 years later, they’re still getting compliments
Didn't even know I wanted a new pair of boots till this video. Drove 2 hours this morning to go pick up my first pair of Red Wing boots :)
My first pair of boots were Redwings that I bought for myself my Senior year of High School. They were deeply discounted because they were discontinued. I would still be wearing them except that my feet grew almost a whole size after bootcamp. I've never been able to find a good replacement, women's boots are usually too narrow and usually "gortex". I just want plain leather boots without all the padding. I would wear men's boots but they tend to be floppy around my toes and I don't have time for those blisters. It's nice to see all these review videos, I wish I could just order online, I need to find some shops that sell quality boots. I've bought 2 more pairs of safety toe shoes from the original shop, but they are hit and miss for women's styles. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Ik i usually make coments on how hot Preston is but honestly this video is very informative. My father is a huge fan and loyal follower to the brand since 1955 he says (when he bought his first pair). I showed him this video and still learned something new about the brand so yes a he and i can say great video Kyle!
I've owned several pair of Red Wings over the years and while I feel the quality of their product has decreased from what I initiallyremember, they are still significantly better than anything else on the market. Also recommend Thorogood work boots.
I love my union-made Thorogoods. I've always been hesitant to shell out the extra cash for Red Wings, but I guess I really need to just bite the bullet and splurge on a pair. You rarely hear of anyone complaining about them.
Oh come on, it is not better than ANYTHING else...
@@jeremyt2212 I almost prefer Thorogood for that reason; more of there boots are union made/made in USA. Unfortunately I see Red Wing outsourcing more and more of their stuff overseas. Shame.
Bought iron rangers in 2007, still wear them pretty often and they look great.
They sure are, I’ve got two pair and they are amazingly comfortable, and that was straight out of the box.
I've never owned a pair, but it seems like they cost the money because, with a little care, they will last a lifetime. 10 years for a $250 to $300 pair of boots vs. $100 to $175 for a pair that will last 2 to 4 years. Plus, made in the USA. 👍✌
Not made by slaves in China
Mine are clearly labeled made in China
I live just outside Toronto and im glad these are made by fellow snow dwellers.
Yes indeed, they certainly are worth it!
When I worked for ADT as a security systems technician before my retirement, I bought nothing but Red Wing boots for many years, because no other brand ever held up to the severe rigors consequential to the job!
Many years ago I worked construction and I quickly found that inexpensive boots were not worth anything. I asked some of my friends and they recommended Timberlands. They were junk- they barely lasted a month. I asked another friend who worked in road construction. He said there was one boot on the job site- Red Wing. I purchased a pair of steel toe boots and could not have been more pleased. They were indestructible and honestly, the most comfortable shoes I owned! They were more comfortable than tennis shoes! I wore them every day. I wore out that first pair after a decade. I opted for a new pair rather that resoling- the new pair was just as good as the first. After a decade I wore that pair out and went to get them re-soled. I was treated to horrible customer service at the Red Wing store- I was very disappointed. I purchased some Chippewa boots after that. They are fine. I don't beat 'em up like I used to! I bought two more pair of Chippewa boots- factory seconds at a substantial savings. They are good boots- not as good as Red Wing, but acceptable. This wonderful review makes me a bit nostalgic- maybe I'll consider them again- if I can find a good Red Wing store that knows how to treat a customer!
Thanks for the great review!
Just purchased my first pair of Iron Ranger boots. I’ve had a pair of 1907 Red wing boots those were an excellent purchase and I’m convinced the Iron Ranger will be another great pair of boots
NEver forget, not only is it true that "sometimes you dont get what you pay for, BUT (and this is the most important part) "You NEVER get what you DON'T pay for!" Buy once, cry once!
Supreme, is it worth it
Jack The Boss oh god I want to see Raphael in supreme!🤣🤣🤣
Jack The Boss Hahaha that one has all the markings of a “no.”
I used to wear Red Wing exclusively for work. Until I asked for a refurbishment on 2 year well maintained pair of boots and got an instore "fix" with an epoxy. I went to Danner and spend the same money for their Rain Forest for trail work. I have exclusively worn Danner's for over 10 years and their refurbishment is on point. I also make sure that I only purchase American made boots for work.
Redwing leather is legendary. It lasts more than 10 years. But they do need to be maintained with oil, and resoled every few years, depending on how much you wear them.