$600 Boots? Are you Stupid?

[@nbrosens]

Can't remember who said this but I'm sure it was someone very wise "Never save on boots or mattresses, because if you're not in one, you're in the other".

[@marinebatley]

Excellent advice

[@barkspawn]

Joke's on you, I spend all day in my socks

[@kosalagarusinghe2242]

Rather, I spent the whole winter under the bed.

[@Rainaman-]

Meh, I have spent around 2 years total sleeping on sleeping mat while camping - your body adjusts to things easy. My back actually heals when i sleep on flat hard surfaces.

[@MrJabez89]

Wearing boots and sleeping on mattresses makes you soft

[@jm4472]

“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten “ -

[@ceitie2181]

-Benjamin Franklin

[@jm4472]

@@ceitie2181 👍🏼

[@jm4472]

-Michael Scott

[@mikewolfe7754]

Fact

[@TrackSlayers]

-Bruce Wayne

[@TalenGryphon]

My dad was a logger and the entire family has high arches. One of the things he told me was "All boots cost $500. weather you pay it up front or pay it to your podiatrist later is up to you". Just like you said in the start of the vid

[@propyro85]

When I first started working as a baggage handler, we were given a $200 a year boot allowance, as steel toes were mandatory. I remember being given a "pro tip" to buy more expensive boots, make a copy of the receipt to submit for reimbursement, return the expensive boot, and get some $50 boots from walmart and pocket the ~$150 difference. I came to that job with a background in construction. I can't afford the pain cheap boots cause me by the end of the day. You do you bud, I'll go over my boot allowance and have boots that allow me to still function at the end of the day.

[@MaestroJericho]

@@propyro85 lol I learned in the military when I got the cool guy boots that cost more than the issued ones and they lasted longer and were much more comfortable. To this day I'll cheap out on certain stuff like casual pants or whatever, but leather goods or footwear imo it's worth the premium.

[@Rid_Of_Thee]

Good advice

[@MindbodyMedic]

@@MaestroJericho cheaping out on cotton chinos or jeans will show, they'll split at crotch and wear earlier. Of course its not easy stumping up a lot initially for most people. Also, you really need to maintain all clothing properly and learn how to store items or you may as well have bought cheap.

[@Loud_Thinker]

@@propyro85 Amen!

[@danagboi]

Great video. As my Brother-in-law says, "I'm too poor to buy cheap tools."

[@popeurban2]

Buy cheap buy twice is what i live by.

[@chromeinox]

Hot damn! When I think about it, your Brother-in-law is right!

[@8Maduce50]

@@popeurban2 my harbor friegh insulated screwdrivers really are a good deal.

[@mountainsriversandtrees1474]

@@popeurban2 Buy cheap, buy thrice nowadays.

[@favidh1934]

"two things poor people cannot afford to buy are cheap shoes or cheap mattresses...one spends half their lives on one and the other half of their lives on the other "

[@FlaccidCaulk]

"sometimes my vocabulary outruns my education" I'm going to get that on a t-shirt.

[@jfdomega7938]

lol.

[@spiritzweispirit1st638]

Thats Genious!👍

[@ohnenamen2843]

In Germany we have a saying “wer billig kauft kauft zweimal” (who buys cheap buys twice)

[@chrisoconnor3119]

In the U.S. we say "Buy once, cry once" Or "Buy nice or buy twice"

[@carbonado2432]

In mexico LO BARATO SALE CARO (That which is cheap comes up expensive)

[@PlueschoB21F]

@@owenmills1596 go brexit

[@68WhiskeyMedic]

similar saying in Poland "chytry dwa razy traci" meaning "the stingy one will lose twice"

[@marcocavaco3150]

In Portugal we say: "Cheap ends being expensive."

[@pecarew2003]

In such a "throw-away world" we all live in today, it's refreshing to think there's still companies out there still repairing instead of replacing. Also excellent points made on judging others for what matters to them. Thanks for the review!

[@TBM1880]

I’ve been buying stuff that lasts and can repair cause I agree, we throw away things left and right and it shouldn’t be that way

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

It's actually also more respectful for the animal that donated the hide, shoes, if you think about it, like furniture and houses it is a conspiracy. You get pretty much compressed cardboard of what used to be wood, leather and stone. And they don't last a hundredth of the time.

[@whatbuttondoipush]

as AvE (youtuber) says "you can cry once when you buy it, or you can cry very time you use it". There is a reason why cheap stuff is called cheap, price 9/10 times equates to quality.

[@volk528]

Millitary surplus clothing and equipment in my experience is high quality but for the most part dirt cheap

[@oliverallen5324]

@@volk528 Only because you're buying it second hand. A lot of that stuff is high dollar brand new the first time you(the taxpayer) bought it.

[@PhysIXjuk3]

9/10 is a reach. But I know where you're coming from. It's been a while since I bought cheap things, that doesnt mean I have to spend a lot of money to get good quality.

[@scjohnk]

@@oliverallen5324 Actually, the higher end boots (Danners etc) have to be purchased by Soldiers who want better boots.

[@danniehays4111]

I have been an electric lineman for 30 years climbing poles daily. My co workers made fun of me when I bought West Coast ( custom made) lineman boots. It wasn’t very long before my co workers all had West Coast boots. It pays to buy quality. Love your channel. Thanks Dan

[@garretthoward2226]

What brand? I could use a quality pair for climbing.

[@breackingbad9042]

@@garretthoward2226 wesco is the brand (WESt COast)

Apprentices climb daily. Journeymen use the bucket everyday. The only time our Journeymen climb is for poletop rescue.

[@DustinRogersinMO]

I used to get a lot of criticism for spending $500+ on a motorcycle helmet, especially from guys that wore chrome plated plastic bowls on their heads.

[@jhenry0615]

+Dustin Rogers There's an old saying, "if you have a $10 head wear a $10 helmet."

[@MarkEcker]

+jhenry0615 Haha, never heard that one before! :D

[@grantlandneil]

+Dustin Rogers Been there before. I think protecting my head from being split open is worth $500+

[@deltavee2]

+Dustin Rogers As a fellow biker, I hear ya. My daughter rides an 1100cc Shadow and the helmet I bought her...$700. Just a question of priorities, as this thread says.

[@deltavee2]

+jhenry0615 I like that line. I'll use it the next time I get razzed for wearing a full-face helmet on a cruiser. I was happy to have it on instead of an open face when I got hit and barrel rolled my Yammie.

[@jamespringle9821]

I've worked in the oil industry and I needed chemical resistant boots and spent $500 $600 on a good pair of boots. A friend payed $150 and acid ate the glue and the soul came off at work and burned his feet. Boots are important.

[@meatstick6969]

James pringle dang! It ate his soul!?!? Must be devil acid!

[@Chrisfrom_Dallas]

@@meatstick6969 of course it was man, he said oil industry! Comes from miles underground!

