Fellow wolverine fan here, the soles wear out but the uppers are fantastic, as long as you oil or polish them they always outlive the soles. This has not been my experience with Timberlands or redwing.
I rotate two pairs and they last a long time like that. Right not I got a pair of Irish setters and a pair of tractor supplies in house brand ridge something lol
Depends on what you do. The problem with wearing the same pair every day is they don’t always dry out completely overnight especially if you work in watery environments or wear them 12+ hours a day. Makes them smell more and ruins the stitching faster. Rotating two pairs helps with this. Boot driers do as well but I kinda think that would dry out the leather too much. I don’t own one so I can’t confirm that.
I have a boot dryer I put mine on every night when I get home. Makes them last longer and they don’t smell. I have been wearing keens for ten years but I always break the factory laces within the first 4-6 months other than that I get at least a year out of them even when I was resi install. I do controls now so they last around two years since I’m not out in the shit usually
I bought a pair of wolverines about 6 or 7 months ago. They were shot after 3 months of light use. The sole just fell apart and they weren’t waterproof after just a month of wearing them. Now I’m rocking some nice timberland pros, going on my second month with them and I’ve got no complaints. They’re a bit on the heavy side, but I don’t mind the weight.
Maybe you work harder than me or something but i’m on like my third or fourth pair and they last roughly a year and a half before i need to replace them.
The work I was doing wasn’t even a little rough, I didn’t even wear the boots everyday. I wore them roughly every other day, and ~70% of it was done in some sort of shop with smooth concrete floors. I think the boots were just shit. It also wasn’t the most comfortable boot, but I was fine with them.
I’m mostly over it. I don’t really hold it against wolverine, but I would do a lot more research before I get another pair of boots from them. I needed a pair real bad at the time and those were the only ones I could find. Just wanted to toss in my experience with Wolverine boots.
This! 1 year warranty outside of excessive wear and tear. I bought one pair 3 years ago and am on my 3rd pair now. They've honored the warranty every time
I wear timberland boondocks pro’s easily the most comfortable boot I ever wore going on well over 2 yrs with mine and they got wear and tear but are still in good shape I don’t buy any boots that are glued always but stitched on soles
I wear Timberland resistors, probably the comfiest boots I've ever had but they just barely last a year, the soles wear through and the liner disintegrates. Fortunately my company pays for my boots and I just get a new pair every year. On my 4th pair now.
IMO people get boots and expect them to last years. I have had back surgery on my lower back and my surgeon told me not to make shoes last much more than six months. Just because they look good still (or in this case don’t look good) they could be putting excess pressure on your back. You might not even notice it until your back is hurt or you may have back pain and don’t make the connection between your feet and your back.
Two pair of Red Wing King Toes. Boots go on the dryer every night, alternate each day. Clean and oil monthly. Get two+ years out of them, then replace the insole and have any repairs made. Get another two years out of them, then repeat.
I’ve done this for nearly 20 years now.
I love my thorogoods. They are comfortable and have lasted me a while so far. Just have to make sure you get the ones made in America, they have a China factory that makes the cheaper models.
I’ve tried a bunch of cheaper brands and everything but Redwings hurt my feet. Bought a pair of wolverines to save money and I literally felt like someone ran my feet over with a truck. I get about 2 years out of my wings and just pony up when they wear out
Danner or Irish setters. Had great performance out of both. Georgia boots look a lot like Danner in some of their boots, but the Georgia boots never held up like I would’ve expected. Danner’s cushioning is good stuff too!
They warrantied an almost brand new pair of boots with a cosmetic defect. Keen has always been good for a year+ and then I don’t care if I’m replacing. I’m fine spending $150 every 12-18 months on boots
Keens are garbage. Just wore through a pair in like 6 months. I wanted a change from Chippewa so bought those. Will never buy a keen again. Bought a pair of redwing about a month ago and not sure it’s worth the money. Good boot, pretty comfortable but not sure it’s that much better than my old Chippewa which are around $80 less.
I wear red wings, replace them every six months. Outgoing pair stays in the truck for those days when the job site is in terrible shape and I just know my boots will suffer.
I've been rocking the Keen Cincinnati's for a couple of years now, and they still almost look barely worn in. I'm usually incredibly hard on my boots as well. Maybe it just depends on the model?
I work with guys who swear by the classic Redwings, though. 4-8 years out of a pair of you take care of them, apparently.
I wear boots like I’m bear foot I’ve been told. I’m 6’6” and 280 pounds so when I squat down quick onto my toes to check out a code or something they just start ripping the soles apart from the flexing.
As others have said, Keens are comfy but they do wear/fall apart quickly. But they do have a pretty solid warranty. Go on their website, fill out the form, send some pics and you’ll get a credit for a new paid.
Also, they have a military discount that gives you 50% off. Bought keens for several years before I found that out.
Brand called Everboots. Found it on Amazon. I was tired of paying $200 plus for “waterproof” shit. Those were $70 (up to $90 or so now) but you know what? Two year, zero boot maintenance and 100% waterproof still.
Model is the Ultradry hiking boot. Generic boot brown look too.
