The Top 10 Best Work Boots Made in USA in 2024 – Ultimate Guide

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Best Work Boots Made in USA in 2017The USA-made work boots refer to those shoes that are manufactured in various factories in the United States by highly skilled American workers. The best-quality materials, precise tools, meticulous craftsmanship, methodical quality management go into the making of these boots. If you are thinking of the best comfort for your feet and the lower body during your working hours, these are the right choice.

Most of the companies that produce USA-made work boots are family-owned businesses that have been operating for a long time. These brands take pride in their American heritage and strive to provide the highest-quality footwear and customer service possible. Most of them reinvest the profits in their workers and facilities. So, buying from them means contributing to the country’s people and economy.

Difference between Chinese-made and USA-made Boots

According to the Federal Trade Commission, for the footwear to have the Made in USA stamp on them, the products have to be made and assembled in the United States. Nevertheless, the definition becomes sketchy sometimes in this era of globalization. You can see the assembly of Japanese cars in the U.S. factories and the use of America raw materials in products manufactured in some other countries. However, you can still be sure about the quality of the USA-made boots and rely on them for having the best service possible.

On the other hand, the making ofMade in China footwear involves below-average components. ‘Saving the costs’ is the mantra in the Chinese factories, so you should not expect durability or protective features from the China-made boots.

As a worker, you should never go for the Chinese boots. You may think that you are saving money, but it’s actually a waste because the shoes won’t last long. Besides, you will also be putting your safety at risk because these don’t have many protective features and often don’t deliver on what they have promised.

You have to be careful because many American brands carry their manufacturing process in China, resulting in products with low-quality materials and construction. So, never forget to fact-check before purchasing because only the trusted American boots won’t let you down.

The Unique Characteristics of USA-Made Work Boots

You can expect the premium safety features and support only from the high-standard work boots, and the American brands have laid a foundation from the ground up to ensure the work safety and all-day comfort for the American working people. Shoes with a subpar constructionwon’t be any good in combating discomfort, hazards, and fatigue in the work sites. Let’s take a look what qualities have separated them from the rest:

Materials & Durability

The companies use sophisticated procedures and high-quality materials to produce the work boots made in America. Whether these are handcrafted or machine-made, there’s no doubt that these will offer years of durability.

Only the full-grain leather and other supreme quality components go into the making of the USA-made boots. The companies make no compromise with construction or standard in any level of production. For this reason, thousands of workers around the world trust on American-made brands for ensuring their safety and foot comfort.

If you make a list of top ten work boot brands in the world, American names will take more than half of the entries. So, you can well assume the standard and class these companies maintain to retain their reputation.

Comfort

A good pair of work boots can significantly improve your workplace performance. A person who has to deal with foot pain, ankle sprain, or back pain at the end of every day and cannot work in comfort because of wearing low-quality shoes cannot give his best effort in work.

So, comfort is a major factor that you should not ignore, and USA-made work boots are engineered with advanced features and technologies to be comfortable. These help you to concentrate on the job at hand and keep you fatigue-free at the end of a long day.

Besides, having the right fit is highly important to keep the feet in their best condition. Wear a pair of shoes slimmer or wider than your actual size and get ready to deal with sore toes and ankles, blisters, and rubbed skin after a few hours. The boots made in the USA are available in standard sizing, eliminating the guesswork at the time of purchasing.

Additional Features

Most of the USA-made work boots come with some extra traits that make them stand out from the rest. These attributes mainly enhance the safety and comfort features. For example, these have safety toe made with steel or composite materials to protect your toes from accidental injuries.

The outsoles normally have adequate tread to absorb shocks and distribute impact evenly throughout the foot. Lug soles are not rare too. These have deep indentations to provideenhanced stability and traction on slippery and wet surfaces. Some are resistant to abrasion, chemical, and oil so that staying safe during working hours has never become an issue.

In a word, these shoes take the on-site injuries out of the equation, which affects productivity and can be costly for both the employers and employees.

We’ve curated a list of top 10 best work boots made in the USA. Find out what unique features they have so that you can make an informed purchase decision next time.