[@tjlovesrachel]

Jamie Jump timberland lmaooooooo

[@CGoffgrid]

@@meatstick6969 What part of Bama you in?

[@andrewyork3869]

That's a tough one to explain to OSHA....

[@thereddevilred]

I work 12-16 hour shifts on my feet full time, and after watching this video, I looked into a traditional work boot instead of the original SWATS, Terra, Underarmor, and Dakota boots I previously had worn on duty that kept failing around the 4-12 month mark. Well it’s been a year with my White’s now and they have been perfect since breaking them in and no sign of failure. I truly appreciate this perspective on the value of footwear- great quality footwear.

[@dougchoate2009]

“Since breaking them in “ I just purchased a pair of smokejumpers by Whites. Just wondering how long the break in period is?

[@andrewsalazar98]

Doug Choate Just over 100 hours

[@ufc990]

Is this in a law enforcement scenario?

[@albertxion513]

@@ufc990 Nicks has a new law enforcement boot that's a lot more flexible but just as durable.

[@miterbox9491]

How are they holding up today?

[@nickelsareshiny]

I bought my Nick's 18 YEARS ago, I remember at the time when I was filling out the custom size profile measurements thinking "all this for boots?" I work in metal fabrication and I still have them. I think I've resoled them 4 times? 18 YEARS. I can't even feel them they are so conformed to my actual feet.

[@gamerbreadbaker]

How are your feet holding up now? It’s been a while, and this is good stuff to know.

[@wanderingcalamity360]

@@gamerbreadbaker I'm also interested in this.

[@cutlerylover]

At 31 years old I know how important it is to research before making any purchase as well as to save and buy quality once instead of buying cheap over and over again as the product keeps failing and needs to be replaced....I wish as a teen I already knew that, I know I could have saved a ton of money and lots of angry moments...I think you nailed it Cody prioritize...many people sleep in a crappy bed and wake up tired even thoug they spend a 3rd of their life in it they just dont see spending a lot of a good bed...lol

[@cutlerylover]

+Liam Dibble Thanks

[@boycotgugle3040]

+cutlerylover Totally and you also keep the money locally instead of seeing it drain off to China!

[@mountainman4756]

+long road lowas are great hiking shoes, but for wildland fire no way.. glued soles, and other lighterweight materials don't last on the line. whites, nicks, drews, wescoes, you cant go too wrong with any of them.

[@getredytagetredy]

Bullshit....Locally ...is the magic word...support your locals....because everything basically is local....Global is corporate nonsense profit and gain Liar talk...

[@seigeengine]

getredytagetredy Bullshit... Globally... is the magic word...support other people...because everything basically is global....Local is political nonsense selfish and small-sighted Populist talk.

[@MikeG.666]

I've always said that what I do, as a machinist, is the hardest on boot soles. Steel chips everywhere on the floor combined with oil and coolant... wrecks soles. But I never thought about wildland fire fighting. With the heat. Rocks. You make a compelling point.

[@isaac2152]

Man, those keep your feet safe. Its worth it, plus people dump $600+ a year on a new cell phone.

[@joelittle9778]

but you can buy a pair £20 boots what keep your feet safe thats not what your paying for...your paying for the durability and comfort.

[@ike780]

well said

[@TJackSurvival]

Nailed it...

[@7KingCobra7]

I get the newest Samsung every year... for free though

[@wolfieplays1943]

same

[@ronaldsadler2787]

I agree completely, wore cheap boots when I was young and could not afford better . Some were comfortable most fell apart in two years or less . Buying boots from Whites , JK , Nicks , franks , etc. it is about buying American made quality from smaller companies that pride themselves in quality . Being able to have pride in where and who I spent my money with .

[@SiMahDan]

I hace a pair of custom made WESTCO, (Scapoose, OR) boots made for me in 1974, that I still wear. In 1974, they cost $125.

[@user-ji3yi4oq1m]

Mh dad has a pair of westco boots im not sure if they are still around i need good boot working for the railroad

[@jimk.8424]

I got a pair of whites and two days later left for the fire line. I wore them for a whole season and never had a single problem. They felt like tennis shoes from the very first time I put them on.

[@wranglerstar]

Great.

[@UnionSation]

My nicks are the first pair of boots that I’ve never got a break in blister from.

[@ericcartman8354]

if your Whites felt like tennis shoes from the first tim3 you wore them, they werent real Whites lol

[@treythedrummer1]

What do you do with the tread when it wears down?

[@xxxarmycop]

get it rebuilt...send it in or take to the store in Spokane

[@TFM8]

My father always said "invest in a good bed and some good shoes, because if you are not in one you are in the other"

[@the430movie]

Awesome comment as well as advice!

[@cliffordcrise780]

At 22 years old I literally spent my rent money on a pair of West Coast lineman boots. I learned how to hook poles in those boots, wore those boots for 4 years straight, climbed thousands of poles, had them rebuilt 2 times. I still have those boots, 32 years later. They fit just as well now as they did then. Come heavy winter weather or some of our trips out to the peaks to change out radio gear, those are my go to boots. I have gotten impatient in my older age and just don’t want to wait for a Whites or Nick’s now. Unfortunately I have reverted to Redwing, The money spent on a quality boot is never wasted, it is an investment in both your safety and well being. Just like you, I wear my boots about 14-18 hours a day. Those are actually the last things to come off at night when I get home. Just on a lark, I watched this video and put those West Coasts on for the day. Forgot how damn tall they are, still awfully comfortable. Looks like I’ll need to be patient and order a pair of the Nick’s builder pros now. Great video, good points. Thank you.

[@TJackSurvival]

I have mountaineering boots from Italy that cost more than these, but I used to be a mountaineering guide, and I enjoy not being the miserable one in the crowd on the mountain because I spent poorly on gear. It really comes down to how much time you spend in the boots and weather or not you want to get what you pay for. The adages of you buy nice or buy twice exists for a reason. Also once you have spent a lot of time in truly miserable weather you then come to understand that harsh conditions are only about having the right gear. Once you understand that then you look into buying nice so that you don't have to buy twice.

[@CalebMayfieldMHF]

After working in retail on the floor for many years I made a discovery that I feel as strongly about, and that is socks. Most people don't realize how much of a difference the quality and type of sock makes in conjunction with the footwear. A high quality fitted wool sock will support, pad, keep your foot dry, and last far, far longer than a cotton or those bulk buy tube socks. The difference is as significant as the difference between the $30 Chinese boot and a pair of Whites or Nick's.

[@thisfall5227]

Can you recommend some good wool socks?

[@CalebMayfieldMHF]

+this fall I personally like the Lorpen T2W Italian Wool mid weight hiker for everyday wear.

