Review: Alden 405 "Indy Boots," Original Brown Calfskin Work Boot

Alden 405 Work Boots have been in production for decades. Made famous as the preferred footwear of a certain Dr. Jones, The "Indy Boot," as it is now known, continues to be extremely popular to this day. Available in many different colors and leathers, the Original Brown 405 boots that we are reviewing today feature
- Blucher/Derby work boot style
- Built on Alden "Trubalance Last"
- Moc-Stitch toe
- Neo-Cork outsoles
- Full glove-leather lining
- Vegetable tanned leather insoles
- Cork layer under sole
- Tempered steel shank
- Thomas "Foot Balance" heel
- Contrast stitching
- Goodyear Welt
Thanks for watching! If you like what you've seen, please rate this video, tell a friend, and subscribe to the Stuff&Things channel.
/ stuffnthingsshow

[@nicklarocco2150]

I've had these boots for over 10 years and can say they are the best I have ever had. I have had heals replaced and re-soled over the years and I love them. I just sent them back to Alden to be refurbished and they are like new, but still formed to my foot.

[@f308gtb1977]

I know it’s 4+ years old, but, fantastic review!!! Thanks so much for all the great info and tips!

[@stephenyoung3909]

Finally got around to catching up and viewing your recent videos! I have always loved the style of the Alden line. Now that I'm considered an "adult", I wouldn't mind snagging a pair of the 405's. Such a fine pair of boots. I am indeed envious.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Stephen Young - They are a "fine pair of boots" indeed. Thanks for watching!

[@chrispaine2265]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube time for a quick five year update?

[@WayneHaan]

Nice review Bradley, can always count on you for an in depth/all aspects look at the selected products. Take care

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Wayne Haan - I'm glad you enjoyed the review. Thanks for watching!

[@thecuriousquest]

No clogs or Crocs for me...I wear 405s at work with scrubs👍 Hospital appropriate work boot! 🏨

[@MrRaulSoto]

You are an excellent communicator that should be in sales. If not, I encourage you to do so. Great job!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+R Soto - Thanks so much for watching!

[@thejonathandoan]

Very good review! Thank you for all the details.

[@NormanBoulder]

Best part of the video was the way you said "I don't recommend this" while wearing them with socks and shorts lol

[@icecreamalacarte]

Also, these are the only boots I dislike driving in (clutch and pedal feel is terrible).

[@adamr63]

Superb video, and a pleasure to watch and listen to you and the way you shot the boots. If would recommend one video on the 405 the is it.

[@artsandcraftscreations3492]

Fantastic video. Thank you for taking the time to share this information, your insights and perspectives.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

My pleasure!

[@raghavtalwar1373]

Great review! Always love good quality leather!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Raghav Talwar - Who doesn't? Thanks for watching!

[@hondagame7069]

dawm, those look awesome. i need a brown boot for my collection and style versatility. i think im gonna hve to go with these.

[@jonmnelson]

Excellent review! Thank you.

[@mattp8593]

Absolutely fantastic review. Everything on point and like somebody has already shared you’d be fantastic in sales. You’re a natural in your delivery. Buying 2 pairs this weekend in the brown and natural chromexcel (albeit both used pairs as like yourself love nice things but can’t justify the price). Subscribed.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Much appreciated!

[@byrnez2755]

You nailed the re-coloring and conditioning. They are also broken-in quite well.

[@iReturnV1deotapes]

Excellent review. For the longest time I've been on the fence between these, the iron rangers from Red Wing, and the semi dress from White's. I might just have to bite the bullet on these.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+iReturnV1deotapes - I haven't tried the other boots you mentioned, but these seem like they would be pretty hard to beat. Thanks for watching!

[@bearcatpiper5900]

Nice review and love those boots. Thanks

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Bearcat Piper - Thanks for watching!

[@drd8251]

I own newer 405s and use Venetian Shoe Cream. It doesn’t darken the leather, but conditions it. I agree, shoe trees are necessary and a shine? No way!

[@colinkelly279]

Debating adding a set of the 403's to my now ludicrous boot collection, and, lo and behold, here I find Bradley's review. Of course you reviewed em...

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Haha! I don't think you'll regret it if you pick up a pair. they're still the most comfortable footwear I own. All I've done in 6 years is replace the heels once.

[@kirkcrompton7393]

Hello, Bradley! REALLY enjoy your videos! I was wondering if a review of Erinmore Flake would be possible? Keep up the great work! Thanks for some very entertaining stuff! The Sunday Smoke is a gas! I'm your good friend Kirk and you are Bradley! Good day!

