I know I’m late to the draw, but I have probably hands down the most worn slap out pair of Red Wing Blacksmith’s. They were on my feet every day for 6.5 years and have worked me through every job I’ve ever worked until I got a new pair last year. They’ve been in machine shops, welding fabrication shops, metal foundries, and blacksmith shops. They were in dire need of a resole but even though I conditioned them on the weekly, I wore the leather slap out and decided to retire the boots. I would happily donate them to the channel if you’re looking for a pair of Heritage boots that have met their absolute limit. Love the channel, and keep up the good work brother!
As someone who has done HVAC, construction, and manufacturing all in boots for the past 25 years I can assure you that when ANY element of your insole starts shifting around, you will be miserable for at least a couple weeks. Meaning even if you go buy a new pair on payday, the next week is going to suck because it will be spent breaking in the new pair. A well made and fully broken in pair of boots are worth their weight in gold. Not being distracted by your feet or legs being uncomfortable/hurting make a huge difference when you're wearing them 10-16 hours a day. Great video.
if you're due for a resole, my advice would be to ask your cobbler to use a leather midsole instead of cork. it won't shift around nearly as much, if at all.
I ordered two pair while my old boots are still intact. I'm going to wear the new boots a few days a week switching back to the old ones. My body cant handle the break in all at once.
Yes! As a cobbler so true I always change out the cork unless it looks almost pristine and just put a lick of contact cement to help everything bond back together but 90% of the time I will change it out. We also use neoprene foam, if it had a foam filler
It's a bit off subject for this video but have you heard of Revolt work boots. If not would you consider doing a cut in half review of their moc steel toe. I purchased a pair because they had more of the cosmetic features I was looking for than the more established brands. I really like to know if I made a good gamble or not. Thanks for all the great content showing the construction of footwear.
I was at a red Wing store here in St Cloud, MN getting a new pair of Moc Toe boots. The salesman mentioned something I never heard of before. if your feet sweat a lot you should condition your in soul every few months or twice a year with very little bit of the liquid style conditioner (not mink oil) to help keep them from cracking and deteriorating. Specifically the salt from your sweat will damage the leather. Makes sense as I was in the Navy for some time and out at sea our flight deck boots wouldn't last, not only from the non-skid but from the sweat and ocean salt. They wouldn't last 6 months. Keep in mind we got one pair and worked 15 hour days on average and even in port we had to work some days so maybe one day a month we didn't wear them.
I love my iron Rangers, one of the best boots I’ve ever owned. They are so darn tough and literally have moved me up mountains. My only only complaint is that temperature transfer from the ground on super cold days is almost instant due to no leather midsole on the boot. If I were to design a pair of heritage style boots I’d keep everything redwing does the same, but add the super thick midsole like we saw on the M1943s and replace the bonded leather portion with a hardened, boiled, top grain leather variant. Keep the cork, keep everything else, but add those two elements and you’d have a $350 boot that will survive any harsh climate with a pair of thick wool socks. Super happy with my redwings and will definitely buy them again.
I've got a pair of Silversmiths (basically lady version iron rangers but a slightly taller ankle) and have the same issue, but I bought a pair of sheep's wool insoles ($13 off Etsy) and they're super warm & comfortable now. When it gets warm I just take them out.
Just got my first pair of 8111’s today, hoping for a great pair of summer boots. After walking around on cement all day in Wisconsin, my feet were chilly .. seems like a good sign … 🤷🏻♂️
I just want to say thanks for all your videos So far I bought two pairs of the Red Backs you showed I’m an Aircraft Mechanic and I spend most of my time walking and those booths are a bless. One pair I put some insoles the other ones are just the way they came. Both are great! Also man beside the great info on your videos. I’m a combat veteran and I find your videos so peaceful and well done that I use them as therapy when every my PTSD and anxiety start to mess with me. Thx again best of luck this new year! I hope one day we get the Red Anvil boot brand with the best of the best
The cracking of the insole is a classic example of why you should own two pairs of work boots and alternate between the pairs. Yes, it's expensive initially, but letting your boots dry out properly between wears easily extends the life of the boots by 3 to 4 times. I used to work in warehousing, and I went from replacing a pair of boots every 10 months to a year, to 2 pairs lasting 7+ years. The boots could've lasted longer, but I changed job & they got a viking burial (killed with fire)...
It's also better for your feet and helps prevent fungus or bacteria from growing if you swap out shoes, ideally but a bit overkill 3 shoes or boots to swap between
Wear my boots every work day and many weekends - they've lasted 9 years so far and probably will last at least another 10 years. I have four pairs of thorogood boots because they are so durable - I use them for taking down trees, working on cars, welding, hiking, biking, etc
Wow! What a great angle to provide on your channel! This is exactly the type of longevity reviews that people that want to see on these types of expensive boots, shoes and leather products! Keep up the great work and Thank you! Cheers!
I love Red Wing boots. I've been a fan for a few decades. When I was a Teamster they used to make a paratrooper steel-toe boot in the late '80's (discontinued, but I still have a nice pair) I would work all day, take my shower get cleaned up and put my Red Wings back on and dance the night away at the clubs without my feet Ever hurting. True Story. Ima a die-hard fan forever and an Iron Ranger collector. Angel from The Bay
I don't see this happening, but it'd be so interesting to get ahold of someone's old Nick's boots with all those layers of leather and see how those compress over time. Great vid!
I love boots with such a level of wear. It's a nice feeling to live life without losing sleep over natural wear and tear on something practical, footwear and otherwise. That said, taking care of our possessions and extending the life and condition is worthwhile.
