I love mine, wonderful boots. I wrote a big review a few weeks ago on the Fedora Lounge forum, also went into lot of detail with a similar explanation of what makes them so uniquely comfortable and capable. My biggest problem is not being able to wear them everywhere, all the time, LOL. If I may be so bold, those are nice kilties, but the boot calls for a pair in matching leather to preserve the visual integrity of the design. I didn't order them with my boots from RM myself, I might do so down the road.
I tried on a pair of Russell’s at Bootcamp last year. I was wearing a brand new pair of Nicks Overlanders to the event. The two boots could not have felt more different on my foot. Being brand new, the Nicks felt like Ski boots, while the Russell’s felt, light, agile, like I was wearing nothing. I understood immediately why they were so good for birding, hunting, and general outdoor activity. They were remarkable
@@roberttudisco6530 Great to know. I was considering going with my same Nicks size or if I should go down length and increase width. I think I'll plan to try the same size. Thanks!
Don't think there is any other pair of $750 pair of boots that can be more justified than Russells. These shoes truly are handmade and use rare vintage machinery to do it as well as hand stitching the apron on. Beautiful boots that can last over a lifetime.
I bought a pair of Rancourt Dirigo boots, and have now realized that all my favorite footwear this summer are moccasins: the Rancourts, Clark Wallabees, Clark camp mocs. The true moc design hits the right balance between that foot cupping support you describe and lightness. By contrast other boots feel clunky, platforms pounded in with nails. At any rate, great review. Glad to hear your wife is recovering, and best wishes on your own procedure.
I was looking forward to this review and am pleasantly surprised it came early! You've provided the most descriptive analysis I've heard yet on what it's like to wear these vs. more traditional boots. It's easy to sense your enthusiasm for these guys... and it's infectious! I can't wait until I can get my own pair someday!
I have two pairs. One were offered through Cabelas and the other pair were custom ordered with my measurements. Great boots. I love them for casual wear, trail hikes, and early season deer hunting.
Teik, thanks for always including your sizing guidance. Most of my US heritage brands are either 8.5 or 9, with Parkhurst and Iron Rangers being the ones that are 8.5. The Russell sizing app said I was an 8, but that just didnt seem right. I’m going 8.5 based on your info. Russell customer service wasn’t friendly to the idea of offering other brand comps and just referred me to their online guidance. After paying $750 for a boot, I hate to pay for shipping back. Thanks again
Was waiting for this...and pleasantly surprised it happened so quickly! I feel the same way about my Russell's...so darn comfortable. so different feeling...and they're definitely my every day, go-to boots.
I’m sure this man should review everything once versed in the subject!! Well done sir. I will be ordering a pair this week🎉 can’t wait. Have a pair of Redwing Blacksmiths arriving next week👍
Russ-Mocc has always been my holy grail but I just can’t swallow the price tag at $600-$800 USD…Even with owning a dozen boots or fine shoes in the $300-$500 range. Did enjoy your review though! You may also want to try Rancourt’s Harrison Boots. Very similar Mocc construction method around a $350 price. I have them in CXL and they are so damn comfy like these RussMoccs that they’re essentially my daily’s. Keep the reviews coming T!!!
I have the weathered oak version of the Backcountry. I love them like you do. Because they are so beefy I picked up a pair of Art Carter Russell chukkas that are a little more versatile for business casual situations. They are also incredibly comfortable and just feel like quality. The only problem is the availability of models is not or miss.
My Russell Backcountry boots will be here this week, and I could not be more excited. I will be wearing them out deer hunting in the coming weeks and will really put them to the test. I bought some 55 last overbuilt Franks boots for hunting last year. And while they are beautiful well-built boots, they are big, and heavy. The other issue was the somewhat instability I felt hiking up hill sides with that tall heel made almost fall over numerous times. I feel like the light weight Russells and improved feel should be an asset in that environment. Oh, and ya, they look amazing! Perfect casual boot too.
@@Traxlar Honestly, they are fucking fantastic. I'm wearing them with the sole insert that they provided. The leather is so soft and supple. The break-in was basically nothing. I wore them a handful of times before taking them on this hunting trip when I wore them for several miles of hiking each day. They are immediately my favorite boots, and I find that shocking. I love my PNW boots, but the Russells are just something entirely different feeling. As of right now, I am wearing my Russells whenever possible. They feel great, and they look fantastic.
