I have boots from almost every brand available, and I have flat feet. I have to use arch supports in all of them except for those by Beckett Simonon. They provide great support straight from the factory. Chippewa is a close second, but not quite good enough to dispense with the arch supports.
In a few pairs of my boots I've replaced the standard insoles with full length arch supporting insoles from various manufacturers, but in the majority I use 3/4 length Powerstep insoles. They provide great support but don't take up any room in the toe box.
I have used custom orthotics in the past, but I haven't had any issues with foot pain since switching to these off-the-shelf supports. And by the way, I don't have a pair of these for every pair of boots that I own. I only have a few pairs that get placed into whatever boots I'm wearing.
Step 1: get any sort of safety toe non-slip boot or shoe. Make sure you find it comfortable while bending, squatting, walking, and generally being in all day. They even make hiking style boots nowadays that are really breathable. Just do some research and experiment at a store. Many of the suggestions here are excellent.
Step 2: make sure you have a good pair of non-slip and abrasion resistant gloves so you don't hurt your hands
Step 3: buy a set of Shoulder Dolly Moving Straps. Even if you can't expense them, it will be the best $40 you'll ever spend when it comes to efficiency in moving and maneuvering.
A couple of guys dropped off a washer and dryer for us a few years ago and had a set of these. We had a very narrow stairway with a terrible sharp angle at the top going down to a very cramped utility room/laundry room, and they were able to get the old set out and the new set in in about 20 minutes total. I was so impressed I bought a set the next day and it's been a lifesaver.
I've moved awkward and heavy furniture, appliances, entire households, even a 4'x5' granite countertop where we clamped the belt around the bottom so it wouldn't slip and lifted it right out of the house.
Best money you will ever spend if you move heavy things with any frequency.
Do you use any talcum powder/antiperspirant?
I use goldbond with menthol in my socks. What I do is put powder on the toes and heel, then close the sock with my other hand and swish it around.
Another tip is getting heel cusions.
Just use an epoxy and a clamp of some sort to stick them on cuz the adhesive it comes with sucks.
Looks amazing, but there’s an easier way. Use sno seal. Instructions? Wipe on, wipe off excess. Done. I’ve used it on three of my boots so far.
Also, sno seal doesn’t crack like some harder waxes you have to heat up before use can.
Atsko 1330 8 Oz Sno-Seal All Season Leather Protectant https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B6EMMUU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8JMR6YGE8GHR43MA47AW
Put theseover the heel grips you already installed.
Bind it with this and wait for it to cure.
The idea is to creat an additional layer to grip your ankle.
Idk if you have a narrow heel/ankle but chelseas are bad for that foot type. Chelseas aren't really meant for walking long distances anyway. They are more of a dress boot
So I really like the look and design of these boots but I just don’t like how they are made to look kinda dirty if u know what i mean. If u know any place that I could find some like these please let me know. This is the Amazon link I’d it helps https://www.amazon.com/Masterson-Mens-Western-Cowboy-Boot/dp/B08M4BTP1R
It is probably possible but I would not recommend it. Usually boot with zipper have extra reinforcement at the zipper.
You can get a zipper that can be laced in. Some firemen really like them
If you want a boot with a zipper, buy one with it. Pallidum makes them in canvas. https://www.amazon.com/Palladium-Pampa-Hi-Zip-Ma-1/dp/B00HZNNTDK
I recently got into palladiums this year, so I have no prior reference.
However I did notice the insoles were pretty thin. I replaced them with these https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Scholls-Relief-Orthotics-Women/dp/B01MG68UX9/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=dr%2Bscholl%27s%2Binserts%2Barch&qid=1601863227&sprefix=dr%2Bscholl%27s%2Binserts%2Barxh&sr=8-4&th=1&psc=1
They are small and allow for toe room. If you buy them from Walmart I'm sure you could return them if they don't work.
Here’s a video by Rose Anvil on the best winter boots. https://youtu.be/JNcLk6snuw0
Later he reviews the bunny boots which you can’t cheap and while they look silly they absolutely work the best. Limk
You can find them cheaper at surplus places too.
use this. I’m sorry but I saw no one was really offering you any help. You can try the link I attached. I had a stain on my Arizona Adobe Captains by Thursdays and I also have a pair of timbs just like yours and I’ve gotten stains on both of them and this gets them out for the most part. You’ll have to apply it to the entire boot so you won’t have a water mark after the stuff dries out. It worked for me but try at your own risk or not but that’s my suggestion. Good luck!
This looks like a great boot at an attractive price. I currently work in a USMC RAT Boot.
Does anyone want to try to compare the two?
ps: I am not a Marine, these just looked like quality boots at an exceptional price.
When I think combat boots I think black boots? Are you looking specifically for black boots?