10:37 Cork when it is fresh absorbs a lot of impact though. that is the only reason I would prefer Cork. Leather is soft and comfortable on your foot. But, it isn't springy. So, if you are walking on concrete that cork is going to squish and rebound. However, when it is broken down it is useless. But, you could just get Boots that you have resoled every couple years.
I respectfully disagree... to an extent. I have rebuilt three pair of my own boots with leather fill (instead of cork) and have come to prefer it because as it compresses and contours, the support is more evenly spread across the bottom of your foot. That adds not only comfort standing but also lessens fatigue throughout the day. My experience dictates that I will rebuild my boots with leather fill from now on and I make it an option for customers too. I only upcharge the material cost difference; it's not a profit maker, I just believe it's truly an upgrade and make it available.
@@seth_5394 thank you for your opinion now I have to decide whether to go that route or the traditional cork. What a leather midsole conceivably last the lifetime of the boot?
@@matttherrien9608 Midsole or filler? Hypothetically a leather midsole will live as long as the welts do and I would expect a leather fill to last as long as the footbeds. However, those aren't the only considerations. Many times hard worn boots will have a separation of the gemming from the footbed which needs to be reglued and that requires removal of whatever filler is inside. Whether or not to go so far as to look for that is on the experience of the cobbler to judge how hard the boots have been worn, budget, etc. Keep in mind that on social media we see the cream of the crop of cobblers and rebuild jobs. Not everyone is a boot or shoe enthusiast like you and I are and the goal is just to get you in and out. Also, cobblers do not agree across the board about when to replace certain components, synthetic vs natural materials, etc., etc. Be specific about and ask what is to be done on your particular project. If they get offended, find someone else.
Yes. I have a pair of Redwing Blacksmiths with a cork insole that I've worn for 1.5 years. I've noticed much more inconsistency in the insole compared to my Nick's Builder Pros. Not to mention the squeeking.
I have these exact boots, and they are all I wear. Mine are about 4 months old and I cannot believe how comfortable they are. Something with a leather liner and cork makes my feet feel great at the end of the day. I wear thin compression socks with them, and am surprised how easy the break in was. I’m wanting another pair in dark gray. I know it’s all about cutting them in half, but it was tough to watch. I’ve conditioned mine several times and they don’t need much more currently. I don’t do construction work, and I’m not sure I would use them for that if I did. But I enjoy lacing them up each morning. Thanks for an interesting video.
Great to see how well everything inside held up but still a little sad to see these ones cut in half. These were in great shape. A resole resolves the cracked sole issue and the upper simply needs conditioned. They would have looked better than new if the owner took those two steps.
I’ve done at least 3,000 miles at Home Depot in my red wing classic Moc’s and they’re still going strong with just one resole. My buddy wears thorogoods and he has to get a new pair every Christmas or about every 900-1,000 miles.
I got an old pair of secondhand beat up redwings that were cracked and the sole had started to come apart. I took it up to the redwing store, within a week they had conditioned the leather ss best they could, fixed the outsole, installed new laces and new insoles all under their lifetime warranty.
FYI, I received the wallet I ordered from your store and I am super happy with it. I 'm in my late 50's and I think it will see me out, Cheers for that.
Quick question what's the longest anyone has heard a leather wallet lasting? I guess I do have another question was it a trucker's wallet you bought Mr. Pettersson
I'd say this is a solid reason for a full resole over time even if the sole isn't completely toast...would get a chance to replace the cork (and/or swap to leather). Great video as always.
First, I think those boots have a ton of life left in them. It's a shame you cut those in half, but oh well. I have worn my iron rangers almost everyday for the last 7 years and I could not be more impressed with them. They are perfectly broken in and have some character to them I did just have new heels and soles put on and hope to get another 7 more years out them.
I really like this series of cutting boots in half... I found your videos about a month ago right around when I bought a new pair of work boots, Georgia boots, the ones I previously had I wore for about three years. It would be cool to see you cut those in half and see what you think.
You should start looking at boots that are made in Mexico. There are so many economical brands like El General, Arango, Rio Grande; and then some more top of the line like Jaca or Cuadra that give so much value for the price. I have a pair of ostrich belly boots that I got for $125 at a flea market. I’ve worn them almost every day for about 2 years, and they still look great. I’ve use them to work, cleaned them up, then worn them to semi formal events. Super durable
I have a pair of canada west boots, similar style and handmade in canada. I walk 15,000 steps a day and have had them for 2 years, have had them resoled once now and had the heel caps replaced twice and they still look so good as i polish them and clean them on a regular basis. Thats 5000 miles. Worth it to invest in footwear. I broke my foot with poor footwear which made me realize the importance of great boots.
My cobbler recommended replacing the cork with a quite thick layer of perforated leather. He told me it's designed to comply to the shape of your foot,the small holes allowing it to distort to shape easier? No complaints from me,still very comfortable and no reason to replace. Any thoughts on the perforated leather?
Mine are about as worn as these. The cloth interlining has developed some holes on the sides of the vamp. It hasn’t detached so, so far it hasn’t caused any uncomfortable oft there, although it does make me nervous. The leather and cork in the footbed have gotten so compressed, that it feels almost like I’m walking barefoot when I’m on the street. Protection, yes, but nearly no cushioning or shock absorption at all. Other than that, they’ve held up quite well. And somehow, miraculously I’m still on the first outsole. I’ve had these for 4 years now and have worn them 3-5 times a week the entire time.
Honestly the way it molded to his foot was my biggest takeaway from this video. It's one thing to hear it from so many so many times, but to see it for yourself is another thing. It's one of the things that I adore about leather boots, and it's that you quite literally make them your very own just through the sheer act of wearing them over and over.