TOP 10 BEST WORK BOOTS MADE IN USA IN 2019 – COMPLETE GUIDE

Picture

NameFeaturePrice

Rating

Picture

NameFeaturePrice

Rating

1. Thorogood 814-4200 American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe Boot, Tobacco, 10.5 D USdual-density Ultimate Shock Absorption insoles
laid on Poron 4000 comfort cushions
$$4.4 
2. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6 Inch Safety Toe Lace-up Boot,Brown,10.5 D US 

padded collar,
Comfort weave lining

 

$$4.2 
3. Chippewa Men’s 20065 6″ Rugged Handcrafted Lace-Up Boot,Chocolate Apache,11 D USfiberglass shank,
VibramGumlite
$$4.4 
 

4. Red Wing Heritage Beckman Round 6″ Boot, Black Cherry Featherstone,11 D(M) US

Featherstone leather, modified VibramRoccia
outsoles
$$4.5 
5. Chippewa Men’s 20075 10″ Rugged Handcrafted Pull-On Boot,Chocolate Apache,9.5 D USleather is not stiff,  pull-on design$$4.2 
6. Thorogood American Heritage Plain Toe Work Boot, Black Walnut, 9.5 D USremovable PU insole on the
Poron 4000 Comfort Cushion
$$4.5 
7. Danner Men’s Bull Run 6” Work Boot,Brown,11 EE USOrthoLite insole$$4.2 
8. Chippewa Men’s 29416 8″ Waterproof Insulated Work Boot,Bay Crazy Horse,12 E USwaterproof leather and framework, lined with Thinsulate$$4.4 
9. Thorogood Lace-To-Toe Roofer Work Boot, Tobacco, 11 2E USUltimate Shock Absorption footbed, Poron 4000 comfort cushion$$4.6 
10. 1883 by Wolverine Men’s Kilometer 6” Made in The USA Winter Boot, Black, 8 M USGoodyear welt construction, Vibram rubber outsoles $$4.0 

1. Thorogood 814-4200 American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe Boot, Tobacco, 10.5 D US

No more struggling with the cheap work boots during the day and passing sleepless nights with sore feet! Thorogood manufactures 100% USA-made high-end boots that take care of your feet like nothing else. These shoes will add pizzazz to your entire outfits besides providing the ultimate combination of protection and comfort.

Materials & Durability

The tobacco leather seems premium-grade, supple, and thick. Just like all the high-quality leather materials, it is hard at the beginning but becomes soft after daily use for a couple of weeks. The Goodyear storm welt stitching technique, the contrasting double and triple stitches, strong metal eyelets, clamshell lacing, and synthetic outsoles add unbeatable sturdiness.

The ankle-length shoes with handsome moccasin toe and bright soles look stylish. You can wear them wear them for casual occasions too since the nice leather texture complements any clothing.

Comfort

The break-in stretch could be extremely painful, especially if you have wide feet. You can apply a softener or soak them in water to make the process quicker. Once you get through the tough period, the reward will be a pair of highly comfortable boots!

The shoes have a padded lining at the ankle,but the tongue is thin and often creases depending on how much you move around. Besides, the cotton drill vamp lining saves your skin from rubbing inside.

The 814-4200 American Heritage Collection offers fabulous comfort with the dual-density Ultimate Shock Absorption insoles laid on Poron 4000 comfort cushions. Combined with the fiberglass shank and rubber midsole, the footbeds provide exceptional support and absorb a high amount of shocks. The footbeds are removable, a relief to those who need to wear custom orthotics.

Additional Features

The Vibram Christy Blown Rubber Wedge outsoles act as a bulwark between the feet and the ground and buffer the impacts. These also have enough traction on dry lands but are not as equally reliable when there’s ice or snow.

Another good thing is if you push the limit of these crepe soles with extreme use and abuse, which is really hard because they are high-quality material, you can easily repair or replace them because of the Goodyear welt bonding method.