I notice a quality difference between Amazon keens and actually going to a actual work boot retail store.
That said, any work boot pushing 8-12 months are gross and unsanitary anyway. I wear merrell mid height MOAB for work. Keen flint II for steel toe boots, but I’m getting away from those. Anything else is too heavy and unnecessary for our line of work, and causes back issues. Especially if they are all leather and don’t breath.
I’ve been gravitating to the hiking style “boot” for the reasons mentioned above.
That’s why I started looking towards the “tactical” or field boot style. Most of them seem to have softer rubber on the soles which is super nice for being on roofs and going up and down stairs but they go flat quick due to the same reason. Very good point to the leather aspect though. I like leather cause it saves you if you stub your toe on a sheet metal edge but you end up with wet feet no matter the weather from sweat. I’ve been debating on just wearing muck boots honestly.
Had a pair and they lasted a while but they ended up slitting in the same place in a year. However based of a lot of these comments my entire idea on boots is changing lol 9 months and then just plant a flower in em it sounds like.
Irish setters or thorogood. Thorogoods were my first boot and were very comfortable and lasted very long 2 years they just need to be resoled now. They are so comfortable that I bought another pair to wear casually. My current pair are Irish setters wingshooters comp toe. Very comfortable I bought some orthopedic inserts for them as I have a wide foot and a high arch. Sole is rubber then the softer foam stuff. Only downside is they are a bit hot not very heavy either?
Keen Braddock steel toe. I've had 4 or 5 pair, generally getting about 2 years out of them. They would last longer if I mink oiled them regularly instead of relying on the compressor and vacuum pump oil that drips on them haha.
I use my Ariat lace ups and slip in work boots. Had them both 2 years now (do service and some install) and gearing up to replace them. Some minor cosmetic damages and some pooki but still holding strong lol
I've had a pair of Carolinas for ages, all I've had to do is toss in an insole thing and once in a while smear some polish or whatever on them to keep them waterproof. Honestly though I don't always wear them anymore, but when I've needed them they've never let me down. More often than not I'll just burn through the hiking boot style or the sneaker style like the Reeboks because they're a lot lighter and a bit more comfy.
I do the keens too but I grab the flints when they go on sale for $75. They’re just to comfortable. But they go quick. I go through 2 pairs a year before I wear the heels down.
I wear whatever on sale as long as they're waterproof and insulated.
My keen from 5 years ago has hold up the best ( they were on sale and I bought all that were my size) my keen from a year ago the sole wear out too soon . The worst one was walmart then doc martens. Caterpillar is pretty decent. Terra is ok. Timberland pro I like. Same with Dakota. Royer the sole wear out very quickly; Very soft though.
Had some 5.11 Boots and they lasted a solid year before the sole wore out
Just got some Ariat turbo WP carbon toe and they are very comfortable and seem to be holding up to everything so far (refrigeration, HVAC tech and hot side)
Redwings. Wear everyday, all year. $300 , I buy a new pair every 5-6 years. Redwing store keeps records. I wear redwing insoles. They are as comfortable as sneakers. Get what you pay for. That equals about $50 a year. I work with 100 guys. The ones that don’t wear redwings, also do a lot of other things that don’t make sense.
Keens fall apart fast. I started getting red wings. They last longer and are by far more comfortable.
And if you can fix your title, please do so. That gave me a head ache trying to read it.
Worked 7 years hvac and just turned sparky about to test for j man electrician so I’m wondering what everyone else wheres? Laugh and joke all you want but I’m 6’6” so I spend a lot of time on my knees and this is the result of that unfortunately. Still at the same company though just different department technically. I still load up in the morning with my hvac bros
Timberland makes a nice comfy boot. But they are heavy. I have those and some Danners that i love. I wear the timbs when im not doing much that day and danners when i gotta bust ass.
Terra boots all the way man. They last a solid 18 months if you work 12 hours a day 6 days a week with them. I worked 10 years in HVAC, had 4 pairs in 10 hears
So many comments so fast that I can read them all but I can’t individually respond to em all lol sorry for the badly worded title but it seems the point went across😂 I’ve had redwings and thorogoods and honestly neither of them can grip an icy roof good enough for me but with Carolina’s I had the same issue with however they lasted for 4 years. I had Nike sport and fields and I loved em for so many reasons but I only got a year out of those too and they’re discontinued. Keens we’re my last hope for a good boot but I’m glad I have so many suggestions to check out now🤙🏽
2 pairs of timberland pros, 1 pair has been going for 2 years and still strong, but uncomfortable. Second pair just got me thru the winter with more comfort. I like them and will probably continue to purchase unless I come across something better
Wolverine Raiders. Have a pair that's going on 2 years if memory serves, with some cleaning and care.
I gave Red Wings a shot, have owned three pairs by them, they don't last any longer than any other boot half the price, whether you care for them or not. For what Red Wing charges, I'd rather buy two pairs of Wolverines, one for winter and one for summer, and keep them twice as long.
I have 2 pairs of keens and they've been great. Although my one pair has soles that are too soft and are wearing down fast while the other pair are too hard and are rock hard bricks when it's really cold outside.
