Back in the day, Timberland held onto the lead in the work boot/fashion boot game. While they still have lot of appeal to both the masses and hip hop culture, they have been upstaged by Red Wing in a very serious way. Manufacturing an incredibly varied line of boots mainly in the US with some production overseas using American tanned leathers, they are the pinnacle of quality and to many, style. Their moc toe varieties have eclipsed the standard Timberland work boot silhouette among those who know and appreciate style as well as craftsmanship. They also happen to be incredibly well made, with certain components having lifetime warranties.
Purchasing them at a Red Wing retail store is also a pleasure. Alex, at their shop in Hackensack has a virtually encyclopedic knowledge of their inventory as well as each style's, fit, features and benefits. This is shoe buying the old school way and for me, it's the only way. He clearly explained to us the difference between certain models, manufacturing techniques and fit specifications of each boot. He used an electronic measuring device and proceeded to fine tune different sizes until we came upon the perfect style and size. In the shoe & boot game, it's game on with Red Wing and their excellent staff and top notch quality. The reference standard by which to judge all others. Kudos. read more