My work boots were the most painful shoe I've ever worn for the first 2 weeks, but after that they fit like a glove. Now 9 years going they are always my go to shoes for nearly anything.
Rose Anvil should do a video of repairing a boot cut in half. As in, stitching the upper back up and replacing everything else. Reuse the upper, new foot liner, midsole, welt, and outsole. Would be interesting to see how that would turn out! Cheers friends!
I've got a pair of kinda special edition Merrells - made from himalayan Yak skin. Hundreds upon hundreds of miles behind those - since I used them for all my mountain hiking, and also as a winter boot. After 10 years soles started peeling off, but otherwise the boots haven't changed much since the first couple of years of wear (I do take care of them). Soles themselves are in perfect condition though - it's the glue that has degraded. Bottom line - would love to see some hiking boots cut in half, not just fancy sneakers and working boots.
Great video! Really shows the stress, wear, and tear the material in the boot goes thru over time. As well as shows how the boot performs compared to your assessment in your cut in half new boot videos.
I've had a pair of oakstreet trench boots for about 6 years now, whenever the sole wore through I could see the cork the layer of cork on top of the bottom leather layer had basically disintegrated into loosely moving plates. I can't really remember if I could feel the cork piling up, but I could definitely feel the lack of cork in various places. In fairness to the boots, they're on their 1st resole and are still working fine as my "do everything" boot. I'm not sure if I'd recommend them though, I can feel the leather getting pretty thin at the toe from inside wear and the inner liner has disintegrated despite being conditioned regularly.
My first pair of iron rangers are on the way to me. Plus some RW Loggers. Looking forward to trying them. Thanks for the great videos. I subscribe to you both.
Wonderful job guys!! Now I wanna see Nick take Weston to NYC to break in a new pair of boots while shopping for selvage jeans walking around the big apple.
Did it feel different when you cut this one open compared to a brand new one? Cut easier or harder? Just asking to see if things became more brittle overtime.
Would you consider cutting in half/ reviewing a pair of Red Wing Claras? I know they are women’s shoes so you wouldn’t be able to wear them for your review part, however it’s next to impossible to find much info on them and I’d love to see what’s inside!
I don't know if there's a place to send photos on UA-cam, but I could send you a picture of a women's RW cut in half if you want. We have several in the store I work in.
In terms of single ribbed shanks, yeah they not only bend but I have snapped ones in half in some of my premium tims after 2 or 3 years of wear. Def worth it to have the better shank.
Love your channel! Do all iron rangers have cork? I have a pair of the 8085 I bought about 3 years ago but never wore until now. I was wondering what was likely inside them.
if you ever have an opportunity visit Red Wing in the city of the same name in MN, do it. They have a nice store downtown and it was an enjoyable side trip that I wish I had done after learning about leather and boots in particular.
I had $20 boots from Payless last me 9 years. Tears everywhere but they worked. Hitchhiked across the country twice and worked several jobs in them. I actually miss them
I love these videos. Makes it so that I can see all these inner workings of these wonderful boots. And now I know that whenever I get around to needing a resole, I should request a leather midsole to replace the cork. Or, at least, that I could!
I’m rewatching this video for maybe the fifth time after almost 3 years of going down the heritage footwear rabbit hole. I now realize that these 1000 mile cut in half videos are a huge advert for getting regular resoling done before wearing the outsold into the welt, blowing out the leather sides at the ball of the foot from lack of conditioning, or wearing out the cork filler layer. The resole would also mean a new cork layer, new welt when needed, and likely a thorough cleaning and conditioning session. It seems that y’all’s friends, Trenton & Heath, have a lot easier and probably cheaper a time resoleing and reconditioning boots that have been brought in at a reasonable stage vs the worn out ones.
At 3:20 notice the specks (cork) in the sole. You say these boots can be resoled several times. Well, it used to be that the uppers wore out before the soles. Then they changed to this material and I walked right through them. That's when I quit wear Redwing boots.
Love to see another “white sneaker” breakdown. Golden Goose or Saint Laurent or Gucci Ace cut in half too see if they are really worth the tag that’s printed on them
Hey rose, been looking for a new pair of boots and love your videos. Ive got a pair of Timberland Earthkeepers that I've worn consistently for the past 6 years that are in a similar condition to these and would love to see what they look like cut in half if you want to do so. Keep it up!
I believe the cork liner or leather liners depends on what you do. I have a pair of chelsea that have some kind of foam lining which is awesome to walk but not so to standing still (which my previous work required) I'm right now breaking leather lining boots and it's taking its time, I can't say it's better for walking yet but it is for standing still
A piece that is part of the sole that has gotten dislodged is very annoying and uncomfortable. You are right on the money with that. I think the cork is probably good for a quicker break in and absorption. I think an insole that absorbs the shock being replaceable is better rather than layers between the leather being worn and needing replacing.
So, I’m on reruns of these Rose Anvil videos. That said, I’ve noticed that you haven’t investigated much Whites. I’m wearing some new MP Sherman cap toes right now. They’re surprisingly comfy out the gate. It’s a popular boot, and I’d love it if you’d investigate.
My partner has a pair of 10yo rangers, wears them hard (for work & hikes daily) and conditions them on the regular and it's shocking to see how much less worn out they look than these. Good reminder to condition my pair!
The ball of the foot doesn't provide "shock absorption" as much as the heel, especially when running. The ball bends, pushes off and pivots especially when working in a kitchen or some similar work. But some help with shock.