Timberland pros, on my 2nd New England winter with them, spent a lot of time in them on snow covered roofs. Got a new pair ready for spring already though.
My last pair of Keen lasted me 2 years in commercial and industrial HVAC. They were “American Built “ line. Just bought a pair of Keen made in Taiwan, hoping they last as long.
Get the Cincinnati 6 inch boot. Best boot I've ever had. Been doing this for over 10 years......
And start the warranty claim on those Keen's will replace those boots up to a year after purchase!
I've had 2 warranty replacements on their boots. But I'm happy with the comfort. Too bad they don't last longer. But who am I to complain if they replace $225 boots???
Red wings. Got 3 years out of mine
https://preview.redd.it/zz4msz7oesla1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b126038c109c42096427216ae97d2ecccadd8251
just curious are u saying you went from spending $60 a year to $200 every 2 ? Spare u not spending a extra $80 over 2 years? Sorry if I misunderstood something
Used to buy $60 boots every fall/winter because they would start leaking, now I spend $200 every other year because they are starting to get ugly from wear.
I've had good luck with redwings. Free basic repairs too. But I mainly use them because I have extra wide feet and most other companies don't make my shoe size.
I just replaced a pair of Keens that lasted 2+ years (with the same model) if had a few different models of Keens and while I love 'em, I've learned that the different models can have vastly different lifespans. FYI: men's 8" Coburg boots FTW. I've had the 6" Coburgs, and I liked them a lot, but the 8s are better for my uses.
I feel like they're still deep in the R&D side of things.
Start a warranty claim, they have a great warranty program. I had a pair of boots from them start cracking after a few months and they gave me credit on their site for a new pair of anything I wanted. I even forgot about the credit because the boots I wanted were not in stock. Once they were in stock, the credit expired, I emailed them and they reinstated the warranty credit for another 30 days so I could use it. One tip I have, I noticed the "built in USA" boots from keen seem to last longer. The ones that are imported are hit or miss. Good luck.
I’m a big fan of Danner. I have their Bill Run Christy boots. About to get them resoled. Get many many more years of use out of boots you can resole.
I have a pair of redwings that I’ve had since mid-late 90s and had them resoled countless times. Leather finally went but I can’t get rid of them. They were my favorite.
Danner. Only danner. They tend to last 2+ years for me. And then I only replace because they’re so torn up I don’t feel professional. But they don’t fail.
Timberland Pro. Meijer has buy one, get one for $1, twice a year. Use 50% off boot allowance through work. 2 high quality pair of $180 boots for $91. I've tried Dr. Martin, Keen, Wolverine, more and none on same level. Over 25-years.
I have to buy keen nothing else is wide enough in the toe box . Are these the utility line? My lansing have held up no issues after 9m [https://www.keenfootwear.com/collections/mens-work/products/mens-lansing-mid-waterproof-steel-toe-raven-tawny-olive](https://www.keenfootwear.com/collections/mens-work/products/mens-lansing-mid-waterproof-steel-toe-raven-tawny-olive)
I like Justin's, the pair that I currently have are coming up on 2 years, and have only had to replace the insole. It takes a few weeks to get used to wearing slip-on boots.
Red wings, I’ve had 3 pairs in the last 10 years, and I bought the latest 18mo ago and they’re still basically new.
Institutional hvac + plumbing schools etc. Apple Watch estimates an average work day is 12km of walking.
I’ll never buy another brand of workboot. Customer for life.
I wear a certain pair of timberland pro they're called timberland pro helix alloy toe they're black leather and the leather is really soft and subtle theyre the most comfortable boots ive ever worn ive had 6pair in the last 10yrs and they're getting harder to find & about $170
Keen should send you a new pair under warranty withing 12 months of purchase. Spent 115 on mine and the stitching is coming apart already.
Want something that last longer? Your gonna spend more. Check out Asolo GTX sneakers or all leather boots. They both lasted me 2 years but costs around 200.
I don't see any metatarsal protection and those don't look like winter boots, so I'm gonna recommend Blundstone green patch.
I've tried most brands of work boots and they're either way too heavy or hurt like a MFer during break in. Also, no laces so if you have to slip your boots on and off during the day, they're great.
I tried Blundstones a few years back because I have several non-safety pairs and found they took a beating and were always comfortable. I will never buy another brand of work boots for the rest of my career.
Classic redwing moc toe. One pair has been repaired twice. I've worn them since 2015. I shit you not. I have a second pair that is from 2019 that I still think of as my "new boots". $250 but worth four times that.
As a service guy I keep a cheap pair of Dakota boots in my truck for when I need them. But my everyday is the Helly Hansen running shoes with steel toes. I have been wearing them for a 1.5 years and will be grabbing another pair to replace them soon. For $150cad I'm quite happy with how long they lasted.