[@jackiehorn9668]

Caleb Mayfield I second this. I've worked in retail since 1999 and lemme tell you, when I got some nice merino wool socks my feet died and went to heaven. No more sweaty stinky wet mess for me. They cushion better, wick moisture better, and last longer. Did I mention they were better. Good leather boots and wool socks do wonders for the feet. Something else too, I started wearing wedge sole boots about 4 years ago. Changed my work life. I'm trying to convert everyone now. Cheers and take care!

[@stephenwhittier6439]

You are so right, I buy wool socks from LL Bean.

[@osomxl]

Cody, I finally pulled the trigger last October 2021 and purchased a pair of Nicks work boots. Looks like they may finally be delivered this 3rd week of July 2022. It has been quite the wait and I hope these boots live up to the hype. My body sure could use all the help it can get. Godspeed, Cody to you and the family and we’ll be keeping all of you in my prayers.

[@michaelputnam8794]

WoW

[@gavinmclean7129]

The first pair of handmade boots I ever had was when I was 18, my grandfather made them that was 32 years ago and I still have them, I've had them resoled countless times and he rebuilt them 10 years ago not long before he died they took almost a year to break in and yes they weigh a lot. They are not glued, stitched and screwed, no they are glued, bolted and stitched the bolts are 1/8 x 1/2 inch brass bolts the glue was his own recipe and the stitching was sinew and the leather is unstretched rawhide. I hope that gives you some kind of idea just how tough these boots are. As I know I'll never get another set of boots like this, they are my fire boots, they have been in some of the worst fires Australia has seen. I would put them up against any boot in the world. I recently asked a cobbler what he would charge me for a new pair if I supplied him with the glue his quote was $1200 AUS !! Looks like I will get a pair as I miss having them on my feet and because he is willing to guarantee his workmanship for 10 years.

[@nicoleyensen7062]

Please, if possible, would you be able to document/provide pictures and any additional information possible about how they're constructed? Where to get the right materials? I need to build what you've described for a very good man. The probability that his footwear (the widest we can find) will have torn.within the first three months is over 90%. Structurally, nothing I've seen has survived a year.

[@omarbabovic8261]

@@nicoleyensen7062 this would be amazing

[@omarbabovic8261]

Do you have any photos?

[@RRaucina]

And the Aborigines just turn their foot skin into leather and the Pakistani's pour iron in sandals. Maybe we think too much about boots.

[@foretell6819]

Any pics? I’m trying to see that

[@andrewmudgett5715]

Glad I found this video. I’ve watched other KZbin vids of people reviewing Nicks boots and they were all favorable. But the fact that you’ve put them through the ultimate tests by working with them in the most extreme conditions just cemented my decision to buy a pair. Thanks!

[@johnsonoutdoors8117]

I plan on getting a pair for wildland fire on a volunteer department.

[@owenlien1593]

You should be able to spend your money on whatever makes you happy man

[@michaelmartin1513]

I use to think is was dumb. My brother tried to talk me into buying a pair of whites but i didn’t want to spend the money , until i went through 3 sets of $200 boots in one summer of road construction . I finally ordered a pair in 2012 and after 6 years i finally had to have them rebuilt . Best boot ever and it’s saved me so much money

[@kawadudemcdouble3983]

as a mechanic walking around on concrete all day a good light comfortable boot is a must have been using redbacks for years now and love them only complaint i have is since they are built so light there are some durability issues involved but usually get about 2 years out of them but at a cost of $150ish a pair im not going to complain

[@GamerNxUSN]

kawadude mcdouble Belleville makes great maintenance boots.

[@XAlpineSuptDN]

Nicks were the most comfortable boots I wore in my 23 years of being on a Hotshot Crew. When you wear your boots everyday even while off the clock these boots, after being broken in, are really comfortable. It’s a matter of preference whether you like Whites or Nicks better pure and simple. Plus you can rebuild the boots when they wear out so unless you fried the leather somehow they last a long time.

[@nathanpilcher2979]

Fireman in Texas, purchasing Nick's because of this review, thanks

[@aaronkirlin5281]

Love my Whites, just received my second pair today. My first pair lasted 5 years, with 3 resoles and 1 rebuild. Before that i was wearing through Redwings, Thoroughgoods, Cherokees, Caterpillar, Ariats, Wolverines, Docs and the forgotten. This has been a good investment for my wallet and feet

[@daboy432king]

My cousins fathers daughters nephews sisters aunts brothers accountants father always said “Never cheap out on boots or beds, because if you're not in one, you're in the other”

[@varck7935]

So basically your uncles accountants father. Majortiy of those words you said just looped back haha.

[@Superpatriotism]

Go away

[@johnnyshell2839]

I been watching videos on these boots for years. I really need a pair. The budget just can't do it. One of these days though. I'll get my Nick's boots

[@74bassman]

Same here. Hope we'll both get it someday

[@Adam-ub7kn]

Well worth the wait

[@johnnyshell2839]

@@Adam-ub7kn I hope so. I'm so ready for something that doesn't hurt every step of my day

[@Adam-ub7kn]

@@johnnyshell2839 Absolutely worth it.

[@conorproffitt]

if you replace your 200 dollar pair of boots every 2 years, your 600 dollar pair of boots pays for itself in 6 years and then keeps paying for itself for the next 15

[@tose5566]

I’ve done hundreds of miles and backpacking, and I 100 percent agree. Quality boots, regardless of price, combined with proper socks, make or break trips

[@domenicmaiani3795]

Thanks for a great video Cody! Love my White's Smoke Jumpers! They are 15+ years old and have been rebuilt twice. I also have a pair of White's Packers, resoled with honey vibram soles. Maybe I am a bit masochistic but I have loved both from day one! The Smoke Jumpers took about 6 months to break in but you have convinced me to try Nick's. (I could be mistaken but I believe Nick worked at White's before going into business for himself.) My last rebuild at White's was about $250-300. I totally agree with you on this one, these boots are an investment, 18 years and going strong.

[@bpsdetailing8822]

I was a wildland firefighter so I understand the importance of boots. I have nothing against the high end custom boots that can last a long time. They do have a substantial amount of break-in required to be comfortable though, and I could never get on board with spending that much money for boots and end up with blisters and pains in my feet for months in hopes that the boots would break in properly and be comfortable after all that. I have always liked Danner boots, they have a pretty good range for pricing. My favorite Danners were about $170 ten years ago and the were very lightweight and comfortable from day one, and they met all requirements for federal wild land fire fighting. After they wore out I got another pair of Danners but they were more durable and more expensive, I wore them for one season and then they developed a notch on the inside of the boot by the pinkie toe and became totally unusable. They also weren't as comfortable and required more break-in. For me the key is a lighter weight boot that is instantly comfortable - would gladly spend more replacing them than go through a break in period. I know the $240 Danners are NOT the same as the $400-$600 whites or nicks. Just the style of heavier boot that requires break-in that I am talking about.