The reason Obenauf's beeswax conditioner is recommended is because it doesn't dry out like other treatments. I've owned ten pairs of Russell Moccasin boots - bullhide snake boots, knee-high turkey hunter boots, three pairs of moccasins, bison and alligator loafers, safari boots, sporting clays shoes, a pair of Imperials in French veal, and the recently-purchased Backcountry in bison leather. Almost all were treated with Obenauf's. Enjoy your boots! By the way, I wore the old Imperials while walking around London in December 2023 and have been wearing them to business meetings in the U.S. since they were new in 2012.
Oh Teik. You’ve discovered what it’s like to trigger maximum proprioceptive feedback from your feet. It’s bliss, and addictive. Great description of construction as always and glad you now have the dilemma of whether to wear these or others based on feel. At $ 750 USD they are pricey but worth it in my view if they give you that feeling. Great video- thanks. PS my Whites are now shipped - can’t wait to get them on feet!!
I was planning to try on a pair of Russel boots at the next boot camp stitchdown, I was thinking of making these boots my retirement gift to myself. This review really firmed up my feelings about the boot, I am pretty sure it will also become my go to casual boot. Thanks Teik for the spot on review.
Highly recommend going on and getting fitted. They are very friendly and have most of the options there for you to handle. At least they did last year.
@@franky3fingers337 I tried them out at the stitchdown bootcamp and wow were they comfortable...if fact it is the most comfortable boot I ever tried on. It takes 8-12 weeks for delivery. My normal boot size 9D was a little too snug and ended up ordering a 9E with the gumlite sole which fit perfectly. Can't wait until they arrive in Dec or January.
Beautiful boots . Love the craftsmanship and the construction but they are well beyond my price range. Pity. Best wishes and a swift recovery to your wife. Thanks again for a great review.
Loved your review. When did you purchase your boots? Their website says the price is now USD 994, a >30% price jump from your cost of USD 750. Harder now to justify the purchase after such a sharp price hike.
Hi mate, love the review, you pretty much sold me on the Russel Moccasins Backcountry. I really want to put in an order but I'm quite hesitant given the fact I've never measured my foot on a brannock device, size 10EE on a red wing 1907, and 44.5 on most sneakers, would you say the sizing is similar to the redwing 1907 moc toe or is it more or less spacey? Much thanks, and keep the good content :)
Interesting review. But when you said that construction is a little less "handmade in the mix" you are mistaken, these boots take a lot more work by hand than any other PNW boot, you can see videos of their construction on youtube. They are essentially lasted 3-5 times, depending on the exact definition.
Definitely an interesting brand, only it's a tough price to stomach.. I can understand the cost with all the handstitch work, done in the US.. but idk if I can justify it looks wise.. I'd say the main appeals are construction, history, and how they might feel under foot.. if the regular slip on Moc version was much cheaper, I'd go for it.. Thanks T
I like the idea of these boots but I live and play in the Arizona desert and I'm cheap so I intend to buy the canvas shafted Gokey moccasin boots for $440.
Teik, I have neuropathy in my feet and to much surface feel actually hurts. What are your thoughts on how much is transmitting through vs say my new pair of Parkhurst Stitchdown boots?
Heh. Earl Schaeffer was hardly "fresh as a daisy" after his walk. The boots he hiked the Appalachian Trail in are in the Smithsonian Institution. In a sealed drawer. They have to be, because almost eighty years later they still stink to high heaven.
@@Menocchio1 Seriously? I knew they were in the Smithsonian, but not about the smell. Is smelling them part of the tour or is it described on the placard? 🤣
For the price they should fix your tea. I have no doubt that they live up to their reputation but I need two pair to rotate to mitigate my chronic athlete's foot and two pair of those are out of my reach.
I love mine, wonderful boots. I wrote a big review a few weeks ago on the Fedora Lounge forum, also went into lot of detail with a similar explanation of what makes them so uniquely comfortable and capable. My biggest problem is not being able to wear them everywhere, all the time, LOL.
If I may be so bold, those are nice kilties, but the boot calls for a pair in matching leather to preserve the visual integrity of the design. I didn't order them with my boots from RM myself, I might do so down the road.
I tried on a pair of Russell’s at Bootcamp last year. I was wearing a brand new pair of Nicks Overlanders to the event. The two boots could not have felt more different on my foot. Being brand new, the Nicks felt like Ski boots, while the Russell’s felt, light, agile, like I was wearing nothing. I understood immediately why they were so good for birding, hunting, and general outdoor activity. They were remarkable
How's the sizing compared to Nicks?
@@TommyNitro I wear a 10.5 D in the HNW last and the 10.5 D Russells fit me best
@@roberttudisco6530 Great to know. I was considering going with my same Nicks size or if I should go down length and increase width. I think I'll plan to try the same size. Thanks!
