The Most Popular Boots in the World - RM Williams Comfort Craftsman Initial Impressions

Talking today about the RM Williams Comfort Craftsman Model, my experience when going to purchase them and my Initial Impressions.
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[@kurjan1]

Great video... I still have my first pair of RMs which I bought from my first pay check in my first job in 1989. They have seen me travel the world twice backpacking. I now own 9 pair between Craftsman, lace-ups, high-tops, and knee highs... Crazy I know, I just love boots. They are my sneakers...

[@jessupsays]

1989! Do you still have them! I'm sure they look fantastic if you do. I hear you though, there's something right about having a good quality boot on the foot!

[@kurjan1]

@@jessupsays Oh yes… I still have them.

[@Th3L0wK1]

@@kurjan1are they still in good condition?

[@MrClemmo13]

Thanks so much for all that awesome info. I’ve owned my RM Williams comfort boot for eight years now. I absolutely love it!

[@jessupsays]

Thanks mate! Glad you enjoyed the video and you're enjoying your boots! I too think they're absolutely fantastic.

[@alexanderdylanthomas1891]

Totally agree! I adore my comfort craftsman boots. I think that's a good point worth reiterating that the variety of styles and sizes are perhaps best seen and tried on in-store. I ended up with a quite different size to my normal C&J sizing with my wider, slightly short feet in the chisel last. I hope you get as much wear from your as I have mine! Seven years now and they are just getting better every time.... Keep up the great work Sam!

[@jessupsays]

Seven years! Wow, congratulations that must feel awesome. I can imagine they're incredibly comfortable. You're right regarding the sizing, the RM Sizing isn't that straight forward. Sizing is an area I don't feel comfortable giving advice on as our feet are all so incredibly different and even how we like our shoes to fit is different! I too have short and wide feet, but seem to fit most lasts at a UK6.5. Appreciate the compliment, hope you have a lovely weekend and Christmas.

[@andrewpongyan8163]

I purchased a pair of rm's in 1995 while working in Sydney for 6 months from Denver, Clorado. I am pleased to say, they still look good and have worn very well. Thanks, Andy

[@jessupsays]

Wow! Thats a beautiful story, thanks for sharing. I bet they look fantastic.

[@renzoc]

I own 3 pairs of the RM WILLIAMS Comfort Craftsman. I won't buy anything else. As soon as you put on a pair you immediately feel where that $495 price tag went to.

[@jessupsays]

I'm so glad to hear that! It's a sensible decision once you take that first leap!

[@topranked5465]

Which models do you own?

[@roadhome3581]

Great video. I just bought my first pair. So far, I’m in love with them. For work, I need style and durability for footwear, and cheaper brands kept disappointing. Finally grew a pair and purchased them in the hope they last. So far, no complaints have used the four times now. The leather is giving in the right places. In-store fitting is recommended. Typically, I am UK 12 with R.M. I am 11.5 wide. The comfort of the boots is far superior to the average boots I have owned. I think I have found my new love!

[@jessupsays]

Appreciate you watching! So glad to hear you've got a pair and you love them. Sometimes it does take us a bit to work up to the purchase but when you do it it's so nice to feel like it was the right decision. I 100% agree with in-store for all footwear, if people can manage it. We all have very different shaped feet so I don't know why we take the risk when it may not be comfortable! Wear them in good health! Look forward to an update in say... 10 years! Haha

[@faze23c]

Rather than throw my boots away, I’m about to post them off to RM Williams service for a full remanufacture, so just the upper leather remains. Is so smart because these boots were a special gifts, so I’d rather have them remanufactured then buy a new pair of black boots. The process takes 6 weeks for me, so I’ll buy another pair but brown. The worst your RM Williams will look is when you first buy them, so when my boots come back they’ll looks great with plenty of character and my original leather.

[@jessupsays]

This is the way. May you love and wear your boots for many many more years and soles.

[@DavidParkinson]

Got myself a pair of Chinchilla the other week - my usual trainer size is an 11 and with well made boots a 10.5 and these no different. Went in a shop to get measured and they said a 10 was my size but when trying the 10.5 was perfect. Deals are slim to none - I got a pair for 15 quid off retail and some free polish, better than nothing. Two days of wearing and they are already perfect. There is a bit of a line down the middle of the front, which I hope goes, but it does say there are some individualistic features. All in super pleased, and for 460 quid you have to be!

