I had the mistake of jumping to Vibergs early in my traditional boot wearing and they made it hard to buy very many other brands. I simply love them. 🍻
I really appreciate the additional operations and business perspective that is unique to your career experience. People always talk about the unique value each individual creator has based on their background on TH-cam as a platform. That value comes across very clearly from your content.
As an Aussie, I've managed to purchase 2 pairs of Vibergs on a good sale from stores that charge minimal shipping. I own a pair of Diesel boots too but as I can minimise the cost difference and the 2030 is such a good fit and look its always Viberg for me (I paid around AUD 750 delivered for both my Vibergs)
You buy Viberg, you’ll be very satisfied and content. It will last a long time. Mine is already 6 years old and still looking new. I do take care of them.
I was lucky enough to find 3 pairs of Viberg service boots in my local thrift store for only $70 each. Plus, they were brand new and exactly my size. I'm so glad I looked them up and bought them right away. Love these boots!
My boot journey started with Thursdays, Beckett Simonon, and Meermin. Once I got the “boot bug” so to speak, I graduated to Grant Stone, Parkhurst, and Caswell. At this level, the quality, fit, leather selection and styles are excellent. Now, could I buy a more expensive boot like Viberg? Sure, but why unless they are twice as good as the Grant Stones and they are not. Naw, it makes no sense to spend over twice as much to get Vibergs no matter how long they have been around. Point is at a certain level you can spend a lot more to get not much more in the boot world.
I own pairs of Viberg and Grant Stone. I agree with you. However if you want to experience something that is designed, built and feels different from the boot brands you already own I highly recommend getting a pair of Nick's or White's. Those traditional PNW boots are a completely different animal. Viberg does stitchdown extremely well but they don't build their boots like tanks. At least not the ones I have held or worn. If you want the best value in a PNW style boot Bordon is also a brand worth looking into. It's not at the exact same level as the Spokane makers but it's very close.
@@dcstiger I pretty much wear Nick's Tactical (for work) and White's Perry Select (for casual and because I never had a pair of moc toes before). On ocassion I'll wear my Beckett Simonon Silva for a rain/wet weather boot (rarity in California) and Thursday Stompers and JK 300X to keep the rotation fresh.
Absolutely fantastic comparison. Grantstones are absolutely the best value for excellently made boots. Vibergs are grail boots for many. They are in no way twice as good as grandstones. Buy what you can afford or want.
I have 3 grant stone boots all sz 10.5E and I just revived my first pair of Viberg’s sz 10. I know this doesn’t count for much with most boot owners, but the Viberg waist is 20mm narrower than the Grant Stone boot, that’s a feature usually found in high end dress shoes. And to make an E width boot look that slim is very impressive.
Excellent comparison! I’m lucky enough to own Viberg and Grant Stone boots and I love them both. They both make me smile every time I pull them from the boot-rack. However, I know that my next pair will be another pair of Grant Stones and not Viberg. Grant Stone just makes more sense in every way.
What an incredible video, the thing about boots for me is that most luxury brand names actually deliver extremely high quality for the price; unlike clothing where they just slap a giant text of the brand in an objectively inferior quality product and charge a billion dollars. For me, I'd gladly pay the extra for a pair of Viberg for that intangible "feel good" and wear it on special occasions, at the same time I love that I can get just as good quality and comfortable Grant Stone and not feeling like I have to be extra careful while wearing them. P.S I know I ain't gonna hurt a pair of Viberg but I am not gonna take the risk walking into puddles
I just purchased a pair of Black Chromexcel Ottawas from Grant Stone because I’ve been hearing nothing but good things about them and I need a dressier, black boot in my wardrobe. I haven’t seen it in person yet, but from what I can tell from the internet, if Grant Stone was made in the US, their boots would easily be $550-$650 USD. The quality control looks top notch and the boots and shoes they make look amazing. I can’t wait to get mine.
