Excellent video, as always. I enjoyed seeing the footage of your trip to the middle east for the review on the Thursday Vanguard boots. Have you considered doing a travel-themed video? I'm sure your viewers will like to see your opinions on travel clothing, footwear, tips, etc. Keep up the good work.
Love John Doe boots. I took advantage of the pay for 2 get 3 deal and purchase 6 pairs of boots! Those Urban Shepherd boots are the best fitting, most comfortable boots I own. Great stuff Stridewise.
What's even better is that Urban Shepherd has a EU store. There are less options there than the US store but for 145-155€ it's nearly a steal for GYW boots.
Personally, I prefer the Danner Bull Run Mocs over the Thorogoods. I think the simplicity of the Bull Runs construction make them a fantastic indoor trades work boot, and don’t get enough credit. Just my opinion.
I was wondering if you would review Sears' house brand boots and shoes (Elk Woods)? Their prices are extremely low but they seem to be pretty decent quality for their price. I have a pair of work boots from them that are several years old and they're in excellent shape.
@@boofgedder9809 I mean I'd love if he checked out some other heritage boots or generally other styles (Ecco Track 25, for example) but yeah I doubt he'll do this boot lol
@@Stridewise from what I've seen on their Instagram page the new brandy leather is veg tanned, but there isn't anything specific on their website. Some good looking boots either way though.
Just got a pair from Parkhurst in Color 8 Dublin and I've been super impressed with the quality. I have a pair of Thursday Loggers in waxed flesh back in Sept. 2020 and they're beasts, though there were a few QC/cosmetic issues on that pair.
I can’t wear either pair of my thorogood boots, one pair crush my left foot, the other pair crush my right foot. Very disappointed. Never a problem with any other foot wear I own.
@@keenobservations3050 Mines where crushing my left pinky toe on the heavy stitching part . Took me to try every single method to stretch the leather on that stitch . Almost got rid of them . After buying a pair of boot stretchers now they very confortables but man they where tight ...
@@JohnnyDeJesusRodriguez one pair are steel toe, brand new and fit nicely at the store. A couple weeks later that changed dramatically. Crushed the right side of my left foot so bad I thought I was being cut open. Second pair are not steel toe but right side of my foot it just started pressing into a nerve so badly again it felt like I was being cut. Nothing ever close has happened to me. Very bizarre to say the least
You left out the Thursday Loggers. They are $285 and they're mitusa. I just got a pair instead of the Vanguards and they are super comfy. I got them on Christmas Eve and I'm still breaking them in. I normally wear a size 9.5 in Captains so I got the same size in Loggers and they are a bit more snug than the Captains so I'll still breaking them in so they're not that old yet. Otherwise, I would buy the Vanguards in Cacao because of the cuban heelstack like the Loggers. Thanks.
I know this is outside your normal area, but I would enjoy you looking at the various motorcycle boots designed to look urban or cafe. I mean “look at the them from a style point of view.” I wouldn’t expect you to discuss protection, but your thoughts on which ones work best in style would be interesting. I am not sure where you live, but Revzilla has a showroom in Philadelphia and CycleGear has stores all over.
I know everyone comments on your accent but I don't hear it, maybe it because I'm Canada but you sound perfectly normal to me. Great content by the way!!
I think the Thorogood 4364 is an excellent boot, i don't know why people only ever seem to consider the moc toe and especially the 6". 8" plain toes are so much better in my opinion. The Thorogood 1892 Tomahawk is also an excellent boot for the money from my experience.
Great stuff! I'm a big fan of my Thursday Vanguard, and if you can get them in the Horween indigo (one herd) you'll love them even more!! Next on my list to acquire are some Parkhurst boots.
I'd love to see these in person to see just how much indigo hue comes through. How do you find the fit? Thursday recommends 1/2 size down and I believe Stridewise found true to size better for him due to being more narrow last.
