Discount Steel Toe Boots

Tear it apart: What makes quality workboots

01.01.70

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) – Many jobs require their workers to wear steel toed boots. They can be a lifesaver-or a foot saver-when working around heavy machinery or harsh weather. But they don't come cheap. They can range from $70 up to $300. So what's the difference? 

Start with the leather. It will either be full grain or split. 

"With full grain leather, it's actually the whole hide itself with split leather they'll take the hide, cut it in half and they can make multiple shoes out of that at a better price point," explained Bill Gardner, Richmond President of Red Wing Shoes. 

Split leather wears out quicker. High quality boots will have a welted sole that is sewn to the upper. 

"That way the boots can't separate," said Bill. "Make sure that's an actual stitch and it's not mimicked to look like a stitch." 

Which you can see from the outside, but the inner construction can make or break a good boot. "Good quality urethane sole, safety cap, lining for moisture and perspiration and a waterproof bladder behind that," Bill showed us. 

Source: WWBT