been wearing the redwing 1132's everyday for 3+ years. Work, play, everything in between.

My previous pair lasted as everyday wear for 5 years before the leather in the heel (on the inside) finally ripped.

I wore Redwings until the sales guy at Cavendars convinced me to try my first pair of Ariats back in 2000. I've never looked back. For me at least, Redwings don't even touch Ariats. Not only are my Ariats MUCH more comfortable than my Redwings ever were, but they last 3-4 times as long. I've been wearing Ariats since 2000 and I'm working on my third pair (I wear 8-10 hours a day). My Redwings typically only lasted me a year.

Of course, it was only a recent discovery for me to find that Ariats are made in China. It's both unfortunate and surprising that the Chinese could make such a fine boot.

I have worn both Redwing and Justin boots. There is nothing a redwing boot has that comes close to justifying its cost (in my opinion). Justin has my vote for a good durable and COST EFFECTIVE boot. Redwings are comfortable and all, but they arent worth the extra cost that i can see. Maybe they have high overhead or maybe they are like nike and have a loyal following that will cough up whatever they ask, but until my redwings are broken in, they are about the most uncomfortable, blister making, mother f-ers ive ever put on my foot. Justins fit out of the box.

Ill have to try ariat. I couldnt give two ****s about whether they are made in china or not, are chinese cows any different than american cows? I don't think so. Id also put reasonable money that some aspect of any boot originate out of the country, so im not getting on that 'buy american' soap box.

[This message has been edited by jed1154 (edited 3/3/2009 2:51p).]

[This message has been edited by jed1154 (edited 3/3/2009 2:58p).]

Red Wing 2231

West Coast Shoe Company WESCO

I've been wearing Justin Lace-R's for years. They are comfortable and durable with lots of ankle support. $140 or so for a boot I wear most everyday. Last pair came from Cavendar's in CS.

http://justinboots.com/boots/8_Lace_R.html

I like my Red Wings and they are a great boot but I have to go with Ariat's for work, Anderson Bean for play.

[This message has been edited by aTmarc (edited 3/3/2009 8:00p).]

Anderson Bean

quote:

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The best American boot made in IMO. I love my Whites packers.

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I forget about these. I don't have a pair myself, but would love to have a pair of custom made White's Packers. I imagine if I had a pair they'd get my vote over my Ariats.