Thursday's Vanguard Boot Review: Is American Made Better?

SHOP THIS BOOT: thursdayboots....
FULL REVIEW + PICTURES: stridewise.com...
Thursday Boot Company is a direct to consumer brand that sells handsome boots at low prices and I’ve received a ton of requests to check out their American-made Vanguard line. Here’s what I thought of the one in Burnt Copper.
OVERVIEW
It’s a bit reminiscent of the World War 2 service boot in that it’s rugged, but the silhouette is pretty refined and streamlined. Thursday’s M.O. is to create the perfect hybrid of the dress boot and work boot, and they carried that over to the Vanguard. It’s not quite as slim as the Captain Boot, but it’s still way more versatile than your standard work boot.
Grab the Vanguard boot here: thursdayboots....
LEATHER
This Burnt Copper leather is part of their new Rugged and Resilient line of leathers and it’s got a lot of character. Right out of the box you can tell it’s made to be beaten up and it’s the kind of boot that will get prettier as it gets uglier.
It’s vegetable tanned and oil tanned, which reminded me of the oil tanned boots you get from Red Wing: tough, matte, and doesn’t need babying. It is thinner than you see in most work boots at 1.7 millimeters but I think that makes for a more versatile boot - again, versatility and value are Thursday’s strong points.
LEATHER CARE
The Rugged and Resilient leather really doesn’t need much care. It’s quite moist and resilient, but if you worry about your boots drying out you might want to consider some neatsfoot oil, as that will help to maintain the color better than something like mink oil.
SEE MY COMPARISON OF RED WING’S BOOT OIL VS MINK OIL HERE: • Boot Oil vs Mink Oil -...
SOLE
Pretty similar to Dainite, this is a medium density rubber from Thursay that’s a good combination of durability, flexibility, and function. After that there’s a cork misole and a poron insole, which is an air permeable material you sometimes find in sneaker brands. (It also helps with foot stink.)
It’s also secured with a Goodyear welt, which means it’s easy to resole. Note that it doesn’t have the EVA comfort strip like the Captain, so it feels a bit less bouncy and a bit more like a traditional work boot.
WATCH MY COMPARISON OF THURSDAY AND WOLVERINE: • Wolverine Vs. Thursday...
PRICE
$265. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone handed me these boots and they were a hundred dollars more expensive - it is pricier than their other boots, but still tremendous value.
thursdayboots....
Pros
* Tough leather and construction
* Leather doesn’t really need any care
* Versatile
* Anti microbial poron insole
* Sole has a great mixture of function and fashion
* Free returns
* Inexpensive
Cons
* No wider sizes available
* Last is a little narrow
* Burnt Copper isn’t super dressy
* Pricier than other Thursday Boots
* No EVA strip

[@brendan4260]

Goes to the place where Indiana Jones finds the holy grail......... and doesn't wear indy boots

[@Stridewise]

i JUST realized how stupid that was of me!!!!

[@Jar0fMay0]

For shame.

[@kevinpascual]

Remember, in Latin...Jehovah begins with an "I"

[@Stridewise]

@@kevinpascual I chose my footwear... poorly

[@chrisp5526]

Stridewise that’s hilarious! At least you had comfortable shoes/boots 🤷‍♂️

[@awaywardman1707]

I bought the President tobacco and it’s made of the rugged leather like the USA vanguard. This leather is tough and stiff out of the box. The first two days concerned me because they absolutely killed my feet. But now they are really shaped to my feet and feel amazing. The Thursday chrome leather need no break in period at all. I have the explorers boot by Thursday in brown and it’s a much softer leather

[@seosamhodubhghaill1619]

Thank you for a very thorough and extremely helpful review. I purchased this version of the Vanguard based on your review and I ordered true to my Brannock size - perfect! I have now placed an order for the French Roast Vanguard, same size. Again, many thanks.

[@Stridewise]

Glad it was helpful! Yeah sizing with direct to consumer brands can be tricky, I was surprised these were smaller than advertised. But that's what I'm here for!

[@MyNdFrEaK420]

Thanks nick. Gonna go through your link when I pick these up

[@jwilliams5297]

use Brian The Bootmaker for your project boot resole...

[@DoWorkNP]

@Jason Stewart Why not?