Don't think there is any other pair of $750 pair of boots that can be more justified than Russells. These shoes truly are handmade and use rare vintage machinery to do it as well as hand stitching the apron on. Beautiful boots that can last over a lifetime.
I bought a pair of Rancourt Dirigo boots, and have now realized that all my favorite footwear this summer are moccasins: the Rancourts, Clark Wallabees, Clark camp mocs. The true moc design hits the right balance between that foot cupping support you describe and lightness. By contrast other boots feel clunky, platforms pounded in with nails. At any rate, great review. Glad to hear your wife is recovering, and best wishes on your own procedure.
I was looking forward to this review and am pleasantly surprised it came early! You've provided the most descriptive analysis I've heard yet on what it's like to wear these vs. more traditional boots. It's easy to sense your enthusiasm for these guys... and it's infectious! I can't wait until I can get my own pair someday!
This may be the greatest channel on TH-cam
@@willhorne35 haha thank you!
I have two pairs. One were offered through Cabelas and the other pair were custom ordered with my measurements. Great boots. I love them for casual wear, trail hikes, and early season deer hunting.
Teik, thanks for always including your sizing guidance. Most of my US heritage brands are either 8.5 or 9, with Parkhurst and Iron Rangers being the ones that are 8.5. The Russell sizing app said I was an 8, but that just didnt seem right. I’m going 8.5 based on your info. Russell customer service wasn’t friendly to the idea of offering other brand comps and just referred me to their online guidance. After paying $750 for a boot, I hate to pay for shipping back. Thanks again
Was waiting for this...and pleasantly surprised it happened so quickly! I feel the same way about my Russell's...so darn comfortable. so different feeling...and they're definitely my every day, go-to boots.
I’m sure this man should review everything once versed in the subject!! Well done sir. I will be ordering a pair this week🎉 can’t wait. Have a pair of Redwing Blacksmiths arriving next week👍
So tempteed to grab some of these, I love what Russell represent as a company. Nice review!
Thanks for this great intro to these boots. I always sort of knew they existed but never knew they were this comfy
Russ-Mocc has always been my holy grail but I just can’t swallow the price tag at $600-$800 USD…Even with owning a dozen boots or fine shoes in the $300-$500 range. Did enjoy your review though!
You may also want to try Rancourt’s Harrison Boots. Very similar Mocc construction method around a $350 price. I have them in CXL and they are so damn comfy like these RussMoccs that they’re essentially my daily’s. Keep the reviews coming T!!!
Way better value
I have the weathered oak version of the Backcountry. I love them like you do. Because they are so beefy I picked up a pair of Art Carter Russell chukkas that are a little more versatile for business casual situations. They are also incredibly comfortable and just feel like quality. The only problem is the availability of models is not or miss.
Great review, you covered all the bases!!
These look amazing. I hope all goes smoothly for you in your surgery.
@@cheekibreeki9155 thanks
My Russell Backcountry boots will be here this week, and I could not be more excited. I will be wearing them out deer hunting in the coming weeks and will really put them to the test. I bought some 55 last overbuilt Franks boots for hunting last year. And while they are beautiful well-built boots, they are big, and heavy. The other issue was the somewhat instability I felt hiking up hill sides with that tall heel made almost fall over numerous times. I feel like the light weight Russells and improved feel should be an asset in that environment. Oh, and ya, they look amazing! Perfect casual boot too.
how are they?
@@Traxlar Honestly, they are fucking fantastic. I'm wearing them with the sole insert that they provided. The leather is so soft and supple. The break-in was basically nothing. I wore them a handful of times before taking them on this hunting trip when I wore them for several miles of hiking each day. They are immediately my favorite boots, and I find that shocking. I love my PNW boots, but the Russells are just something entirely different feeling. As of right now, I am wearing my Russells whenever possible. They feel great, and they look fantastic.
Im just so jealous! These are my grail boots
The reason Obenauf's beeswax conditioner is recommended is because it doesn't dry out like other treatments. I've owned ten pairs of Russell Moccasin boots - bullhide snake boots, knee-high turkey hunter boots, three pairs of moccasins, bison and alligator loafers, safari boots, sporting clays shoes, a pair of Imperials in French veal, and the recently-purchased Backcountry in bison leather. Almost all were treated with Obenauf's. Enjoy your boots!
By the way, I wore the old Imperials while walking around London in December 2023 and have been wearing them to business meetings in the U.S. since they were new in 2012.
Amazing review and great boots!!