Pros

  • Stylish and made of high-end components
  • Goodyear storm welt construction
  • Dual-density, shock-absorbing footbed with Poron 4000 comfort cushion
  • Fiberglass shank
  • Rubber wedge outsoles

Cons

  • Not safety toe
  • Outsoles don’t perform well on ice and snow
  • Not waterproof

2. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6 Inch Safety Toe Lace-up Boot,Brown,10.5 D US

Aptly called as the ‘Red Wing killer,’ the Thorogood boots are everything that a working American can dream of. If the moc toe of the 814-4200 American Heritage does not comply with your workplace demand, pick up a pair from the safety toe Wellington Collection. These might be a little bit heavier but safeguard your toes from falling objects.

Materials & Durability

Labeled as ‘Made in USA,’ there’s no doubt that the Wellington Collection is built with exceptional craftsmanship and utmost care. The black walnut Badlands oil-tanned leather looks elegant and has a beautiful texture.

The Goodyear welt construction has firmly sewn together the upper and the rubber outsole. The solid brass hardware and the solid stitching has reinforced the strength of the structure. You need a sound base while working hard, and these boots have ensured it with quality components and making.

Comfort

The leather does not take much time to break in. In fact, the boots are comfortable right out of the box and will feel like a feathery touch after wearing for a couple of weeks. Besides, the padded collar and the Comfort Weave lining offer a few additional luxury touches.

The insoles with contouring Poron 4000 foam feel airy and absorb a considerable amount of shocks. The dual-density structure provides a double layer of softness. The resilient rubber midsoles also absorb shocks and the fiberglass shank ensure adequate support for the heel area. Besides, the 90-degree heel structure supplies additional strength and stability when you wear these boots on a daily basis.

You remove the insoles for cleaning maintenance, to the relief of people who sweat too much. Besides, it’s possible to replace them with orthotics in case if you have foot surgeries.

Additional Features

The steel toes offer the best protection when you work around heavy machinery. Besides, the boots meet the ASTM 2413-05 M/I/75/C/75 standards and are rated for electrical hazards. So, these fit the requirements of workers from various professions.

The non-marking dual-density PU comfort soles soak up impacts like a pro and are also resistant to slip. However, while these are excellent on dry lands and hard surfaces, don’t expect the similar performance on wet grounds.

Pros

  • Stylish steel toe boots
  • Goodyear welt stitching technique
  • Dual-density insole with Poron 4000 foam
  • Dual-density PU outsoles
  • Fiberglass shank

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Not insulated

3. Chippewa Men’s 20065 6″ Rugged Handcrafted Lace-Up Boot,Chocolate Apache,11 D US

A combination of beauty, style, craftsmanship, and an affordable price tag, it’s hard not to fall in love with Chippewa Rugged Handcrafted Lace-up Collection. The company has been in the footwear business since 1901, and it has never been out of popularity during this long journey. The boots are trendy among the working Americans, in particular for the summer and fall seasons.

Materials & Durability

The boots are equally functional and handsome because of the use of full-grain chocolate Apache leather and dark Vibram sole. The Goodyear welt construction has given the stability and strength while the three-row stitch pattern and the wax-coated threads have reinforced those qualities. The laces are waxed too, and the hardware is non-tarnishable. Overall, the boots have a sturdy build to give you the protection amid harsh conditions.

The leather repels water but is unable to withstand continuous exposure to moisture. The performance won’t be satisfactory on hard snow and solid ice. In a word, these are perfect for city use but look for something else to wear in the backwoods.

Comfort

The break-in period could be lengthy and uncomfortable, but you can do better by treating the leather with mink oil and wearing thick socks. Your feet will get a luxurious treat once these are broken in. In fact, going through such trouble is totally worthwhile since the boots will last for several years.

The combination of 5 Iron Texon insoles, 4 Iron Orthotic midsoles, and fiberglass shank ensure the best comfort and support. The layered footbeds will feel like cushion under the foot and are likely to reduce foot strain and injury. You can also remove the insole to create more space inside for bigger feet or replace with a prescribed orthotic required for your foot condition.

Additional Features

The Vibram Stockbridge outsoles are flexible and give the boots the non-slipping stability so that you feel protected on any surface. A microcellular synthetic named VibramGumlite goes into their making, giving them a lightweight composition and more resilience against hostile environments.