[@ROK13760]

I was going to buy these Vanguard boots, but I quit. Because the Cap toe in these boots is a faux fake toe cap. I asked a question about Thursday boots Vanguard's cap toe structure. The QA staff answered me. " The cap toe is solely aesthetic and the leather is not doubled. " Unlike the Red Wing iron Ranger boots (iR is double layer leather toe cap), Vanguard's Cap toe is just each leather's edge part overlap stitched. Vanguard boots are not suitable for those who often work rugged activities because their toes scratch and wear quickly. Faux Cap toe's Overlap stitched structures may cause water to potentially flooded inside toe box. Vanguard use very good leather on the outside upper of the shoes and leather lining inside shoe. These shoes are great for light use and outdoor fashion, not for harsh use.

[@Stridewise]

It's super common for the cap toe to be an aesthetic thing instead of the leather folded over. You're right that it makes it not quite as 'functional' for working in if you're concerned about protecting the toes, but I don't think the cap toe makes it less water resistant.

[@cam-asherbond5316]

I'm looking for a classic style for cap boot that I can casually wear around town and at the pub, but also in the woodshop or on a easy going trail. Basically I want an all rounder for everyday, light work, adventure, and even motorcycle riding. I'd like if there was a Thursday option but I think IRs are gonna be my go to. Would you agree?

[@ROK13760]

​@@Stridewise [ inside area -> Toe Lining(soft Calf leather or soft fabric ) -> Toe box(Molded plastic or thick fabric) -> Upper leather -> outside air ] is common boots structure. Genuine double layer leather toe cap have no crack. It just added another Upper layer. so outside water can't pass through in to the toe area. Faux aesthetic fake toe cap have crack and gap. Because faux Cap is only overlapped edge of each leathers. long walking will bend the boots, and a Gap in the toe cap will slightly open. When the faux Cap's gap is opened, the water can seep in through the crack. If Toe box is a plastic material, The water is blocked and cannot penetrate. If Toe box is a fabric material, The water soak in toe lining and feet. When I was in the army, I had this problem in my one year old military boots. I used beeswax based product as a temporary measure to keep water from leaking.

[@ROK13760]

​@@cam-asherbond5316 I agree. Red wing iron Ranger 8084 or 8111 (new model with vibram 430 mini lug) looks great on you. iR 8084 and iR 8111 Can be useful for multiple rugged purposes. 8084 BLACK HARNESS and 8111 AMBER HARNESS Leather is strong and tough. However, it can be painful when the ankle bone and heel are chafed with friction. Because it has no inner lining and the inside leather surface is rough and stiff. You will find it less painful and no blister to wear long thick socks when you wear boots. The floor is very hard and no cushioning insole. Maybe you should put in a soft cushioning insole to relax your feet. If you wear it for a long time, you must put in a cushioning insole.

[@minghaolu2505]

Wooo thanks for the great review! Always a pleasure to watch one of your vids

[@Stridewise]

Glad to see you back in the comments, Lu!

[@clamum]

Great video man, thanks! You have a great channel and I appreciate all the work you do and wisdom you give.

[@Stridewise]

Means a ton!

[@jamesschlup2609]

Thank you! I've been waiting for this video!!!

[@spamntaters]

I wish they did these boots in the Arizona Adobe R&R Leather.

[@craigedillon]

Me too

[@eqianli]

Great review! touched upon everything this potential buyer was looking for. Thank you!

[@johnathan.jerusik]

I love my Thursday vanguard, I went with the French roast. I don't wear them everyday, but when I'm not working in a machine shop, which I have to have safety boots, I wear these boots and been loving them!

[@levistephens3512]

Thank you for addressing the size. That was the last thing that for the life of me I could not find an opinion on outside of the company lol

[@Stridewise]

Yeah I feel like I'm going crazy the only guy who finds them true to size hahah

[@Native_love]

Made in the USA! Awesome!

[@energeaplays65]

Thursday Boots Presidents are my daily beater boots, I work in a warehouse and they’re still looking great

[@Stridewise]

Cool!

[@PaulHo]

I honestly don't know why the Captains get more love than the Presidents.

[@Thursdayboots]

Amazing :) So glad you're enjoying you boots!

[@rutan4000]

What's the difference between the Captain and this? Other than it being made in America, where is the extra markup going? There is already no shank in this, so to me the Captain in Burnt Copper leather would be a better option.

[@Stridewise]

These do have a shank actually. The extra cost is just for the labor in the US, otherwise pretty similar but I mention the differences with the captain in the video and written review. Mostly the Vanguards don't have the EVA strip.

[@ahastar1141]

Would really like to see you do a review of the Thursday explorers and diplomat boots. I would especially like to see a comparison on the diplomats verses other moc toe work boots you have reviewed.