@@jeffloucks2120 I love the look of them; the indigo is smooth & shiny & gets better with age; the leather is more pliable than my regular Vanguard. I did the half size down & they fit marvelously. If there's any doubt I'd definitely write Thursday an email & they can talk you through sizing. That's what I did for the Indigo Vanguard. They're my favorite boots right now.
Really liked your collaboration video with Rose Anvil...deconstructing a redwing iron ranger that someone had worn for I think 3 years? Anyway, I think it proves Red Wings are worth the money. Once again, really good video for boots under $300
Hey David, glad you liked that video! Look, this isn't sour grapes or anything, but I was *way* funnier in the takes he took out of that video FYI. But I'm glad you like the channel!
Parkhurst is not taking any new orders for now. They have 3 boots in total available to order, 2 boots in size 9 and one boot size 8. You really talked them up too, but global supply chain issues have been a thing for the last 2 years 🤷♂️
I know it's really sad, all boot companies are struggling with inflation and supply chain problems but it's saddest when they're young, tiny, and excellent companies like Parkhurst. Which is the youngest, tiniest, and excellentist!
I'd love to know your thoughts on the Vertigo 917 boot from Danner. I've had my pair for over 2 years and use them for work because of how comfortable they are for warehouse work in my opinion.
I appreciate that everyone says red wing break in is bad but personally I didn’t feel a thing? Must be the 16 years of wearing steel toe work boots 😂! Your videos got me into boots (red wing moc toes) and after watching Iv just ordered my next pair, Thursdays! Can’t wait. Keep up the great content.
@@davidmacy2252 hahah me to! My Mrs keeps catching me watching RU-vid vids on boots! Sucks a bit being in the UK as a lot of the boots are not easy to get.
@@Beariam24 My wife just sighs when she sees me watching you tube, she knows I'm watching boot stuff.😃 Bummer about having a tough time getting boots for youself. I love the Thursday boots, I have many pairs in different styles. If you get some Thursday boots you won't be disappointed, plus, great customer service. Seems like there were several reviews from guys in the UK on their website...so hopefully getting boots through them will be easier.
@@davidmacy2252 its not hard to break in but feels sturdier while being lighter in weight, Its hard to describe, its tougher leather without the drawbacks of tough cowhide leather lol
I got the blacksmith's and they are pretty comfy had like no break in but the leather has softened up so they are just getting more comfortable not as big of a fan of the moc toe tho they are uncomfortable and ugly in my opinion
Just recently ordered a pair of sneakers and bag from Beckett Simonon and they actually shipped a little faster than advertised. Their leather is AMAZING. OMG, the John Doe website is horrible. It's like a guessing game to choose what you want. They look great tho. I gave up
I have a pair of sneakers from Beckett Simonon as well and you're correct, awesome leather. If you're into boots, get the dowler boots from Beckett Simonon, I have the walnut color in the durable pull up leather and probably one of my favorites out of the 10 boots I have. Amazing fit as well.
I think this is the best place to start on their site: www.johndoeshoes.com/mto/ I just got those sneakers too! Will be hard to find time to wear them in chilly winter NYC
@@Stridewise Really like the pull up leather, it seems durable and scuffs come out easy. It's also in the new leather from the Italian tannery. My reid sneakers were made with the Argentine leather and there's a noticeable difference between the two leathers. The Italian leather is thicker...seems more durable
Another stellar video & your accent is just fine! When buying boots don't mind spending the money as I sent in a pair of 8114 Iron Rangers that I've owned for years to Brian the bootmaker to repair from the footbed down and it cost more than a new pair of Iron Rangers but was done so nice & love those boots. Just ordered another pair of Iron Rangers from Northern Republic that they put their spin on and haven't received them bit I'm sure they will be sweet.. My point in this is really dig Thursday Captains and don't mind they come from Mexico so not really sure spending the extra coin on the US made boot will make me like them more than the Captains?? Good call on the other brands and really enjoy your thoughts on boots!
Another great review Nick of different boots out there. Love the thumbnail for this video comparing your old beater pair of red wings and a new pair. They look like they have seen a lot of miles. It's funny how when a pair of boots get the most character and comfort is the time they need to be resoled . Are these by chance the boots you had Trenton & Heath resole ? I've been to Red Wing Minn. and have seen there huge downtown store though I haven't been in it.