Another great, concise video loaded with valuable information. I got hooked on GS thanks to TH-cam vids including yours. I only own one Viberg (fantastic boot), but many GS. While Chromexcel isn’t my favorite leather offering from either company, the majority of my boots are in fact chromexcel and they have held up nicely. I must be a lottery powerhouse because only one of my Edward’s exhibits less than fantastic grain. My recent Field Boot purchase probably has the best creasing which has made me rethink its use. I bought it as a true yard work beater boot, but it has aged so well I’m rethinking its use. I’ve seen some people claim that GS’s choice of clicking has slipped ever so slightly but my personal experience is simply the opposite. And of course GS’s eye for QC has been consistently marvelous throughout without exception. My recent Field and Diesel are as close to flawless as I could imagine… I simply cannot find a flaw. My Viberg 310 seems a little sturdier of course, and I am extremely happy with it as well. But I keep on preferring to buy two GS’s over one Viberg in price for all my uses.
Thank you, Tek. This was exactly the comparison I was wanting to see. I would love to see you do a similar comparison of Truman and the Bordon Tukano. Excellent vids.
I have both, they are pretty compariable, both are solid boots. The only caveat is that the speed lug on the Bordon bends more easiliy, it is not as solid as the Truman. Also, the Bordon is stitchdown, not Goodyear welted, so walking in the Bordon feels harder because there is no cork layer as with the goodyear welted boots.
Thank you Teik for another superb boot review. I do own both Grant Stone and Viberg and stared my boot journey buying lesser cost brands to finally arrive at Viberg. I like the Viberg style and am willing to pay their price but it does hurt the wallet. Keep your best foot forward and give us your honest opinions. Your friend Alex.
This was fantastic, Teik. I love the articulation and classify your channel brings to the table. Would definitely love to see more Truman boots reviewed, especially as Grant Stone creeps closer in price to them.
Hi Teik, I'm a new subscriber, love your channel! Just getting into boots myself, have a pair of RM Williams and just ordered a pair of Thursday Captains after watching your videos! I'm also in Perth and also a size 7.5UK generally, so it's great to hear your sizing advice as well when I can't try on a boot before ordering online!
Great review. I don't own any Grant Stone boots, but my Vibergs are slowly aging like fine wine. I think that Viberg and Truman are the best brands for casual rugged boots.
Great review, I own numerous pairs of Grant Stone but no Vibergs. Frankly, I can afford a viberg but I just don't feel it is a good value. I can get 2 pairs of Grant Stone in two different styles and colors and it will cover more style choices.
It's funny how you say it like my boss. He can afford an Australian worker, but why do that when he could hire 2 from India and still have funds left over. Are local employees good value?
@@g43654 and your point is what? We are talking about boots and finding value in boots. It is like buying Louis Vutton Bags, not everyone is taken by them, too high priced when compared to other quality bags at a much lower price. It is a question of value and getting the most value for your money.
Great video. I watch all your videos and enjoy the detail you include. I trust your sizing recommendations because I have the same size foot. Size 8D in Parkhurst and Grant Stone and 8 1/2 D in Oak Street Bootmakers.
Such a elaborative and informative review, especially when you compared lots of the big names. Always a pleasure to watch your video, please keep on producing. Btw, would you consider to review some Japanese boots like rolling dub trio or clinch?
You really are putting out some great videos right now, I would love a pair of Viberg boots but $800 US is over $1200 Aussie and I have a phobia about crossing the $1000 mark. $950 approximately for my trickers and Crockett & jones is as much as will ever spend on a pair of boots
Value in my eyes is how they fit my foot and how they look to me. In a world where you find something that fits you well, that's valuable to me, whether it's $100 or $800. Yes at some point one has to cut off at a certain price point.
Great comparison, very eloquent, and informative Part of the reason I like to buy a product, is the history of the product and the company. I get more excited about a product that has deep roots in history, and I’m willing to pay more for that. Moreover, and I think this is kind of a given, but reputation of a company goes along way, and knowing that the company has been around so long, gives you confidence in long-term ownership of a product. Who knows if a company that started say five years ago, is still gonna be around next week.