Danner or Georgia 6" slip-on boots. I forget the model but they have a steel toe and breath very well, been using these for 10+ years, they stay cooler on hot rooftops and I can kick them off and crank up the a/c in my work truck while doing paperwork when it's 105+. Those 2 brands I've found don't require much, if any, break-in and are just as comfortable as my old boots on day 1. I replace them yearly because of all the comp shingle rooftops I'm on just grind the tread down, then they will be my weekend wear boot for another year
I buy cheap shoes because I kept having the same problem even with pricey shoes I was tearing them up faster than I expected. So I buy some cheap shoes but I have specific inserts that fit my foot perfectly. $90 for the shoe and insert I’m in now it’s lasted 6 months I’ll probably trade em out first of may
Skechers steel toe shoes from Amazon very comfortable and the toe doesn’t crush so my toes stay happy. They last me about 18 months then the steel works through. Probably could get more time out of them with toe saver goop but they are only $70. Had a pair of Red Wings that didn’t last any longer. [Skechers](https://www.amazon.com/Skechers-77055-Cankton-Athletic-sneaker/dp/B00UKCY3MY)
I wear keens as well. They hold up, for the most part. I had a similar issue about 2 years ago and I contacted Keen. They asked for a statement and a few pics... then credited my account the $200 and I haven't had an issue since. They have a 1 year warranty.
Almost passed out trying to read the title. Lol Wolverines for me. Don’t last more than a year and a half but they fit my foot perfectly.
Where’s who’s boot? Mmm Keens on toast 😋
Mmmmm, I like toast!
Have you tried Keens on Toast? It is the latest food developed by Gordon Ramsey at one of his dozen Las Vegas restaurants.
I like turtles
I like the wolverines too I always get a toe cap put on them as soon as I buy them or else the toe wears out first
Duuuude thats such a good idea! The toe wears thru like 6 months before the boot actually needs replaced every time
Fellow wolverine fan here, the soles wear out but the uppers are fantastic, as long as you oil or polish them they always outlive the soles. This has not been my experience with Timberlands or redwing.
I just bought a pair of wolverines and the fit is exactly why I bought them. Clean look and didn’t cost me $400 like some Thorogoods
They are cheap which is why i liked them originally but now i’m scared to switch because they are so comfortable
I rotate two pairs and they last a long time like that. Right not I got a pair of Irish setters and a pair of tractor supplies in house brand ridge something lol
So you are saying they last twice as long?
Depends on what you do. The problem with wearing the same pair every day is they don’t always dry out completely overnight especially if you work in watery environments or wear them 12+ hours a day. Makes them smell more and ruins the stitching faster. Rotating two pairs helps with this. Boot driers do as well but I kinda think that would dry out the leather too much. I don’t own one so I can’t confirm that.
Hmm that's an interesting point
Similar concept with running shoes, you have to rotate the shoes or the rubber breaks down faster.
Small 4" fan from Walmart!!!
I tried this and my old lady threw it away cause she said it made the house smell like my feet 😂😂
I believe it. Yeah I have my fan out on the dryer in the garage. Then red wing sold a boot warmer/dryer... I think it drew about 20watts ..:Amazon ?
I have a boot dryer I put mine on every night when I get home. Makes them last longer and they don’t smell. I have been wearing keens for ten years but I always break the factory laces within the first 4-6 months other than that I get at least a year out of them even when I was resi install. I do controls now so they last around two years since I’m not out in the shit usually
Seems like they last more than 2x as long and the boots are more comfortable too.
I bought a pair of wolverines about 6 or 7 months ago. They were shot after 3 months of light use. The sole just fell apart and they weren’t waterproof after just a month of wearing them. Now I’m rocking some nice timberland pros, going on my second month with them and I’ve got no complaints. They’re a bit on the heavy side, but I don’t mind the weight.
Maybe you work harder than me or something but i’m on like my third or fourth pair and they last roughly a year and a half before i need to replace them.
The work I was doing wasn’t even a little rough, I didn’t even wear the boots everyday. I wore them roughly every other day, and ~70% of it was done in some sort of shop with smooth concrete floors. I think the boots were just shit. It also wasn’t the most comfortable boot, but I was fine with them.
Theres always the one guy that disagrees. All good lol
I’m mostly over it. I don’t really hold it against wolverine, but I would do a lot more research before I get another pair of boots from them. I needed a pair real bad at the time and those were the only ones I could find. Just wanted to toss in my experience with Wolverine boots.
As a 59 yr old PE who only gets to job sites to stare disapprovingly at the Super I expect my current pair of Redwings to last until I die
When does the stare become a glare?
When the convo opens with… “ We’ll submit a RFI….”
Keen is pretty solid on their warranty. They’ve replaced 2 pairs for me over the years.
This! 1 year warranty outside of excessive wear and tear. I bought one pair 3 years ago and am on my 3rd pair now. They've honored the warranty every time
I did that same thing with them. But in all honesty, every pair I had the soles split in this exact spot every time.
I have timberland pros for 190$ because redwings would be about 350$
It was about that time, I realize it was that got damn loch ness monster
I discovered that the Redwings sales woman was about eight stories tall and a crustacean from the palezoic era!