Pros

  • Chocolate Apache leather looks beautiful
  • Comfortable cushioned insole and midsole
  • Vibram Stockbridge outsoles are pliable and soak vibration and shocks
  • Goodyear welt stitching technique

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Not suitable for cold weather
  • Don’t perform well in heavy and dangerous work conditions

 

4. Red Wing Heritage Beckman Round 6″ Boot, Black Cherry Featherstone,11 D(M) US

Named after the founder Charles Beckman, the Red Wing Beckman Collection possesses all the qualities that the brand stands for – supportive, good-looking, and long-lasting. The price may seem exorbitant to many people but it’s worthwhile since the boots are likely to last for a decade should be taken proper care.

Materials & Durability

These shoes get the full marks when it comes to quality and durability. The thick leather upper, Goodyear welt construction, triple stitching, metal grommets, waxed flat laces, and lugged commando sole leave no doubt about the longevity.

The Featherstone leather is made with top-quality hides, and it is free of defects. The stitches are also even and straight. The toe and heel caps are reinforced with some stiff, dense, but smooth pieces. However, the rugged construction is nicely balanced by the creamy texture, minimal detailing, and plain-toe design. These are work boots that suit with denim and outdoor environments, but the clean profile and sleek silhouette look good with business casual clothes too.

Comfort

The break-in process could be a bit little lengthy and uncomfortable if you’re used to synthetic or softer leather. If you don’t use any softener, these will feel unforgiving even after a couple of weeks. Limit the wear time to several hours per day to avoid blisters or painful spots.

The fully gusseted tongue and the rolled leather piping at the top of the shaft feel comfortable and protect the feet from unwanted rubbing. There is no lining inside, but the cushioned insole and the thin heel pad offer some comfort under the foot.

Purchase the shoes a half size smaller than what you usually wear to have a great fit. You can also ensure a custom fitting with the metal eyelets and lace-up system. However, there’s no D-ring to speed up the lacing.

Additional Features

The boots offer a great level of safety because of the modified VibramRoccia outsoles made of vulcanized rubber. The lugs are not super thick, but the density is enough to buffer the impact of stepping on the grounds. Besides, they grip well on various types of surfaces.

Pros

  • Clean profile makes them suitable for formal use too
  • Tank-like structure
  • Sturdy Goodyear welt construction
  • Cushioned footbed
  • VibramRoccia outsoles absorb shocks and provide a good grip

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Lengthy break-in period

 

5. Chippewa Men’s 20075 10″ Rugged Handcrafted Pull-On Boot,Chocolate Apache,9.5 D US

Chippewa has been in the footwear business since 1901. During this long journey spanning over a century, it has established its name in every American household. If you are looking for outdoor footwear, you have to think about Chippewa.

The 10-inch Rugged Handcrafted Pull-On Collection features one of the finest-quality Chippewa boots that are a perfect blend of style and function.

Materials & Durability

These pull-on boots are designed to stand the test of time. These will endure the abuse of outdoor activities for years while looking classy at the same time. The chocolate Apache leather looks natural and appears to be a thing of beauty without applying any mink oil or saddle soap.

The double stitches and the stichdown construction have reinforced the sturdy nature of the shoes. These will please any person looking for only the best in rugged outdoor footwear.

Comfort

One impressive thing about the boots is that these are good to wear right out of the box. You don’t need to break them in because the leather is not stiff. It is rather soft and feels highly comfortable on the skin. However, the downside of such softness is that the leather will crease and wrinkle if the shoes are larger than your feet size. You’d better order a half size smaller to keep them in shape.

The insole is 5 Iron Texon, which means it has five layers. However, a Poron foam cushioning will be a better option than straight Texon. You can go for an insert should you want more comfort.

The pull-on design makes putting the boots on a breeze. Don’t struggle anymore with laces or any other fitting system. Just put them on and off by using the pool tabs at the top.

Additional Features

The boots don’t have any insulation. The upper comes with drill vamp lining, but it’s only for protecting the skin from the rugged leather, not for providing warmth. These are ideal for mild weather, something you can wear from late spring through early fall.

The outsoles are thick rubber that features loads of tread that makes sure you have a strong foothold in every working condition. You can trust these shoes whether you are doing your work, walking down the sidewalk, or relaxing somewhere.

