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The 10 best men’s boots

5 Mins read

Boots are the one item that people complain about the most in terms of durability. There are some of us that are just naturally boot destroying monsters that can tear through even a decent boot in under a year. Separated soles, ripped fabric, warn-out laces, damaged leather… The list goes on and on. For most it’s hard to imagine spending $300 on a pair of boots. But for some reason we are okay with spending $150 every year on a new pair of boots from Aldo. Do the math, it’s time to invest in a quality pair of men’s boots. Without further ado, here is our list of the best men’s boots that money can buy. These are all “buy it for life” (BIFL) quality, and if maintained properly, should hold up for years and maybe even decades. Sure, they may not last as long as your cast iron skillet, but it’s as close as you’re going to get with a pair of boots.  Heck, there are people still selling original World War II boots online so it is certainly possible to buy something that is built to last and durable.

This list will contain three main types of boots: work boots, formal or semi-formal boots, hiking boots. It is a bit like comparing apples to oranges between these types but you can be sure that any one entry on this list deserves to be there.

Overall winner: Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger boot

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger - Best men's boots (BIFL)

Now this is a friggin’ boot! Red Wing is known for some of the best boot craftsmanship in the industry and the Heritage Iron Ranger is one of their classic work boot styles. Using top tier leather and quality eyelets and hooks make for a boot that can withstand some serious wear and tear. These boots use a “Goodyear Welt” which is the strip around the outsole which gives the shoe’s construction it’s strength. It’s a time consuming process in manufacturing but it results in a pair of boots that aren’t just going to have their sole fall off in a year’s time.

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger 6-Inch Boot, Amber Harness, 10 D(M) US

$368.70  in stock
2 new from $368.70
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • The product is natural leather and its easy for scuffs to happen but they rub out.This can be removed by a soft dry cloth and lightly buffed out the scuffs.
  • Fit Recommendation - Many customers size down ½ to 1 full size.
  • Features a bump toe for more room up-front. Double layer leather toe cap and leather heel pocket
  • Style No. 8111
  • Care instructions -Use warm water and a soft bristle brush to remove stuck-on dirt and then use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining excess dirt

Wolverine Kilometer boot

This is another great choice. The Wolverine Kilometer boot uses the same Goodyear Welt construction as the Red Wing making it super durable. These boots use a rubber sole designed by Vibram, an italian footwear sole producer that is well-known for it’s quality. These boots are known for their versatility as they can easily be worn in a more formal setting as well as a workboot. If you want to compare the Wolverine Kilometer vs 1000 Mile boot, it’s pretty easy. The 1000 mile boot is basically an upgraded version of the Wolverine Kilometer. This means the leather on the 1000 Mile boot is higher quality. However, I actually prefer the look of the Wolverine Kilometer boot.  So take your pick, they are both awesome! In fact, my absolute favorite Wolverine boot is technically the Wolverine 1883 Kilometer boot.

WOLVERINE Men's 1000 Mile Fashion Boot, Brown Leather, 12 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Handcrafted in the USA upper made from premium leather from Horween leather Company classic leather outsole with a Vibram heel flat waxed cotton laces refined pattern
  • Designed in Rockford, Michigan and handcrafted in the USA
  • Recreated from the first Wolverine 1000 mile boot introduced in 1914 time-tested Goodyear Welt construction is durable, flexible and allows the boot to be resoled for years of wear

Timberland Premium boot

For more budget conscious shoppers the good old Timberland does the job very well. If you like the classic burnt rust look of the Timberland then you in for a treat with a boot that is one of the most comfortable work boots out there. Now these pair are not made with a Goodyear Welt, instead they have opted for the less durable bon welt which is known to be less durable over the long term. The leather on these boots won’t age quite as nicely as the Wolverine’s or Red Wings either due to the quality of leather used. But for the money you are getting a reasonably good pair or boots.

