Legendary John Lofgren Engineer Boots - Boots Review

I've been waiting to pull the trigger on a pair of engineer boots for years. To be fair, I do have a pair of Nicks engineer boots but they're much more ;ike a work boot that I use for riding my motorcycle.
The thing with engineers is that they're much more rare. I could probably count on both hands the companies offering decent engineer boots. Sure there are Red Wings and Wescos, but laced boots far outnumber these by a huge margin.
Engineer boots are very much like supercars - they're rare, elite, yet only a few makers get the proportions right and even then only on certain models. John Lofgren got it right with these Devils Causeway engineer boots!
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Reviews of clothing, boots, and accessories for men, along with style advice and life philosophy. I've been working with my hands for my entire life as a mechanic, tow truck driver, and eventually a licensed electrician. Being a blue collar guy, I look for certain elements in a product: is it durable? Is it high-quality? Will it perform well over its service life? Whether boots, pants, jackets, or tools I believe it's best to buy once and cry once by getting the best you can afford. With so many options these days, choosing the best product can become a difficult decision, but that's where I come in. Helping you stay stylish, rugged, and handsome.
I don't care where it's made as long as it's made well, and allows you to buy less and buy better.

[@holdthatblaow]

I feel like yo uare the most honest reviewer. I don't think a lot of people would admit the sizing issue issue and what you had to do to make it work. Good on you!

[@erikbetancourt7194]

I only have 3 pair of cowboy boots. All costing $1K and higher. I would buy these boots because I always re sole them and know they will last 15 plus years like my other ones. If you don't re sole them, then your right, maybe a least expensive pair would serve you better. Awesome boots.

[@nathana.4752]

The Japanese have a great love for Americana and create the best jeans, boots, and military repros. It's hard to find any quality elsewear.

[@CarlMurawski]

You’re right, they tend to set the bar for so many of these type of items.

[@kodoyama]

I've owned a pair of Real McCoy's Buco horsehide engineer boots for ten years and they're quite simply the most incredible boots I've ever owned. Shinki horsehide is indescribably sublime.

[@shermansav]

MacArthur's legacy

[@TonberryShuffle]

The japanese, culturally, will turn it into a labor of love and turn it into an art. That's why there's that higher level of craftsmanship. It's great.

[@stone4248]

You'll never be able to get your foot in that boot forget about it you'll have to call somebody.

[@ahmadkhalid4278]

Yo, Carl, why don't we have a review of the Nick's Renegade??! I've been looking for something (A review) worthwhile on the internet for a while now but to no avail. I would greatly love a video from you on them.

[@CarlMurawski]

Jeeze, I guess I figured I had done so many Nicks videos that people were tired of them! I’d happily do a review of these!

[@CorrosiveColin]

@@CarlMurawski Something tells me the people that follow this channel are uniquely dedicated to quality. From the host (yourself) to the products you feature. We all care about quality goods. If Nick's makes a quality boot we want to hear about it. If Filson makes another incredible waxed canvas jacket we want to know about it. Love the content, sir.

[@charlesbronson240]

Carl Murawski id love to see more nicks.

[@jerrystoneman3560]

I got mine from s&s for around 950. Could not fit the left boot for the life of me for the first y year. Now 4-5 yrs later they fit like a glove. I could see them lasting for my lifetime, and passing them to my grandkids. 10 of 10. Highly recommend 🤠

[@logdog4010]

I’d love to see a video about nicks engineer boot

[@MaurizioBunkus]

To those still trying to wrap their head around the price: Horsehide of this quality is not cheap, neither is manufacturing by a single artisan with a slow, laborious, high quality stitching process. The price is a mixture of, of course, the high-end sought after material and the very valuable time of a very skilled craftsperson. Craftspeople of this calibre are a dying breed, and these craftspeople and their techniques (which I'd argue are historically important, let alone just... better...) are at risk of fading away entirely if people are no longer willing to pay the price.

[@CarlMurawski]

Absolutely agreed!!!!