Great video! I own a handful of Thursday boots, which I love, but I've been looking to buy one or two leather-soled boots. What do you think about Beckett Simonon versus Meermin for leather-soled boots?
Great vids on boots, just a quick question. How long does a pair of boots normally last if you keep them stocked? Some people suggest to use vacuum bags? Have you tried anyone of these approaches to taking care of your shoes? Some people say 10+ years? What is your longest lasting boot? For leather jackets with fine grain they say it takes up to 20+ years or more. Thanks in advance!
Thursday boot are no longer same quality as they used to be. Reading review on forums and Amazon, tonnes of people having issues with Thursdays especially captains falling apart.
Upvote for "dragging ass." Word of warning: word on the street is that, for whatever reason, Urban Shepherd is going to, or has already, stopped US sales. I guess they weren't making enough money? Not sure, but they seem like incredible value for the money. Extra suggestions at this price range: WWII Impressions and Golden Fox, for period-accurate service boots that are very well built for a very reasonable price.
Would like to do backpack run of best boots under $30.00 walmart, ALDI, dollar general Dickies, rouit 66. I work some time in raw sewage and some time a disposable Boots the best.
Hi Nick great video. I'm interested in a pair of Vanguards (good deal on lightly used pr of 9 1/2) and considering sizing. From your list I do have the Thorogood moc for work in a 9 which is generally a half size down for me. I recall you mentioning the Vanguard being a bit narrow and finding regular sizing may work better. Anything you can share from your experience for sizing between these two specifically?
Does anyone know if John Doe sizes are the same as Thursday? I wear an 8.5 wide Thursday. Would like John Doe but I don't think the return policy is as good
Dude I like your channel and I watch many of your videos and I appreciate you as a person and respect your choices and you work hard and I can tell but with that said you need to try to slow your speech down and if you do I believe you would get more listenership. Respectfully.
Thanks Trey, that one's from Pack Animal/Tobacco: packanimal.co/collections/types?q=Flannel can't decide if mine's too small or not haha, I might size up if/when I get another
@@Stridewise doesn't look too small to me in the shoulder/chest. Its an awesome shirt and I've seen their adds before. Good quality shirt? You should do more clothing like you do with denim. I've been going down a leather jacket rabbithole lately.
Do not make the mistake I did and order from John Doe. If you think the website is bad try the customer service. I ordered 6 pairs and the first set are too small but they will not respond. I have actually had to dispute it with Amex. Just avoid!!!!
I am attempting to resolve the issue with John Doe and will keep people informed, not that they care about me but that they can comfortably buy from John Doe. If they ever get the bugs worked out they offer a great product at a exceptional price. I hope they are just suffering from growing pains and dealing with COVID. I had two orders of three shoes, one order showed up and they are just too small. I wear an 8d and measure an 8d on the brannock but their 8 is an entire size small. I attempted to break them in hoping they will stretch, but no luck. I asked them to cancel the second order completely because the sizing will be off. On the first I asked for a 50% refund, they are useless to me and them since they are creased but I could donate them- damn nice shoes but they it would save me from spending a $100 to mail them back. Do you think I am being fair?
I don’t want to hijack Nicks channel or turn it into a bitch session. But a learn from my mistakes. John Doe never did contact me. They attempted to mail and bill me for my remaining order without verifying the order contents and sizes. Luckily Amex canceled the sale. So now I am just left with returning the first order because the size is a whole size small. Before ordering I did my homework: checked nicks sizing, checked online recommendations and contacted John Doe. This was the the last time they responded but they said go “true to size” and replied I am an exact 8D on the brannock and every shoe except nicks handmade and ir where I am a 7.5eee. The boots that arrived had no marking-no size no nothing-but are very short. I cannot get my size 8 shoe trees in.