[@brandonmontemayor8178]

One thing I’ve noticed. Custom boots (Nick’s, White’s, Etc) are built incredibly and fit comfortably. If that’s too expensive, I’ve had so much luck with red wings, basically I’m looking for All Leather boots. Not any fake materials or fabrics. Leather molds and breaks in. I have a pair of a Georgia boots and have had them for years and all that fabrics (non leather) makes them not conform to my feet

[@IAW888]

Excellent video. Never thought of this the way you said it! If a Glock costs $550 why not buy a good pair of working boots for $600? Our feet deserve them.

[@nismo_zrz3321]

Be sure to have both

[@paintballjunkie65]

John Willis from SOE said it perfectly when people said they could not afford his gear, he said "most of the people who say that, can actually afford it, it is just not important enough to them to shell out for it." So you saying its about priorities, is correct.

[@turpinpoldark]

TheCodFather no

[@danpoen5916]

I remember buying WHITE cork boots over 40 years ago while logging on the Oregon coast and Whites were the best most comfortable boots available the were 225 to 250 dollars a pair back then

[@mcbridecreek]

My first pair in 1981 coat me $235. A second pair, in 1987 cost me $205

[@bigslim492]

You know several years ago I ended up getting an infection in my left foot and had the left side of my foot amputated. My point is that now I have two very different size feet. What this means to me is that if I buy any kind of shoe or boots off the shelf one fits properly and one has a huge amount of extra room. I had some custom inserts made and they were ok but were expensive and didn’t last that more than a year before needing to be replaced. So what options do I have? I can buy off the shelf every year or so and deal with the issues that go along with that or I can get custom handmade shoes and boots that fit perfectly from day one, last forever and if necessary can be rebuilt. My choice is to buy the custom made and fit shoes and boots even though they cost more initially because I will have a great fitting and looking pair of shoes or boots for the rest of my life. All of what I have said is my own opinion and/or experience. I too have a problem with people putting someone down because they disagree with them. If you disagree with someone else’s opinion fine disagree but don’t start all of this nonsense about how stupid or elitist someone is for a purchase like this.

[@Akademee]

To be fair, my bed is pretty terrible...

[@shaolindreams]

+xXMAGNONXx and a nice sofa :P the 3 S's. Sitting Standing and Sleeping

[@VexedFilms]

+shaolindreams Don't forget the fourth. Spend a while in there too some days...

[@TheRealConflictedGaming]

+Akademee his boots cost more than my mattress lol.

[@jonathanbroline9030]

The criticism of the Adams doesn't seem quite right. If I recall from one of your Adams videos the light weight sole was by your design and request.

[@mingram0707]

+Jonathan Broline He repeatedly says no fault to Adam because he asked for a light weight boot. There was no criticism of Adams boots, he just said if you purchase a lighter weight boot like he did it will not fair as well fire fighting.

[@fr8trainUS]

I thought I remembered that as well

[@1funny0043]

I believe you are correct.

[@meatstick6969]

+mingram0707 I don't think he criticized Adams but I did t hear him say he asked for a light weight sole in this video.

[@fr8trainUS]

I thought he said he wasn't going to wear the Adams boots on the fire line. That they were for around the homestead.

[@andrewince8824]

"The reason that the rich were so rich, Vimes reasoned, was because they managed to spend less money. Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles. But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in ten years' time, while a poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet. This was the Captain Samuel Vimes "Boots" theory of socioeconomic unfairness."- Terry Pratchett.

[@michaelbyrd5573]

15 guns lol! I wear orthotic inserts to the tune of about $360 a set. Usually last around 12-24 month.. Folks look at me like I'm stupid and ask $360 JUST for inserts... I'd gladly pay $1,000 if it ment making my feet more comfortable. I've also been wearing Thorogood boots (USA) for nearly 10 years now. However, my new orthotics prove to be too much for pre-made boots. So, now I'm researching everywhere I can and exploring my options. Wesco, Whites, and maybe the Nick's, Adams, or Baker are all open for now. The heel I don't like but won't fuss 1 bit if it helps. The height on the other hand I can't deal with. Surprisingly some are available with 6" height. So glad we still have boot makers in the USA!

[@WS102]

My brother and I have each bought plenty of pairs of White's between us over the last 30 years and they've been nothing but fantastic. The classic Smokejumpers have always been around, but they've discounted their Pac Boot Elk Hunter line due to the lack of soles available in the US and they no longer make their waterproof Hunter line. Even so, I still keep going back as they're fantastic hand made boots. We both used to live in Spokane and White's has been in the area forever and making boots for almost 170 years.

[@rippn6124]

Not the original "Whites". Everyone local knows

[@Richardlizhu]

The word at 2:40 that you're looking for is "amortize". It's a word we use in computer science often

[@robeylemere]

I'm just starting out my lineman career and bought a pair of Nicks lineman boots... My poor wallet but i've been told by a bunch of guy's they're so worth it because you live in your boot, do you really want a cheap home for your feet?

[@cplaw3]

robert lemere is

[@billyroque7857]

I started with a pair of iron rangers. I thought they were the best thing ever. I bought other Red Wing shoes. Came across KZbin videos of Nick’s and Whites, found out the price for a new pair. Was skeptical about it at first but fascinated with the craftsmanship. Decided to go for the second hand market and found a great deal on Nick’s boots at 1/6th the price. Still in great shape with the first soles. They’re awesome. So, if you don’t want to buy new, consider second hands try them out, if you like them, resole them and you’ll have new shoes for life. Don’t like them, resale them and get your money back. There’s always a market for these boots. Just my two cents.

[@edsmith2562]

Been wearing whites packers since '87. Never regretted a penny spent. Both pairs went back to Spokane for a rebuild. My age takes me far away from the work I once did. I still have both pairs.

[@The1Rausch]

"Sometimes, my vocabulary outruns my education." we already knew, cody, thats why we

[@The1Rausch]

+The1Rausch btw. never saw a master shoemaker use phillips screws before. Interesting, no idea if i like it or not ;) In Europe custom shoes like that are more expensive, cause you need to pay about 350€ on the "Leisten" (the wooden copy of your feet) , and then at least 500€ on the boots ... 600$ , thats not expensive at all. Just saying...