[@jeffroberts9536]

I have dozens of pairs of high end cowboy boots (Lucchese, JB Hill) and they all slip on easily but I REALLY had a tough time with my Julian Engineer boots..I think it's the strap on the instep....but, like you, once they're on, they're golden. John Lofgren engineers are on my list. Thanks so much for the review!

[@chidoiguan]

True that my brother I just got my pair in Burgundy and I couldn’t get my left foot inside the first time I tried them on ! 😂. The second time was a struggle and to take them off I almost brake my back! 🤣 but you’re right, once they’re in ahh pure heaven! Now, there are two boot makers that ppl say they are better: Bryan (the role club) in LA. Whose waiting times is like 2 years! And White Kloud, whom you are required to meet him in person..in Japan!! now his work is out of this world. Cheers! Enjoy yours in great health!

[@krookdfinra]

sometimes its not the cost but the quality that youre paying for in the end. that workmanship and quality is what makes these worth it. handmade master craftsman level work is always worth the cost.

[@dudewuttheheck]

These are beautiful. I love my Lofgren engineers as you know, but this leather is much nicer!

[@CarlMurawski]

Thanks buddy, if there’s anyone who knows about engineer boots it’s you!

[@fullmetalroyal1216]

Carl I know you're on more on the high end spectrum of the boot world but might I suggest you take a look at john doe boots? Horween leather boots for under $300 would love to see you review those

[@CarlMurawski]

Definitely on the list!

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

I always wondered about the heal lift in this style. I have a friend who would swear by engineer boots, personally, I like my boots at 6in max. but damn, do they look nice.

[@Bubbles99718]

In '95 I bought a Honda ST 1100 motorcycle. At the same time picked up a pair of Durango Engineers, 150 bux. Since I have learned that Durangos are considered on the low end but I love these things. Always get compliments. The patina is great, comfortable and I have some good stories about them. I'll share the best story. Was working on a Will Farrel movie, reshoots. Around 2010 I think. 2nd unit was there on the same stage. They had a set of drums and they needed a close up shot the drummer working the pedal. The wardrobe guy told the director they really didn't have the shoes. Director asked "what do you need?" Was casually sitting around 15 feet away, the guy pointed at my boots and said "Those." I replied, "Make me an offer." I let the guy wear them. To have those suckers validated by an A list wardrobe guy for a Joe Kool shot is pretty, well, Joe Kool. Love it and them.

[@guylewis7418]

I like the way you put that: you're buying art.

[@nickmanglitz8980]

i've never cared for engineer boots. however, these ARE GORGEOUS...!

[@discgolfboy9]

Awesome boots! I’ve often heard Role Club being in the discussion of best engineer boots. How would you say they compare in value with John Lofgrens?

[@CarlMurawski]

Unfortunately I don’t own any, but I think Brian actually does a lot more hand work on his boots unless I’m mistaken. Like a hand welt rather than a machine stitched storm welt.

[@muchasgracias6976]

Yes, those boots are proper nice, but that mug on your desk is straight fire bro. Details please, Mr. M!

[@TheMidnightModder]

Would boots like these appreciate in value? If treated well how long would they last? (100 years max?) If you're not paying for the name (a name that I've never heard of) is it actually worth it? I loved this video too, thank you for showing off these bad boys 😁

[@CarlMurawski]

It’s hard to say, I would think that the fancy leather and somewhat exclusivity would make them collectible but only to someone who wants them.

[@Iamjustdanny]

The grocery bag on the feet. I'll have to keep that in mind if/when i get a pair of engineers of my own. I've always wanted a pair of engineers and adding this as an option, along with the Viberg bison leather engineers and Wesco's offerings.

[@peterk7713]

Come to Vancouver, BC and try on a pair of Dayton Engineers. They'll be the last pair of boots you'll ever need.

[@CarlMurawski]

You definitely don’t need to tell me twice! I’d love to!