My pair looked like that after two months and I'd have it no other way. Boots are a tool to me not a fashion statement, although I believe they look great "weathered". Brush them off, condition occasionally and run em like I stole em. GREAT USA built boots for the money. Love the content!
As someone who owns several pairs of boots, iron rangers being one of them, i hate cork filling. 100% leather and rubber is the way to go. It's absolutely worth spending the extra money
I’m impressed that they appear to have the original soles and show no sign of needing resoling. I wonder if it would be harder to wear in shoes that have leather in place of a cork filler. I assume cork is preferred by so many shoemakers because it gives more easily, though cost may be an issue. I note Brian the Bootmaker always uses leather rather than cork in his Role Club boots. It would be interesting to know what other bespoke shoemakers prefer.
Actually Brian answered in his Q &A video that people do feel no difference whether it is cork or leather filling in the sole. I think it is some kind of marketing of the dress shoe companies that misleading people, thinking that cork is a superior material in making shoes.
I have three pairs of Iron Rangers (including the amber harness), so part of me wants to cry when I see you cut them open. On the other hand, seeing how well they hold up, even after a lot of wear and neglect, makes me that much happier with my purchases. Another excellent and informative video.
I’d like to see the difference between a compressed cardboard midsole vs cork vs leather after long use. Cool video seeing it cut open after heavy use. 👍🏻
As we age, the natural padding of the foot gets thinner under the ball of the foot. Distal heads of the metatarsals, especially the 2nd. It's just like the cork broke down and migrated ! Even more reason to have some stationary softness there.
i have a cork and leather sandal that has conformed to my feet too, just really wish these iron rangers would be the go-to boot for outdoor activities in the summer and winter
Wes, love your work. It's actually great information for the consumer. I don't ever wanna see your hands/fingers cut in half. Please strongly consider wearing safety gloves. Even if it is just for the viewers' peace of mind!
This is one of my favorite videos you've put out. It would be amazing if you could do something similar with a pair of wild land fire boots (whites, Nick's, Frank's, etc.)
Insole cracking is pretty common, and very noticeable when the boot hasn’t been worn for a while. Wear em for a day, and it’ll be smooth till it dries again.
Grab a leather wallet, belt, camera harness, or MORE from the Rose Anvil shop here - bit.ly/44jXLNu
I know I’m late to the draw, but I have probably hands down the most worn slap out pair of Red Wing Blacksmith’s. They were on my feet every day for 6.5 years and have worked me through every job I’ve ever worked until I got a new pair last year. They’ve been in machine shops, welding fabrication shops, metal foundries, and blacksmith shops. They were in dire need of a resole but even though I conditioned them on the weekly, I wore the leather slap out and decided to retire the boots. I would happily donate them to the channel if you’re looking for a pair of Heritage boots that have met their absolute limit. Love the channel, and keep up the good work brother!
I wanna see this
I want to see this as well!!! Bump!!!^
Collect these gems lol !
If Weston replies, I’ll send them! If not, I’ll go get them resoled and keep on chugging in them
I want to see this too!
As someone who has done HVAC, construction, and manufacturing all in boots for the past 25 years I can assure you that when ANY element of your insole starts shifting around, you will be miserable for at least a couple weeks. Meaning even if you go buy a new pair on payday, the next week is going to suck because it will be spent breaking in the new pair. A well made and fully broken in pair of boots are worth their weight in gold. Not being distracted by your feet or legs being uncomfortable/hurting make a huge difference when you're wearing them 10-16 hours a day. Great video.
Nicks handmade boots.
if you're due for a resole, my advice would be to ask your cobbler to use a leather midsole instead of cork. it won't shift around nearly as much, if at all.
@@austinwanner449 solid advice
I ordered two pair while my old boots are still intact. I'm going to wear the new boots a few days a week switching back to the old ones. My body cant handle the break in all at once.
And the problem is we construction workers depend on our footwear unlike most office jobs .
In the cork defense, this pair is overdue for a Resole. any good cobbler would replace the cork in the process.
Exactly! Cork should be replaced every resole and this boot was due for a resole 500 miles ago
Bingo!
Yes! As a cobbler so true I always change out the cork unless it looks almost pristine and just put a lick of contact cement to help everything bond back together but 90% of the time I will change it out. We also use neoprene foam, if it had a foam filler
@@RHBootmakers Which would you say tends to last longer? (Guessing the neoprene--if so, what are the reasons cobblers still stick with cork?)
All of my cheaper boots literally wore themselves through faster than that, so the fact that only the cork died in that long is frankly amazing
Finally, and yes they’re worth it even after 10 years. Also why is it even sadder seeing an actual used pair cut in half?
I was thinking
“oh no don’t do that”
@@henryperez606 its for science, but it feels so wrong.
I’m sure mr Andrew (or whatever his name was) is rocking some vibergs by now, otherwise why would you sacrifice your precious boots like this?
Them memories and stories in the boot that's why
You must be new here. Here we cut the shoes
ASMR restoration video of fixing up the other boot will be out next week! It should be interesting to see what’s hiding behind all that dirt and age.
Excellent! Now Andrew will be able to hop on one foot!
Yay! I was thinking that it would be awesome to see them be cleaned!
Can you also show how the leather is under the toe cap?
Very educational! Now you'll have get on ebay and find other old boots to cut up. Thanks!
It's a bit off subject for this video but have you heard of Revolt work boots. If not would you consider doing a cut in half review of their moc steel toe. I purchased a pair because they had more of the cosmetic features I was looking for than the more established brands. I really like to know if I made a good gamble or not. Thanks for all the great content showing the construction of footwear.