Great video and review For me, the value or worth of something is what you’re willing to pay, and I’m willing to pay Viberg prices all day long. Being on different social media platforms, I believe the appeal to a lot of Grant Stone buyers is not only the price, but also the amount of product that Grant Stone puts out on a regular basis. It’s a little easier to have a collection of 20+ pieces of varying footwear (style and colors) at $380 or $395 or something that’s discounted quite a bit through their “seconds” or sales. Viberg does discount, although it’s rarer, and you definitely won’t see a full run of sizes being discounted. It’s typically when a stockist gets to the last few pairs that they can’t move. Another thing to factor in the overall price is resale(worn and unworn). There some Viberg makeups, old Viberg and new that can be sold for 20% off retail try doing that with a Grant Stone. Some of the older Viberg rare make-ups people will all day long, pay full retail, or maybe even more if they’re unworn or very lightly worn. So for some of us that like a little bit higher end footwear this is appealing. These are all things that play into a “value” of a product. Not to mention quite a few of Viberg make ups are sold out within minutes. Other than shell with Grant Stone you don’t see this happening very often.
Value is being happy with boots that fit and look well on me. So far I’m happy with Grant Stone brass boots. Don’t own Viberg but would definitely buy some if I knew they (2040,310’s) would fit and look well. I say, buy what makes you feel good. I know there are people that can’t afford $380 boots let alone $800 but that’s a different story. Please stop saying GS should cost more!
Great comparison! Like any luxury good, return on investment is non-linear. I would say that my Vibergs are roughly 40% better than my Grant Stone. Given that I plan to wear them for many years, I agree that they are absolutely worth the price. The delta cost per wear will be minimal over the course of 5-10 years.
@@bobbysebastian2116 China's CPI is going down the last few years and I have had a recent high end machined parts order placed this year cost the same as it did 2 years ago. They get their powdered steel from the USA for those parts (crucible, CPM).
Diminishing returns are a thing in absolutely every aspect of life, but I can see where the low price is coming through on the grant stones. Yes, it is Horween CXL which is a great product but it is a lower level of clicking of their leather options as it really isn't aging as well as my other CXL boots. My 3 month old Grant Stones already look as worn and used as my 4yo Vibergs. This does not mean they will continue to age so dramatically, but it is a point worth noting.
Great video on an interesting topic. Viberg has released some nice makeups recently that had me considering buying. In the end I bought a Grant Stone and a Parkhurst for a combined expenditure of “about” the price of a recent Viberg. Both boots arrived today and this video made me wonder, would I rather sit here with two pairs of outstanding beautiful boots, or one pair of outstanding beautiful boots? This time I can say I’m happy with my choice. We live in a time of terrific options.
With GS recently increasing prices and Viberg being the price they are, what do you think about Whites offering a new stitch down at a lower price than their standard boot?
PNW makers are obviously trying to catch a lower price point. I don’t know, I’m a bit of a traditionalist and I think if they make a cheaper version it should be a new model and not an MP.
Can you do a video about the "original custodians" land that which you are recording on? I'm curious to know why you mention it on every video. Nevertheless, another great video. Also, the Vibergs look gorgeous in a timeless way. They have that classic vintage look! Not sure why, the when my eye meets the Viberg it just looks better than the Grant Stone. I honestly don't like the Grant Stone's service boot last, but high quality overall. I own a pair of the brass boots in Kudu which I love. But, if I'm going for a service boot (if ever) I'll probably go for the Viberg.
Original custodians being the Australian Indigenous peoples. I have Wiradjuri ties, that means my Indigenous family lines are from a certain region in Australia (central southern NSW). What Tiek here is doing is an acknowledgement, a showing of respect for the fact that non-Indigenous people are now using the land on which Indigenous people have a spiritual and practical connection to on a cultural level. We have problems here in Australia, just like any nation that was colonised by another race/culture. This is a way of reminding people about the situation in a respectful manner. Are acknowledgements / welcome to country moments overdone? In my view, yes, it isn't having the impact we all hoped and it can push more of a divide with many than it does bring them together, but we are always learning how to make it work better.
Thank you for the explanation! I was curious and I understand the respect to be had. Much gratitude to the indigenous people of your land and home. God bless! @@awdtw
Vibergs are more elegantly lasted, it shows. But their lasts are not as universal fitting as the Grant Stone, and GS only has the one last for their Diesel. While I love my GS and I have 12 pair, Vibergs are better designed, better leather options, and multiple last choices making the fit closer to perfect for you. I would love a more elegant last version of the Diesel and Edward, and maybe a flat welt option. That kind of inventory takes more cash reserves from the manufacturer, and only $500 + boots get you there. You could custom order a boot from TLB Mallorca with whatever last you wanted, hardware, leather, and get a similar “work boot” made for you for $500. You can call and talk to the owner. That was a long winded way of saying I agree with you.