[@SuperFlowback]

John lofgren and role club are the best looking engineer boots in my opinion. Their not too flat and not too bulbous, their right in the middle of that. Which is perfect to me. I’ve own my John lofgren boots for several years now and their absolute tanks. Plus, not only do they still look great but they look even better broke in. But, My next pair of of boots will be the role club. I’ve been lusting over those boots since I first seen them.

[@MrTian1212]

I have both Wesco and JL. I actually love my Wesco bit more than JL. Not because of size, I have narrow feet (fortunately in this case). It’s just JL feels a little bit too fancy to me, like a fancy dress boots in form of engineer boots. Nonetheless, can’t go wrong with any of them.

[@CarlMurawski]

Agreed! Do you have the Mister Lou or the Boss Boot?

[@MrTian1212]

@@CarlMurawski I got Mister Lou. Love it so much, I can’t even take it off.

[@NoblemansXchange]

I appreciate anyone who is passionate for high standard of quality. Such as John Lofgren. I recently ordered a pair of Standard and Strange x Wesco engineers in waxed olive. I like Wesco engineers because of the pull loop on the top of the back strap and the triple stitching throughout. You spoke on the difficulty of the first time donning them and it reminded me of the first time donning my redwing engineers. It was a painful experience. My wife and I were cracking up when you mentioned the grocery bags on the feet but it works!!! Have a great weekend Carl!

[@CarlMurawski]

I looked like such a fool but it worked. I’m pretty sure my wife was just in the other room shaking her head at me.

[@trevorallen5988]

Carl and Rose Anvil are the 2 best boot channels on KZbin!

[@extraitdeminimalisme2533]

I’m sure Lofgren’s clientele are people with a shit ton of disposable income and the tastes to match. I have the latter.. but I know their are plenty ouf people out there with both. As you said, it’s art and will last a lifetime.

[@vishaljdeodhar5445]

Hey Carl, pls review those Nicks engineer’s. I am eying in them but the disclaimer regarding the fit on their website kind of sets me back.

[@CH-bp3bj]

Thank you for another great review! S&S is awesome! My favorite Denim and Boots Shop in the Bay Area. I’ve ordered from them and been in the shop. Once everything is a little more settled in the future I’m going to make a trip to the Bay Area and get a pair of John Jofgren Engineers. Legendary!

[@JURASSIC_JACK1]

I just got into the boot and denim scene about a year ago:) was stoked to find out S&S was near me

[@daiburt1833]

Lot of money for two horse shoes

[@furiousstrawhat8526]

Hey Carl, maybe have a look at Onderhoud?

[@Banzai431]

You're absolutely right. I already knew before clicking on this video, and I've already gotten a pair. Just wanted to see what you thought of them.

[@Dunkaroos248]

I’m so lucky standard and strange is only about 20 minutes away from me

[@Richard_Lush]

Julian too and Mister Freedom. Those are beautiful. Defeet hahaha. Baseball bat and leather stretcher. Great video and good information. They will form to your exact foot. I’d buy em new not used. Someone else’s foot made em. Yeah heel lift is not good. Ask my Achilles tendon. Cheers. Leather jackets, jeans, boots. Don’t cheap out you can have em forever. Just don’t go trendy. Will be out in a month. Spend the money if you have it. My Julian’s have a pull up strap on the top of the back that you can easily get your fingers in and really help pulling them up. Surprised more engineers don’t have that.

[@junepetr3481]

I had pre paid for a pair of these. I waited and waited. And finally got a letter saying there were issues with the horsehide and would I want to wait. I said yes. I then received another letter saying sorry you will not be receiving a pair due to they were going to fulfill orders from the top of the list of when the order was placed. I was pissed. I bought a pair of Wescos in horsehide. They are breaking in nice, but they are not The Devils Causeway. I’m still bummed. I wish I could have purchased a 9.5. I can only imagine the used market for these in the future. Enjoy them and if they are a 9.5 or 10 and you would want to part ways with them, keep me in mind.