I was at a red Wing store here in St Cloud, MN getting a new pair of Moc Toe boots. The salesman mentioned something I never heard of before. if your feet sweat a lot you should condition your in soul every few months or twice a year with very little bit of the liquid style conditioner (not mink oil) to help keep them from cracking and deteriorating. Specifically the salt from your sweat will damage the leather. Makes sense as I was in the Navy for some time and out at sea our flight deck boots wouldn't last, not only from the non-skid but from the sweat and ocean salt. They wouldn't last 6 months. Keep in mind we got one pair and worked 15 hour days on average and even in port we had to work some days so maybe one day a month we didn't wear them.
I love my iron Rangers, one of the best boots I’ve ever owned. They are so darn tough and literally have moved me up mountains. My only only complaint is that temperature transfer from the ground on super cold days is almost instant due to no leather midsole on the boot. If I were to design a pair of heritage style boots I’d keep everything redwing does the same, but add the super thick midsole like we saw on the M1943s and replace the bonded leather portion with a hardened, boiled, top grain leather variant. Keep the cork, keep everything else, but add those two elements and you’d have a $350 boot that will survive any harsh climate with a pair of thick wool socks. Super happy with my redwings and will definitely buy them again.
Easy fix, throw a wool insert into you Iron rangers. It will also help with shock absorption.
I've got a pair of Silversmiths (basically lady version iron rangers but a slightly taller ankle) and have the same issue, but I bought a pair of sheep's wool insoles ($13 off Etsy) and they're super warm & comfortable now. When it gets warm I just take them out.
Just got my first pair of 8111’s today, hoping for a great pair of summer boots. After walking around on cement all day in Wisconsin, my feet were chilly .. seems like a good sign … 🤷🏻♂️
I just want to say thanks for all your videos
So far I bought two pairs of the Red Backs you showed
I’m an Aircraft Mechanic and I spend most of my time walking and those booths are a bless. One pair I put some insoles the other ones are just the way they came. Both are great!
Also man beside the great info on your videos. I’m a combat veteran and I find your videos so peaceful and well done that I use them as therapy when every my PTSD and anxiety start to mess with me.
Thx again best of luck this new year!
I hope one day we get the Red Anvil boot brand with the best of the best
The cracking of the insole is a classic example of why you should own two pairs of work boots and alternate between the pairs. Yes, it's expensive initially, but letting your boots dry out properly between wears easily extends the life of the boots by 3 to 4 times. I used to work in warehousing, and I went from replacing a pair of boots every 10 months to a year, to 2 pairs lasting 7+ years. The boots could've lasted longer, but I changed job & they got a viking burial (killed with fire)...
It's also better for your feet and helps prevent fungus or bacteria from growing if you swap out shoes, ideally but a bit overkill 3 shoes or boots to swap between
i need to do this and buy hubby 2 pair - he gets ringworm...
Wear my boots every work day and many weekends - they've lasted 9 years so far and probably will last at least another 10 years. I have four pairs of thorogood boots because they are so durable - I use them for taking down trees, working on cars, welding, hiking, biking, etc
@@skoparweaver7692a pair of thorogoods last you 7 years doing labor? I can't believe
Wow! What a great angle to provide on your channel! This is exactly the type of longevity reviews that people that want to see on these types of expensive boots, shoes and leather products! Keep up the great work and Thank you! Cheers!
Andrew sent in some boots and got roasted in return 😂
Toaster is just the best cat. I love it when he makes an appearance, a cat with character!
I love Red Wing boots. I've been a fan for a few decades. When I was a Teamster they used to make a paratrooper steel-toe boot in the late '80's (discontinued, but I still have a nice pair) I would work all day, take my shower get cleaned up and put my Red Wings back on and dance the night away at the clubs without my feet Ever hurting. True Story. Ima a die-hard fan forever and an Iron Ranger collector.
Angel from The Bay
I don't see this happening, but it'd be so interesting to get ahold of someone's old Nick's boots with all those layers of leather and see how those compress over time. Great vid!
I love boots with such a level of wear. It's a nice feeling to live life without losing sleep over natural wear and tear on something practical, footwear and otherwise. That said, taking care of our possessions and extending the life and condition is worthwhile.
10:37 Cork when it is fresh absorbs a lot of impact though. that is the only reason I would prefer Cork. Leather is soft and comfortable on your foot. But, it isn't springy. So, if you are walking on concrete that cork is going to squish and rebound. However, when it is broken down it is useless. But, you could just get Boots that you have resoled every couple years.
I respectfully disagree... to an extent. I have rebuilt three pair of my own boots with leather fill (instead of cork) and have come to prefer it because as it compresses and contours, the support is more evenly spread across the bottom of your foot. That adds not only comfort standing but also lessens fatigue throughout the day. My experience dictates that I will rebuild my boots with leather fill from now on and I make it an option for customers too. I only upcharge the material cost difference; it's not a profit maker, I just believe it's truly an upgrade and make it available.
@@seth_5394 thank you for your opinion now I have to decide whether to go that route or the traditional cork. What a leather midsole conceivably last the lifetime of the boot?
@@matttherrien9608 Midsole or filler? Hypothetically a leather midsole will live as long as the welts do and I would expect a leather fill to last as long as the footbeds. However, those aren't the only considerations. Many times hard worn boots will have a separation of the gemming from the footbed which needs to be reglued and that requires removal of whatever filler is inside. Whether or not to go so far as to look for that is on the experience of the cobbler to judge how hard the boots have been worn, budget, etc. Keep in mind that on social media we see the cream of the crop of cobblers and rebuild jobs. Not everyone is a boot or shoe enthusiast like you and I are and the goal is just to get you in and out. Also, cobblers do not agree across the board about when to replace certain components, synthetic vs natural materials, etc., etc. Be specific about and ask what is to be done on your particular project. If they get offended, find someone else.