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Kirk Crompton - Erinmore Flake is on my list, so I'm sure I'll get to it eventually. Thanks for watching!

[@sergeantbigmac]

Im glad you mentioned sizing. Im also an 11/11.5 in athletic shoes and 10.5 in most boots. That info helps me a lot... Ive wanted a pair of Indys since I was a kid (yes because of the Indy movies lol) but the price is a hurdle for me so I want to make sure I get what I really want. I dislike slick bottom soles on my boots. I hate that their commando sole variants are so dang hard to find. Imo because those soles are perfect.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

The rubber heels really help in this case. I haven't found myself slipping at all.

[@faustinoramirez1641]

Great review. I'm going to buy a pair.

[@WadeOhWells]

I can't believe I haven't seen this. I will definitely have to get these.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+WadeOhWells - They're fantastic boots. I don't think you'll be disappointed if you do.

[@WadeOhWells]

+Stuff&Things I'll have to rationalize spending so much money on boots, though. Btw I meant to type shoe reviews, not show.

[@rhymeandreasoning]

I like your boots. The color is very nice.

[@benjamincartwright3239]

Great review! It is easy to tell that you put a lot of effort into this video.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Benjamin Cartwright - I'm glad you liked it!

[@21gunsalute10]

i normally wear a 12 but got my indy's in a 11.5 and fits perfect length and width

[@darkcruzan]

I've had my eye on those boots for a few years now. I do prefer the Natural Chromexcel though. I have a wallet of the same leather and it is aging well.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+darkcruzan - The chromexcel was tempting (I have a chromexcel wallet and notebook myself), but I'm pretty hard on my shoes and figured that the calfskin would be slightly less prone to scuffs and scratches. Great boots either way.

[@ddbrock2746]

Legend has it Harrison Ford had the Raiders crew contract purchasing the Alden boots for the film with the gentleman that he used to buy his own Aldens from when he was a working carpenter.

[@NapalmBBQ]

While ive never owned boots as expensive as the 405s I always put Sno Seal on my boots. It definitely darkens the leather, but keeps them water proof.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Rob Copeland - Certainly not a bad idea if you're going to be wearing them in the rain and snow.

[@shakentosser]

Great review! Here in central Washington whites and nicks boots are really popular, I have a pair and really enjoy them, almost like the Alden boot on steirods. Not something you would wear for fashion though

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+shakentosser - I've never heard of Nick's. I'll have to check them out. Thanks for watching!

[@GanduffTheGrey]

Hey Bradley, Would you be willing to make a 2-year update on the boots? I'm curious to know how they've held up, and would like to know if your thoughts on the boots have changed, or if there was more to be said about them 2 years in. Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I will definitely keep that in mind!

[@WadeOhWells]

Also, I encourage you to do more show reviews.

[@finnblu3002]

Thanks Many mention sized as per all their shoes and other boots So 1/2 down is the consensus?

[@Sejdr]

Nice! I like that kind of boot BUT with the norwegian front.

[@jakebill8763]

I love 403's color but I just hate CXL leather. Today I'm inspired by your video, maybe I can find another way out. Thank you!

[@lukecage9836]

They actually look pretty nice.

[@dcstiger]

Mr. Bradley give Obenauf's LP Boot Preservative a try if you have not already. Excellent product.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+dcstiger - I will definitely check it out. Thanks for watching!

[@MrTheShelger]

Great review! Sherman Brothers will put a Commando Sole on your boots FYI. About to pull the trigger on some Chromexcel's.

[@distortzz]

Wow man... I'm such an antipodiean simpleton .... Function over fashion for me down mate lol but certainly appreciate the work u put. Into all you vids

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+distortzz - With these boots, you get great function AND great style. The best of both worlds.

[@Lisan-al-gaib-sai]

So it is okay to use the dark brown boot cream on the original Alden 405 Indy boot??? I want to darken the leather because it is way too reddish pronged for my taste.

[@haloford]

How's the calfskin leather? Is the leather easily collect scratchmarks? Is it comfortably soft enough? I never experienced a shoe with a calfskin leather, would appreciate if you can tell me about that :) have a nice day!

[@balkee42]

So youre a 10.5D on brannock device right?? I am and ordered 1/2 size down. Fit does seem fine but someone told me to get true to size and down a width. Hope that isnt what i should hav done

[@Finkardop]

I've decided to cave in and get these. hows the air ventilation in these? obviously not that great since they're leather boots but my feet tend to sweat and I'd wear these on a daily basis.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I haven't had any issues. I use cedar shoe trees though after wearing them.

[@Finkardop]

these probably sell for so much since they're the exact pair used in the movies.