[@The1Rausch]

Peter Šori how much money do you want to spent ? custom shoemaking as i know it is much more expansive here than in the us , cause there you send in your data , thats it . Here they make a wooden copy of one of your feet (some cases even both) and you have to pay for this in advance (300€) , the shoes start at about 550€ min up to 1200€ a pair. prices like in USA (about 400$) ... i have no idea ... work boots i use cause the employer allows them are called HAIX (brand, google it). they are ok, for the price, i guess... but not what i use privately (full leather, much more expansive)

[@The1Rausch]

in the low end price class those are the best, especially the woodworking ones and the Airpower x , look at www.haix.de

[@The1Rausch]

The FireHero2 seem pretty awesome, never saw them before, but the forrest protectors are awesome, and extremely safe and comf, i know that for a fact ;)

[@The1Rausch]

shoemakers i can help you with if you tell me in which city of europe you want to go to let them measure your feet BEFORE , so the question is , which city, and how much money ? England and paris is the most expansive, btw, i suggest eastern europe ;)

[@Squat5000]

Here is my feedback... After 1 year in the works, and 6 months or so waiting for my boots, and another few weeks in my boots, here we go. I purchased hot shots, rough out on everything but the sides of the upper. NFPA. Not for forestry use, but heavy shop and hiking with oil exposure. The boots were MURDER to break in! Took 1 week to get comfortable but they were still stiff, a bit of pain, frequent 50/50 alcohol water spray... But, as the first few weeks drew to an end, I couldnt get out of them. Wore them 12 hours at work, and another 4-6 hours lounging. If you CAN handle the pain and lace them up as TIGHT as you can without going numb, while spraying them down often and working them in, it will break in quicker than usual. They are UNBELIEVABLY comfortable. My experience with the boot is great. I had to have custom lasts made due to different foot structure than any they had before. The only way I could get them close was to take a cast of my foot and send it out. It was a pretty easy process though. My experience with Nick's themselves is mixed. They were happy to take my money, and happy to start the process, but the rest of it was a mix all the way to complete breakdown. My experience with the boot itself is killer. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. Step 1: Design, payment, checkout: Painless and straight forward. They did add a nice touch asking for the fit sheet and confirming the order. This is the last you will hear from them without taking initiative. Step 2: Send in fit sheet: MISERABLE FAILURE. I travel quite frequently, so it is difficult for me to always be home to send anything by mail. I had sent out my fit sheet 3 times. The first time I sent it out, I left on a trip and did not get back for 6 weeks. Having not heard anything from them, either confirming they received it or them asking if I sent it, I gave them a call. They did not get it. Round 2, similar story, about another month or so turn around. Round 3 I sent it priority with tracking and I finally confirmed they got it. What frustrated me was that I had to call back and make sure I was heard. If you dont call, you will be forgotten. Keep this in mind. Step 3: Fitter comes up with a close fitting boot in stock if applicable and they send one out. This turn around was within 2 weeks. Similar story, I travel but was able to get them just before heading out on a trip and was able to try them on and speak with the fitter to get the info he needed. This process was painless. I also communicated a few adjustments I need to assist my feet. My feet roll out so I had them build in a 1/4" roll bar and requested a higher arch on the outside. To aid them, I made a plaster cast and sent it out. It was well worth it, since the one they sent wasnt even close in some ways. It was amusing that one of the employees wound up using the foot casting for a Halloween prop (he asked, I said yes... Had no use since they built the last). Step 4: They build the boot. Not much to say here, it is just about waiting. My estimate was 6 weeks. By week 6 I called and they said it was shipping the end of the week. Week 7, no boots or tracking, so I call them up and they say it is shipping by end of week. Week 8, no boots or tracking, so I call them up and they say it is shipping... You get it by now. They shipped late Friday/ early Monday week 9. Step 5: Receiving and initial impressions. They were out of 108" leather laces, and shipped it with 90s. These are lace to toe, 12" high. There was no way the 90s would lace all the way up. It also shipped with 8" false tongue, standard for normal lacing, while 10" is for lace to toe. While these are small oversights, I would have expected 1, that for $700 (more due to custom lasts) it would ship with ALL of the right accessories. 2, I would have expected a proactive call saying they are out of the right laces, and that they have an alternative IN THE BOX ALREADY, or that they are going to ship one ASAP. I understand stock runs out. But for $700+, things better go smooth and small oversights shouldnt happen. I called, and yes they worked on a resolution. Again, keep in touch with them or they may forget about you. 108" nylon was shipped as well as 10" false tongue. 108" leather laces are on backorder and will ship when they are back in stock. Initial impression was that the build was great quality. The stitching was spot on. The leather was top tier quality. The half length sock liners are only held on with what looks like budget contact adhesive. Mine peeled up during breakin so I had to fix it myself. I would expect a better adhesive, but I am just not familiar enough with what bonds leather to make a recommendation. I used Gorilla glue. I didnt want to ship it back for this since it was a minor defect that I could remedy. Overall, I dont want to rib Nicks too much. The product is great, but the process can use some work. That is my only suggestion. The only reason I opted to have both custom upper and last made was because I was impressed enough with the test fit quality that I decided then I would buy another pair of something more casual in the future, budget permitting. I just dont want to run into ANY of the same issues next time around. I hope you ALL find this review clear and helpful. After having worn every boot but Whites, I can say these are my go to. Thanks Wranglerstar for introducing me to this company.

[@PeacefulKancer]

I am somewhere around step 2 with them. They got my tracing and called with a suggestion. They suggested a 8B boot (I'm a dude). So either I've been wearing horribly wrong sized boots or I totally measured wrong. On the Brannock I'm only a touch small on D (like the arrow lands 0.5mm smalled than D). So I'm not sure what to think. You are totally right about you having to take the initiative with them though! I called and left emails and messages like 3-4 times asking wtf was going on after 5 weeks of me sending the tracing.

[@InventiveReality]

Thanks for sharing about your experience in such detail. Very informative

[@ThrowingItAway]

I just got my Nicks 3 weeks ago and they're amazing, worth every dollar I spent. When my Redwing work boots fell apart on the inside I knew I needed to move on to a better boot. My life at work has improved so much because of the switch to a heeled boot with proper arch support

[@MindOverEverything]

I love my White's Smokejumpers, and while they are a little bit heavy, I have super-wide feet, and the custom fit is wonderful.

[@littletoyboy1]

Department of forest service has boots that was tan with red shoelaces look like Frankenstein shoe. I have been trying to find them no luck! Do you know the boots? It was the 70s I saw them! Anyhelp? Thanks

[@Joshgats20]

Thanks for the advice Wrangler star. The information given on these boots lead me to the right places. I ended up getting a pair of JK OT pros and what a massive difference vs my old red wings abd thorogoods! I went ahead and ordered a pair of Nicks builder pros as well.

[@hochhaul]

Whites makes nice boots. Just can't get past the idea of wearing boots that have heels higher than a woman's pumps.

[@exexpat11]

I feel the same about Loggers. Would prefer something more along the lines of Roper Heel height.

[@BrianJacobson]

This is the trend on the internet lately in the gun/survival/prepping community. You can't even discuss high end items without a ton of ignorant people flooding the zone with comments about how they can't afford it.

[@Cammckinstry]

This video convinced me, I've worked for a short line railroad for 3 years now and ill be getting a pair of these when my redwings wear out. I'm 21 now and dont want to look like some of the old heads with shot knees and backs when I'm 40

[@cr4zyj4ck]

Some of these boots can take a few months to make due to small companies with high backlogs of orders, best order yourself a pair before the redwings give out.