Hey Teik. Your professional evaluation skills clearly shine in these kinds of videos. Personally, I would be on the wrong side of survey opinion regarding goodwill value. Hooked as I now am (damn you!), and as a more dressy boot ought to be next on my list, the Diesel in saddle tan, leather sole definitely appeals. Despite the fact I'm short and hairy, the Essex is too orange for my liking. You know where I'm going with this, so do let me know if you're willing to let go. Neither wife needs to know!
Given the price difference between Viberg and Grant stone, I would be very disappointed if Viberg's didn't click like they do. Though since I have no Viberg experience, I wouldn't know how they would react to customers not being pleased with their clicking. Would they be open to an exchange or some other incentive should the customer decide to send back the boots? I noticed more budget brands like Thursdays are pretty ambivalent about how they click the leather used in their boots. If you get a pair that matches up well without variance too wild, that's luck on your part but my experience with Thursdays so far have been the opposite. This is doubly so when you get anything natural.
Great video Teik. You were very diplomatic about your comparison. Personally, I would go with grant stone only if value was a consideration. I was informed by other TH-camrs and online literature that Vibergs are expensive, as they have high standard clicking process in place as part of QC. Which essentially means, the increase in cost is due to reducing the use of leather cuts with imperfections. For me personally, small imperfections on leather uppers are fine, as leather is supposed to be inherently imperfect (minor) to a degree. Not sure whether a high standard clicking process is sustainable. I hope they use the offcuts for accessories or may be even second pairs. Then again, I will buy a Viberg myself. Heritage and quality alone will be motivation enough to justify the higher price from British Colombian wages and attention to detail. Trust me, there are people out there buying cotton canvas (same material they used to build biplanes in the early 1900s 😂) bags from LV thinking that they are leather for 3000 dollars plus.
Hi Teik, Chromeexcel is also cow hide? i'm planning to buy my first leather quality boots, do you think buffalo leather is good for a first timer, i think buffalo leather is tougher than cow hide or so would that make first timer feel more uncomfortable? i'm think about buying Ranger boots from Craft and Glory who make leather boots in buffalo leather. i dont have lot of options in India.
@@Bootlosophy Yeah i could try other brands which you suggest but I'm only worried about return and exchange or I'll wait for your review on Craft and Glory boots quality.
I have a pair of Viberg's that I got on sale while severely intoxicated. I love them, their amazing and extremely unique. That being said, holy moly they are not worth twice the price of my friend's Redwings.
Not sure if I'll ever be able to afford a pair of Vibergs. I'm hoping I can someday. But if I have to "settle" for Grant Stone then I think I can live with that haha.
Funny you say that. My CXL Edward’s only had a feint smell out of the box. I guess the hides lose their smell when their shipped in containers back and forth from China. I don’t think anyone is doubting Grant Stone quality anymore. That dialogue has been beaten like a dead horse. Their boot designs are rather plain and not the most appealing. Having large feet like me exaggerates this fact. I’m not a big fan of the “tadpole” shape when I look down at my shoes (too be fair, OSB’s Elston last looks worse on me. Like I’m wearing Subway sandwiches on my feet)
Thanks Teik. Great analysis. Kinda off topic, just had a question on sizing since I think you own both the new Parkhurst 602M last and Grant Stones Leo last. Do you size the same in those lasts? Appreciate your time.
Unfortunately this video has information which is not correct at all. I really hope people do some re-search before puttting out misleading information. 1. Grant Stone does not state that their veg tanned leather was made in the USA. There is no commercial tanning of veg tanned leather for soles, midsoles, indoles and counters taking place in the USA. 2. The Viberg service boot uses a wood shank and cork. Viberg does not use a steel shank and foam. 3. The Viberg insole / midsoles comes from France or Germany. Depending on the style.
idk what world you’re living in but vibergs are now 860 for entry level leathers, 860 for a chromexcel service boot. they’re at least 100 dollars over priced and quite frankly, bordering on stealing from their customers
The best boot is the ones you wear. I have several pairs of Viberg boots and one pair of Grant Stone Boots even though the China factor prevented me for a long time from buying. All I can say is I wish I had more feet to wear my Vibergs. I’m looking for someone with the same size to give the Grant stones to. Are they bad no but nothing other than Whites fit me, my feet, like Viberg regardless of the last except 310 last that I had to go down a half size to be perfect. Whites are heavier and chunkier so more often than not I’m reaching for Viberg’s hands down whether new or second hand purchases.