[@jessupsays]

The Chinchilla is a beautiful boot! Congratulations! You're right that they've moved away from any discounting at all, which isn't the worst idea but they need to improve their quality for the price. Glad to hear you are enjoying them! As you say, all boots have their own personalities that develop!

[@zgw8]

I got the Chinchilla in Bordeaux and they are so fantastic. I have only used the Stockman Natural polish and they just get better with time. Now have black and Tobacco Suede. Most comfortable boot out there IMO.

[@mrandmrscorona8658]

Had a finance job where I had to wear a suit. for 10 years I bought boots like these, different brand tho, with my pants covering the shaft... boots disguised as dress shoes. hardly anybody noticed I was wearing boots. Great Vid BTW

[@jessupsays]

You make a fantastic point! They're like undercover oxfords! And many people don't look too closely at what's on others feet. Appreciate the comment and I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@orlog3343]

I didn’t catch if you mentioned it but it’s worth noting these are a wholecut boot. Meaning the leather is cut from just one piece and formed over the last to create its shape. Much more difficult to make but adds a lot of elegance to the look since there’s less stitching and no overlapping leather. If you take a look at the boots you’ll notice there’s only one spot with stitching, found on the back spine of the boots

[@jessupsays]

Ahhh good catch! I was actually aware of this but clearly had a mind blank when writing the video! It's actually one of the nicest parts of the boot too! Well caught, I'll make sure to mention next time I talk about them!

[@MY-qx3gd]

What started as a boot that was worn within the Aussie Agricultural sector they are now worn under the pant legs of suits. I use to pay $180 for seconds out of the Frost Rd store when the rrp was $350. 25 yrs on, 3 pairs with multiple sole replacements and wearing them daily I can tell you I’m done - they are too expensive at $650 and the cost to resole keeps the investment ongoing.

[@jessupsays]

Mmm. Hard to argue with that. Sadly they're not offering good value anymore, or insane quality. Just made in Australia, which for me was enough, but with the costs now. Maybe not. I've heard Ian Harold offer a potentially better made in Australia options, worth a look.

[@SuccessShared]

Great video thanks. I'm on my second pair and love the fit. Never owned the Comfort Craftsman before but sounds good

[@jessupsays]

Thanks, appreciated! Fit is always the king, would I to get a pair again today I'd stay with the leather sole'd ones. My next video will explain why! Haha good timing.

[@SuccessShared]

@@jessupsays I remember my first pair of leather soled brogues back in the late 70's. Leather was a step-up for me from the synthetic offerings of the day in general, and always made me feel good! From then on I always tended to go for leather until I discovered Dainite but that's another story!

[@jessupsays]

I always prefer leather, when possible, though there's a reason that rubber exists in footwear, leather is more comfortable in the long-run, speaking on the mid-sole mostly here! I actually really don't like Danie sadly, I find it too firm and too slippery in the rain. What do you find good about it?

[@SuccessShared]

@@jessupsays Haha! Exactly the things you dislike! I am still reluctant wearing leather soles in the rain especially in the UK. Tricker's Bourton I found are particularly slippery on smooth flat surfaces. Enter Dainite. Retains the look of a leather shoe profile, adds grip and no worries about ruining those fabulous leather soles in the wet. I have a few pairs with Dainite specifically for the poorer weather but will always wear leather where I can. Am surprised you find Dainite slippery

[@jessupsays]

You're right, leather isn't the best in the wet either, especially if it's very wet. I had a pair of leather shoes I called "death shoes" until I had Topy's fitted, due to the constant feat of death! Hahaha. It's so interesting how we all have such different experiences even with the same products! Maybe my Danites are a bad pair, or maybe I just walk funny! You're right, aesthetically they're perfect for rubber sole, without visible lugs etc. Until I find a sole that does it all, I guess I'll just keep wearing a different boot for a different weather system! :)

[@kromalmighty2592]

Great video mate

[@jessupsays]

Thanks very much for the comment! Really appreciate it.

[@JulAlxAU]

Just bought a pair of Dynamic Flex this week. Looking forward to try it soon.