[@RRaucina]

Wear what you want, or the most expensive. I assure you gravity will wreck your back anyway, and no matter what you do. Take me for example

[@billbutler2452]

I'm a retired Stationary Engineer, worked for the state in larger residential facilities, (state prisons & state Hospitals 1979 - 2012. I knew of Whites and other high $ custom boots, didn't feel I required it at my level of job requirements. I wore Red Wing 8" lace-ups w/ an extra wide toe box, smooth soles (most of my work was Boiler Rooms, Commercial-type kitchens, Laundries, potable water treatment, Well Fields, Lug soles were too messy.) No steel toes. My habits were keeping them clean, cared for, oiled. I laced them 'Ladder Style', learned from a Vet Paratrooper, so they always stayed tight. I learned from a Grand ma to tie the Bow knot with a double loop instead of a single loop over the bows as this kept them tied, never came loose. Grandma taught me this in the pre-Velcro era to tie the laces on toddlers' shoes so they ought to stay on , and it did the trick. A pair of boots would last 2 to 4 years, with the leather uppers dying from all the chemicals I used in Boiler water treatment & maintenance and potable water treatment and disinfection. never made it to wearing out the soles. Being retired, I now usually wear Birkie Sandals, but I still have my boots and life experience when the job requires a bit of safety & security.

[@Condor1970]

Wesco are also pretty good for the average non-fire fighting guy wanting a solid boot.

[@clockworkgamerguy]

"Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles. But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that’d still be keeping his feet dry in ten years’ time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet. This was the Captain Samuel Vimes ‘Boots’ theory of socioeconomic unfairness." -Terry Pratchett

[@TheArtyBartfast]

That's not a vibram fire sole, is it? I thought that they have a red tag rather than yellow. I also wonder what the impact of going with a single ply leather sole rather than the double leather sole used in traditional logger and fireworker boots?

[@therobertsonj712]

I’ll tell you what, I know of very few men that have the same intellectual way with words as Cody does. Every video I watch, every minute that passes, I feel smarter. It’s so amazing that a person can make a 20 minute video of ones self talking and manage to make it feel like a minuscule 2 minutes to the viewer. I will forever be appreciative of the content you put out Cody! You really do a fine job!

[@ziaride]

I'd like to thank Wranglerstar for introducing me to these boots many years ago. I'd kept my eye on them for years, watching many reviews and cut aparts and finally pulled the trigger on some Nick's 6 or 7 years after finding out about them through WS. In the process I found out one foot was a different size and width than the other and one foot had an extremely high arch and the other had collapsed and I also had a taylor's bunion with the high arch. No wonder I've had uncomfortable ill fitting shoes my entire life. I'm about 3 weeks in breaking in the Nick's and they are fantastic and should only get better. I don't think I can ever go back to store bought shoes. Thank you so much, I cant believe it took me over 40 years to get a pair of well fitting shoes.

[@pwoink]

Thanks for this overview! I appreciate that you didn't go into the technical details and just really elaborated on your gut feeling -- it spoke to me!

[@Rangerglx]

We pay $100's of dollars to talk on the phones without even blinking an eye! Quality NEVER goes out of style in my mind!

[@monkytrane]

I’m a land surveyor on the Oregon Coast, it’s safe to say that I traversed some of the most brutal terrain in the lower 48 states. I have used Whites for years and I’m considering Nicks for my next purchase. I’d easily spend $500 on a pair of boots such as those shown in this video.

[@quinntitchkosky5396]

I work as a Lang surveyor on Vancouver Island, my nicks and Canada west boots are my favourite by far.

[@jimjr4432]

Oh gosh, I bought my Whites in 1978ish for $200ish and as a forester although they were a few weeks pay, I just loved them, the best footwear I have ever worn. The boots I have now will never equal those Whites, perhaps I should try them again. I'm 76, so won't be able to wear them out but would love to try.

[@XCritonX]

Id pay $600 for a paid of custom made dress shoes. They will last a lifetime, instead of buying $120 dress shoes every 3 years. Most people are not very good at calculating long term value.

[@seigeengine]

Sure, but people need to be taught to think long term. Long term planning isn't generally a biological priority.

[@GeorgeMonet]

I like buying new shoes though...

[@thumperjeep]

Most people don't take care of their SH#$

[@WizardVespian]

I bought a pair of Danner Pronhorn's. 8 inch full leather boots. Cost me $240. They are not custom fit, to be sure... but they fit me well, and are very comfortable. I've only got a year on them, but so far they are holding up quite well with proper treatment. I've never heard of these brands, but I'll look into them when it comes time to replace these Danners. I've got no problem spending that kind of money on a good pair of boots. By the way, have you heard of Montana Pitch-Blend? I've been using it for a year now on my boots, and I consider it to be a top notch conditioner and sealant. It's made from a mix of beeswax, pine pitch, and treated mink oil. Some of that leather looks dried out. I think they would have benefited from a proper conditioner.

[@WizardVespian]

Doug K. That is the only thing that I've found so far to dislike about my Pronghorns. They are not able to be resoled because part of the sole is glued on. When the outer sole wears out, the boots are done. Besides that... the comfort, waterproofing and ruggedness of these boots is more than enough to make me happy, and I would not be surprised at all if got 8 years out of them. At $240 new it's almost not even worth it to rework the boots anyways.

[@lamarzimmermanmennonitefar5269]

I've worn Carolina 821s for 15 years now. I'm from a family dairy farm in upstate NY. As a kid we would put up about 5000 small squares and shoe around 1200 head of road horses per year. The Carolinas are nice and light and breathe well for our sweaty feet. Once I got a pair the rest of my brothers and eventually even Dad had a pair. The only thing that killed the boots was silo acid and manure.

[@danielroncaioli6882]

After years in the army and years in public service, you learn one important thing. Always take care of your feet.

[@Jedi71]

Imagine...a guy with 15 guns is afraid what others think of his manhood. Lol.

[@Joe11Blue]

A man with A gun, shouldn't care. You only need a single gun.

[@GunnerAsch1]

@@Joe11Blue A family only needs a single toothbrush...right?

[@Joe11Blue]

@@GunnerAsch1 If they all only have a single set of teeth, or the family only has a single member you would be correct.

[@GunnerAsch1]

@@Joe11Blue interesting. So a small concealable revolver is fine for hunting elk and upland birds in your opinion? Or pehaps a 375 H&H is adequate for pheasants and carry for self defense for cab driver then? Fascinating indeed!

[@stuff8605]

As a democrat that grew up shooting guns and lived on a ranch a while, I can agree with having more than one gun for different purposes. Having 15, you don't neeeeeed it, but people are into different stuff. I just think we should do more screening to weed out folk that are not mentally well, and have a bigger budget for those with mental issues to take care of them.