[@KillerChihuahua387]

ahastar1141 Yes, I've really had my eyes on the explorer boots

[@Stridewise]

Good idea!

[@ahastar1141]

G Baby I actually have a pair in olive suede and I really like them

[@ahastar1141]

Stridewise I think those 2 videos would be great since no one has really reviewed the explores on KZbin yet and there are a bunch of people likely torn between the Thursday diplomats and other moc toe work boots like the red wings, or dannerd bull runs. I know the thursdays are more fashion oriented but I still think it would be a great video and awesome to get your opinion

[@maxxtracy2415]

ahastar1141 been loving my diplomats! Just got them a couple weeks ago.

[@dinonoce]

I ordered the Vanguard in French Roast, which I just got a couple of weeks ago. My true-to-size is 10.5, and I ordered a 10, which fit well, even with a thicker sock, which is how I like to wear them. Great boots.

[@Stridewise]

Oh glad the fit worked for you!

[@davidmacy2252]

Great review and good looking boot. Nick! Should I go down a half size or stick with my regular shoe size...sounds like these are pretty tight going down a half size??

[@Stridewise]

Yeah I think regular size is best for these

[@clamum]

Oh, and maybe a Red Wing Sheldon review? I was looking at getting some Iron Rangers but then I saw the Sheldons and they appealed to me more; they looked a little more "dressy" to me.

[@bassheadlife492]

Iron rangers are far from dressy

[@greatdays]

Great video as always! I've got the same model and see them more as a fashion focused version of my Copper IRs. I really like them, just wish they had speed hooks. I changed out the laces because I am not a huge fan of leather ones. Size wise, I have them in the same size as my IRs and they are much more snug. It is certainly not unbearable though.

[@savvylifestrategies9445]

Great review, Nick. I have way too many boots and now I want a pair Thursday's Vanguard boots. So many boots and only two feet...

[@Stridewise]

The eternal dilemma!

[@Thursdayboots]

Looking forward to having you a part of the Team :) !

[@ahastar1141]

My favorite part about this video is that you beat these boots a little bit. It’s a great example of proof on how durable the leather is. Not a lot of guys are really beating their Thursday’s and I really appreciate it.

[@Stridewise]

Thanks man! Yeah I always wear them around and beat them up, although sometimes (like with Taft Jack boot) they're not really made for that and it's not a great idea haha.

[@ahastar1141]

Stridewise I agree, you do a great job. I did like that you took these on a trip and really gave them a test. It also showed what Thursday says on their site, that they do look better after getting some wear and scratches. How did they hold up to water? Still a bit slushy here in MN and I curious if they hold up any better or worse when they get splashed with water or in light rain

[@nikhilsrl]

I was waiting on this review. I recently bought their Captains in natural chromexcel and loved it. I am certainly thinking about buying one of these. I am leaning towards the color #8. Those look beautiful. As always a thorough review.

[@troyjusticecabrera7284]

I was looking for someone who bought or owns the naturals colorway. Does it look better than the brown ones? Does it look lighter?

[@nikhilsrl]

@@troyjusticecabrera7284 Naturals definitely look beautiful, but I won't be able to say if they look better than brown as I don't own the brown.

[@troyjusticecabrera7284]

@@nikhilsrl Thank you for the insight!

[@doncarlodemata4980]

please review the thursday boot diplomat, arizona red.

[@stevendeonarain4451]

I got these in the French Roast, I'm in love! Luckily I live in NYC and work a few blocks away from their 21 Street showroom. I was able to go in and try them on, I definitely, recommend you get the Vanguards in true to size!

[@Stridewise]

For sure, Steven!

[@Am5634]

I just got the same one today

[@Holabirdsupercluster]

Watching this video in mid-2022 when the Vanguards are STILL $265 and wondering how that still works

[@Stridewise]

I really don't know hey, they must be counting on their market expanding making up for the money they're losing with inflation?

[@Holabirdsupercluster]

@@Stridewise whatever the reason I'm glad because I'm in the market!

[@jr4chargers]

I love my Captains and Vanguard. They do feel different, but both are awesome! Thanks for the video!

[@Stridewise]

Glad you liked it my man!

[@mf9899]

jr4chargers Which do you prefer and why?

[@apaulson6590]

Have used the redwing leather cream on my Arizona adobe rough and tough leather and it darkened slightly, changed the texture a bit.... but looks great.

