Trying to decide if you can go for a hike with those trusty work boots? It might seem crazy to buy another pair of boots for a singular activity — boots are boots, right? But you’d be surprised how different they are. Luckily some companies make boots are that suitable for both. So if you’re … Read more
The two most talked about conditioners for leather boots are Venetian Shoe Cream and Saphir’s Renovateur, so let’s compare the two so you can decide which one you want to use. Or, to speak a little more honestly, if it’s worth spending three times more on Saphir, which costs about $9 per ounce. In today’s … Read more
It’s time to get a new hoodie and this time you want a good one — a really good one. You’ve graduated from the thirty-dollar polyester ones from Uniqlo and Champion and now you want quality and longevity. And if you’re Googling things like “best hoodie,” you’ve probably come across two big names: American Giant’s … Read more
Do you think Filson backpacks are too expensive, too old world-y, too old-fashioned, or don’t have enough compartments or functionality? Well, maybe you should try… Filson! To counterbalance their classic, old fashioned, waxed canvas backpack the Journeyman, Filson released its more modern, functional, and cheaper nylon brother the Dryden. I’ve used both for months, and … Read more
I wear a lot of boots and I’m often asked about specific styles, like what’s a Chukka boot or what’s a Chelsea Boot. Which is better for the office? Is one more comfy? Brother, you’re in the right place. Here, we’re comparing and contrasting two completely different styles of boots so you can know which … Read more
It is surprising how many boot companies don’t offer wide options for their boots. It makes more sense when you realize that these businesses need to make new lasts — foot shaped blocks of wood used to create the fit — when they want to offer wider sizes. Creating new lasts is incredibly laborious and … Read more
I love heritage boots made with rich, full-grain leather as much as anyone else. But when that huge snowstorm hits you have to admit: Iron Rangers won’t cut it today. Most heritage boots have flat (or slightly grooved) soles and a single layer of leather for the upper. These will not work while you dig … Read more
Ever since I published my first review on Dr. Martens 1460 boots, I’ve been asked to compare it to the shoe’s twin, Solovair. Why? For starters, the boots are practically identical, but the two brands also share a very storied history. Solovair — whose name just comes from “Sole Of Air” — were the manufacturers … Read more
It’s not just the toecap. While they’re made on the same last so they fit the same way, there are more differences than you might think between Red Wing’s flagship boots, the Iron Ranger and the Blacksmith. Red Wing is everyone’s first Goodyear welted boot. My own was their moc toe, and I swiftly followed … Read more
Even if you don’t know a ton about boots, you probably know two names: Dr. Martens, the classic punk boot of choice for young guys, and Red Wing, maker of pricier, Americana-style boots that are regularly worn by celebrities like Drake, Ryan Gosling, and Bradley Cooper. Basically, Dr. Martens are among the most popular boots … Read more