Pros

  • Stylish design
  • Chocolate apache leather looks natural and beautiful
  • The leather does not need any break-in time
  • Outsoles offer traction for good grip on any ground

Cons

  • The leather wrinkles if you wear a larger size
  • Not insulated or waterproof

 

 

6. Thorogood American Heritage Plain Toe Work Boot, Black Walnut, 9.5 D US

Thorogood is a leading brand in the industry of manufacturing footwear for the working class. Its American Heritage Plain-Toe Collection is one of the best choices designed to fit the lifestyle of a working individual. These are crafted with high-grade materials in American factories by American workers. So, be sure that your feet will be taken care of no matter in which situation you have out yourself.

Materials & Durability

With an 8-inch shaft, the boots have a sleek profile and a beautiful appearance with black walnut leather and round-toe design. The logger laces, metal grommets, and contrasting stitches further add to the aesthetic and the distinct style.

The oil-tanned leather is sturdy but flexible and bends without breaking or tearing off. A Goodyear storm welt brings the sole and the leather upper together. The stitching technique makes the boots enable to give a solid performance. The best thing is you can repair the soles for several times, guaranteeing a lifespan of a couple of years.

Comfort

These shoes are a complete package of comfortability. The leather is tough, but it will feel incredibly soft after breaking in for a few days. Besides, there’s a padded lining at the edge of the ankle, which is quite rare to find in leather work boots.

The removable PU insole on the Poron 4000 Comfort Cushion provides softness under your foot. Throw the rubber midsole and composite shank into the mix, and you will get not only cushioning comfort but also adequate support to keep the right posture.

The drill vamp lining offers soft layer inside so that your skin does not rub against the leather. It will guard the feet from blisters even if you wear the shoes full-time without breaking in properly.

The sizing is on the mark and is true to the standard sizes. You can also get a customized fit with the high lacing system.

Additional Features

The outsoles are ThorogoodMaxWear Heritage, having dual-density rubber wedge and thick heels to absorb nasty stepping shocks. The treads are also resistant to slip and oil, offering you better grip and safer steps on any ground.

Pros

  • Sleek profile and stylish look
  • Padded lining at the ankle edge
  • Poron 4000 Comfort Cushion
  • ThorogoodMaxWear Heritage dual-density outsole

Cons

  • The toe does not have safety features
  • Not waterproof

 

7. Danner Bull Run Work Boot

Have you been searching for a pair of quality USA-made work boots at the medium price range? The Danner Bull Run Collection could be a perfect choice. Although Danner is not a leading brand like the Thorogood or Red Wing, it does a fantastic job by offering a package of high-quality at an affordable price.

Materials & Durability

The boots are made in the USA with imported components. The full-grain oiled leather is solid and reinforced with the single and double stitches and the stitchdown construction. The whole structure is strong and stable and holds better long-term value than cheaper boots.

The brown leather is amazing, and it has a texture that looks elegant and stylish. You can wear these boots with any outfit you like. However, the thick soles featuring a light color don’t look very suitable for the formal environment.

Comfort

The leather is so stiff that you may have to experience sore feet for a couple of days. You can apply coconut oil or soak in water to speed up the break-in process. Besides, you can use the last two speed hooks instead of the last eyelet for the first couple of weeks because the top of the ankle tends to hurt the most.

The shoes have the OrthoLite insole that cocoons your feet around a soft, comforting fold. The steel shank supports the foot to stay stable and reduce stress.

The boots fit very well. If you wear your exact size, the feet won’t slide at all, and you can work all day without blisters. The toe box is roomy, and the edge of the ankle does not rub the skin because it is tucked inside.

Additional Features

The Danner Wedge non-marking soles absorb shocks and resist oil and slip. You can wear them for long working hours and walk on wet, slippery grounds. These also offer electrical hazard protection.

The boots are great for indoor use. You can take them outdoors too but not in winter because they are neither waterproof nor have any insulation.