Yes. I have a pair of Redwing Blacksmiths with a cork insole that I've worn for 1.5 years. I've noticed much more inconsistency in the insole compared to my Nick's Builder Pros. Not to mention the squeeking.
I have these exact boots, and they are all I wear. Mine are about 4 months old and I cannot believe how comfortable they are. Something with a leather liner and cork makes my feet feel great at the end of the day. I wear thin compression socks with them, and am surprised how easy the break in was. I’m wanting another pair in dark gray. I know it’s all about cutting them in half, but it was tough to watch. I’ve conditioned mine several times and they don’t need much more currently. I don’t do construction work, and I’m not sure I would use them for that if I did. But I enjoy lacing them up each morning. Thanks for an interesting video.
Great to see how well everything inside held up but still a little sad to see these ones cut in half. These were in great shape. A resole resolves the cracked sole issue and the upper simply needs conditioned. They would have looked better than new if the owner took those two steps.
Absolutely love my Red Wings like so many others. Going on 3 years with the current pair worn everyday
I’ve done at least 3,000 miles at Home Depot in my red wing classic Moc’s and they’re still going strong with just one resole. My buddy wears thorogoods and he has to get a new pair every Christmas or about every 900-1,000 miles.
Do yourself a favor and buy some Lowa boots. And you will never look back
I got an old pair of secondhand beat up redwings that were cracked and the sole had started to come apart. I took it up to the redwing store, within a week they had conditioned the leather ss best they could, fixed the outsole, installed new laces and new insoles all under their lifetime warranty.
FYI, I received the wallet I ordered from your store and I am super happy with it. I 'm in my late 50's and I think it will see me out, Cheers for that.
Quick question what's the longest anyone has heard a leather wallet lasting? I guess I do have another question was it a trucker's wallet you bought Mr. Pettersson
@@brandongraham2088 the Rowe, it's very nice😁
@@brandongraham2088 my dad has had the same leather guess wallet for probably 20+ years it’s all beat up and it’s got holes but it still works fine
Bought mine in june 2018 and they're still fantastic. I've worn the hell out of them and ridden motorcycles all over the place. Fantastic boot
I'd say this is a solid reason for a full resole over time even if the sole isn't completely toast...would get a chance to replace the cork (and/or swap to leather). Great video as always.
What would the cost be for leather in place of cork?
First, I think those boots have a ton of life left in them. It's a shame you cut those in half, but oh well. I have worn my iron rangers almost everyday for the last 7 years and I could not be more impressed with them. They are perfectly broken in and have some character to them I did just have new heels and soles put on and hope to get another 7 more years out them.
Great stuff guys. One thing I’d mention is that when you have them resoled they replace the cork.
Damn, NYC mayoral candidate Andrew Yang sent in these boots?
I did a double take at that too lol didn't know Yang Gang rocked rangers.
It makes sense, everyone get's 20K, a portion of which goes to a highly durable pair of boots.
#YangGang 😅🥾
Hahahahaha!
@@itbakkawi support domestic industry with the freedom dividend lollll
I really like this series of cutting boots in half... I found your videos about a month ago right around when I bought a new pair of work boots, Georgia boots, the ones I previously had I wore for about three years. It would be cool to see you cut those in half and see what you think.
Well I bought a pair of these boots because of this video so far they’re amazing.
You should start looking at boots that are made in Mexico.
There are so many economical brands like El General, Arango, Rio Grande; and then some more top of the line like Jaca or Cuadra that give so much value for the price.
I have a pair of ostrich belly boots that I got for $125 at a flea market. I’ve worn them almost every day for about 2 years, and they still look great.
I’ve use them to work, cleaned them up, then worn them to semi formal events. Super durable
Yeah, I have seen horsehide boots which I would like to try...
That's a really nice snowflake at 2:38
Was great to see what the inside looks like after so much use and how much life was really left in those Iron Ranger's.
1. Start another playlist: *1000 miles.*
2. Invite guest walkers
3. $
Are you a proclaimer?
Great idea
I mean, he is a Skywalker...
I have a pair of canada west boots, similar style and handmade in canada. I walk 15,000 steps a day and have had them for 2 years, have had them resoled once now and had the heel caps replaced twice and they still look so good as i polish them and clean them on a regular basis. Thats 5000 miles. Worth it to invest in footwear. I broke my foot with poor footwear which made me realize the importance of great boots.
My cobbler recommended replacing the cork with a quite thick layer of perforated leather. He told me it's designed to comply to the shape of your foot,the small holes allowing it to distort to shape easier? No complaints from me,still very comfortable and no reason to replace. Any thoughts on the perforated leather?
I really don't think these boots are that badly worn! A quick condition and they'll be good as new.
yeah- nothing wrong with these boots at all. These softies want to cuddle up in bed with these boots.
Mine are about as worn as these. The cloth interlining has developed some holes on the sides of the vamp. It hasn’t detached so, so far it hasn’t caused any uncomfortable oft there, although it does make me nervous. The leather and cork in the footbed have gotten so compressed, that it feels almost like I’m walking barefoot when I’m on the street. Protection, yes, but nearly no cushioning or shock absorption at all. Other than that, they’ve held up quite well. And somehow, miraculously I’m still on the first outsole. I’ve had these for 4 years now and have worn them 3-5 times a week the entire time.
You guys have delightful "on screen chemistry" and I'm here for it. Loving the channel evolution.