[@John_Lofgren]

I have a pair of 9.5 for you. Contact me at [e-mail]

[@Camelwho]

I purchased a lightly used pair of Lofgrens in Natural CXL and they came in this week. I've worn them two days and I have to say, of the three pairs of engineers I've owned they are hands down the best. I'm fortunate that I can (barely) get me feet in, and once in they fit perfectly.

[@gniewko125]

They are indeed truly beautiful. Even though they are not my style I completely understand why you would spend this kind of money. Personally my end game would be Edward Green Galway. Keep it up :)

[@CarlMurawski]

Thank you!!

[@7fightboy]

I work 12 hours a day on concrete and my current boots are killing me. What type of boot or shoe would anyone recommend for that? I notice Nicks makes a "traveler" style boot that doesn't have a heel. Is it preferable to get that style for standing, are heels beneficial for this, or should I go the route of getting a high quality shoe?

[@CarlMurawski]

I'd go with a wedge sole for sure. In my experience nothing is more comfortable on concrete.

[@7fightboy]

Wow, honestly didn't expect a reply thank you for the help

[@Digger927]

$1200!?!?! Those damn things better be made out of Secretariat's ass. ROFL, sorry...I'm just kidding. Those are cool man, thanks for sharing.

[@CarlMurawski]

Hahahaha right on!

[@montyv3909]

The only downside for me is that they don’t make them bigger than size 12

[@ElNietoPR]

Now I want a pair of John Lofgren Engineer boots😖

[@strengthandbulkMadness]

Basically paying for the horsehide but I get the artistic aspect. Look wise and quality you can go with a non steel toe Chippewa engineer boot like Whirlwind or Street Warrior. They are not lined but have the same sleek look and Vibram soles. I have them a few years now and still haven’t put a dent in them wearing them casual and occasional. I also have Wesco Boss I wear in the winter. Still haven’t put a dent in those either.

[@logansmith9437]

I bought my chippewa engineers last year brand new on Ebay for $60. Hard to beat and they are pretty nice although they were most likely factory seconds. I've almost broken them in as the leather is pretty tough, but nothing some conditioner and time wont take care of.

[@strengthandbulkMadness]

Logan Smith Yes the Chippewa engineer boots take a while to break in. It seemed impossible at first but now they slip on and off.

[@waxa3869]

These really do look amazing. One thing I don't like on boots are the ones that are designed so that they're the centerpiece of your whole outfit. I like a boot that can blend into a cohesive whole with what you're wearing and doesn't draw everyone's eyes. This is that. Amazing construction, beautiful leather but they don't draw everyone's eyes at the same time. Honestly it's hard to find a more perfect style in my opinion.

[@CarlMurawski]

I agree completely, but I wish i could have said it as well as you!!!

[@dennisnordlund902]

I just got a pair of Lofgrens Engineers and they’re seriously the best boots I’ve ever had. Even better than the 2k Carpe Diem boots I had several years ago. Looks killer with my horsehide tailgunner from Simmons Bilt.

[@CarlMurawski]

Great buy man, congratulations!

[@dennisnordlund902]

@@CarlMurawski Thanks man! They’re so amazing I can barely find words typ describe.

[@paulsawczyc5019]

Heel sticks out too far in the back, and is too high - your toes will be cramped forward and will hurt. Not good footwear for driving a car. I will pass on these.

[@jacobchavez4719]

They are indeed beautiful. I am one of those people who believe that if a product is well made to such degree of perfection and it’s quality is just outstanding, one can save up and get what we really want in this life. Personally I am not saying ‘I will buy them,’ but I am not saying ‘no’, either. Maybe down the road.

[@qmenx]

Have you try Frye boots? What do you think about it? They made a good engineer boots. Great content, thank you.

[@eugenedebs3281]

Just got my pair of John Lofgren engineer boots and they feel and look amazing!

[@John-dx8xn]

This brand talked shit about USA in Japan, do some search in Japanese.

[@splashpit]

I love the look the colour is insane but unfortunately I have a work injury to my foot that restricts what I can slip it into .

[@rob.carrillo]

I would actually like to see some stuff by you specifically for heritage style motorcycle gear.