[@Stridewise]

Good to know! It's so confusing when you're told a leather just doesn't need conditioner haha

[@M82RKY]

This is the video that got me to buy a pair of Thursdays👌

[@Stridewise]

Awesome dude, glad to be of use!

[@wendellvigilia8896]

Planning to buy a pair of Thursday Boot Majors and I normally wear a size US9 in Jordan 1s (I'm a 9.5 on the Brannock device). What size should i get for the Majors? Thanks

[@nathanw6159]

Great Video! Would you consider these as a more rugged/outdoorsy version of the Captain?

[@Stridewise]

Yeah but to be fair the Captain comes in leathers like Arizona Adobe that are pretty tough and outdoorsy as well. The main difference is they're American made and they have a more traditional type of construction (like without the EVA footbed)

[@808HasBeen]

Damn bro, you convinced me to get the captains and the iron rangers now I’m gonna get me a pair of vanguards.

[@TheVoltaire1]

Instead of getting 3 mid tier models. Why not look at some higher end stuff. You're spending the money anyway

[@jongwood]

Do yourself a favor, save your money a little longer, and buy some White's, Nick's, Wesco's, or Vibergs instead. The difference in quality will blow you away.

[@jasonwagg3136]

Jonathon Wood what would you say is the better boot between the Viberg and Whites boots...

[@GoatzombieBubba]

Burnt Copper leather comes from their Mexican factory best to go with the other colors that come with Horween Leather.

[@JG-dh4pe]

Is tough to tell if these boots are really good, or if they're just really good at their marketing...

[@daylight5085]

J G A cobbler (Trenton and Hearth I think) took the standard captain made in Mexico boots and actually really liked the build quality. Pros included: a full leather liner when many boots at higher prices would have a 3/4 leather lining. They use a real leather heel block. Many manufacturers use a wood or even a plastic heel block. The heel pad and heel sole is glued and tacked on very strongly; they aren’t going to fall off. They have a high quality 360 Goodyear welt so sole replacements are easier.

[@andrewmontano8240]

Hey Stridewise.... just received my third pair of Thursday boots. Vanguard Indigo. You were right Bro; size up 1/2 from the Captains. Very comfortable! Keep up the good work; really enjoy your channel!

[@Stridewise]

When are they going to edit their site to say Vanguards are true to size?! There must be so many sad feet out there haha. Glad you liked the vid Andrew!

[@snirlushitzer6838]

I'm just waiting till a review comes out for the thursday logger

[@jtjaytrey5449]

These are rugged! Love the colour

[@brotendo]

Why are you always jizzing on Thursday Boots? How much do you get from their affiliate links? It's hard to trust your reviews when people online are shitting on their quality and you're here talking about them like they're the best thing ever.

[@Stridewise]

Haha honestly I'm just a massive cheapskate so the value clinches it for me. Like it's not as well constructed as a pair of White's or anything but it's the best value for money and they're probably my most versatile pair. It's all relative

[@brotendo]

@@Stridewise I can live with that as a reason (the price).

[@zdenekmikula6061]

May i just ask how did you lighten the colour of these? The colour is a lot lighter when they come out of the box

[@achaarpickler]

Great review of what looks like a great pair of boots. Please do an update of some of the boots you own like how they are holding up after months/years of use and how well they look and feel after taking care of them. Cheers....

[@justinw3161]

A couple questions: I don't have any boots in chromexcel. As far as the leathers outside the rough and ready ones, would you recommend going with horween or Thursday's in house tannery based on your experience? Also, I work outside in a lot of mud. Do you think the leather from this video would be substantially better than the other leathers on offer for getting muddied up and hosed down? Is this model substantially tougher than the president/captain, etc. in your experience?

[@Stridewise]

I'd say yes it's better for getting muddy than the other leathers. As for Chromexcel versus Thursday leather, honestly I think it's worth getting a pair of nice Chromexcel boots. It's the most famous boot leather there is. That said I think it creases more easily than Thursday's leather, at least in my experience.

[@tomgarcia9200]

I saw the boot guy's review on the Thorogood Tomohawk in chromexcel and I had to pick up a pair for the price, I completely overlooked thorogood prior to that but the color is so rich on these boots.There's someone who's selling a stock of them for 178 compared to 300 msrp. Watch the boot guys video on them!

[@glenoakes2758]

Thanks for the tip! They are nice. Where did you see them at that price?