Timberland Men's Earthkeepers Rugged Hiking Shoe, Red Brown, 9.5

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Lace-up ankle boot with plush padded collar and burnished finish at heel and toe
  • ON THE TRAIL OR THE STREET, Timberland has the styles you'll love to wear. From ankle boots & sneaker boots to sandals & boat shoes, Timberland will keep you on your feet & looking fabulous.
  • TIMBERLAND HAS YOU COVERED whether you're looking for men's boots, women's boots, or kids boots. For the best in hiking boots, rain boots, work boots, casual shoes & boots & more, choose Timberland.
  • WHAT YOU NEED IN THE OUTDOORS: Timberland has the gear you need for all your outdoor adventures, including jackets and coats for outdoor activities, backpacks and luggage & outdoor accessories.
  • THE BEST IN OUTDOORS: Trust Timberland's line of high-quality men's, women's, and kids boots. hiking boots, outdoor gear, and activewear for all your activities from the trail to the sea to the streets.

Thorogood American Heritage boot

The Thorogood American Heritage line are very good boots, especially for the money. They may not have the fashion appeal of the Red Wings, but they are a great choice that verges on the more utilitarian side. Again, these use a Goodyear storm Welt for maximum strength on the sole construction and they do use Vibram soles on this model. This is pretty amazing, considering these guys will only set you back $150-$200 depending on the deal you get. These are also proudly American Union made.

Thorogood American Heritage 6” Steel Toe Work Boots For Men - Premium Leather Moc Toe, Safety Toe Boots With Slip-Resistant MAXWear Wedge Outsole and Goodyear Welt, Tobacco Oil-Tanned - 12 D(M) US

$251.58  in stock
7 new from $251.58
2 used from $203.20
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • AMERICAN MADE with USA and globally sourced components by the skilled craftsmen and women at Thorogood’s US plants
  • DURABLE FULL-GRAIN LEATHER BOOTS in Thorogood’s moc toe work boot design are both comfortable and hold up to punishing jobs. Available in Tobacco (804-4200), Trail Crazyhorse (804-4575), and Midnight Black (804-6201)
  • STEEL TOE BOOTS FOR MEN protect your feet from on-site impact and compression hazards while the design keeps them light and flexible, making American Heritage some of the best safety toe boots for men with dangerous jobs. Meets ASTM F2413-18 safety toe standards
  • MAXWEAR WEDGE TRACTION OUTSOLE flexes better than other work boot outsoles, absorbing impacts and protecting your feet and ankles while working on difficult surfaces, keeping you on your feet even on loose gravel and wet and oily surfaces. Meets ASTM F3445-21 slip-resistance standards
  • EH RESISTANCE - these MAXWear Wedge work boots meet ASTM F2413-18 electrical hazard resistance safety standards

Danner Mountain Light II boot

This is the first hiking boot of the top ten, but boy is it a good one. Full grain leather as well as full waterproof certification will ensure that you stay dry while on a hike in the mountains. Danner are known for the comfort in their boots. It may take a couple weeks to break these suckers in, but you won’t be disappointed with how they mold to your feet. A Vibram sole rounds out this neat package for a hiking boot that performs but also doesn’t look like what Reese Witherspoon was wearing in Wild (good movie though, go check it out).

Danner Men's 30800 Mountain Light II 5" Gore-Tex Hiking Boot, Brown - 10 D

$439.95  in stock
3 new from $439.95
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • GORE-TEX waterproof breathable lining
  • Danner Airthotic heel cradle and arch support
  • Handcrafted, stitchdown construction for strength and stability. Fiberglass shank.
  • Vibram 148 Kletterlift outsole offers superior traction, stability and shock absorption on rugged terrain
  • Recraftable

White’s Boots Americana Semi-Dress boot

For those fancy-pants buyers out there that also want a durable boot, there’s White’s Boots Americana line. With a classic wood block heel and a rounded toe, these will give you a more refined look when you’re out on the town. White’s boots are also well known for being completely re-buildable if in the future you want to fix these up decades down the road. This is truly what “buy it for life” stands for. They’re not cheap, but they have a pretty legendary reputation for quality.

[wpsm_video]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlCV2dM2ld0[/wpsm_video]

Carhartt Men's 6" Waterproof Moc Toe Casual Wedge Work Boot, Tan, 13 M US

$169.96  in stock
2 new from $169.96
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Removable insole. Storm Defender, waterproof breathable technology, stops rain, but let’s sweat escape through a breathable membrane—so you can work through a storm.