I highly recommend the Danner RAT boot. It's not black. But the Goretex versions are waterproof. They're comfortable right out of the box. They're made with thick nubuck leather and heavy duty canvas. Vibram rubber lug soles. I have these boots. I love these boots. They are waterproof. They dry fast. They have speed lacing. They're made in America if that matters to you. And because they had a military contract to make these they come in at 100 bucks after taxes. Danner Men's USMC RAT Boot, 8",... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JUYHKO?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
What's the budget?
Here are the Thorogood Flyway, moc soft toe, non wedge sole...
Reebok is quite a know model within your industry (tactical military, security)
This model has a safety toe cap, but it's composite.
I use to help a farmer years ago, I just wore my regular work boots then put boot covers on them. I wore Carolina series 28 boots. Stomped out in the pasture many times. Now they're cheep rubber boot covers, so they probably won't hold up like a full pair of boots might but it is also 1/5th the price and can wear whatever you want inside them.
Something like this is what I used https://www.amazon.com/Tingley-35121-WorkBrutes-10-Inch-Overshoe/dp/B000BQU1AC/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=rubber+boot+covers&qid=1663326660&sr=8-4
Check out Danner. Specifically the Danner USMC RAT boot. I got mine on sale for $80 USD. It's made in the USA. Full grain leather outer. Lined with Gore-Tex. I can attest these are waterproof. They are also very comfortable right out of the box. Made with Vibram sole. If all you're looking for is the occasional use boot that will have your back in the conditions you listed, this is my personal recommendation. I have Red Wings. I have a pair of Nicks. But these Danner are my shit kicker/ beat the hell out of and not care boots. I love them. Danner Men's USMC RAT Boot, 8",... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JUYHKO?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Thanks for the info, I'll be ordering some conditioner and a brush ASAP. Thank you for the recommendation. One more question, should I just use a generic boot care brush like this?: https://www.amazon.com/Colourlock-interiors-Alcantara-Furniture-Upholstery/dp/B00J7XSOLS/ref=sr\_1\_6?keywords=boot+brushes&qid=1659113014&sr=8-6
When I said that these were under $200
It appears that you can still get the McRae leather combat boots for under $200 but in my experience the Altama is a better boot that will last longer.
Here is an Amazon listing for the Altama boot for under $100
Altama 7852 Black Combat Vulcanized Boot, 12.5 Wide https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0051YB0H2/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_B7XTHH8P22K066WTPKEM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
There's old Chippewa bridgeman.
They're discontinued, but you can find new and gently used ones online still.
I know the one you’re talking about, but they sell a honeycomb one that’s far superior.
They look a lot like the "para-boots," or paratrooper boots, that you'd find if you searched amazon or similar. maybe by Rocky or Bates?
like this: Paratrooper Boots
ive used these, they work pretty good if you really glue them on well (i use barge cement instead of the provided cement)
Just thought I would update. I got these:
https://www.amazon.com/Timberland-White-Ledge-Waterproof-Ankle/dp/B003XK7YPS
Available in my size (14w) and cost $50 less than the Merrell boots they replaced. Black leather, mid high, lace tight around my ankle and have a okay amount of toe room. My feet feel supported but not squished.
No squeak. Solid outsole so far. I've been wearing them about a week. If they do start squeaking I'll let you know but I'm impressed with the build quality for the price. The tag says made in Cambodia and I am left fascinated that the more expensive made in USA boots from Merrell sucked so bad compared to these.
Maybe I got lucky? Maybe there is a boot lottery and I won this time? But if these still hold up after six months of use I would probably buy Timberland again.
Sure! It can be bought by the sheet, but usually just the sole, no heel
https://www.amazon.com/Vibram-Rubber-Soles-Replacement-Thin/dp/B00RCG6WZC
Order a few sized large, Barge cement, hammer down, trim.
Not sure how well the stuff works, but a vinyl repair kit is what you're looking for.
Something like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZN8JK88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_i_P71JNN1F80908EMNE7BW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Good luck!
3 or 4 years can be a lot for a work boot depending on how you tough your job is on them. Not sure if you're open to suggestions. But I'd recommend a Thorogood Moc toe, depending on the size you can fiind it for as low as $200. Red wing has a huge selection, either work boots, which most likely you'll have to go to a dealer to buy or sierra has several seconds from red wings heritage line.
I typed this up and realized that the boots you listed are doc "fashion steel toe", just a note on that if your job requires 'safety toe' these likely are not acceptable as they are not tested or approved buy organizations like ASTM or CSA.
If you are a union apprentice there are websites that give you discounts as well, I don't remember any at the moment but if you Google 'union boot' you should be able to find one.
Please don't buy doc's they'll probably feel fine out of the box but if your on your feet for long hours or walking a lot after a few weeks they'll be killing you. Things like plantar fasciitis are not worth it for fashion.