[@tomgarcia9200]

@@glenoakes2758 the sellers name was a1 bargains

[@watchreport]

I know this is an old video, but I've been watching too many boot videos for some reason. Trenton and Heath say to not use mink oil or any kind of liquid on the rugged and resilient leathers from Thursday is basically a form of a roughout or suede.

[@lespaulranger]

I have the captains. Good shoes, but the sole gets really hard after half a year, and I am really not a fan of the pointy toe aesthetic.

[@alexdefaro]

Any chance you could make a review on Thursdays Diplomat moc toe... Maybe a compare with Red Wings.

[@Stridewise]

Yeah I think that'll be the next Thursday boot I review!

[@DT-vc7hd]

Too bad about the lack of wide sizes, seems like a great boot otherwise.

[@Thursdayboots]

We're working to expand our width options. Please stay posted :) !

[@johnandstephanie377]

I wear a 13 wide in most of my work boots and shoes. I bought the President in Tobacco, in 12.5, and they are great. Good luck!

[@jamesschlup2609]

For your money, would you choose this or the Captains?

[@jongwood]

Buy some like-new Aldens for the same price on eBay instead.

[@Stridewise]

I kind of feel like the Captain is more exciting with the EVA strip, like it's a more unusual boot so it's kind of more fun to wear them. These boots are more traditional feeling. Which is also fine! I just really dig that EVA strip haha

[@justinw3161]

@@jongwood I have looked and never found Aldens in my size end in this price range even on eBay. I even had a monitored saved search at one point.

[@steved573]

I got both. Captains just didn’t fit right. Twice. So I went with US made and ordered closer to my size and I’m happy. This are not as fun as my Iron Rangers to wear, but are still tuff, comfy, and dressy enough for the office work I have to do at times. Only pain is loops at top. Unlocking and relaxing is necessary for me. Only takes minutes but still grrrrr

[@AlexMPruteanu]

@@Stridewise Nick, I agree. I also have the Captains and now the Vanguards. It's a mood thing, I guess. I wear my Vanguards when I kinda feel like roughing it around a bit, maybe know that I'll be walking more than usual. And the Captains . . . man, they make me feel so civilized. Yes the EVA strip is fantastic. But I'm also in the mood for that traditional feel many times. And so, the Vanguards.

[@steved573]

Bout time I tried these out! I’m rotating these, my Blacksmiths, my Iron Rangers, and my Tecovas Earls each week. Love my Vanguards. Customer service rocked too...

[@Stridewise]

That's a fine collection, Steve!

[@greatdays]

Haha I have these Blacksmiths and Iron Rangers in my rotation too! Nice!

[@martinmedina2696]

Hello stridewise your channel its amazing i learn alot of boots , ive a qstn how can i clean the leather of the clarks beeswax ?

[@myskullisred]

But where does that henley shirt come from??? I really dig it.

[@Stridewise]

Buck Mason!

[@laodealmuqarrabun656]

Do you think these full-leather interior boots are suitable to be worn in tropical countries?

[@Stridewise]

Hmm. Might be a bit stuffier? I'm honestly not sure, sorry man.

[@JamesWilliams-he4lb]

Glad I stumbled upon this review. I was looking at the Vanguards but was a little hesitant to size down until I saw this. Interestingly, I noticed on their website if you click "what's my size" they take you through a quick sizing Q&A which ended up recommending my normal size. They should probably just remove the 1/2 size down verbiage from their description of the Vanguard.

[@albyv8868]

You finally reviewed the Vanguards! :D

[@Stridewise]

Yeah I really don't pay as much attention to Thursday as I should haha but I really like this boot

[@albyv8868]

@@Stridewise I'm glad you did because I've been eyeing these Burnt Copper Vanguards for a while now. Will you be reviewing some of their other styles as well? Also, are you planning on reviewing dress shoes in the future?

[@Stridewise]

I'm trying to stay in the more ruggedy men's fashion area for now, like I want to review denim and jackets and stuff. Maybe dress shoes in the future!

[@albyv8868]

@@Stridewise Nice, I remember the video you released recently in which you bought the hoodies, denim, and watches. Any hints as to which you are going to review first?

[@josebradleyabad]

I got these because of the overwhelmingly high praise Thursday Boots have among the youtube community. Sadly my experience was terrible. Ordered a pair of the vanguards 3 weeks ago and the 1st pair had a melted portion on the welt of the sole. Reached out to them and they offered an exchange. 2nd pair just came in today but it had a worse defect. The part of the heel where it meets the sole had a crack on it. After all the hassle they offered a measly $10 gift card which can be used when purchasing another product. Other companies offered way better compensation for lesser issues. At this point, I'm beginning to think that all these positive reviews were paid promotions.