Pros

  • Stylish design with beautifully textured leather
  • Stitchdown construction enables re-stitching and resoling
  • Cushioning OrthoLite insoles
  • Danner Wedge non-marking outsoles
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • Not waterproof or insulated
  • The leather feels very stiff at the beginning
  • Not suitable for winter

 

8. Chippewa Men’s 29416 8″ Waterproof Insulated Work Boot,Bay Crazy Horse,12 E US

The Chippewa footwear is undoubtedly one of the best choices if you are looking for a rare combination of stylish boots built for the outdoor way of life. Besides, careful craftsmanship goes into the manufacturing of each pair. The brand’s 29416 Waterproof Insulated Collection is another instance of boots that feature fantastic styling and can stand the test of time.

Materials & Durability

The Bay Apache waterproof leather upper and the Goodyear leather welt binding technique leave no doubt about the standard of these boots. The leather seems to last forever and you can re-sole the outsole if required.

The metal grommets are non-tarnishing, and the heavy-duty laces along with firm double and triple stitches confirm extra stability even on rugged conditions. In fact, the boots are built like these can withstand a bullet!

Proudly manufactured in the USA, these hefty boots are the perfect wall between your feet and anything harmful!

Comfort

The break-in period could be painful if you don’t use any softener, oil, or water to take the edge off the leather. Wear them for a couple of hours for one or two weeks to make them soften. Nevertheless, once broken in, these shoes will feel like slippers!

There are Texon 460 orthotic insoles and triple-ribbed steel shanks to offer arch support, stability, and cushioning comfort. The synthetic soles have an ergonomic design and are thick enough to protect your feet from stress and strain caused by prolonged standing.

Additional Features

The boots claim to be waterproof by using the Chip-A-Tex waterproof framework. However, these will safeguard you during muddy and wet weather but don’t expect much when you are standing on water. Although only a little amount of water can enter the insulation, it’s enough to freeze the feet in cold weather.

The boots are lined with Thinsulate that can deliver outstanding warmth in the cold season. Pair it up with thick woolen socks, sock liners, and moderate activity, and your feet will be warm even in minus 10° temperature!

Also, no need to worry about the sweat in the summertime. The Ruby Dri-Lex 2000 Liner that keeps away moisture with sweat-controlling fiber.

Pros

  • Full-grain Bay Apache leather with Goodyear welt bonding
  • Chip-A-Tex waterproof liner
  • Ruby Dri-Lex 2000 lining to wick away moisture
  • Non-Tarnishing hardware
  • The Thinsulate lining keeps feet warm in winter

Cons

  • Waterproof lining is not foolproof
  • Shoelaces can tear off pretty quickly

9. Thorogood Lace-To-Toe Roofer Work Boot, Tobacco, 11 2E US

The job of a roofer is not anything easy. You have to deal with hot and cold temperatures while must try to keep the balance on tricky surfaces. However, the American Heritage Lace-to-Toe Roofer Boots from Thorogood understand the demands of such a challenging job. Whether you are installing a roof or ripping off shingles, these will keep your feet where they belong.

Materials & Durability

The oil-tanned leather is sturdy yet pliable. It breaks over time to provide your feet with cushioning comfort. There’s no issue with the quality as it seems to be full-grain original material. Nonetheless, you obviously cannot expect the excellence of Horween leather at this price point.

The layer of triple stitching seems extra tough, and there are reinforced seam rivets in the front, vamp, and heel areas to avoid damage and increase stability. It’s possible to repair and resole the outsoles due to the Goodyear storm welt construction.

The boots used by a roofer need durability because these will be exposed to abrasion, hostile environments, tar, shingles, and many other things. These roofer shoes have been put through tests to ensure a long-lasting service.

Comfort

The boots won’t take much time to break in, and these are so comfortable that you can use them both on the job sites and for daily life tasks. The ergonomic thickened rubber sole and the fiberglass shank combinedly ensure proper support and safety for the feet.

The Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed and the Poron 4000 comfort cushion are carefully designed to give your feet sneaker-like comfort. Remove the insoles if you want and insert orthotics should you have a foot condition.

You can easily lace up the boots with the lace-to-toe strings and plenty of eyelets. There are also a couple of D-rings to speed up the process.

Additional Features

The outsoles of the roofer boots have to be good-quality non-slip type because that’s what matters the most when you are working on a high, slanting surface. The soles of these Thorogood shoes are Christy Blown Rubber Wedge that offers traction and a high-end slip resistance.