[@jessupsays]

Awesome man! Let me know what you think. What colour and leather did you get?

[@JulAlxAU]

@@jessupsays Chestnut is the colour and yearling. No Kangaroos at the moment. Going to get one pair for the missus as well.

[@jessupsays]

@@JulAlxAU Classic choice! A great pickup for the first pair. Good thinking! I actually got my Mother into them and now shes got a few pairs cause she loves them! Hahaha. My wife has Carmina's (the only other brand doing nice women shoes), and she loves those, so Im happy.

[@cc50378n]

Nice video. Very informative. I have a Comfort Craftsman in chestnut Kangaroo, one in Black Yearling. Should be ordering a Gardener soon.

[@jessupsays]

Thanks for your comment! I see a longer one that I will take time to reply to. Which do you wear more? Kanga or yearling? I still prefer the colour and look of the kanga. Gardner is a good weekender boot

[@cc50378n]

I like the kanga better because it is much lighter/more malleable than Yearling. Unfortunately RM no longer have black Kanga as their core offering. I would of bought a black Kanga instead of black yearling, if black Kanga was available.

[@jessupsays]

@cc50378n I feel the same way! The colour is also nicer, though not as important with black! It's a shame they've reduced their range. But hopefully it grows again slowly

[@Kudusole]

Great review!! I am sad that my RM Williams turned out to be a little bit disappointing :( Maybe I will try the Kangaroo one...

[@jessupsays]

Oh no! What happened with your pair that made them disappointing?

[@topranked5465]

Is there a difference between the craftsman and comfort craftsman in terms of looks? Would you be able to tell one from another just by lookibg at them without checking out the sole?

[@jessupsays]

Good question. In my view. Not really. Maybe that the edge of the sole is a dark leather vs a dark rubber. But honestly it would be a challenge 🙂

[@fng4699]

I own 2 so far. Excellent review.

[@jessupsays]

Thanks mate, apprecaite the comment and glad you enjoyed the video! Hope you love your boots as much as I'm enjoying mine.

[@topranked5465]

Which ones do you own?

[@TinyMaxfer]

Im been looking to buy them. But I was wondering do they fit true to size? I'm a 43 in sneakers ( 275MM foot) but sometimes fit 42,5 in GYW chelseas. So I was wondering.

[@jessupsays]

Sizing is always a challenge. I wear a 6.5 UK in Crockett & Jones, Carmina and Edward green. I took a 6.5UK in RM too and find the fit pretty perfect. My suggestion would be go your GYW size, not sneaker size. Hope that helps

[@My_You_Tube]

I just bought two pairs online. Black Signature Craftsman and dark tan Comfort Craftsman. I wear 11 USA in sneakers and usually 10.5 USA in shoes/boots. So I ordered both 9.5 RM/AUS size which is 10.5 USA. Funny thing happened...Signature Craftsman almost fit perfectly. I think after wearing them for few more days they will fit perfectly, so I decided to keep them. But Comfort Craftsman did not. Too small.When I called them in AUS and spoke to customer service, lady said 'that it happens sometime that boot maker pull's over the last too tight', hmm, ok. So I decided to return Comfort Craftsman and get a refund and order 1/2 size bigger. If you order online I would order 1/2 size bigger just to be safe.

[@jessupsays]

Interesting that that's happened! Seems weird that they'd last it too small, as a last is literally made to the size of the boot. So it must have been an issue with that pair specifically. Glad to hear your signatures fit well!

[@MDCSYD]

All intern doctors at my local hospital wearing slim fitted Chinos with RM williams…… and they walk around with Stethoscope around their neck (on the street grabbing lunch outside hospital) telling the world that “hello, I’m a doctor! Okay? 😆 …..St George Hospital in Kogarah that is lol

[@jessupsays]

Hahaha yeah that look is synonymous with doctors and consultants in hospitals 🤣 it's also synonyms with engineers and other jobs too! It's clearly a comfortable and good look

[@justanish6966]

"I want the boots!...You can't HANDLE the boots!"

[@jessupsays]

One day, young apprentice you will be worthy of the boots.

[@archonblaze]

They say only weakness of Kangaroo is it creases more. How have you found it? Your pair in this video looks no more creased than other videos of yearling Comfort Craftsmen, but I could be mistaken. I too have short and wide feet, making boot size difficult as when it’s not tight around sides there can be too much length, but RMW have the wide size thankfully.

