Jim Green's African Ranger Review | Punch a Poacher for $179

* Jim Green's boots are crazy cheap for resoleable boots: jimgreenfootwear.com/product-...
* Written Review + Pics: stridewise.com/jim-green-afri...
These boots are for work - one of the hardest and most important jobs there is. No, we're not talking about whatever you'll wear the boots for, we're talking about African Rangers, who help maintain and protect wilderness preserves across the continent. This boot was designed with extensive feedback from African Rangers, and for every 10 pairs of boots sold, a Ranger gets a free pair! It's cool stuff, and we found the boots roomy, comfy, and great value.
00:00 Intro
00:24 What is Jim Green Footwear?
01:07 Why African Rangers need boots
02:45 Jim Green African Ranger materials
03:08 Jim Green leather
03:51 Jim Green African Ranger construction
04:47 Jim Green African Ranger comfort
06:38 Jim Green African Ranger sizing
07:00 Jim Green boots price
07:30 The benefits of Jim Green African Ranger
08:20 Downsides of Jim Green
08:50 Is Jim Green African Ranger worth it?

[@ek-nz]

Man, Jim Green is just killing it with their marketing! I’m seeing these all over the boot community on YT. Every day new videos about Jim Green in my feed. My pair are on the way - barefoot version!

[@Stridewise]

I really need to get into barefoot boots at some point!

[@ek-nz]

@@Stridewise Be careful though - it can be hard to turn back :)

[@mattmoxhay750]

You’re right they are killin it. I just got my “regular” Rangers 2 days ago. Very happy so far. Probably could’ve ordered a 1/2 size smaller.

[@ek-nz]

@@mattmoxhay750 Did you go with your Brannock size or larger? Rose Anvil said his Brannock size was a little snug in the toes so I went half bigger. Hope it works out. Oh, also going by the lengths listed on their website size guide too.

[@Rokaize]

@@ek-nzI would go by the size they list on their website. I have 4 pairs of Jim greens and I’ve never had to differ from their size chart. Just bear in mind that the Rangers are extremely wide. Like probably equivalent to extra wide in a normal boot/shoe size chart.

[@RedDawnWOLV]

I just ordered the barefoot ranger. Cant wait to get it. I have the regular Rangers and I love them

[@unknownhours]

They sold out of those pretty quick. I hope that model does well.

[@xDEEZxNUTS69]

@@unknownhours Rose Anvil 2 said they had only 631 pairs ready to go in the US. I had to preorder them, but I'm super stoked.

[@Dazdigo]

Had to preorder as well just worried that my sizing might be wrong.

[@bramlessonup1921]

I ordered mine from SA directly (since I don't live in the US either). They arrived last week and I do really like them, they are perfect for me (even though I'm actually not an African ranger). For some reason my feet feel really "fresh" when I wear them, is that because of the wide toe-box and the all leather everywhere? I actually wore them to the beach this weekend, the gusseted tongue actually worked like a charm! For sizing I was really happy with the "your foot length" sizing they offered on their website, I (luckily) got the right size in one go (international shipping is expensive). For breaking in I did get a blister within a few hundred meters (my thin wimpy skin can't handle much I'm afraid). I was really happy I had some Powerslide MyFit footies laying around to prevent more issues during the break in 😬

[@Watchtrain]

@@bramlessonup1921 nice write-up! I got in on the first round of them in the US but they haven't shipped yet. I love my other Zero Drop shoes and really love my regular Rangers and have the sizing dialed in so the new ones should be fine. Cheers!

[@christophbecker1639]

Jim Green offers fantastic bang for the buck, and they are great for people with wide feet. Which is why I own four pairs now. Good to see them get more and more recognition.

[@tedhart7708]

My first pair of Jim Greens was the tobacco suede Vellie as it was called a couple of years ago. They became my most comfortable shoes. A few weeks ago I received the African Ranger in smooth brown leather and have worn them almost every day since. They are really wearing in nicely and holding up great!