Allen Edmonds Dalton dress boots

Another more fashionable entry into the top ten. This pair of boots is probably the best craftsmanship on the list. Period. But you do pay for it. A full 360 degree Goodyear Welt construction, a double leather sole, premium calf skin leather upper, and full re-craftable if you want to touch these up down the line. These boots looks great but will also last you a lifetime.

Allen Edmonds Men's Dalton Lace-Up Boot,Walnut,9 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Wingtip leather boot featuring lace-up vamp and brogue perforations
  • Stacked heel

Merrell Wilderness hiking boot

You’d be hard-pressed to find any list of best boots without seeing Merrell on there. Their classic design and attention to detail has made their Wilderness hiking boots a staple inthe BIFL crowd. You’ll find people that have owned these hiking boots for over thirty years! And that’s due to their meticulous design that uses a Norwegian welt, Vibram soles, and imported Italian hardware. These just might be your last pair of hiking boots.

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Earth, 12 M US

$145.00
$101.60
 in stock
3 new from $99.95
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Waterproof membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape
  • Pigskin leather and mesh upper
  • Metal hook traditional lace closure
  • Bellows tongue keeps out debris
  • Protective toe cap

Vasque Sundowner GTX backpacking boot

These are another pair of decent, but affordable hiking boots. While not quite as stacked in the design department as the Merrells or Danners, the waterproof Vasque Sundowner probably won’t last you for decades, but it will certainly outperform most boots you’ll find out there. Give these a few weeks to break in and you’ll be enjoying a great hiking boot for years to come.

Vasque Men's Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot, Red Oak,8 W US

$250.00  in stock
2 new from $250.00
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Ankle-high hiking and backpacking boots featuring speed lacing system with D-ring hooks
  • 2.4mm Red Wing leather upper, tanned in the US
  • GORE-TEX with Performance Comfort
  • Comfortable and stable Polyurethan midsole
  • Cambered heel for efficient hiking stride

Chippewa Original boots

And last but certainly not least are the Chippewa Originals. American made with full Goodyear Welt construction, Vibram soles and a reasonable price tag put these boots right in line with even the top two on this list. They are also rated to withstand 18,000 volts of electricity and are CSA Electrical Resistance certified (for those electricians out there).

Original Chippewa Collection Men's 1901M25 Engineer Boot, Cordovan, 8 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Lace-up ankle boot with contrast topline piping and debossed logo at side
  • Vibram cork outsole
  • Goodyear welt construction
  • The insole is built into the foot bed of the boot

The best men’s boot run down

Here are the top ten men’s boots from least expensive to most expensive. But to be honest, most people would be happy with any of these boots. Just remember, spend a bit of extra cash now, and avoid buying another pair of boots in a couple years. Good luck!

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger 6-Inch Boot, Amber Harness, 10 D(M) US

$368.70  in stock
2 new from $368.70
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • The product is natural leather and its easy for scuffs to happen but they rub out.This can be removed by a soft dry cloth and lightly buffed out the scuffs.
  • Fit Recommendation - Many customers size down ½ to 1 full size.
  • Features a bump toe for more room up-front. Double layer leather toe cap and leather heel pocket
  • Style No. 8111
  • Care instructions -Use warm water and a soft bristle brush to remove stuck-on dirt and then use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining excess dirt

WOLVERINE Men's 1000 Mile Fashion Boot, Brown Leather, 12 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Handcrafted in the USA upper made from premium leather from Horween leather Company classic leather outsole with a Vibram heel flat waxed cotton laces refined pattern
  • Designed in Rockford, Michigan and handcrafted in the USA
  • Recreated from the first Wolverine 1000 mile boot introduced in 1914 time-tested Goodyear Welt construction is durable, flexible and allows the boot to be resoled for years of wear