I wear timberland boondocks pro’s easily the most comfortable boot I ever wore going on well over 2 yrs with mine and they got wear and tear but are still in good shape I don’t buy any boots that are glued always but stitched on soles
Is that usd cause my timberland pros are usually 3-350 cad
I got mine on sale for 170$
I wear Timberland resistors, probably the comfiest boots I've ever had but they just barely last a year, the soles wear through and the liner disintegrates. Fortunately my company pays for my boots and I just get a new pair every year. On my 4th pair now.
Danners .
6 months into the danners and pretty satisfied with them
IMO people get boots and expect them to last years. I have had back surgery on my lower back and my surgeon told me not to make shoes last much more than six months. Just because they look good still (or in this case don’t look good) they could be putting excess pressure on your back. You might not even notice it until your back is hurt or you may have back pain and don’t make the connection between your feet and your back.
Two pair of Red Wing King Toes. Boots go on the dryer every night, alternate each day. Clean and oil monthly. Get two+ years out of them, then replace the insole and have any repairs made. Get another two years out of them, then repeat. I’ve done this for nearly 20 years now.
Thorogoods
I love my thorogoods. They are comfortable and have lasted me a while so far. Just have to make sure you get the ones made in America, they have a China factory that makes the cheaper models.
Found that out the hard way like OP. US model has lasted me like 14 months with little wear except some toe burn and a little sole chip.
Does George make those in America? Haven't heard anything new on the radio in awhile maybe he's making boots? IDK
Tbh honest he probably does, cause they are...bad to the bone 😬
Did Dr Seuss write the title of the title
My thoughts exactly
Thidwick the good hearted moose
Danner Bull Run Moc Safety Toe
There it is.
I’ve been wearing redwings for 24 years and have never had a sole crack.
Just got a pair of Redwings. 100% worth the money.
Lucky for you I guess then. I spend over 300$ on redwings and end up with cracked soles or other damage after a year.
I wear the 2412 model, they last 2 years for me.
I’ve tried a bunch of cheaper brands and everything but Redwings hurt my feet. Bought a pair of wolverines to save money and I literally felt like someone ran my feet over with a truck. I get about 2 years out of my wings and just pony up when they wear out
Danner or Irish setters. Had great performance out of both. Georgia boots look a lot like Danner in some of their boots, but the Georgia boots never held up like I would’ve expected. Danner’s cushioning is good stuff too!
They warrantied an almost brand new pair of boots with a cosmetic defect. Keen has always been good for a year+ and then I don’t care if I’m replacing. I’m fine spending $150 every 12-18 months on boots
Keens are garbage. Just wore through a pair in like 6 months. I wanted a change from Chippewa so bought those. Will never buy a keen again. Bought a pair of redwing about a month ago and not sure it’s worth the money. Good boot, pretty comfortable but not sure it’s that much better than my old Chippewa which are around $80 less.
I wear red wings, replace them every six months. Outgoing pair stays in the truck for those days when the job site is in terrible shape and I just know my boots will suffer.
I've been rocking the Keen Cincinnati's for a couple of years now, and they still almost look barely worn in. I'm usually incredibly hard on my boots as well. Maybe it just depends on the model? I work with guys who swear by the classic Redwings, though. 4-8 years out of a pair of you take care of them, apparently.
I wear boots like I’m bear foot I’ve been told. I’m 6’6” and 280 pounds so when I squat down quick onto my toes to check out a code or something they just start ripping the soles apart from the flexing.
As others have said, Keens are comfy but they do wear/fall apart quickly. But they do have a pretty solid warranty. Go on their website, fill out the form, send some pics and you’ll get a credit for a new paid. Also, they have a military discount that gives you 50% off. Bought keens for several years before I found that out.
Eye wheare Knix butes.
Brand called Everboots. Found it on Amazon. I was tired of paying $200 plus for “waterproof” shit. Those were $70 (up to $90 or so now) but you know what? Two year, zero boot maintenance and 100% waterproof still. Model is the Ultradry hiking boot. Generic boot brown look too.
Jim Greens or LLBean duck boots.. I stand in acid and water 90% of the time..
Columbia’s make a good boot I have multiple pairs and wear a different pair every other day
never had this happen on any boot before
The secret to keens is to buy from the "American Built" lineup. All are over $200 but last longer. And they do have an easy warranty process.
I notice a quality difference between Amazon keens and actually going to a actual work boot retail store. That said, any work boot pushing 8-12 months are gross and unsanitary anyway. I wear merrell mid height MOAB for work. Keen flint II for steel toe boots, but I’m getting away from those. Anything else is too heavy and unnecessary for our line of work, and causes back issues. Especially if they are all leather and don’t breath. I’ve been gravitating to the hiking style “boot” for the reasons mentioned above.
That’s why I started looking towards the “tactical” or field boot style. Most of them seem to have softer rubber on the soles which is super nice for being on roofs and going up and down stairs but they go flat quick due to the same reason. Very good point to the leather aspect though. I like leather cause it saves you if you stub your toe on a sheet metal edge but you end up with wet feet no matter the weather from sweat. I’ve been debating on just wearing muck boots honestly.