[@brushbum7508]

I have several pairs of White's Smokejumpers, And I bought about the last pair of brown Rough outs White's made ,Original packers, Clodhopper's, I v'e had 1pair since I was 18 I'm 59 now I bought a Nick's years ago in a RoughOut, they've done very well also.

[@milesmetcalfe94]

@wranglerstar what do you make of Red Wing and Viberg boots?

[@Jozeemoss]

Absolutely love Vibergs. Wish they were included in the video. My father owned a boot repair shop for over ten years and I can attest that they are right up there with Nicks. After fixing many boots myself I would say Vibergs and Nicks definitely last the longest.

[@Jozeemoss]

Absolutely love Vibergs. Wish they were included in the video. My father owned a boot repair shop for over ten years and I can attest that they are right up there with Nicks. After fixing many boots myself I would say Vibergs and Nicks definitely had the best longevity. Redwings not so much to be honest.

[@smcohen10]

I watched this video when it came out and thought about getting a pair of quality boots. After saving up for some time, I found that Nick’s have changed hands and Franks boots has many of the previous employees and even the same shop that nick’s were once made. I choose Franks because the customer service seemed exceptional and Franks knowledge was far superior to the people at Nick’s. I would love to have a wranglerstar opinion. Especially because Nick’s uses your videos for a lot of marketing.

[@NorthernMaggot]

smcohen10 also went with franks boots and have been extremely pleased. I ordered a second pair.

[@christopherdavisson617]

Look, I'm a Red Wing boot lover. And some people think it's stupid to spend that kind of money on a boot. I don't own a pair of White's or Nick's boots. And again, I love my Red Wings. For my life style they are all I'd ever need as far as reliability goes. That being said? I am very close to purchasing my first pair of White's (350 Cruisers) and once I recover financially from that? I intend on purchasing a pair of Nick's (Urban Loggers). I love my Red Wings, I do. That being said? I love boots. And why wouldn't I want a pair of boots from the two best brands (durability wise) in the USA and possibly the world. If anybody thinks that's stupid? Well that's their problem. Let alone someone like you that actually needs boots like that. Keep up the vids man. More of us love em than the few who don't get it.

[@jimmystractors1427]

my work boot of choice (I'm no fire fighter) are Red Wing 202's. Broke in in about 3 or 4 days (constant wear) and are comfy as heck now!

[@anhmy2000]

Jimmy's Tractors w

[@jimmystractors1427]

Derek Cranston ?

[@FlaccidCaulk]

it's his favorite letter.

[@turtlepowersf]

John Pender M

[@HydeMyJekyll]

turtlepowersf G

[@grahamgeiger3206]

I know this is a old video but I'll put my experiences anyway. I've been wearing Handmade Boots for the last 12 years and if you wearing them in rough environments they are totally worth it. I started with a pair of wescos that were custom fitted for my fat feet. They fit great and I wore them through a couple of rebuilds. My only complaint with them was i wasnt crazy about how the lace to toe looked on me but that is purely a cosmetic deal. I got a different job that required steel toes and I needed boots in a hurry so ended up with a pair of Redwing. Complete trash after 4 months. Since then I've been wearing whites steeltoe smokejumpers and one pair has always been perfect even after 2 rebuilds now. Another pair has never fit me as good and they always squeak even after complete 2 rebuilds which drives me nuts. I got a new pair heading my way so hopefully this pair wears like the good pair. I have just recently got a pair of nicks non steal toe for home chores and what not but have not fully broken them in yet. They seem very nice. For some reason the left foot seems almost broke in but the right foot still gets one sore spot but I've sure they will bed in. I'm with you on once good boots break in you pretty much don't take them off till you go to bed. If you work or play hard they are worth every penny.

[@zachattack-b6t]

I’d love to meet a man who can trash a pair of red wings in 4 months. Mine are just getting broke in at that point. You must work much harder than me. Good luck to you.

[@sfite4693]

Probably not their heritage line. They have cheaper work boots made overseas when you go to their storefronts.

[@rebelliousfineart8202]

My brother, I've fallen in love with your content over this last week. Thank you for that. I am going to make a suggestion or, rather, offer some advice from one man to another. You don't need to explain yourself so much. Other boot enthusiasts such as myself are going to watch this video and hear what you have to say regardless of somebody who can't afford or understand why you would make the extra stretch for something you enjoy.

[@davegoodridge8352]

I don't fight wildland fires, but I do work for a living. Good boots are a must. Taking care of ones feet is a must. Pay now or pay later.

[@cathydow1866]

I've had two pair of whites in 27 yrs working as a millwright

[@wranglerstar]

They are good aren't they?

[@davidbuschhorn6539]

They'll ship them anywhere in the world.

[@i1bike]

What is a millwright

[@joshbenton810]

@@i1bike they move, repair assemble etc machinery

[@joshbenton810]

Actually that sounds a bit too tame, they build and maintain industrial machinery, basically an industrial engineer/ builder

[@theintruder77]

I have had a pair of GWB Badlanders for over 30 years and they have never let me down. 30 years ago they cost $250.00 CDN. They were always used in harsh conditions in the wilderness of Northern Ontario. Always cleaned and treated after every (yes every) use. Moneysworth Black Wax and Dubbin waterproofing. They still look relatively new after all this time. Look after your boots and they will nearly last forever. Changed the laces to parachute cord because cord is more useful if needed.

[@Dmhlcmb]

I like Redwings. I’ve had 4 pair in the last 20 years and they’ve always broken in easily and lasted a very long time. They aren’t cheap but they aren’t $600.

[@quantumleap4023]

He seems pretty biased in this video. Sure you can't beat a $600 pair of Nick's, but I've had amazing boots from companies like Redwing, Georgia, Danner, even Timberland...

[@j0sh368]

yea, thorogood, irish setter, wolverine and ariat are all good

[@dr.thunder2632]

I have a boot for every occasion, Irish setter = shop work carolina = firewood red wing = firewood ariat = dirt biking justins = special columbia = school Muck = winter or water

[@zebmccollum]

Quantum Leap it’s easy to get biased when you’re comparing sirloin steaks to filet mignon, except this filet mignon lasts a lot longer than one sitting. I spent $200 on Irish setters two harbors and bought their best insole fitted to my feet for $60 and those Irish setters almost make me cry at the end of the day. My main boots I wear are Meindl hiking boots, most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned. They have cork insoles that for to your arch and feet that really hugs them, and both cost over $300 a piece. Only downside is they aren’t steel toe, they aren’t pull on, laces are susceptible to getting burnt when I weld, the insoles cost $40 to replace, and they are harder to find.....until they finally established Meindl USA. I’ve worn pacos red wings and those almost kill me. I have a pair of their Polyurethane steel toe mud mini-lug boots that are surprisingly comfortable even though they have the same insole in them as my Irish setters, except that poly does not break-in at all.