[@michael1882yt]

Good video and great boots. You should of chose the French roast version imo. Much better looking boot.

[@Stridewise]

Seems weird to do another video on the same boot with a different leather, like most of the video would be the same! I do keep getting requests to do that though.

[@Jorge-lm4bg]

Most uncomfortable boots I’ve ever owned. I went over for a pair of Taft boots which yes they are Blake stitched but light years more comfortable.

[@Thursdayboots]

Hey Jorge! I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling discomfort in your boots. Please send us an email at [e-mail]. We would love to see how we can help and make sure you are satisfied with your purchase!

[@stephenturcot]

Bought a pair of Vanguards in Essex about 2-years ago and thought I share my experience. The quality is really good, although the sizing on their website is totally arbitrary and off. They recommend sizing 1/2 a size down on your dress shoes. I have a pair of Allen Edmonds in 10.5 that fit really well so I bought a size 10. They were tight and hurt my feet, but they say they should be tight so they can stretch out. I thought I would see how they go because as an international customer it is really expensive to return them. Over time the leather stretched out so much that my foot is over the welt and very uncomfortable. I am a size 11D - E on a Brannock device, the average North American male is an E width. Basically, the sizing recommendation pointed me towards a size 10 when I should be a size 11 (this is not based on the Brannock device as companies do fit does not follow this). I emailed customer service and they take no responsiblity for their sizing recommendation, it is totally arbitrary. The customer service representative did say straight out the Vanguard is designed to fit D and E widths. Their customer service is not good, in my experience, a real shame because these boots have so much potential. Unfortunately, it was a big waste of money for me and a bad experience. Hope this helps anyone thinking about Thursday Boot.

[@Stridewise]

Haha I totally agree this boot is true to size, not a size down. I'm hoping I saved some guys your experience by specifying that in the video, no idea why they haven't changed the recommndations on the site though.

[@MarcP5267]

How’s the arch support. That’s the most important aspect for me.

[@muffemod]

AHHH-CHESS

[@steved573]

I’ve worn em enough to say that I wish I could fit a higher arch insole in there, but it’s not bad at all. I was honestly sore a few times back further toward heel. But this is 12+ hrs of wear in a shipyard walking around.

[@benjaminkenobi21]

Marc Possoff... I think you have a comment on every shoe-related video on KZbin ever.

[@laiwurofg1314]

smh you were talking shit about ppl cuffing their jeans like three videos ago, and now you're doing it on practically vid..... what's going on man

[@Stridewise]

I'm waiting for the jeans to shrink on their first wash, then I'll cuff them better!

[@MrBolioclyde]

your reviews are fantastic.. Super detailed and you cover all areas . You are like a high level black belt boot reviewer . I get pulled in on all your reviews from the start and they play a big part in which boots I will buy. I would love if you ever did a review on Mark ALbert boots. A small company in PA . they look a lot like viberg service boot and the Truman service boot.

[@Stridewise]

7th degree black belt in Goodyear welts haha thank you, this gave me my first laugh of the day. I have done a Mark Albert review! It's not published yet but if you want to read the script you can email me

[@MrBport11]

How does this copper leather compare to the Copper Rough & Tough Red Wing leather? I assume it's sort of a similar tanning process and a similar use-case for the boots.

[@AoCabo]

Definitely size up a half side from your typical boot size. I got mine in size 7, which is my normal size for Wolverine 1000 and Taft, and my toes are super uncomfortably packed if I'm not wearing super thin socks. They're fairly new right now so I'm hoping they'll stretch as they're worn in, but I don't see being able to walk long distance with them on as of this moment. Besides that, super beautiful boots (mine is in French Roast). I've had them for two weeks and I've gotten a ton of unsolicited compliments. Pretty much every time I went out with them really.

[@Stridewise]

Yeah I'm glad I was able to give people that tip! Glad you still like yours. Thin socks for a while and I think you'll be OK.

[@Thursdayboots]

Hey Ddreadster! So glad you're enjoying your boots. The leather will naturally give with time and wear. What may help is to wear the boots a few hours a day in your home so you can slowly break them in!

[@jklax]

So what about Palladium boots?

[@regjarrett]

Do you have a preference between the Captains and the Vanguards?