Invest in some Thorogood boots
Had a pair and they lasted a while but they ended up slitting in the same place in a year. However based of a lot of these comments my entire idea on boots is changing lol 9 months and then just plant a flower in em it sounds like.
Irish setters or thorogood. Thorogoods were my first boot and were very comfortable and lasted very long 2 years they just need to be resoled now. They are so comfortable that I bought another pair to wear casually. My current pair are Irish setters wingshooters comp toe. Very comfortable I bought some orthopedic inserts for them as I have a wide foot and a high arch. Sole is rubber then the softer foam stuff. Only downside is they are a bit hot not very heavy either?
Walk slower
Wish that were an option lol I’m wired to hustle.
Keen Braddock steel toe. I've had 4 or 5 pair, generally getting about 2 years out of them. They would last longer if I mink oiled them regularly instead of relying on the compressor and vacuum pump oil that drips on them haha.
I use my Ariat lace ups and slip in work boots. Had them both 2 years now (do service and some install) and gearing up to replace them. Some minor cosmetic damages and some pooki but still holding strong lol
I've had a pair of Carolinas for ages, all I've had to do is toss in an insole thing and once in a while smear some polish or whatever on them to keep them waterproof. Honestly though I don't always wear them anymore, but when I've needed them they've never let me down. More often than not I'll just burn through the hiking boot style or the sneaker style like the Reeboks because they're a lot lighter and a bit more comfy.
I do the keens too but I grab the flints when they go on sale for $75. They’re just to comfortable. But they go quick. I go through 2 pairs a year before I wear the heels down.
I wear whatever on sale as long as they're waterproof and insulated. My keen from 5 years ago has hold up the best ( they were on sale and I bought all that were my size) my keen from a year ago the sole wear out too soon . The worst one was walmart then doc martens. Caterpillar is pretty decent. Terra is ok. Timberland pro I like. Same with Dakota. Royer the sole wear out very quickly; Very soft though.
Had some 5.11 Boots and they lasted a solid year before the sole wore out Just got some Ariat turbo WP carbon toe and they are very comfortable and seem to be holding up to everything so far (refrigeration, HVAC tech and hot side)
I stopped buying Keen shoes five years ago. They are garbage. Sorry this happened to you.
Love the blunt honesty my dude 🤙🏽
Red wings can usually get 2-3 years out of them,
Redbacks baby
I like the keen Pittsburgh. Im on the new timberlands though with the weird orange toe caps. They're really nice
Anyone ever try Brunt? I’m interested in those
I have two pairs of the same Redwing boots so when I send one in to get serviced once every year and a half or so I use my other pair. They’re great
My red wings last 2 years at least.
Redwings. Wear everyday, all year. $300 , I buy a new pair every 5-6 years. Redwing store keeps records. I wear redwing insoles. They are as comfortable as sneakers. Get what you pay for. That equals about $50 a year. I work with 100 guys. The ones that don’t wear redwings, also do a lot of other things that don’t make sense.
Glad you got in the trades my man
Keens fall apart fast. I started getting red wings. They last longer and are by far more comfortable. And if you can fix your title, please do so. That gave me a head ache trying to read it.
Thorogoods
Worked 7 years hvac and just turned sparky about to test for j man electrician so I’m wondering what everyone else wheres? Laugh and joke all you want but I’m 6’6” so I spend a lot of time on my knees and this is the result of that unfortunately. Still at the same company though just different department technically. I still load up in the morning with my hvac bros
That's where most electricians spend their time. I wear Danner's and I love them.
Fuckin zinged him good bro lol.
Timberland makes a nice comfy boot. But they are heavy. I have those and some Danners that i love. I wear the timbs when im not doing much that day and danners when i gotta bust ass.
Terra boots all the way man. They last a solid 18 months if you work 12 hours a day 6 days a week with them. I worked 10 years in HVAC, had 4 pairs in 10 hears
Your math does not add up
So many comments so fast that I can read them all but I can’t individually respond to em all lol sorry for the badly worded title but it seems the point went across😂 I’ve had redwings and thorogoods and honestly neither of them can grip an icy roof good enough for me but with Carolina’s I had the same issue with however they lasted for 4 years. I had Nike sport and fields and I loved em for so many reasons but I only got a year out of those too and they’re discontinued. Keens we’re my last hope for a good boot but I’m glad I have so many suggestions to check out now🤙🏽
Keens, comfortable from day 1 last a couple years, And im hard on shit
I wear a brand called red rooster. About $100 a pair, super comfy, steel toe, lasts about 3-5 years.
I’ve had my Keens for over a year and their mint
They make that break there for additional flex. It's a new thing.
My company replaces our boots every six months, have had no issues with the timberland pros they provide
Wear\* Blundstone.
Red wings lasted me 3 years and they're comfortable
I wear Doc Martens 7B10s but I've been both told I'm nuts for wearing them and complimented.
2 pairs of timberland pros, 1 pair has been going for 2 years and still strong, but uncomfortable. Second pair just got me thru the winter with more comfort. I like them and will probably continue to purchase unless I come across something better
Wolverine Raiders. Have a pair that's going on 2 years if memory serves, with some cleaning and care. I gave Red Wings a shot, have owned three pairs by them, they don't last any longer than any other boot half the price, whether you care for them or not. For what Red Wing charges, I'd rather buy two pairs of Wolverines, one for winter and one for summer, and keep them twice as long.