[@jessupsays]

I'd not heard that, but I can see how one might think that about Kangaroo. My pair haven't a crease on them honestly, they have rolls that are closer to cordovan. Saying that, the surface of the leather isn't as 'smooth' as calf/cow, so the skin is sort of wrinkled? This photo from my IG hopefully shows you what I mean. instagram.com/p/CZRBh0XALlZ/? Its a curse, having tight sided shoes is horribly uncomfortable. As you say, RMW do it right with their options.

[@archonblaze]

They look great, no creases at all! Your video prompted me to go today to Percy Street and get a proper fitting. As a local I should have done it years ago. They had a proper foot size tool you stand in, and then pulled only 1 pair of boots out which fitted exactly. It was the Tambo, which is the Comfort Craftsmen but in x-wide. No roo leather on that one unfortunately, but it’s soo comfortable.

[@jessupsays]

@@archonblaze Mate! This is fantastic news, the best part being that you've found your size and a comfortable boot. A shame they don't make the Tambo in the Roo, it is lovely. But a comfortable boot is going to be much more usefull than one you cant even wear! I hope you love them as much as I.

[@flarierza33]

Checked these in store and I noticed the thread/stitching on the cuff area is poking out and hurts my skin. Probably it is a minor defect and I can ask them to fix it. Curious if anyone else noticed this on their pairs.

[@jessupsays]

I haven't noticed anything like that sorry. Maybe choose a different pair? Like look at a few. Benefit of being there instead of online! Definitely look for the right pair

[@TFM8]

I bought my first pair of RMs last year. I also own some Carminas, C&J, Meermin and so on. The RMs are very comfortable but I don't think they are made to the same standard as for instance Carmina or C&J... The leather creases a lot! (Yearling) and there is virtually no info on the leather they use (tannery, tanning process, on suede whether it's reversed or split, etc). I'm glad I have mine but I'm not sure I'll get a second one.. maybe over the years I change my mind, I do use mine a lot.

[@jessupsays]

I think your assessment is very accurate. In terms of details and construction these aren't on the same level, and for a similar cost it's a bit of a shame. The yearling isnt great IMHO, hence the choice of Kangaroo which is holding up very nicely. There are a few disappointing things about RM but ultimately they're a comfortable boot that most people find accessible. If it's a mall brand vs RM id recommend these every time!

[@TFM8]

@@jessupsays yes of course, but living in Europe I have lots of options of fine footwear at the same or even lower prices. And RMs come with a big reputation...which I'm not sure it's founded but still a well above average boot...again it boils down to the price of the boots, they aren't competing with Meermin, they are matching C&J or going above...

[@jessupsays]

I agree, Europe has a lot more options and at a lot more price points. Reputation is a double edged sword! But as we both enjoy our pairs, it seems it's a reputation they deserve in some way!

[@nichobee]

Australians like the creased look. RMs are more rugged than your typical European boot

[@benreyes2448]

Where can I find this boots or a store near me , live in California. Advise.

[@jessupsays]

I'd suggest a Google as I've just attempted to do, but being on the other side of the planet its hard for me to be sure. It looks like there is a store in NY, but as for retailers and access I'm not sure further than that. www.rmwilliams.com/store-details/spring-street-new-york.html?lang=en_US

[@vishalrana5374]

I own an Oliver Sweeney tamine Chelsea boot. The resemblance is uncanny.

[@jessupsays]

I've never heard of or seen them in the flesh, but a quick google shows that you're right, and they're probably modeled off the RM. From their product description - "Based on an Australian Rancher's boot, designed over 100 years ago for the rugged outback", which is what the RM is. Good catch! Enjoy your Tamine's!