The boots in hand feel great, great material well built no complaints until you try to squeeze your foot in. And god help you when you try and contact them. So much potential but it all goes down the loo when they do not respond and I truly think they used a size 7 last. Maybe it was marked incorrectly I can’t imagine any craftsman/woman doing such a good job on a known wrong last. I still thank nick for sending me there. If it had worked out it would have been a huge success.
I feel I should continue the story. John Doe reached out and apologized. Apparently their server wasn’t giving them the messages. I’m no IT guy so it is believable. We agreed to refund half my money. Because the shoes are so customizable they have no use for my preferences and I did wear them trying to break them in. I recommend we send a pair to Rose Anvil and let him show us the inside. My belief is they are very solid . If ordering from them order your sneaker size or a half size up from your brannock. They offer an E if you think you are a wide go with it. We all make mistakes and I jumped to conclusions.
Wolverine 1000 miles could go up against any of these easily. US made in horween chromexcel , can’t beat it for under $400. Would love to see you or rose anvil review them. Extremely underrated.
In what position would you place Sagara boots? Excluding shipping costs, they're about 230$... Will you review in the future some Italian handmade boots? (we often ear about Italian tanneries, but rarely about shoe and boot artsans!) 💯🌈
Hey man, I actually put Indonesian boots in the article - one billion percent worth it if you can stomach the wait! stridewise.com/best-boots-under-300/
I just bought some John Doe. They make a great boot but the website isn’t great nor is the customer service. If they would just fix the easy stuff they would be fantastic
Yeah it's such an enigma, why the website sucks so hard for a digital company. I wouldn't be surprised if the company went under, if they aren't fixing something like this they must have verrrry little money
@@Stridewise it is such a shame. With a few bucks spent on a decent web site and someone to answer the phone they would easily challenge Thursday ( a lot more leather in John Doe), Beckett Siminon, park hurst, meermin even touching on grant stone( really world class ). But I am no businessman so maybe the competition is too tight for investment.
Can you make a video on just American Made Boots. Too many Chinese made shoes/boots people don’t mind paying an extra amount just as long as they are American made. Support your country and your country workers.
Well that's like 350USD for one so it wouldn't fit haha, but also because my audience/channel is American. I've done a couple of British boots but unless they market over here it doesn't make much sense for me to do videos about them. Loake is top of my list for British boots to explore though
@@Stridewise sorry i forgot the exchange rate lol , thanks for explaining the reason which is a good reason whats the point of giving a review if ya can't buy them in the us 👍🏻 Good vlog by the way very interesting how stiles in the us come over here slowly but good ideas on types of footwear like the mock toe boots
I know this video is a year old, but nothing Parkhurst is under $300 these days, not even that close really😌 Inflation is getting out of hand, and I don't see things getting better anytime soon.
That is correct, that's why I did an inflation update. I even pinned this in a comment on this very video dude ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-eMbBAu7i-4Q.html
@@Stridewise Missed that part, but was just shopping Parkhurst a few days before watching your vid and was shocked how much their prices have risen. Seems Thursday and and Jim Green (because of usd vs Rand) are the only quality makers who miraculously havent raised prices at least a little bit since the last time I boot shopped. Ended up ordering another pair of Captains, this time in dark olive matte which I think will be killer😎 (joined the waitlist at least, hope they arrive before winter is over)
For standing all day Alden's Indy are great, but unfortunately not gusseted tongue. You can add some gaiters to keep stuff out. That's what I do when I take my Indy's on a hike . Those wedged sole boot are extremely confortable too if you like the style. Wolverine 1000 mile wedged is extremely confortable in my opinion because it has CXL which is very soft, but thick.
@@Marx_Ramone Thank you so much!! Been looking at the 405s for yearrrrss. Grow up watching the movies. The gusseted tongue is the only drawback, but I didn't think about that.
Nice. I don't care what anyone says, when that NYC 8.75 Sales Tax kicks in, most of those boots are over $300 or damn close. For as long as Taxes are included, I will consider most Red Wing Moc Toes $300+ 299.99 isn't under $300 , who does red wing think their kidding 😂