Work Boots

[100% Matt]

I just ordered these from theunionbootpro.com I really wanted a pair of Red Wing Heritages but the $200 + price point isn't really feasible right now. Buying a USA made product is very important to me

[river1]

be sure you give a full report when you recieve them

a long term report would be nice also

thanks in advance

later jim

[Rashy]

Originally Posted by river1

be sure you give a full report when you recieve them

a long term report would be nice also

thanks in advance

later jim

What he said.

[100% Matt]

Got the boots last week. They are very comfortable and the leather is nice and soft so there is little breaking in time. My only gripe is that the welt attaching the boots to the out sole is thin. Not the actual tread but the welt. In contrast to a pair of diehard boots of the same style I have. I would recommend these to anyone looking for a traditionally style American made work boot.

[Peacefrog]

I went with the same companies top of the line boot, factory second, Wienbrenner IMet Wellington, USA. I have been wearing Redwings (~$150) for 3 or so years, gone through 2 pair. I no longer wanted to support "of foreign and domestic components" and went with Made in the USA, Merrill and Marshfield WI. They have Vibram soles, EH oil and slip resistant, steel toe with plastic metatarsal guard.
On paper they look impressive. I've owned them for a month today. The first thing I can say is the leather isn't as tough as Redwings. They scuff fairly easy, might be the reason mine are seconds. The sole is wearing a bit, but they go on at 6 and stay on til evening. I swear by the soles though, Vibram soled combat boots were always my favorite. I think the wear showing is more to do with the oil/slip resistance. When I have them resoled it will be a more standard sole.
On the upside, there was zero break-in. They were comfortable from the store, the metatarsal guard took some getting used to though. Worth it the first time you drop something on your foot. They are a larger boot, yet noticeably lighter than the Redwings. Did I mention I paid $67 for them as a factory second? The little old lady at the factory store was neat. I think that these will hold up like GI boots, with a bit of care they will last forever, but don't wax 'em and don't expect them to last.
The same company makes Wienbrenner, Thorogood, Work-one and Field & Stream boots. Mills Fleet Farm carries Thorogood and Field & Stream, some models Made in USA, some not. If they continue to wear like they have, I will be pleased and would buy again either seconds or full price depending on availability.

[100% Matt]

Update.. I've had these boots for a few weeks now and I absolutely love them. They are extremely comfortable and light. I highly recommend them

[bb1970]

Redback boots get my vote.

[HandsomeDan]

I tried on a pair of Thorogood boots that my friend just got. They're comfortable ass hell. It seems that they've stopped using Vibram soles, and have their own wedge sole now.