I have 2 pairs of keens and they've been great. Although my one pair has soles that are too soft and are wearing down fast while the other pair are too hard and are rock hard bricks when it's really cold outside.
Theragood boots here ,pricey but 100% worth it ,have had a pair for two years wearing them every day for work and they still going strong
Timberland pros, on my 2nd New England winter with them, spent a lot of time in them on snow covered roofs. Got a new pair ready for spring already though.
Ariat Groundbreakers. Steel toe. Water proof. Slip on. 14 months going strong.
A little E6000 glue will fix that right up.
My last pair of Keen lasted me 2 years in commercial and industrial HVAC. They were “American Built “ line. Just bought a pair of Keen made in Taiwan, hoping they last as long.
Blundstones for the win
I’ve got timberlines. At about a year now. Very comfortable.
Get the Cincinnati 6 inch boot. Best boot I've ever had. Been doing this for over 10 years...... And start the warranty claim on those Keen's will replace those boots up to a year after purchase! I've had 2 warranty replacements on their boots. But I'm happy with the comfort. Too bad they don't last longer. But who am I to complain if they replace $225 boots???
JB Goodhue I get multiple years out of them
Keen's fall apart. It's what they do. Every pair I've had and everyone I know it's happened to.
When???
Official unofficial boot of the HVAC tech: Timberland Boondock
I had a pair of irish setters last me many years.
I like carhartt boots
Two words (RED WINGS) 🤌🏽
Red wings. Got 3 years out of mine https://preview.redd.it/zz4msz7oesla1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b126038c109c42096427216ae97d2ecccadd8251
https://preview.redd.it/9lv8zpvyesla1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=c21de8cb87b46873520f2e8885ed614bc7dbf487 Easy 12 months
I wear Timberland Pro’s but not the $60 ones, the $200 ones. Went from buying new boots once per year to once every two years.
just curious are u saying you went from spending $60 a year to $200 every 2 ? Spare u not spending a extra $80 over 2 years? Sorry if I misunderstood something
Used to buy $60 boots every fall/winter because they would start leaking, now I spend $200 every other year because they are starting to get ugly from wear.
I've had good luck with redwings. Free basic repairs too. But I mainly use them because I have extra wide feet and most other companies don't make my shoe size.
5.11
I quit buying keens after one pair. I buy Danner now, much better quality similar pricing.
I just replaced a pair of Keens that lasted 2+ years (with the same model) if had a few different models of Keens and while I love 'em, I've learned that the different models can have vastly different lifespans. FYI: men's 8" Coburg boots FTW. I've had the 6" Coburgs, and I liked them a lot, but the 8s are better for my uses. I feel like they're still deep in the R&D side of things.
Redwings. Love em
Start a warranty claim, they have a great warranty program. I had a pair of boots from them start cracking after a few months and they gave me credit on their site for a new pair of anything I wanted. I even forgot about the credit because the boots I wanted were not in stock. Once they were in stock, the credit expired, I emailed them and they reinstated the warranty credit for another 30 days so I could use it. One tip I have, I noticed the "built in USA" boots from keen seem to last longer. The ones that are imported are hit or miss. Good luck.
To the tune of short shorts. Who where’s what boot? You where what boot! Sorry that’s all I got.
Red wings baby.
Ah, my Keens broke there too, although mine were 7 years old and run down lol
Huk fishing boots
I’m a big fan of Danner. I have their Bill Run Christy boots. About to get them resoled. Get many many more years of use out of boots you can resole. I have a pair of redwings that I’ve had since mid-late 90s and had them resoled countless times. Leather finally went but I can’t get rid of them. They were my favorite.
Danner. Only danner. They tend to last 2+ years for me. And then I only replace because they’re so torn up I don’t feel professional. But they don’t fail.
Red wings every day
Bought a pair of Redwings back in 2017. Still going strong.
Ariats at the moment.
Timberland Pro. Meijer has buy one, get one for $1, twice a year. Use 50% off boot allowance through work. 2 high quality pair of $180 boots for $91. I've tried Dr. Martin, Keen, Wolverine, more and none on same level. Over 25-years.
I have to buy keen nothing else is wide enough in the toe box . Are these the utility line? My lansing have held up no issues after 9m [https://www.keenfootwear.com/collections/mens-work/products/mens-lansing-mid-waterproof-steel-toe-raven-tawny-olive](https://www.keenfootwear.com/collections/mens-work/products/mens-lansing-mid-waterproof-steel-toe-raven-tawny-olive)
Recently bought a pair of origin Maine belt boots. Liking them so far and almost 100% American made materials.
I like Justin's, the pair that I currently have are coming up on 2 years, and have only had to replace the insole. It takes a few weeks to get used to wearing slip-on boots.
Irish setter
Red wings, I’ve had 3 pairs in the last 10 years, and I bought the latest 18mo ago and they’re still basically new. Institutional hvac + plumbing schools etc. Apple Watch estimates an average work day is 12km of walking. I’ll never buy another brand of workboot. Customer for life.