[@Stridewise]

It's hard to say because my Vanguards are smaller than I want them to be so it's hard to compare haha. But the Captains are more comfortable: a bit more room in the toe and I like the EVA in the sole. Both great, though.

[@chuckfriebe843]

I just ordered a pair in black. It looks like the toe is slightly more rounded than captains. Is this true?

[@Jay-rd6fe]

how is the sizing compared to the iron rnagers? im a 10 in iron rangers a 11 in sneakers cus i got quite wide feet so im a little confused

[@jacknelson5891]

Where did you get that bomber jacket in the beginning. Absolutely gorgeous.

[@Stridewise]

Oh thanks, that's from Thursday as well thursdayboots.com/collections/mens-jackets

[@OnePeopleOnelife]

Aren’t the Captain boots made in the leather boot capital in the world. Leone Mexico

[@Stridewise]

Yup

[@Comrade134]

Their customer service is so horrible I don't want those boots anymore. The price to cheaper fancy products is non existent customer service. I'm done with this trashy company.

[@MrDyldoBaggins]

How similar are they to copper rough and tough? I don’t want to double up 😁

[@Stridewise]

Very different, it's thinner and aesthetically it's totally different.

[@sethmoking]

Are there any boot companies that make boots in this style, but with real leather insoles?

[@MrBolioclyde]

how would you compare the sizing to an iron ranger ? Would you stay the same size as the iron ranger or go up 1/2 size ?

[@Stridewise]

Go up half a size for the Vanguards.

[@jack.charlesc4750]

Heard from this company for a while they need to settle a shop in Europe quickly It will reduce shipping time and also the problem of sizing and the delay if you want another size Spain Italy France Germany Belgium wherever !!!!! DO YOU LISTEN THURSDAY BOOTS JUST ONE SHOP NOT A HUNDRED PLEASE EUROPE is good selling point.....

[@teikohdotcom]

You said it’s not as slim as the Captain in the introduction but also later that you found it too snug in the same size as the Captain and wish you got true to size. How come it’s not as slim as the Captain but also more snug? Thanks.

[@karbonkevin919]

Are these similar to the loggers? Are they built the same I really wanna get the loggers :)

[@rogeliopitti7120]

Vanguards and Logers use the same 1776 last.

[@MemphisCorollaS]

I’d really like to try this boot in the dogger/Cuban heal with the waxed flesh leather, but they only going to 11 on that one. I wear a 12 in sneakers and 11-11.5 in most boots with a slightly wider than D width foot. If that last is narrower fitting, then I’m worried that it won’t work. Thanks for the great content as per usual. I basically only consider boots reviewed by you, Rose Anvil, and/or Trenton & Heath at this point. Y’all are the best!

[@gavin3488]

I wish the heel is a bit shorter.

[@sanecrazy12]

Also if you can find the Woolrich Yankee boots with and without the wool lining it’s a much better boot.. I don’t understand how Thursday boots are getting this much advertisement unless you are getting paid by them.. Are you paid to advertise??

[@rjp1311]

Just received my pair of vanguard burnt copper. I usually wear a 9.5 so ordered the size 9 and they fit great. The leather is a little stiff, but they are comfortable, even during break in period. I got these over the captains but can already tell speed hooks would make these boots better. The burnt copper color is nice in that it changes shades depending on the lighting and angle. Although I thought the leather would be a little darker overall. Not sure if there’s something I can do to darken the leather… hopefully it naturally darkens a little over time. Great boots though, can tell these will hold up over time.

[@grav3h3art]

I got these boots and so far they're my favorite.

[@Thursdayboots]

So glad to hear! Enjoy :)

[@grav3h3art]

@@Thursdayboots Speaking of which, any chance you guys will work on a vegan variants for men as I see that you already have some for women?

[@Thursdayboots]

@@grav3h3art - It is something we are considering. Please be on the lookout :)

[@lackingpoint]

I just ordered a pair of the Vanguards with a Vibram lug sole. Reminds me of Timberlands. I can't find any real info about them. From what I can tell the called the leather color Honey and the sole color Honey. Looking forward to giving them that bear up worn in look. I've really been into USA made boots as of late so I when I learned that they were made in the US I was stoked. Do you happen to know which factory produces them? All I could learn was it was a plant in Arkansas. I suspect is was Munro & Co Inc. They have produced some of the limited run boots for Timberland in the past.

[@mattgibbia2692]

Really cant beat Thursday when it comes to value

[@bariti86]

Other than made in US, is there enough difference between these and the captains to justify the + USD65 price? You can also get the same leather in the captains. what would you reccomend?