[@Karl413]

I would personally like to see what Role Club thinks about these boots as well. I have a pair in black, had the same issue with putting them on and taking them off. But once they break in, I would say one of the most comfortable and best looking boots out there. I would definitely get more of John’s boots and sneakers (whenever they become available again).

[@ThaBKeeper]

Congrats on the lofgrens, I have 3 pairs of his lace ups in my collection

[@CarlMurawski]

Damn! I’ve gotta catch up! How do you like the ones you own? Any insights from a long time wearer?

[@ThaBKeeper]

@@CarlMurawski love them all, the monkey boots in black CXL especially are my favourite boots out of my entire collection. Theyre incredibly comfortable and I have no doubt you'll love your engineers.

[@justdoit4348]

This is another level of perfection. Incredible!

[@CarlMurawski]

Right?? Beauties!

[@Matt.Collins]

They don't come in my size 🤷‍♂️

[@skycorrigan6511]

5 wide?

[@Blakely901]

The way that they are spinning around reminds me of skyrim

[@nathanu.6931]

True comment!

[@jamieko4280]

Great review Carl as always and congratulations to you getting a pair of perfectly fit John Lofgren in gorgeous Shinki horsehide! I share the same high instep 'problem'' and the heel counter silhouette makes it a tough job getting my feet inside. In my case, toe room is spacious while heel lift is quite significant. Just as you said, engineer boots are tricky, too bad narrow shaft with a slimmed silhouette is often not meant for us with high instep.

[@getredytagetredy]

You dont wear socks with leather...!!!... Socks with a leather boot is like mustard on ice cream...SANS. SOCKS...been wearing leather boots without socks 40 years...and yes even in East Coast Winters...lose the underwear too...lol...

[@brgulker]

Dark cherry horshide OMG. Grail.

[@malignustotalis331]

Well, the ENGINEER BOOTS / HORWEEN LEATHER CXL BROWN for ¥99,800 JPY they are not cheap, only $925.92 United States Dollars 😃😂🤣🙄💰

[@KVW22]

I just ordered a pair of black engineer boots from Schott NYC, we'll see how they are, they were $300. I'd definately love a review from you on them, nobody has any videos on them and they are one of the only affordable engineer boots from a trustworthy company I could find. The red wings and chippewa ones aren't made anymore. Keep up the good work

[@007phokus]

Lucky for me, I live around the corner from Standard & Strange...

[@charlesbronson240]

Fortunate.

[@shermansav]

a thing of beauty. Carl you look like you added some muscle .

[@CarlMurawski]

Nah, it must be that magic lens! Lol

[@shermansav]

@@CarlMurawski I really like Starting Strength

[@hsiang-chungcheng80]

You will need to take a look into AD-S-01 Engineer boots made by Addict Clothes New Vintage.

[@CocoKoi321]

Yoooooyoyoyoooo Indiana! I just bought finally some made in England Dublin horween doc martens I gave in finally I just went for it I'll get a Sony a6100 later I just need new docs that aren't cracked and gross from winter those first doc smooths I didnt know new boots in winter was the worst horror movie to them destructive wise to leather... and I knew horween was like kingly cause rose anvil so i went for them ugh 300$.. but gotta be worth it right? Might later get some Thursdays idk when... saw someones super old ones get super nice cleanup and put sapphir burgundy cream on them and Ughhhhhh sexual :0 so beautiful I need brown Thursdays now

[@markcesena4670]

Beautiful boots,if I had that much $$$ to spare I would buy them,and I would need to wear them everyday,but I have other boots and shoes that I still want to wear,where would that leave them😄

[@_JOMOMA]

Where did you get your engineer boots for riding?

[@jwrappuhn71]

Beautiful looking boots, great vid bro.