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

Just bought two pairs to celebrate 5 years since I got my Australian citizenship. I treated myself to a pair of the Comfort Craftsmans in tobacco suede, though the $649 price almost made me cry. They're every bit as good as I hoped they'd be, with a classic look that I can pair with jeans, chinos or pants (gentlemen, for fuck's sake don't wear them with shorts), and I liked them so much I went out and bought another pair but in mid brown colour yearling so I'd have some to wear when it's raining. Your notion of buying smart and buying less really resonated with me. I recently lost my dad, and going through his belongings to decide what would be kept and what would go to charity was very hard. It was very noticeable that he had a few high quality pieces of clothing and footwear (his beloved Church's brogues really stood out), but also an awful lot of crap that had been purchased simply for its low price. I realised that I had quite a lot of the same shit in my wardrobe, and had a clear out as soon as I got home. More quality, less stuff. It's a good motto.

[@jessupsays]

Apologies for the delayed response! Just returned from a holiday. Thanks for sharing your story! I agree regarding shorts hahaha, though some Australians cannot be helped! Congrats on 5 years being part of the clan (though I'm technically a kiwi). I lost my Farther at 20 years old, and had the same experience. The things he had that were quality I wanted, and wished for more to be the same. I'd love for my future child to have a connection to me each time they put on a jacket or something I wore. As I do with my father. Hopefully they have very small feet like me too. Or thatll be a shame for them hahahaha.

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

@@jessupsays I know exactly what you mean. I took his wool & cashmere paletot overcoat, and had it tailored to suit me. I sent my ma a pic of me wearing it and it made her cry. That feeling of having a connection through an inherited garment is very strong.

[@jessupsays]

Exactly mate. It's a weird thing maybe, but it makes the investment worthwhile

[@jj4483love]

A little tip, have the boots on camera instead of you talking about them. A least have them in hand or on a table

[@jessupsays]

I agree mate, working towards that in future videos! Got a lot to learn, and I appreciate the feedback.

[@krystjanchanerley9288]

Are their boots all made in Australia?

[@jessupsays]

I don't believe they ALL are, but all the Craftsmen are made in AUS.

[@krystjanchanerley9288]

@@jessupsays What you say that these are better than the C & J Chelsea boots ?

[@jessupsays]

@@krystjanchanerley9288 Personally, I'd rather have a C&J upon reflection. Keep an eye out for my next 2 videos. One will be up soon.

[@krystjanchanerley9288]

@@jessupsays Thanks 🙏🏻

[@prabhdeepdhahan1147]

Can you cut the tabs off?

[@jessupsays]

Which tabs? The pull tabs? You could, but would be very hard to get on and off haha 🤣

[@prabhdeepdhahan1147]

I don't want them riding up on dress pants and showing. If I decide to wear them with a suit. And there are lots of chelsea boots without pull tabs and people get them on fine.

[@jessupsays]

@prabhdeepdhahan1147 well, good luck. I wouldn't, but they're your boots!

[@prabhdeepdhahan1147]

@@jessupsays I geuss I'll buy Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea boots instead.

[@jessupsays]

@prabhdeepdhahan1147 hahaha 😂 good idea! Buy the thing that suits you most. Don't follow the crowd.

[@lewiswilliamsjr1190]

Ok

[@jessupsays]

Ok

[@Rabbitoh72]

1932. They are celebrating the 90 year anniversary

[@jessupsays]

Thanks for the correction.

[@Anonbruzz]

1932 not 34

[@jessupsays]

Thanks for the correction.

[@TG-zd9de]

I have been wearing my new ones every day for the last 4 weeks. Still giving me blisters.😥

[@jessupsays]

Aww mate! I actually got some pretty good blisters from mine recently as well first time! Are you happy with your size? That can contribute

[@TG-zd9de]

@@jessupsays funny enough my feet are 1.5 sizes different. It's a weird blister between pinky toe and the one next to it. It has great arch support and quality leather and stitching. I will persevere and wait for it to spread a bit more

[@jessupsays]

@@TG-zd9de That isn't that uncommon, but as a world we don't have a good solution to it sadly. Very annoying! I get them on both my pinky toes, in this particular case I named the one Bruce, as it was so big. They are comfortable boots, and I wish you the best of luck, I hope they are more wearable ASAP.

[@kit2770]

Thanks for skipping the unboxing. Unboxing vids are annoying and tedious.

[@jessupsays]

Haha you're welcome! Sometimes it's just a box, what more can I say 🤣👌

[@thriftshop2609]

Who'e stupid idea is the tunes, lose em, it's distracting.

[@jessupsays]

This is a fairly old video of mine. Sorry if the music isn't to taste