Which one topped after?👨❤️👨
Honestly the way it molded to his foot was my biggest takeaway from this video. It's one thing to hear it from so many so many times, but to see it for yourself is another thing. It's one of the things that I adore about leather boots, and it's that you quite literally make them your very own just through the sheer act of wearing them over and over.
My work boots were the most painful shoe I've ever worn for the first 2 weeks, but after that they fit like a glove. Now 9 years going they are always my go to shoes for nearly anything.
Rose Anvil should do a video of repairing a boot cut in half. As in, stitching the upper back up and replacing everything else. Reuse the upper, new foot liner, midsole, welt, and outsole. Would be interesting to see how that would turn out! Cheers friends!
I've got a pair of kinda special edition Merrells - made from himalayan Yak skin. Hundreds upon hundreds of miles behind those - since I used them for all my mountain hiking, and also as a winter boot. After 10 years soles started peeling off, but otherwise the boots haven't changed much since the first couple of years of wear (I do take care of them). Soles themselves are in perfect condition though - it's the glue that has degraded.
Bottom line - would love to see some hiking boots cut in half, not just fancy sneakers and working boots.
ditto it would be cool to see hiking boots dissected, there are a lot of difference performance and durability considerations with hiking boots
Clean up the other boot to show Andrew what he could have been wearing
That would've been great to see
What other boot? 9:53 both boots have been cut
Great video! Really shows the stress, wear, and tear the material in the boot goes thru over time. As well as shows how the boot performs compared to your assessment in your cut in half new boot videos.
You guys are awesome! I watch both of your channels regularly, and thoroughly enjoy your content! Keep up the great work guys!
Ever thought of doing military boots , Altbergs , Haix , Lowa etc?
Would enjoy seeing some teardowns of some hyped military footwear like Garmont T8's or Altama OTBs
Everybody in my unit swears by the Nike sfbs and they are insanely comfortable. I really wanna see the insides!
I've had a pair of oakstreet trench boots for about 6 years now, whenever the sole wore through I could see the cork the layer of cork on top of the bottom leather layer had basically disintegrated into loosely moving plates. I can't really remember if I could feel the cork piling up, but I could definitely feel the lack of cork in various places. In fairness to the boots, they're on their 1st resole and are still working fine as my "do everything" boot. I'm not sure if I'd recommend them though, I can feel the leather getting pretty thin at the toe from inside wear and the inner liner has disintegrated despite being conditioned regularly.
I too have a pair of OSB Trench boots which I got 6 years ago. I would certainly recommend them.
My first pair of iron rangers are on the way to me. Plus some RW Loggers. Looking forward to trying them. Thanks for the great videos. I subscribe to you both.
YES! The cut center score is back! Man, I missed that...
Wonderful job guys!! Now I wanna see Nick take Weston to NYC to break in a new pair of boots while shopping for selvage jeans walking around the big apple.
Never had the cork in the sole move on me. Been wearing Redwings for 30 years.
Its an unfounded theory you reckon?
Did it feel different when you cut this one open compared to a brand new one? Cut easier or harder? Just asking to see if things became more brittle overtime.
Would you consider cutting in half/ reviewing a pair of Red Wing Claras? I know they are women’s shoes so you wouldn’t be able to wear them for your review part, however it’s next to impossible to find much info on them and I’d love to see what’s inside!
Agreed, I'd love to see some reviews of women's boots.
I don't know if there's a place to send photos on UA-cam, but I could send you a picture of a women's RW cut in half if you want. We have several in the store I work in.
I bought a pair of Iron Rangers because of this channel and they have been amazing! Do more old used boot cuts!
In terms of single ribbed shanks, yeah they not only bend but I have snapped ones in half in some of my premium tims after 2 or 3 years of wear. Def worth it to have the better shank.
I always use a shoe tree when I take my boots off and oil often. And that helps keep the boots shape.
Love your channel! Do all iron rangers have cork? I have a pair of the 8085 I bought about 3 years ago but never wore until now. I was wondering what was likely inside them.
Worth noting that the cork can be and normally is replaced with a resole. That mitigates cork migration concerns in my mind.
if you ever have an opportunity visit Red Wing in the city of the same name in MN, do it. They have a nice store downtown and it was an enjoyable side trip that I wish I had done after learning about leather and boots in particular.
I have that exact same model 8111. I use it almost everyday. I love it.
I had $20 boots from Payless last me 9 years. Tears everywhere but they worked. Hitchhiked across the country twice and worked several jobs in them. I actually miss them
I love these videos. Makes it so that I can see all these inner workings of these wonderful boots. And now I know that whenever I get around to needing a resole, I should request a leather midsole to replace the cork. Or, at least, that I could!
I think a leather mid-sole is the way to go. I'm having my IR 8119's re-soled with leather mid-soles, for the reasons Weston mentioned.
I’m rewatching this video for maybe the fifth time after almost 3 years of going down the heritage footwear rabbit hole. I now realize that these 1000 mile cut in half videos are a huge advert for getting regular resoling done before wearing the outsold into the welt, blowing out the leather sides at the ball of the foot from lack of conditioning, or wearing out the cork filler layer. The resole would also mean a new cork layer, new welt when needed, and likely a thorough cleaning and conditioning session.
It seems that y’all’s friends, Trenton & Heath, have a lot easier and probably cheaper a time resoleing and reconditioning boots that have been brought in at a reasonable stage vs the worn out ones.
Great video, really nice to see the insides of a good pair of used ones! Thank you.