[@icecreamalacarte]

Handmade in NE

[@patpope49]

they are nice boots bro they are a little pricey for me anyway. thanks for the tips on the leather and for your views on the boot have a great day

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+patpope49 - You're welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@ksvensen]

I’m considering getting the 403, can you recommend them?

[@Steelbluebrick]

What watch do you wear? I'm curious to see a review on that also. :)

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Seth Phelps - It's a Bulova Accutron Gemini manual watch. I don't think they make the exact model anymore though.

[@USS_Liberty]

Please help. I applied the dark brown Alden fine boot cream to these boots. I waited a day after applying the cream and then walked around in the boots for a little while. The boot cream started to flake off. The boots didn't seem to accept the cream. What are your detailed tips for applying the boot cream and how do I rectify this problem? What has been your experience applying the boot cream?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Ah, you have to buff the cream off after applying it. Use a microfiber cloth for a duller shine or a brush for a brighter shine.

[@GanduffTheGrey]

Hey Bradley, I was wondering if you ever heard of Thursday Boot Co., and if you have, do you think you might give your thoughts on them? They seem to have some nice looking boot options, and the price is a lot less than Alden boots (although I'm saving up for a pair regardless). Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+GanDuff the Grey - I think I may have heard the company name, but I can't say I have any firsthand experience with the boots. Thanks for watching!

[@GanduffTheGrey]

+Stuff&Things - Well, being that you have more knowledge on leather boots, could you give me pointers as to what to look for in a well-made pair? I want to know if Thursday Boot Co. are worth considering for the price, because I honestly don't have much knowledge on heritage boots. Or should I just skip them and keep saving for a pair of Aldens? Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Well, I think your best bet would be to do some google searches on the company and see if there are any forums in which members have discussed their quality.

[@GanduffTheGrey]

+Stuff&Things - Sorry, I realize that my questions seem like I asking you to just give me answers. I just wanted some info on what make a good leather boot, so that I can go and make an educated decision on my own. At any rate, I'll figure it out with some research, so no worries. Cheers

[@GanduffTheGrey]

I blame you for any financial difficulties I will be enduring in the coming months. That is a "yes, I'm going to be getting myself a pair." I love boots, always have, but I never bought a pair I really liked, they were never comfortable enough. As a matter of fact, I haven't had a pair of boots in years; I tend to buy comfortable black sneakers that I can wear everywhere nowadays. I even recently acquired a pair of KyBoots by KyBun, a lesser known Swedish footwear manufacturer; they're supposed to be long lasting and extremely comfortable. I'm the kind of person who has a very few selection of shoes, and likes to have an all-day, multipurpose pair of shoes. Now, I'm aware that these Alden boots are leather and need more care, but I would love to get a pair for my casual outings with friends or whatever. I know you said they're comfortable, but can they be worn for long hours, a full day even, and still maintain that level of comfort? Thanks for the wonderful reviews, Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+GanDuff the Grey - I have worn these for well over 8 hours at a time while walking for miles and haven't had any discomfort. I'm sure you'll like them if you decide to buy a pair.

[@GanduffTheGrey]

+Stuff&Things - That sounds perfect. I'm kind of excited now :) Thanks for the reply, Bradley, it's much appreciated.

[@rbtamms]

So, the 405's color can change over a period of time. Do you think, if I buy the 403's... the color will be more darker as it age?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

It depends on whether you use any products on it. With chromexcel, you don't really need to as often.

[@israel5236]

Way out of my price range but they look amazing. I have a look alike but with a side zipper and a useless buckle on the back.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+israel5236 - I have to admit, they're out of my price range too! I'd been eyeing them for a very long time though, and when I found the right size at the right price, I had to get them.

[@iluvcliffrichard]

Stuffandthings You never said how much you got these for?

[@chriszietz1236]

I've got the 403's. Love these boots.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+chris zietz - I came close to getting the 403's, but I found these in my size and for a good price. Thanks for watching!

[@GanduffTheGrey]

One last thing I forgot to ask about in my previous comment: Do you have fairly standard feet, or are they a little wide? I ask because my feet are a _little_ wider than the standard, and I'm wondering if I should still get half a size smaller than I normally would. Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+GanDuff the Grey - My feet are very much "standard" D medium in width. It's hard to say for sure. If possible, your best bet would be to find a store that carries them and try a few pairs. I didn't have that luxury, but I did quite a bit of research and got lucky with my choice in size.