[@ryansmith7830]

Does anyone have any experience with a comparison of John Lofgren and Wescos engineers? The lofgrens seem more trim while the Wescos look more bulky. If anyone can assist me and let me know I’d greatly appreciate it

[@sumairsiyal8022]

Worth review

[@sonnysantana5454]

their's a boot Co out in the mid west somewhere that makes a 458'$ MC ( engineer) boot forgot the name of the Co but the beauty of it is that for what you spend on their MC boot any and all maintenance and repairs are on them a life time guarantee for free , you only pay for the shipping to the Co and afterwards they ship em back to the owner

[@w.glennrobbins1799]

Absolutely love those boots, they are no doubt amazing craftsmanship, check out Russell moccasin boots, they a really sharp looking engineer boot ,have a pair and they are great, Thanks

[@johnready630]

Carl , how is the arch support in these ? , sort of the same as Nick's urban loggers ? If all goes well I hope to move up to a Road King next year.

[@WolfRanger2008]

I'm here because I just LOVE boots of every shape, style and stripe!

[@hectorrios5402]

I’m looking for a bike boot do you think the Powell from lucchese or are these better both are more or less the same price? Thanks!

[@kit2770]

Man, those boots are beautiful.

[@johnready630]

Forgot to mention , if you have trouble getting boots off get a boot jack or puller off Amazon or at a boot outlet , I use one made from wood. Makes it much easier specially as you get a bit older.

[@teerakkiss]

very good review, and i understand for you these boots are almost necessary, but for myself i like the look of a pair of Whites engineer boots, guess its a matter of taste,

[@locle8852]

Use a plastic bag

[@carminuccio05]

Do you have a video on your motorcycle gear kit? Would love to see that. Or Maybe just a list. Looking to invest in a good leather jacket for the bike.

[@kfung4]

Only clicked on the video bcoz you made it😆

[@CarlMurawski]

Best comment of the day man! Thank you!!!

[@jim-ue8ir]

Riverblue is a good documentary.

[@JimGreenFootwearOfficial]

Beautiful looking boots! One for the collectors for sure

[@bheinatz1]

Nice boots, Carl. What did your wife say about the expenditure of $1200 on boots? My wife is pretty patient and accepting to my habits, for which I'm very lucky!

[@CarlMurawski]

I won’t tell if you don’t!!!

[@USA-ln6ij]

Do a Clint Eastwood style video, like the Indiana Jones one.

[@CarlMurawski]

That’s a cool idea! Which movie? There are so many to choose from

[@USA-ln6ij]

Carl Murawski Dirty Hary, those sports jackets, and sweaters are classic. Also the dollars trilogy he always has awesome looks👌 talk to tecovas to do the cowboy boots he wears maybe?

[@colingomez8949]

Did you look into Role Club boots? Brian's a pretty cool guy.

[@basicdose.9872]

I. Bet. You. Still. Have. A. Little. Difficulty. Putting. Them. On. And. Taking. Them. Off. !!!

[@CarlMurawski]

....what’s with the weird punctuation man?

[@huangjiacong2931]

Hi, the boots size run bigger or true ? Thank you

[@TheZenith790]

hey, which is the boot you first held in your hands

[@davidoff59]

Imagine the sweat wearing plastic bags on your feet

[@DB-me3jt]

Those boots are even better looking then the Brian the Bootmaker’s Engineers.

[@chriszietz1236]

These and Role Club are on my grail boot list.

[@fullmetalroyal1216]

I think chippewa makes engineer boots too

[@tayk-47usa41]

Carl did you get to try the boot lacing technique?

[@sfrank7799]

Can you please review Danner Mountain Lites?

[@chasem6491]

Sir cows live outside as well...

[@oye1074]

Could you do a video on cotton chamois shirts?

[@jwrappuhn71]

Would you use them as riding boots? Thanks Carl.

[@CarlMurawski]

I wouldn't, just because I think you'd want a little more traction when your feet are down at a stoplight.

[@JJ-zr6fu]

These videos are great every time I learn something new.

[@jonathanvermillion7263]

You gotta use a long metal shoe horn Carl!

[@lapizza7206]

I wonder if himel bros could match the material

[@CarlMurawski]

I'll bet they could! Dave can get his hands on some pretty wild stuff.