[@Stridewise]

The Vanguard is a little shorter and the leather's a little thicker. It's a little more rugged feeling but both are great

[@bariti86]

@@Stridewise Thank you for the answer. These will be my first Thursday boots. I decided I wanted to try the boot that launched Thursday and go with the captain.

[@justinpatrickhoffman]

If I had a pair of Thursday boots in black and wanted to put on some protectant, could I use Obenaufs oil or LP? I don't care if it gets darker because it will be black anyways. Thanks for your help!

[@edf2953]

Excellent review Nick. I always look forward to seeing a notification pop up regarding one of your latest productions available on You Tube. This one did not disappoint. You do a great job of discussing the various pros and cons of Thursday’s Vanguard Boot. I really like the look and texture of the leather, which appears similar to an Allen Edmond’s Normandy Boot I recently purchased. The AE Normandy boot is quickly becoming one of my favorites, thus, I can see why you are excited about The Vanguard Boot, which comes in at around $100 less than the AE Normandy. It sounds like you really did an exhaustive “road test” on the Vanguard and from all appearances they seem to have held up quite well. I’m curious if you foresee Thursday making more of its boots in the U.S? If so, it would seem like Thursday would need to partner with a major U.S. Footwear manufacturer to pull it off. What are your thoughts as to what direction Thursday might be going? Getting back to the review, I think you covered all the bases quite adequately. Another fine Stridewise production! Well done...

[@Stridewise]

Thanks, Ed! I think Thursday's $199 boots are like a big deal for them but they might do more American made stuff. For now though I think they're focusing more on apparel - they made the jacket I wear in this video and I think they're working on more clothing items

[@davidcoleman2463]

I really like them . Good review . Thanks .

[@thealexthing]

Thursday need to make it easier to buy these in the UK!

[@teikohdotcom]

Hi Nick. Mate, did you find this leather very similar to the Chippewa service boot Crazy Horse leather?

[@69Muscle]

I just bought a pair of the Vanguards. I don’t think there’s a better value boot anywhere for the money. Beautiful boots.

[@MadelnMachines]

You took the right colour boots to the wadi rum desert. I went there with some merrels and I could see the red sand in them 10 years later. How quickly does the poron get compressed or lose cushion? Once it does maybe there will be space so can you put another thin poron insole on top.

[@terrellgill2619]

The vanguards a little bit more of a bigger boot I would probably say like I slim Iron Ranger versus a captain which is more of a slim dress boot I like the fact that it's made out of horween chromexcel which next it easier to match color accessories and I feel like a leather a little bit softer and Thursdays Chrome tanned leather

[@andrewartress9251]

I would love to get the vanguards, but they don't offer them in wide size like the captains 😒

[@sed6]

Is American made worth it? Not these boots. My lace broke on the first pull and Thursday won't replace it.

[@Stridewise]

rawhide laces are a pain

[@AJ-by6pd]

Just curious…why did you choose the rugged and resilient vanguard over the Horween leathers? Is that just what they sent you?

[@speedwolf5212]

I wish Thursday would make some round toe models. I just can’t get down with pointy toe boots.

[@gustopher6500]

Well you have no taste

[@Stridewise]

You should tell them that!

[@Thursdayboots]

@GhostDriver... Taking Note! We're always releasing new styles and appreciate the feedback. Please stay posted on our new releases:)

[@speedwolf5212]

Thursday Boot Company Copy that, that’s awesome! I check your catalog every few months, I’ll keep an eye out.

[@andrewfried3144]

There is no such thing as thinner to fit to the foot. All lasts can be slim or wide or extra wide, No matter old last or new last the width makes the difference with all of them. I know footwear because I make them

[@tattoochef425]

I’ve been watching tons of your videos. Love them, but would like to see more styles reviewed such as engineer boots (Frye, Welco, Ranch Road) and maybe Tecovas boots and some other styles.

[@Stridewise]

This year I want to do a lot more chelseas, which are more popular and would make more sense for me like, traffic wise. But engineer boots are on the to do list! It's a big world out there.

[@johnhoward7298]

Far as the care of these boots ... SPOT ON GUYS wet cloth 💋 ! Be nice to be able to buy at a bargain price !

[@MM-tf5gg]

Well guys went with the Wingtips in Brandy! thursdayboots.com/products/mens-wingtip-brandy?collection=mens-boots-wingtip