Oh Teik. You’ve discovered what it’s like to trigger maximum proprioceptive feedback from your feet. It’s bliss, and addictive. Great description of construction as always and glad you now have the dilemma of whether to wear these or others based on feel. At $ 750 USD they are pricey but worth it in my view if they give you that feeling. Great video- thanks. PS my Whites are now shipped - can’t wait to get them on feet!!
@@anthonycox1185 Mate, it’s pricey but you have to try these! As you know I wasn’t a fan of barefoot shoes but this feels low rise and great!
I was planning to try on a pair of Russel boots at the next boot camp stitchdown, I was thinking of making these boots my retirement gift to myself. This review really firmed up my feelings about the boot, I am pretty sure it will also become my go to casual boot. Thanks Teik for the spot on review.
I was going to do the same! Boss gave me an offer I can't refuse, going to stay a bit. Maybe a could have retired present
Highly recommend going on and getting fitted. They are very friendly and have most of the options there for you to handle. At least they did last year.
@@franky3fingers337 I tried them out at the stitchdown bootcamp and wow were they comfortable...if fact it is the most comfortable boot I ever tried on. It takes 8-12 weeks for delivery. My normal boot size 9D was a little too snug and ended up ordering a 9E with the gumlite sole which fit perfectly. Can't wait until they arrive in Dec or January.
I was researching Moccasin boots and found your channel and now subscribed.🇵🇭
@@effu9375 thanks!
Been looking forward to this.
Ive been condidering these. Still cinsidering. Look forward to your future review after done more use :)
Great review. It’s a fabulous looking boot - just the right height for the toe box in my opinion.
That boot looks extremely comfy.
Beautiful boots . Love the craftsmanship and the construction but they are well beyond my price range. Pity. Best wishes and a swift recovery to your wife. Thanks again for a great review.
@@DenisMillar TY
Excellent review
Loved your review. When did you purchase your boots? Their website says the price is now USD 994, a >30% price jump from your cost of USD 750. Harder now to justify the purchase after such a sharp price hike.
My thought exactly
Oh my I want some.
Hi mate, love the review, you pretty much sold me on the Russel Moccasins Backcountry.
I really want to put in an order but I'm quite hesitant given the fact I've never measured my foot on a brannock device, size 10EE on a red wing 1907, and 44.5 on most sneakers, would you say the sizing is similar to the redwing 1907 moc toe or is it more or less spacey?
Much thanks, and keep the good content :)
@@Aloncohen7 sorry, I don’t have the 1907 so I can’t compare. Can I suggest you use their online sizing tool or email them for advice?
I am sure there is one person somewhere that isn’t a Russell super fan but I’ve never met them.
I always wanted a pair of those boots, but never pulled the trigger on buying them.
Interesting review. But when you said that construction is a little less "handmade in the mix" you are mistaken, these boots take a lot more work by hand than any other PNW boot, you can see videos of their construction on youtube. They are essentially lasted 3-5 times, depending on the exact definition.
Definitely an interesting brand, only it's a tough price to stomach..
I can understand the cost with all the handstitch work, done in the US.. but idk if I can justify it looks wise.. I'd say the main appeals are construction, history, and how they might feel under foot.. if the regular slip on Moc version was much cheaper, I'd go for it..
Thanks T
I like the idea of these boots but I live and play in the Arizona desert and I'm cheap so I intend to buy the canvas shafted Gokey moccasin boots for $440.
Excellent! 👏
Teik, I have neuropathy in my feet and to much surface feel actually hurts. What are your thoughts on how much is transmitting through vs say my new pair of Parkhurst Stitchdown boots?
@@stephenbaron5681 feedback goes through, not the rocks themselves, so I’d say on the edge
Apparently I was right. These have become your favorite. ❤️
@@SidW-l4z hahaha
Heh. Earl Schaeffer was hardly "fresh as a daisy" after his walk. The boots he hiked the Appalachian Trail in are in the Smithsonian Institution. In a sealed drawer. They have to be, because almost eighty years later they still stink to high heaven.
@@Menocchio1 Seriously? I knew they were in the Smithsonian, but not about the smell. Is smelling them part of the tour or is it described on the placard? 🤣
scored a s'hand pair on eBay for $150,..
okay, so they needed a $150 Vibram Roccia resole, but hey ho I'm happy
Maybe it’s better to say the Grant Stone field boot looks like this?
Take care and get well wishes to your wife. Good review👍
@@pbrdoug4962 thanks
For the price they should fix your tea. I have no doubt that they live up to their reputation but I need two pair to rotate to mitigate my chronic athlete's foot and two pair of those are out of my reach.
Damn, I keep looking for reasons not to save up for a pair of Russells.
You’re a terrible influence, Teik.
These are my grail boots.
Price is out of reach.