At 3:20 notice the specks (cork) in the sole. You say these boots can be resoled several times. Well, it used to be that the uppers wore out before the soles. Then they changed to this material and I walked right through them. That's when I quit wear Redwing boots.
Love to see another “white sneaker” breakdown. Golden Goose or Saint Laurent or Gucci Ace cut in half too see if they are really worth the tag that’s printed on them
Hey rose, been looking for a new pair of boots and love your videos. Ive got a pair of Timberland Earthkeepers that I've worn consistently for the past 6 years that are in a similar condition to these and would love to see what they look like cut in half if you want to do so. Keep it up!
Great to see you guys together!
I believe the cork liner or leather liners depends on what you do. I have a pair of chelsea that have some kind of foam lining which is awesome to walk but not so to standing still (which my previous work required) I'm right now breaking leather lining boots and it's taking its time, I can't say it's better for walking yet but it is for standing still
A piece that is part of the sole that has gotten dislodged is very annoying and uncomfortable. You are right on the money with that. I think the cork is probably good for a quicker break in and absorption. I think an insole that absorbs the shock being replaceable is better rather than layers between the leather being worn and needing replacing.
So, I’m on reruns of these Rose Anvil videos. That said, I’ve noticed that you haven’t investigated much Whites. I’m wearing some new MP Sherman cap toes right now. They’re surprisingly comfy out the gate. It’s a popular boot, and I’d love it if you’d investigate.
My partner has a pair of 10yo rangers, wears them hard (for work & hikes daily) and conditions them on the regular and it's shocking to see how much less worn out they look than these. Good reminder to condition my pair!
The ball of the foot doesn't provide "shock absorption" as much as the heel, especially when running. The ball bends, pushes off and pivots especially when working in a kitchen or some similar work. But some help with shock.
Many love from Singapore 🇸🇬! Just gt myself a discontinued IR8115, hope to look this good after many years.
My pair looked like that after two months and I'd have it no other way. Boots are a tool to me not a fashion statement, although I believe they look great "weathered". Brush them off, condition occasionally and run em like I stole em. GREAT USA built boots for the money. Love the content!
You're just too lazy to clean and condition your boots. Don't try to justify your neglect.
@@radry100 Ha. Literally stated in my comment that I condition them. You're obviously not open to others perspectives. Take care and stay health!
As someone who owns several pairs of boots, iron rangers being one of them, i hate cork filling. 100% leather and rubber is the way to go. It's absolutely worth spending the extra money
I can imagine that very few china-made boots could possibly endure the hard usage these US-made boots have seen. Great video content.
My 8086 iron ranger that I'm still in have had 5616 mile in them. Still going strong my favorite pair.
The cork argument is a bit wild. If you don't cut them in half or cut the sole off it will never move.
Hey, love the channel, I just bought a pair of Iron Rangers, I'm loving them so far, it's good to know about their longevity.
Hi from London UK.
I’m impressed that they appear to have the original soles and show no sign of needing resoling. I wonder if it would be harder to wear in shoes that have leather in place of a cork filler. I assume cork is preferred by so many shoemakers because it gives more easily, though cost may be an issue. I note Brian the Bootmaker always uses leather rather than cork in his Role Club boots. It would be interesting to know what other bespoke shoemakers prefer.
Actually Brian answered in his Q &A video that people do feel no difference whether it is cork or leather filling in the sole. I think it is some kind of marketing of the dress shoe companies that misleading people, thinking that cork is a superior material in making shoes.
I have three pairs of Iron Rangers (including the amber harness), so part of me wants to cry when I see you cut them open. On the other hand, seeing how well they hold up, even after a lot of wear and neglect, makes me that much happier with my purchases. Another excellent and informative video.
I’d like to see the difference between a compressed cardboard midsole vs cork vs leather after long use.
Cool video seeing it cut open after heavy use. 👍🏻
I feel leather would held up better
Okay, I'm convinced. Getting a pair of these in black or gray.
Great collab!!! Nick is a nice guy too and his channel rocks! More collabs please
As we age, the natural padding of the foot gets thinner under the ball of the foot. Distal heads of the metatarsals, especially the 2nd. It's just like the cork broke down and migrated !
Even more reason to have some stationary softness there.
Multiple videos a week. This is what we want. This is what we need.
Love both of your channels. Great video & collaboration!
i have a cork and leather sandal that has conformed to my feet too, just really wish these iron rangers would be the go-to boot for outdoor activities in the summer and winter
Just so you know your ad link for privacy shows up as a "page not found"
Awesome idea cutting old shoes!! Could you cut some gel asics? And more running shoes?
Wes, love your work. It's actually great information for the consumer. I don't ever wanna see your hands/fingers cut in half. Please strongly consider wearing safety gloves. Even if it is just for the viewers' peace of mind!
when cork shifts you kinda kick the ground a bunch with the ball of your foot and it usually fixes it.
This is one of my favorite videos you've put out. It would be amazing if you could do something similar with a pair of wild land fire boots (whites, Nick's, Frank's, etc.)
Video Request:
Review and cut in half Columbia footwear (Firecamp & Bugaboot models would be an awesome start).
Thanks for the awesome videos.
I got a pair of Corcoran jump boots that would neat to cut in half. Wore jumps for years in the military. They pretty munch haven't changed since WW2.
Out of all the boots i had i think i hated those the worst i got myne in the 2000s specially the pokey nails in the footbed hopefully things changed
Insole cracking is pretty common, and very noticeable when the boot hasn’t been worn for a while. Wear em for a day, and it’ll be smooth till it dries again.
is this caused by drying them in front of a heat source?
Toaster is back ❤❤ i missed him, hes adorable