The Cotton Drill Vamp Lining is another great feature that uses an advanced technology to wick moisture away. It comes handy in keeping the feet dry when you are working in hot and humid conditions.

Pros

  • Goodyear welt construction
  • Reinforced seam rivets for additional durability
  • Cotton Drill Vamp Lining keeps the feet dry
  • Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed
  • Poron 4000 comfort cushion

Cons

  • The neck area may rub against the ankle
  • The brass eyelets can wear out after some time

10. 1883 by Wolverine Men’s Kilometer 6” Made in The USA Winter Boot, Black, 8 M US

The 1883 Kilometer Boots from Wolverine mimic the brand’s classic work boot patterns. These are crafted with premium materials sourced from various countries across the world by experienced workers in Wolverine’s Michigan factory. These are a great alternative to the brand’s 1000 Mile Collection but at less than half of the price!

Materials & Durability

The leather in the 1000 Mile is definitely a higher grade material, but the Kilometer looks sharper and dressier than its expensive version. The distressing on the leather looks genuine and gets better with age.

The Goodyear welt construction looks impeccable, but the build quality is a few notches down than the work boots made by Red Wing or Thorogood. These Wolverine boots are designed more like fashion shoes. So, you may not be able to use them in demanding work conditions, but they could easily be your go-to shoes for everyday wear.

Comfort

The leather is full-grain, but it’s stiffer and thicker than the original Hot-Stuffed Chromexcel material used in the 1000 Mile. It feels durable but takes some time to break in.

The fitting is nice with the option to lace up quickly with two pairs of metal D-rings. The sizing is perfect, and you should buy the size you normally wear. The toe area is roomy, giving the feet some space to breathe.

The outsoles are Vibram that offer maximum functionality and comfort. These perform very well against impact and shocks. So, even if you run, your legs don’t have to endure the aftershocks, saving them for tiredness at the end of the day.

Additional Features

The rubber outsoles are made for a smooth ride and perform very well should you have to do lots of walking. However, the boots are particularly designed for dry weather. The tread becomes slick in rain and snow. These will offer very little lugging for traction. So, you may have to deal with sore feet after extended wear in slippery conditions.

Pros

  • More stylish and dressier than the 1000 Mile
  • Less expensive than the 100o Mile Collection
  • The leather has a lot of character to it
  • Goodyear welt construction
  • Vibram rubber outsoles

Cons                           

  • The break-in period could be painful because the leather is stiff
  • The soles don’t provide much traction in rain and snow

 

What Is ‘Made In USA’ and ‘Assembled In USA’?

There are just three words in the label ‘Made in USA,’ but it has a much bigger impact. It refers to the products all or virtually all parts of which are made and assembled in America, which includes the 50 states, all U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. It ensures that your purchased products contain no or negligible foreign contents.

Some footwear brands stamp their products as ‘Made in USA with Foreign & Domestic Components’ that means that some materials and parts are composed in a foreign country.

On the contrary, ‘Assembled in USA’ means constructed in American factories with raw materials sourced from abroad. Some companies use some labels to trick their customers to believe that the boots have been made in America. You should not purchase any product without being sure about its origin.

Sometimes, you will find some shoes with an imprinted USA Map or Flag or the words ‘America’ or ‘U.S.A.’It’s an implied statement that is not enough to prove their American origin. Look for the fine print on the package to see if they are really USA-made.

What Are Union-Made Work Boots?

Established in 1895, the Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union is an association of North American workers laboring in the industry of the footwear manufacturing. It also has an affiliation with the American Federation of Labor. If any brand claims to market boots made by the Union, you can be assured of the standard and quality of those products. However, remember that all Union-made footwear is manufactured in the USA, but the same is not applicable vice versa.

Why Made in USA Matters?

It matters because American manufacturing supports more than 17 million jobs throughout the nation and accounts for more than 12% to the country’s GDP. Buying products made in the USA keep these jobs alive and contribute to the economy. In addition, buying a Made in USA label guarantees that the product is top-quality, not a cheap China-made or another knock-off.

Have we listed all of your favorite USA-made labels? If not, let us know!

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