[@ownlywon]

you probably will never work them as hard as someone who bought a pair of nicks or whites though, they are made for different things. I guarantee you would not want to take your redwings on a fire. also i have a feeling your only wearing them as casuals, these boots are made as work boots, not as a fashion statement that redwings are. Ive had tons of other boots like danners, lowa, zamberlain, scarpas and none of them have stood up to the pair of whites that i have. your comparing two very different things

[@paxtonk2]

@wranglerstar, I was just watching the boots playlist. I noticed that in the video titled "Adam"s Boots the verdict is in" you mentioned specifically that you asked Adam to lessen the weight of the boot to make it a more athletic boot. I think that you should have mentioned this in this review of your Adams Boot so that people would know it isn't a true apple to apple comparison. Overall, great job and keep up the great work!

[@jeffreyyeater1780]

I saw it too.

[@TheSimisunshine]

My dad worked making boots, his 20s at Nick's , i ran around that shop when I was little before they moved to market street when they where still in the spokane valley, and now they are there again . and his 30s to mid 40s at whites before he died in 2008. This was interesting!

[@turnersparadise8368]

Wonder how my Walmart flip-flops would hold up in a wildland fire...

[@fisher1972]

Flip flops? Who can afford those? I just tie Walmart sacks around my feet,good to go!

[@jacobhillen3998]

+fisher1972 paper or plastic

[@DadDare]

+Jacob Hillen paper. it lasts longer. haha

[@arborist460]

+Tenspeed TheBikeHanger my survivors rock...

[@TheSoloAsylum]

+Tenspeed TheBikeHanger They would hold up just fine...on the drive out there.

[@christopherharpster9330]

I learned the hard way not to skip out on boots. My first fire season I went out and bought myself a pair of cheap Tractor Supply logging boots. They weren't bad, especially because it wasn't really a bad season, and I was only running with one volunteer department. So I ended up wearing them when I took my training, that's where I learned to buy once cry once. Our instructor had us make a fire line, gave us specs, and basically said get after it. Well after about a half an hour or so, I noticed an audible slap after I took a step. I looked down and sure enough, the front of the sole was starting to pull apart from the boot itself, right at my toes. Luckily, I had thought it through and brought my hunting boots along as back ups, so at the break I went back to my truck, changed into those, and was able to continue on the rest of the day. After that, I only wore Red Wings up until this season, where I plan to buy myself a pair of Nick's. I wanted to do it last season, but I wanted to make sure my feet were fully done growing before I spent the money on something that hopefully I can get 10+ years on

[@icevariable9600]

Excellent video. I immediately subbed. I do electrical work on new construction, normally buy Red Wing, but you talked me into trying Nicks. The one I think I want is the BuilderPro Safety Toe - Cutter's Choice. Thanks again.

[@Zendail]

Damn, and i thought my 300 dollar Danners were expensive.

[@KegzTandOG]

They don’t compare to Whites or Nicks. Even Frank’s are pretty nice. Or JK boots. All 4 of those are top notch handmade boots.

[@hustlehumbly6169]

Love my danners

[@NorthernContrarian]

In my experience the ones who complain fall into the following categories: 1. Don't know what they're talking about 2. Don't need the gear, tool etc. professionally or use them a lot 3. Are envious for not being able to afford it (there's a lot of stuff I'd want that I cannot afford but it doesn't make the product crap) 4. Work for a competitor If you wear something on your body day in and day out you will want something that is comfortable and lasts. My own brother is a fire fighter and I'd never buy some of the gear he has as it's way too expensive for my needs. But it doesn't mean that they're not great. I on the other hand was in the military and during my time there I'd by specific gear from the civilian market that was just better, more reliable or made my life easier than the ones gov. provided (in some countries no civilian gear is allowed but where I'm from it is as long as it isn't "visible" i.e. the uniform needs to be intact etc.). I also had boots bought by myself that conformed with the uniform code but were custom made for me and a lot of other stuff. When you go on a mission that will have you walk in rough terrain, in hostile territory for a day(s) you do not want your feet to give up on you when you need them to work. The same way you'd not want to be stuck on a mountain or cold climate with your scrotum hurting due to poor underwear which most gov. provided gear is. So you'd buy your own for a lot of money. All this is true for any profession. Replace boots, clothing or tools with software for professional video editor, or designers. People somehow seem to forget that when it comes to things worn on the person.

[@Herbster41]

Went down a rabbit hole in search of boots made in USA. Narrowed it down to Nick's and White's - found out White's was bought by the parent co. in Japan. Six months later my Nick's Overlanders showed up at my door. Put them on immediately (of course) and within an hour I was not uncomfortable. Headed out two days later for a hunting trip in the Ozarks - straight into it. Up and down mountains, water, mud, rocks, you name it. The boots only got better. I'll probably get another pair, so that when I send these in for service I won't miss'm so much.

[@davidrafferty5511]

Ya. I bought a second pair for same reason. Two pair of boots should last another 12-15 years. Better than slippers!

[@dolanschmidt356]

Have been wearing whites boots since 1980 love them

[@wyley87]

Cody this video has made my decision. I'm a mechanic and I've gone through several pair of Redwing 2408's since my teens. Can't wait to get a pair of size 16 Nick's. :)

[@chip9177]

In tens years would you rather: A. 4-5 pairs of inexpensive boots, or, B: one pair of expensive well fitting boots?

[@Darltornjacket]

I was a surveyor as a young man and I learned early that good boots make for a good day

[@marinebatley]

WS, I just had the same Vibram soles put on my Georgias. Mine are some old Georgia Giants that I've had for about 10 years. They are not for wildland firefighting or even long hikes. They're for standing long periods of time. Sometimes, I have to get out in the elements and train USMC first responders. They were about $150 when I got them and for my purposes, they're great. I'm not trying to compare mine to yours. I'm simply saying don't worry about what some naysayer hit's you with online. Who are we if we can't be ourselves and do what makes us happy? That includes the footwear we choose. I enjoy your videos and you should do what you do regardless of some "expletive" trying to bring you down.

[@simonsays5979]

There's two places you don't skimp on spending, boots/shoes and a bed

[@corneliuscrewe8165]

The upfront price of the boots isn’t what frightens me about these boots, it’s the fact I have an INCREDIBLY difficult time over the years finding footwear that works for me. I have a pile of boots that seemed great at first but became unwearable after a fairly short period. What scares me is spending that much money on boots that might not ever get worn. On the other hand, I would hope custom boots like these would alleviate that problem.

[@MindbodyMedic]

you probably have some issues with gait, go ask a podiatrist or speak to a cobbler.

[@jbsimmons54]

There's always a resale market for near near / gently used boots. Sell the ones that don't fit and go custom fit on your next pair. Custom fit is worth every penny. I do that for my Wesco boots and cowboy boots.