Timberland Men's Earthkeepers Rugged Hiking Shoe, Red Brown, 9.5

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Lace-up ankle boot with plush padded collar and burnished finish at heel and toe
  • ON THE TRAIL OR THE STREET, Timberland has the styles you'll love to wear. From ankle boots & sneaker boots to sandals & boat shoes, Timberland will keep you on your feet & looking fabulous.
  • TIMBERLAND HAS YOU COVERED whether you're looking for men's boots, women's boots, or kids boots. For the best in hiking boots, rain boots, work boots, casual shoes & boots & more, choose Timberland.
  • WHAT YOU NEED IN THE OUTDOORS: Timberland has the gear you need for all your outdoor adventures, including jackets and coats for outdoor activities, backpacks and luggage & outdoor accessories.
  • THE BEST IN OUTDOORS: Trust Timberland's line of high-quality men's, women's, and kids boots. hiking boots, outdoor gear, and activewear for all your activities from the trail to the sea to the streets.

Thorogood American Heritage 6” Steel Toe Work Boots For Men - Premium Leather Moc Toe, Safety Toe Boots With Slip-Resistant MAXWear Wedge Outsole and Goodyear Welt, Tobacco Oil-Tanned - 12 D(M) US

$251.58  in stock
7 new from $251.58
2 used from $203.20
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • AMERICAN MADE with USA and globally sourced components by the skilled craftsmen and women at Thorogood’s US plants
  • DURABLE FULL-GRAIN LEATHER BOOTS in Thorogood’s moc toe work boot design are both comfortable and hold up to punishing jobs. Available in Tobacco (804-4200), Trail Crazyhorse (804-4575), and Midnight Black (804-6201)
  • STEEL TOE BOOTS FOR MEN protect your feet from on-site impact and compression hazards while the design keeps them light and flexible, making American Heritage some of the best safety toe boots for men with dangerous jobs. Meets ASTM F2413-18 safety toe standards
  • MAXWEAR WEDGE TRACTION OUTSOLE flexes better than other work boot outsoles, absorbing impacts and protecting your feet and ankles while working on difficult surfaces, keeping you on your feet even on loose gravel and wet and oily surfaces. Meets ASTM F3445-21 slip-resistance standards
  • EH RESISTANCE - these MAXWear Wedge work boots meet ASTM F2413-18 electrical hazard resistance safety standards

Danner Men's 30800 Mountain Light II 5" Gore-Tex Hiking Boot, Brown - 10 D

$439.95  in stock
3 new from $439.95
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • GORE-TEX waterproof breathable lining
  • Danner Airthotic heel cradle and arch support
  • Handcrafted, stitchdown construction for strength and stability. Fiberglass shank.
  • Vibram 148 Kletterlift outsole offers superior traction, stability and shock absorption on rugged terrain
  • Recraftable

Carhartt Men's 6" Waterproof Moc Toe Casual Wedge Work Boot, Tan, 13 M US

$169.96  in stock
2 new from $169.96
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Removable insole. Storm Defender, waterproof breathable technology, stops rain, but let’s sweat escape through a breathable membrane—so you can work through a storm.

Allen Edmonds Men's Dalton Lace-Up Boot,Walnut,9 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Wingtip leather boot featuring lace-up vamp and brogue perforations
  • Stacked heel

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Earth, 12 M US

$145.00
$101.60
 in stock
3 new from $99.95
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Waterproof membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape
  • Pigskin leather and mesh upper
  • Metal hook traditional lace closure
  • Bellows tongue keeps out debris
  • Protective toe cap

Vasque Men's Sundowner Gore-Tex Backpacking Boot, Red Oak,8 W US

$250.00  in stock
2 new from $250.00
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Ankle-high hiking and backpacking boots featuring speed lacing system with D-ring hooks
  • 2.4mm Red Wing leather upper, tanned in the US
  • GORE-TEX with Performance Comfort
  • Comfortable and stable Polyurethan midsole
  • Cambered heel for efficient hiking stride

Original Chippewa Collection Men's 1901M25 Engineer Boot, Cordovan, 8 D US

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 2:18 am

Features

  • Lace-up ankle boot with contrast topline piping and debossed logo at side
  • Vibram cork outsole
  • Goodyear welt construction
  • The insole is built into the foot bed of the boot
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