[@LandLockedSailor69]

I have these and the buffalo hide version (a little longer to break in). Love them. That bulbous shape does look a little weird but your own point of view looking straight down at them, but other people see your feet from an angled perspective, so it doesn't look odd to them. If you have E/EE width feet, this boot will fit you

[@JimGreenFootwearOfficial]

Thanks for the feedback and support, gad you got a pair of the buff leather option too. They a great addition

[@tronskifpv]

thank you! this was very helpful.

[@bonecollector1968]

Very good review 👏 👍

[@cjMbuck]

I have the water buffalo hide. I strongly recommend it. Really nice boot made with a great hide.

[@fairwaywoods]

Great boot for gardening /landscaping.

[@royogrady9179]

Pre-ordered the Rose Anvil co-lab. Looking forward to getting them, and I am glad you found them to be true to size, because sizing boots is hit-and-miss unpleasant.

[@Jeff-jb6qf]

How they fit bro? I want to pull the trigger but I’m hesitant because of sizing

[@royogrady9179]

@@Jeff-jb6qf : I am 9.5 e on a brannock, I have 9 Jim Greens and they fit perfectly. They are wide already by design.

[@blackreef3454]

Haha, so cool, I have been wearing these since inception and had no idea they were reaching an iconic status.

[@fredseekingbibleturth]

Jim Green are awesome boots. They are the perfect width boots. They are in my top 10 list of best boots.

[@dbmail545]

I got the barefoot AR's and liked them enough to get the original pattern in cape buffalo hide. They will probably outlive me.

[@Mark.G475]

Good boot! Great review! I like this guy, straight forward!

[@TheNunakun]

One of the few boots that look good with shorts too!

[@Stridewise]

hey that's a really good point!

[@taejaskudva2543]

I got into boots at the tail end of last year. Not overboard. A couple pairs of Grant Stones, and some JG barefoot ARs. I love the Grant Stones, esp. the black Diesels with leather soles. BUT... I wear my ARs almost every single day. Just the most comfortable, useful, do any casual things boots I've ever had. I did size up a half size from my Brannock to allow for thick socks, but honestly with the laces tied snug, my feet didn't feel like they're swimming, even with thin socks when worn to work with slacks.

[@nobody2021]

Replacing the insoles is crucial in my opinion, especially if you are using these in a job or you do a lot of standing in place. I spent two work days trying to get used to the stock insoles and actually ended up causing nerve damage. Part of my left big toe is partially numb, and while it has gotten a little better, it's still there a month and a half later. Go ahead and try the stock insoles, a lot of people like them, but if you experience any chronic heel pain, either have a separate pair of shoes or boots on you that you know are comfortable for you that you can switch to, or have a good pair of padded insoles ready to go. If you don't plan ahead, or you just try to muscle through the problems like I did, you could end up like me.

[@jonahhope4834]

Will get a pair!!

[@SirBigChungus]

Had these for a year now, I recommend the zliner labs insole

[@danielsevell5732]

Amazing review, totally unbiased and I can see it. I must admit, the looks aren't for me, but it's tough to argue against the cause that the company supports, as well as the incredible value. Gives Thursday boots a run for its money!

[@davesnothere8859]

A different level of boot, this is a better boot in every way except subjective style. I own both, this is a very high quality boot with nearly the same level of leather as my whites and franks, better than My redwings or Thougrohgood (yes I know I have a problem) and For way under $200. If you work outside for a living and need a shoe that will wear like iron and don't need a steel toe this is it. I don't have anything to do with any of them, just addiction.

[@conorfoster2337]

Part of the reason for the wide toe box is for rucking too. Your foot will spread a decent bit more than normal when you have a 40+ pound pack, rifle, and chest rig.

[@Yataro79]

seems to make sense, never thought of it.