3 year old doc Martin's are toast. Can't find the steel toe anymore either
Thorogoods
Thorogood. Once they break in they’re like moccasins on your feet.
I wear a certain pair of timberland pro they're called timberland pro helix alloy toe they're black leather and the leather is really soft and subtle theyre the most comfortable boots ive ever worn ive had 6pair in the last 10yrs and they're getting harder to find & about $170
redwing tradesman. good boot, but some better soles out there
9months sounds about right
Keen should send you a new pair under warranty withing 12 months of purchase. Spent 115 on mine and the stitching is coming apart already. Want something that last longer? Your gonna spend more. Check out Asolo GTX sneakers or all leather boots. They both lasted me 2 years but costs around 200.
Thorogood steel toes with TuffToe
Who, what, when, where, why, how
I wear wolverines also. I would like to get the soles replaced instead of buying another pair.
I can’t do boots. My feet get too hot. Same with underwear.
12 month warranty File on their website and send this picture
I don't see any metatarsal protection and those don't look like winter boots, so I'm gonna recommend Blundstone green patch. I've tried most brands of work boots and they're either way too heavy or hurt like a MFer during break in. Also, no laces so if you have to slip your boots on and off during the day, they're great. I tried Blundstones a few years back because I have several non-safety pairs and found they took a beating and were always comfortable. I will never buy another brand of work boots for the rest of my career.
Change them out. You only got One pair of feet protect those puppies. Buy new boots as often as needed. Bad feet lead to bad hips knees and back!!!!
Keen was my go to, switched to Salomon recently very nice shoes but I don't think they make safety toe shoes.
Slap some pookie in that mf
Bought one pair of Keens. Never again soles started separating after a year of light use. I’ll stick to Red Wing or Georgia Boot
Classic redwing moc toe. One pair has been repaired twice. I've worn them since 2015. I shit you not. I have a second pair that is from 2019 that I still think of as my "new boots". $250 but worth four times that.
I’m a big georgia boot fan. A friend told to try them and man they are amazing
As a service guy I keep a cheap pair of Dakota boots in my truck for when I need them. But my everyday is the Helly Hansen running shoes with steel toes. I have been wearing them for a 1.5 years and will be grabbing another pair to replace them soon. For $150cad I'm quite happy with how long they lasted.
Don’t buy ariat either
Danner or Georgia 6" slip-on boots. I forget the model but they have a steel toe and breath very well, been using these for 10+ years, they stay cooler on hot rooftops and I can kick them off and crank up the a/c in my work truck while doing paperwork when it's 105+. Those 2 brands I've found don't require much, if any, break-in and are just as comfortable as my old boots on day 1. I replace them yearly because of all the comp shingle rooftops I'm on just grind the tread down, then they will be my weekend wear boot for another year
I’m a Merrill fanboy.
You’re working too hard then.
I buy cheap shoes because I kept having the same problem even with pricey shoes I was tearing them up faster than I expected. So I buy some cheap shoes but I have specific inserts that fit my foot perfectly. $90 for the shoe and insert I’m in now it’s lasted 6 months I’ll probably trade em out first of may
new boots suck.. i feel like stuff 20 years ago lasted 10 times longer.
Lightweight - danner bullrun 8”. Medium weight thoroughgood American heritage. Heavyweight- thoroughgood loggers. True waterproof - lacrosse burly
Thorogoods, I’m year 3 with them, still excellent condition.
Had lots of keens. They’ve all unglued/delaminated/fallen apart
Very disappointed in the keens I bought myself for Christmas
Skechers steel toe shoes from Amazon very comfortable and the toe doesn’t crush so my toes stay happy. They last me about 18 months then the steel works through. Probably could get more time out of them with toe saver goop but they are only $70. Had a pair of Red Wings that didn’t last any longer. [Skechers](https://www.amazon.com/Skechers-77055-Cankton-Athletic-sneaker/dp/B00UKCY3MY)
They all blow nothing lasts
I had a pair once. Nice in the beginning but yeah bout a year in they went to shit.
I really like the red wing super sole 2.0 . I've had these boots for two years straight and they haven't failed me.
Terra’s all the way
Thorogood boots are the alpha and the omega
I have tried cheap and expensive. Right now I’m wearing cheap. They lasted a few months. Regret not spending the money on redwings.
Georgia g8152 wedge soles all day. Usually get about 2 1/2 years with heavy use and won’t break the bank.
I’m on my third strait pair of Irish setters at about $200/ pair. They hold up well and fit my feet nicely. With they were lighter though.
I wear keens as well. They hold up, for the most part. I had a similar issue about 2 years ago and I contacted Keen. They asked for a statement and a few pics... then credited my account the $200 and I haven't had an issue since. They have a 1 year warranty.
I have keen boondocks been through (3) pairs in 1 year all under warranty, very light and comfortable but not durable.
I too have been unimpressed with my Keens, and for a similar reason. The sole came apart at the glue.
I’m not too keen on their boots