[@GanduffTheGrey]

+Stuff&Things - I can't even believe that the idea never crossed my mind. I think I've become too used to Internet shopping, and I never stopped to think of a store around me might carry Alden boots. At any rate, thanks for that bit of info. At least now I know I'm not a D in width :) Cheers

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

No problem!

[@lancerhardy5206]

What boot oil or boot cream did you use to darken them to this color?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

The Alden brown boot cream. Thanks for watching!

[@andrewferrin6451]

I really like the Indy Boots, for my personal taste I prefer something more along the lines of the Iron Rangers or the Katahdin Iron Works Engineer Boots which have a more modern work boot look. Enjoyed the review Bradley.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Andrew Ferrin - I'm glad you liked it! I'm a fan of traditional styles, so these suit me pretty well.

[@andrewferrin6451]

Stuff&Things I enjoy the tobacco videos and I enjoy the non tobacco stuff as well, production quality is great and the videos are always entertaining so keep it up! The 405s are on my too buy list but being in Canada it's hard to find an affordable pair ($450 CDN or less) on the eBay machine. The joys of having a large foot haha, if I size similarly to my desert boots I'd be about an 11.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I guess I'm lucky in that my shoe size is pretty common. My feet are fairly small for my height.

[@jeffreyallen3461]

Just wondering, are you left or right handed?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Right.

[@qltyboots]

I’m considering getting the 403, haven’t decided yet

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I'd so go for it! Chromexcel is a great leather.

[@qltyboots]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube they look amazing, just save up a little money first now. I have a few new pairs of boots now

[@qltyboots]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube Yeah I know

[@ManOfSteel77]

Alden's site says to go down a half size from my bannock size. Do you recommend going down a size in length and width? I am a 10.5 E-EE in Allen Edmonds and Dress shoes. So I would need a 10 D or 10 E?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I kept the same width. I'm a 10.5 D in most dress shoes, and the 10 D in the Indy boot was perfect.

[@ManOfSteel77]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube Ok thanks. I decided to try a 10 E.

[@RichardGilbert2727]

@@ManOfSteel77 How did that work out!? Am in the same boat myself.

[@ManOfSteel77]

It was too small. A 10.5 E was perfect.

[@KurniadiPrathomo-sp5zd]

Agree with you. It's Jeans or khaki.

[@iga27]

they might be good qualitywise, but when it comes to looks and price they leave me cold; give me Wolerines any time!

[@Ebolson1019]

What is your opinion on danner boots

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Bryan Olson - I've never owned a pair, but I've always heard good things.

[@ZachBie]

Yep, I got my pair on Ebay for $280

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Nice!

[@Finkardop]

Zach B got a pair for 340 on ebay.

[@balkee42]

Finkardop $350 here. Woohoo

[@qlfnj1845]

watch check?

[@distortzz]

Defiantly want to down load your jams too

[@MarcP5267]

Just got a pair of 405 in calfskin. Yours are a lot darker.

[@rickocconnell9056]

I want to get these. But even after watching this film i wouldn't really know how to take care of it cream wise. It scares me I don't normally put anything on boots. Usually if they're dirty I wipe down with damp cloth That's why I'm scared to own a pair of these.

[@yeadogthazmyboi]

If you get the Chromexel Indy boots there really isnt much to do to them. Just some Venetian shoe cream every now and then and a horse hair brush

[@IWDTC]

Would look great with cargo pants...

[@patrickmiao1698]

I was considering getting a pair of the indy boots until I found out that they aren't built with top of the line materials for the high price they are charging. They use leather board throughout the boot and the leather sole foam backed insert isn't even a full insert. I ended up getting Grant Stone's which are better built, using better materials and cheaper. It is ironic that they call them "Indy" boots but yet use inferior materials...Alden itself doesn't consider them to be a rugged adventure boot but rather a office boot for someone that sits all day. The only thing really distinctive about this boot is the last.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Rose Anvil viewer? I enjoy his videos. All I can say about my Indys is this: I've had mine for over seven years. I don't beat them up, but I wear them regularly. Aside from replacing the heels because of normal wear and tear, I haven't had to do a thing to them other than clean them and oil them occasionally. After nearly eight years, they still look great, and they're still the most comfortable boots I own. For the price, I wish they were "built better," but they've been amazing boots, so it really hasn't made any difference to my experience wearing them.