[@gaylongraham077]

The boot you can buy new as a beater and feel good about it. No one will mistake you for trying too hard in these - the base Camry LE of boots. ❤

[@oldmanwood5011]

Bought a pair of these earlier this year. They have become my favorite shoe over everything else I own, which includes a pair of Red Wing Iron Rangers, 875s, and Thorogoods. I've never thought they were ugly and I immediately liked them at first glance. The standard insole works just fine for me; they have never hurt my feet. And I just bought a pair of Jim Green shoellies for everyday wear.

[@coldpzza]

Quick question, how is the grip in the rain on wet concrete?

[@oldmanwood5011]

@@coldpzzaSorry, couldn't tell you. I've never worn them in the rain.

[@spudzooka]

I own a pair of the first run buffalo rangers, love them, and can say they do not need a heel counter. The rough in of the leather is WAY better than the leather any company uses for a heel counter which normally just wears through

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

I have the first run too

[@popuppete]

I’ve been eyeing these for a few years. If the zero drop style ones get good reviews I’ll probably pull the trigger on them.

[@Stridewise]

I'm surprised how many guys know about and want a pair of the zero drop ones, interesting market

[@popuppete]

@@Stridewise I think it is a relatively small market of people who have been clamouring for something in this market space. While there are many zero drop choices for light weight shoes. There are very few boot options. I don’t think there are that many of us, but for those of us who like to walk more naturally, it is a dream come true.

[@josemanuel2244]

What about a review to the barefoot vs original AR

[@tr_vmi4844]

Just ordered a custom pair of these with the veg tan mid-sole.....I think the look is great, but understand how that could be polarizing.

[@walkermorales337]

Unless they changed the way the boot is built there is a limitation on the thickness of an insert in the forefoot area (3mm or thinner is fine) that you can put in the boot. If the insert is too thick, the extra piece of leather that attaches the tongue to the boot and extends to the front of the both will jab into the knuckle of the big toe when walking. I’ve seen a few other people who’ve had similar complaints online.

[@gotsouced4943]

I've always liked Keen shoes so wide toe boots don't look ugly to me but my sister hates the looks. I have to laces them a little tight but I think I can solve that problem with a new insole. Other then that for the price there we'll made and feel great

[@demetrioclipper]

About time. Something other than Thursday, Red Wing, or Alden. These are best bang for your buck. Wait you did not know about JG?

[@Stridewise]

I've known about them for ages, just thought they were too weird looking for me, but the mission ultimately compelled me!

[@demetrioclipper]

Yeah, function over form. I love my brown AR. @@Stridewise

[@vonbee]

I have them in Buffalo. Love them!

[@davesnothere8859]

I have these boots like them very much but the do feel like the last isn't perfect for the sole, almost feels like I'm walking up hill. Like the heel is lower than the ball of the foot I guess. Maybe a different insole will help. You can't beat the quality for the price and when he sees "ugly" I see quirky and cool.

[@Abhikpr.]

I def want a pair of ar8 and the African ranger. My first one was the limited edition razorback with the afrique leather and tyre sole. Jeez they are tanks. I have never gotten blisters from any boots, red wings, damners, Thursdays, wolverines. These gave me blisters within 30 min. I've never felt this stiff leather. I'm waiting for cooler weather to break them in. Vegas is to hot to wear in summer.

[@Salsmachev]

It's weird, I never see people talking about the AR8s, which are the ones I got. They seem to actually be quite different from the standard African Rangers (some have said closer to 8" Razorbacks). If you're having trouble with breakin, it might be how you're lacing them. My boots were beating the shit out of the top of my left foot until I spent an hour or so monkeying around with the lacing. Now they fit like a dream.