I just put speed hooks on my Stags. I found the speed hook rivets to be not long enough, so ended up buying some double capped rivets (also from Amazon) one of the sizes was perfect in length, but also the correct diameter to sleeve the speed hooks over. Worked out okay, a few of the hooks rotate, but they're secure, and it doesn't seem to matter when the laces are tied anyway.
Speedhooks PandaHall 20 Sets Boot Lace Hooks Brass Safety Shoelace Buckles with Installation Tool for Camp Hike Climbing Repair Leather Boot Shoes Repair Buckle Hooks Accessories, Gunmetal https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08G1MG9C7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_7EJQENYEB2QXDT7JJBKJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Rivets 360PCS Leather Rivets, 3 Sizes... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08LVGV51Y?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I used to wear these all the time. Never had an issue in NY, NJ, or RI. They're not on par with really high end boots, but I beat the crap out of a pair for 3 years and they were always comfy. Fits more like a sneaker than a boot so size accordingly. Bates Men's Gx-8 Gore-tex Insulated Waterproof Boot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003N2BI4O/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_KFAQHBF3M7B46WRJSCTJ?psc=1
A cobbler can replace just the heel pad. Likewise, you can also just get apply glue or nail-on heel taps that are like $0.50 like these: https://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Black-Tips-Hlacement-Nails/dp/B078H9H5PM/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=shoe+heel+taps&qid=1636036270&sr=8-5 to get you through for a while since this is such a common thing.
Boot dye or get some of that rubber-cement style boot-toe-repair stuff and just paint it on to make em both match the other
Kg's Boot Guard Brush on Toe Protection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008SK1A30/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BFB3A8WV64QHHWXFQZK0?psc=1
Are they the steel toe version? Those aren't stretching. If they aren't steel toe, I had good luck with the shoe stretcher linked below. It has pressure point stretchers that you apply right where you need them. Works great for me.
They are not the exact ones but they are kinda close , I don’t really buy women’s boots. Just a couple times for family . Good luck though the ones in the pic look cool. READYSALTED Women's Chunky Low Heel Platform Chelsea Slip On Ankle Boots In Black(KEY6) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09968KFZT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_D5V3WTHNZ7PW7QB4DR8Q
So, I found them finally but they are out of stock everywhere or may be discontinued now.
Maybe a thicker insole? like timerland pro?
​
I have this fit into my Dunlop thermo explorer + and it works quite well .
I have these boots. Wear with one of these Dr Scholl's and you won't feel pain even after twelve hours.
If the boot feels a biiiit too tight on the toes. Snip a bit of other insert off to allow more room.
Kg's Boot Guard Brush on Toe Protection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008SK1X8W/ref=cm_sw_r_sm_apa_glt_fabc_YTGNJ0A7WAH5KK36WK7F
Pours/sprays on the toe caps to help prevent what is happening to your boots
Kg's Boot Guard Brush on Toe Protection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008SK1X8W/ref=cm_sw_r_sm_apa_glt_fabc_YTGNJ0A7WAH5KK36WK7F
Pours/sprays on the toe caps to help prevent what is happening to your boots
Chippewa GQ Apache, in the color chocolate. Somehow, Amazon had them priced at $100 in 2013. Now they’re like $150-$200—depending on the size. And they don’t have many sizes available. The photos of this boot when it’s brand-new look so different, you’d think I’m giving you the wrong link:
Chippewa Men's 6" Rugged Handcrafted Lace-Up Boot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0036VN8U4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XTDEW352WARR46R0ZF9Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
(Horween leather btw. Best leather in the USA)
If you buy it, try the boot first, see it you have space under your heel. If you do go to Walmart and find these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MG68UX9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_XZ4KGF1EY71M3A9B47ME
(Even tho it's Amazon, I said WalMart cuz you can return even if opened.)
This is what I have currently for my workboot set up.
I can last 12 hr days of walking with little to no pain on my feet. I walk on hard concrete all day.
Also, another thing about these boots is that you may get a little rubbing on the toes. For that problem, I just snipped the tip of the insert it came with for more wiggle room.
Try some heel cushions;
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P6LMXRH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_DPCE1ZCSVGDAF30R9TE5?psc=1
Also use a better adhesive like jb weld epoxy or loctite super glue to put them on cuz the one it comes with sucks. Use a weight to clamp it down for 24 hrs.
If you can't wait I think you can also get them at boot barn or any shoe store.
Check these out: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NNQAWK6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_1KREGADGJJAC4RHKRZMD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Condition every month with a few layers of this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SQYV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_DQ33XQ1VGEEXJFK22PND
When putting on sole, don't put on floor contact points on the lugs of the boot.
If your feet get hot in the boots, you can also fold down the shaft partially to allow some breathability.
Hope this helps!