[@patrickmiao1698]

@@stuffandthingsyoutube There are at least three different youtubers that mentioned the same thing about the Alden Indy boot - Rose Anvil, Bedo Leatherworks, and Revive Shoe repair. The last two (shoe cobblers) rolled their eyes when they took apart the Alden and expressed their displeasure when considering the price of the boot. They actually took off the sole, midsole and heel and upgraded the boots to better materials. These are really light duty boots, not heavy use adventurer boots as the name denotes. I am sure at one time, Alden used better materials when constructing the boot but then started substituting cheaper material. I just picked up a pair of Parkhurst Niagara moc toe boots with a commando sole (they look very similar to the Alden Indy boot). These boots use better materials overall at a cheaper price...and the 602m last is very comfortable and roomy. I wanted to like the Alden, but felt disappointed when I saw what you are getting for the price you pay.

[@vandshome]

I can’t see myself buying a pair at $400. If I worked office or carpenter I would. But I work as a chef and punch Press

[@pipeheadOR]

So...the Alden 405 "Indy" boot is the Esoterica Tobacciana Penzance of the boot world...? Sorry. Trying to put it in terms I understand. Good looking boots and interesting craftsmanship.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+pipeheadOR - Perhaps in terms of quality. The Indy Boots are much easier to find though!

[@shoozymusic]

Oh my god.

[@shoozymusic]

Those boots are 520 dollars

[@queersbabies]

Professor Bagel $600 after tax and express shipping. Mine are arriving Thursday. Xoxoxo

[@aggiethecollie6158]

Best boots for the money, period.....

[@jpavlvs]

Harrison Ford wore his own boots in the film. He bought them while he was carpenter. Great Review otherwise.

[@completesubjectchange3853]

Nice review! I am such an Indy fan. I have been thinking about these boots for years. Check out USwings.com for a very high end reproduction of the Indy jacket. It is the best jacket i have ever owned.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+Complete Subject Change - Cool. Thanks for the link!

[@distortzz]

I really should save this... But bugger it.

[@o0jun0o]

4:35 hilarious.

[@piggydog9406]

This company and shoes are so old skool that their website looks like it was designed by an 80 year old... common alden geez

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+piggy dog - Yep. It doesn't look like they put much effort into their online presence.

[@lucretiuscaro]

What is the point in commenting on the colour of your pants if nobody can see them? And why are you calling them "pants" and not "boxers?" Do you guys use pants in the US like we use boxers in the UK?

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

+jorge antonio soler sanz - Yes, in the US "pants" is the common word for trousers. Boxers, briefs, etc are called "underwear."

[@lucretiuscaro]

I think my jokes are wasted on you :)

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

I never take anything for granted on here. Anytime I assume someone is joking, they end up getting offended. Throw some "winky-faces" or exclamation points on next time, and I'll probably assume that you're trying to be facetious.

[@lucretiuscaro]

No offence taken. By the way, I did enjoy your video on US and Canadian accents. Maybe one day you could do one on plummy British accents.

[@stuffandthingsyoutube]

Perhaps, though I'm obviously not as well-versed on British accents. Thanks for watching!

[@wt460]

OMG, shorts, socks and boots what are you thinking? To even think that there’s a single person on earth that would wear these boots in this manner is crazy...

[@PoeticJustice05]

I must correct your usage of terms. The terms ‘balmoral’ and ‘oxford’ are not interchangeable, the same as ‘derby’ and ‘blucher’ aren’t, either. Although the terms are nowadays used interchangeably, especially depending on where you live, they actually each refer to distinct design features. The balmoral design is similar to an oxford, most notably by its closed-laced design, but it is distinctly characterized by a seam that runs parallel to the ground. It is mainly found in boot form. They are never whole cut, like some oxfords can be. The difference between a derby and blucher is the design of the quarter. On a derby, the quarter is must bigger and runs down to the sole. A blucher has a tiny quarter sewn onto the top only for the laces, so it can have that open-lacing system, just Ike the derby.

[@dandjbrown22]

Wrap those laces. Good looking boots though

[@johnmacquarrie8430]

The “poor, struggling, carpenter” I don’t think is all that accurate. Imagine a poor struggling carpenter today spending $525 for a pair of work boots. Highly unlikely. I know the story has been attributed to Ford but I don’t believe it’s true.

[@Newtypenewtype]

I've always loved the saying, "I'm too poor to buy cheap"

[@islandtrader9055]

When Harrison Ford bought them, as a carpenter, they were nowhere near $500+. Probably in the high $200. Either way about a weeks pay, maybe less. You have to remember... QUALITY = LONGEVITY! So the seemingly "High Dollar" boot that lasts 10 years or more (I own 20 year olds) is actually cheaper in the long run... $30 to $40 per year. Don't Forget the COMFORT and LACK of fatigue & back pain!

[@RichardGilbert2727]

He was a struggling actor who paid the bills with carpentry. High end clients in the film biz for his woodworking.