[@pablowang841]

I live in Brisbane Australia and I actually wanna know any recommendations to buy boots in Brisbane. I am tired to buy by online because I can't wait and always get wrong size

[@nuc2726]

I bought these boots with the upgraded real-leather sole. Before these, I was rocking the Belleville 880 STs for ~280 and replacing them biyearly when they got too ugly (only one of them ever broke the waterproof lining). These boots, with the leather sole upgrade, have been the most comfortable footwear I have ever worn. I would never go get some proper Nick's when these are available. They mesh perfectly with my trade as an HVAC technician, where I have to do a *lot* of climbing up and down ladders, across short attic rafters, crouching behind air condensers, and so forth.

[@Rokaize]

I’ve been curious about this. How much did the leather sole cost you extra? It seems like such a good idea

[@nuc2726]

@@Rokaize The pair of soles were $20 for both. By now, it has a footprint of my foot embedded into it and it is the most comfortable thing to stand in I own.

[@user-op6sz7qy8l]

Are they slip resistant for restaurant floors Or any of the other Jim green boots soft toe

[@williamswiger7547]

I tried a pair of these but cap toe sat right on top of my big toes. Donated them and got a different model.

[@karls5474]

The price has jumped. I remember not too long ago they were $139. Pretty big jump but what hasn't increased in price?

[@ycplum7062]

I'd replace the insert with one with a lot more support anyway. I got flat feet. The otehr thing I would change is the lace. Not a fan of the color. Other than that, I kind of like it as a comfortable casual boot.

[@Watchtrain]

I own two pair of Jim Green boots - the African Ranger and the Rough Out Vellie. The Ranger is my everything outside boot and the Vellie is kind of a dressier light worksite boot. I have a pair of the Rose Anvil x Jim Green zero drop Rangers on order. I can't say enough good things about these boots, and how good my feet feel after three or four days straight outdoors in them. Cheers!

[@ibringo]

How was your sizing between both boots?

[@Watchtrain]

@@ibringo I measure 8.5D US on the Brannock device and the 8.5 fits me perfectly on both pairs. Hope this helps!

[@davesnothere8859]

How feaking good are those Vellies? That is my favorite shoe, and I have way way way too many, wish it had a shank though,

[@usmnt4423]

African Rangers are absolutely great

[@davidpalmer9014]

Love their mission. More boot companies should do similar charitable things. I'll probably buy a pair. I wish they had more ankle coverage, though. They are a little too sneaker-ish. And I wonder how the wedge sole would handle anything more than flat trails. Are they grippy enough to scramble over rocks and logs and stuff?

[@madbrainmakesnosense8229]

I find them pretty grippy. I wear them all year around for walks and shorter hikes. Most comfortable shoes I have. Best soles in the woods and on sandy trails, even in sand dunes best shoes I have. On really wet mossy wood or in mud or on ice there are for sure better options.

[@travelfeet]

@madbrainmakesnosense8229 is spot on, if you want a slightly taller boot with a lug sole, check out the Jim Green Razorback. Same great value construction with a classic hiker design. They have an even taller AR8 boot based on the razorback if you want to go that route.

[@pcarrierorange]

I have found the wedge soles to be perfectly viable on all surfaces except for slick mud. Ime if there's even a bit of grass for the rubber to latch onto, they grip just fine. I actually prefer the wedge sole on odd terrain like logs and rocks because the soft rubber is very grippy, and lugged soles don't get great engagement with ground surfaces like that anyway.

[@evanotto7078]

If you like the African Ranger, the Baobab looks like a good option if you want something more casual/wear with a pair of chinos.

[@Stridewise]

Troy also has Baobab and Razorback, might do a combined review!

[@birdytiger]

I would like them in different leather. They look waaay better in person on a person than a stand alone photo

[@travelfeet]

in a recent promo they showed a dark green leather they are considering. Looked fantastic.

[@davedafuq5711]

My most comfortable boots and very well suited for the summer and warmer climates. Wearable with shorts as well! Only downside: the leak immediately when submerged under water. Rain is fine but avoid the puddles.