Instead of zip up, would a Chelsea boot work? Something like a Thursday Duke or an Ecco Turn GTX?
cant break thse boots, the soles tend to devolpe a small crack after 3 years where your foot bends. the laces never broke nor have anything else ripped off or anything, solid built boots, once you use them youll never buy another type of work boot, the jeans are wrangler riggwear, theyre double layered up front so if they ge a hole or tear the bottom layer will still cover you, never had these split open from the crotch, they last about 2 years of everyday use https://www.amazon.com/Workwear-Wrangler-Utility-Antique-Indigo/dp/B000A2KB5C?pd_rd_w=H1aAv&pf_rd_p=a92e0124-cfa8-4f1e-82b5-a4a348d97008&pf_rd_r=7HN7XHDAP1CYKX31MF20&pd_rd_r=08fce943-3ba6-4d96-b393-986a03b8261b&pd_rd_wg=y75Ew&pd_rd_i=B000A2KB5C&psc=1&ref_=pd_bap_d_rp_5_i
Try these heel grips.
Buy some loctite shoe glue as well. The adhesive on these suck and you will need something stronger.
I think u/velvetackbar is right with the cobbler suggestion, but if it’s low enough, vertical insole inserts might work to just force it aside.
Thursdays are more for casual wear, not really meant for dedicated hiking.
Check these keen boots. Not exactly cap toe, but cap toes aren't waterproof because water can still fall in through the cap. Still very stylish, flexible and have the ability to be resoled as well. pair it with these inserts and you can get more cushion for long walks and hikes.
just an fyi, the boots I suggested aren't exactly waterproof either, the most they can handle is a few splashes of a puddle and that is it. but if you are going to go through miles of puddles and mud then a dedicated neoprene boot would do more justice.
I was going to recommend you the ones I posted but I realized you have size 14 feet lol
Try these carharttones, I have these in my boot currently.
I have both the dr scholl's and carhartt because I was doing trials and found that these two pretty much work the same when paired with the wolverine inserts that came with the boots. The whole point is to layer the high density memory foam to absorb step impact.
It may make your toes a bit snug so what I did was cut off the top where the toes meet to make more wiggle room.
If it's a bit snug on the shoe laces part, take the laces off, put the boots back on and lace them up that way. ,If it's till too snug there are ways you can lace them to put less pressure.
Don't forget the talcum powder!
Put some obenaufs heavy duty lp on the leather for more waterproof-ness.
put these on top of the insert it comes with:
The design on these look so good I'm thinking of getting some lol
Buy these inserts and give them a try.
Also do the boots looked balanced? Are there any signs of uneven wear on the heels?
Use these heel cushions https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07N1VF9CS?pf_rd_p=a0de36ed-fbca-4567-b355-7a021be5a3fe&aaxitk=2mP0E1xvOEln-cxmqncMZQ&hsa_cr_id=2702737300201&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_scm_asin_0
Prep the boot before hand like cutting lose fabric.sand the cushion on the flat side a little. Apply the the glue on both surfaces somewhat liberally. When you compress them together get something like a clamp to do it, if you don't have em you can get creative. Leave the clamps for 24 hours so the glue could really cute. If you want added strength, you could additionaly sow them as well.
After this wear talcum powder in your socks. It really helps with chafing.
That makes sense! I ordered them on my exes Amazon account and she won't give me the information so that's why I'm going off of memory here. I thought timberland had something to do with it! I think these are it: https://www.amazon.com/Timberland-PRO-Rebound-Cushion-Replacement/dp/B009R8KHUO/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=ortholite+x40+insole&qid=1590720007&sr=8-4
I guessed on your size:) but you can always cut them down
👍 glad I could help! I will say this too—I wear these boots to work almost every day. If you plan on doing the same and you don’t have one already; I suggest investing in a boot dryer. I don’t know how many pairs I killed before I got one. Definitely worth the investment. The one I picked up is Dryguy . Found it on amazon. Good luck!
Because of the water, I would get pull on work boots, Wellingtons or comfortable rain boots, basically waterproof boots. I have Kamik Rangers which I love. I went on all kinds of hikes and trips around Alaska to hunt and fish with them. I don't know if they make them anymore, though. I have friends that love the old XtraTuffs. A lot of people in AK wear them all the time and are quite agile in them. I, not being agile, can't really say anything about the Kamik Rangers but they are comparable to the old XtraTuffs. The new XtraTuffs are made in China and with inferior materials so avoid those. I checked on Amazon and Rangers are $25. There's higher rated boots for $16 and the Kamik Hunters which are an improved Ranger are $43 to $70.
Edit: I should have noted that I had no problems walking across super mossy and slippery rocks, fast running rivers and creeks, and ice with my Rangers on. I don't know if that would apply to your situation but it does tell you something about their grip.