[@Stridewise]

But it's stitchdown! I will have to ask around about this

[@madbrainmakesnosense8229]

Same for me. They get wet very fast. I tried to apply a wax with last cleaning, will see if it helps. But I think it is the Midsole that is transporting the water inside, but not sure about that.

[@davedafuq5711]

@madbrainmakesnosense8229 I have the same feeling about the midsole. JG does not claim these boots are waterproof though.

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

@@davedafuq5711 I sprayed mine with Saphir invulner waterproof spray

[@minnesota-hk1vp]

Amen to sizing lol

[@gp556by45]

The biggest takeaway from owning 2 pairs of Jim Green boots (One custom pair of AR8s, and bone stock factory African Rangers) is that if you are looking for style and comfort; in that order; then you don't need a pair of Jim Greens'. You wont find the comfort and durability anywhere else in this price point. They are built with a purpose, and do it very, very well. I could care less if someone finds my work boots "funny" looking 30 minutes into work if it means by hour 9 on the job I'm still comfortable. My pair of Red Wings are absolute garbage compared to these.

[@cheekibreeki9155]

my experience with razorbacks and african rangers is that you can't dress them up. They look right at home if you're wearing rugged clothes but you can never mesh office wear with them (with the exception of the baobab)

[@EssenceofPureFlavor]

What kind of Red Wings do you have? I understand cost effectiveness arguments, but disregarding that I have a hard time seeing how these would be so much better than a pair of 875s or Iron Rangers.

[@Stridewise]

Yup they're not versatile but they are work horses and the value for money is insane

[@davesnothere8859]

@@Stridewise have you tried the Vellies? I couldn't find it when I searched. Those are a gem at any price among those style boots. "clark's and such)

[@markopolo9936]

Love Jim Green and their whole ethos. I really wish they’d stock their boots here in the UK, I’d snap them up along with so many other people.

[@Stridewise]

Are they on Amazon for you?

[@markopolo9936]

@@Stridewise very limited sizing and styles unfortunately 😒

[@haroldvonschwartzenstien3581]

@@markopolo9936get them direct from the South African website, £150 posted.

[@klausbecker4745]

nice review! but what you call the midsole is actually the insole and what you call the insole is the sock liner or footbed. the midsole is the layer between the welt(or flared out upper) and the outsole.

[@davesnothere8859]

the footbed and the midsole are one thing on these the sole is glued to that piece and the insole sets on top. Not sure if you are American, but the insole is what the piece he pulled out is called here. Jim Green is the perfect balance of quality and price done with less pieces and complication of assembly and no waste patterns. Manufacturing design perfection in my opinion.

[@klausbecker4745]

@@davesnothere8859 oh you're right! interesting construction! a bit like simple, handmade childrens shoes from the old days. technically there is no insole at all. the typical insole allways has a structural function. i guess to call the foam inserts insoles is more of a colloquial speech.

[@thomashardy1851]

I have a pair of African rangers, and I really like them a lot, but one big thing is that when you are going down really steep terrain the front of your foot will slide around in the boot and it will not be comfortable because of that. South Africa is very flat compared to some places in the U.S..

[@travelfeet]

agreed, I have commented similarly, not great for steep downhills. I recommend their razorback boot or more aggressive terrain.

[@ibringo]

Is sizing the same for their other boots? Thinking of getting the vellie.

[@Stridewise]

Same sizing

[@pcarrierorange]

Per JG, the vellie is built on the same last. I own both and can confirm.

[@123Ir0nman]

Are you able to wear ankle height socks with these comfortably or do you need to go with crew socks?

[@davedafuq5711]

Ankle socks are fine imho

[@travelfeet]

@@davedafuq5711 seconded

[@awbrompton2308]

Wide toeboxes make all the difference and I dont why so many brands seem to be affraid to incorporate them in their products.

[@Stridewise]

I know, it's why I'm so into my Oak Street boots, i love wide toes

[@karls5474]

I picked up a pair, and while comfortable ( I love the wide toe box) they seemed cheap to me. The leather was nice but what got me was the sole. It just reminded me too much of the soles I have on a cheap pair of slippers from Kohls. I can't get over that.

[@haroldvonschwartzenstien3581]

Were they quite cheap to buy?

[@karls5474]

@@haroldvonschwartzenstien3581 I bought them very lightly used for $90. I also don't think the soles would last very long on concrete but would be fine for the terrain they were meant for, dirt

[@CarelessGamer15]

But you can resole them!

[@wompa70]

I have two pair, black for when I need to dress up and buffalo for everything else.

[@Stridewise]

I love people having a collection of Jim Green boots for different occasions

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

You should she my custom Horween version !!! And my Wyatt and Dad recrafted rangers .. and the Cape Buffalo versions are the most unique leather ever . I have their limited run FE Vellie …. I just ordered the barefoot Ranger

[@JimGreenFootwearOfficial]

@@jeffreycurtisjr9195 Indeed you do, one of the more interesting collections of our African Ranger styles out there

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

@@JimGreenFootwearOfficial thanks I enjoyed doing the Horween African Ranger .. My original fudge crazy horse made me an instant fan .. they became more of a tactical style now . The Vellies are very good for summer or daily use .. and the Cape Buffalo has such a unique and tough leather it will last a long time !!! I’m looking Foward to the Barefoot Ranger .. and maybe another custom boot ..

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

Maybe a Baobad or monster

[@Jimmymcnulty4]

$194 now

[@chinatownboy7482]

Not very many African Rangers outside of Africa. There is a very limited market. These boots look like they would be good for me at my place of employment: washing dishes at Panda Express. I wonder if i can style them with my rented pants from the linen company, and a rubber apron.

[@travelfeet]

was there supposed to be a joke in there somewhere? I think they would be good for kitchen work, more protection than the walmart sneakers you probably wear, with decent traction on flat surfaces. I'd avoid the nubuck ("fudge" leather highlighted in this video) in an oily environment though. It stains easily.

[@exxie1]

I'll get one just for work. I like how ugly it looks honestly lol

[@Stridewise]

It is compellingly ugly isn't it

[@lgroves336]

They new to do a version II with a different TOE BOX.

[@chinatownboy7482]

You want open toe boots?

[@travelfeet]

are you looking for a taller toe box? They are fine for me, but they aren't as tall as a lot of boots. This is especially noticeable if you put in a thicker insole and even more so on steel downhills. Some people recommend going up a 1/2 size to help a bit with toes touching the underside if this could be an issue. I notice it on downhills, but it doesn't bother me. I have fairly think/high volume feet brannock 12E, and have size 12 African Rangers and Razorbacks.

[@jeffreycurtisjr9195]

@@travelfeet they did a more refined toe box on my custom Horween version .. if you contact them I believe it’s their ASHM last .. they do offer some custom upgrades ..

[@stefanromanov608]

In fact the AR toe cap is not double layer of leather as stated in the video.

[@LejendaryLoozer]

Did you cut them apart to see?

[@madbrainmakesnosense8229]

In fact the AR toe cap is real double layer of leather…

[@davedafuq5711]

It is! Watch the How it's made video by Jim Green

[@stefanromanov608]

@@madbrainmakesnosense8229 My bad -there are really two layers.I heve got 2 pairs-brown and CH.

[@JimGreenFootwearOfficial]

The toe cap is 2 layers, although your comment is justifiable as there is one "How it's made" video on our channel where there was a request for just a single layer which did create some confusion. That aside all our stock item African Rangers are a true toe cap

[@alexmorgab9441]

First

[@alexmorgab9441]

I’ll watch the vid now

[@popuppete]

Good hustle!

[@oneblood100]

10 points awarded to you

[@arindambasu9850]

Super ugly but iconic nonetheless.

[@craigengelman1369]

simple to figure it out . africa . everything is dirt cheap .....