Hi Teik. I use a strong magnet to check my boots for a steel shank by running the magnet on the insole and outsole of the boot where the shank should be. The magnet is attracted to the steel shank in my Red Wing Iron Ranger. I have a current season pair of Viberg Service Boots and the magnet is not attracted to the shank.
A Patek is not worth multiples of JLC based on design or finishing, but there are intangibles that people are clearly willing to pay for. And for those who are into mechanical watches, Viberg boots are laughably cheap in comparison.
Can you please review Luos Jiet boots. I purchased a pair of Indiana Jones MocToe Boot in BrickRed Grain Cowhide on a recommendation by two other boot reviewers you know. The right shoe has a spliced welt. The 4 brass speed laces are to narrow for the flat wax laces to fit properly without a struggle. Seems like poor quality control. The boot fit is very tight compared to my Grant Stones, Beckett Simonon and Thursday's. They have yet to answer my email from two weeks ago. I'm starting to think the company has been influencing boot reviewers with compensation. I sincerely hope that I'm dead wrong. I'm reaching out to you to do this because I believe you are above that kind of behavior. Thank-you for your consideration.
For what it's worth, I also tried Luos Jiet and purchased a wine colored "Indy" from them. I consider myself lucky that my pair came without any noticeable flaws -- actually very well done. What you are reporting about their customer service is horrible, though. If they don't improve in that department I expect they will not be successful in gathering American buyers. They are supposedly aligned with XBXS in some way, you might try reaching out to XBXS. Sorry you had this experience, I feel for you. It's a roll of the dice with these new makers, I think.
I haven’t really liked the look of them, and since I buy my boots to wear myself, I’m not willing to take a bet on something I might not like to wear, so I don’t review them.
All chromexel leather are not the same , there are 250 dollar boots that uses chromexel leather and its no way the same as the cut viberg gets so thats a lesson in its self.
Once again, a wonderful comparison! The differences simply could not be better explained. Here is why I chose Viberg: 1. I'm Canadian and like buying Canadian products. 2. The city of Victoria (where Vibergs are made) on Vancouver Island, is an EXPENSIVE place to live and work in. Therefore, labour there is EXPENSIVE. We may not like paying Viberg prices, but Viberg pays it's employee's fair, first world wages. Grant Stone might be an American headquartered, ethical company, paying wages that exceed the Chinese average, but Grant Stone's financial commitment in its workers will never match the commitment required to sustain a well paid workforce located in Victoria. 3. No matter how ethical the Grant Stone company is, a large portion of it's operating costs end up going to the Chinese Communist Party, at very least in the form of taxes. I wish we could ignore global politics, but in this current world, we do so at our peril. China is not some benign state. It poses a real global threat to democracy and peace. I cannot overlook this fact. Cheers
The good will element is drastic when you consider the posibility of sweatshop labor. I would pay double for anything if it mean I wasn't fueling slavery. China has upped quality, but if I've stuggled at times in America for decent treatment, I can only imagine what a chinese worker would say if allowed to speak and as I understand, they are not. However, Vibergs are overpriced so I'd buy neither.
Or buy used vibergs at half the price of new or less. Still excellent and long lasting boots. Or buy any of the other PNW boots 2nd hand or 3rd hand for half price.Still excellent boots and will last years. Chinese working conditions are not the same they were decades ago. I would think the slave labour label applies more to cheaper fast fashion goods made in Bangladesh, Vietnam, India, Pakistan etc. and to a lesser extent China now.
@@Bootlosophy Full-grain leather heel counters Micro stud rubber outsole Every pair crafted on Xiamen Island, China This is what it shows online, on their web page.
If you're Canadian and watching this and thinking about a Grant Stone purchase, I would like to add a suggestion. Get an Oak Street Bootmaker boot on sale instead. Why? Because Grant Stone boot purchases come with a 20% duty fee for Canadians, this is because they're manufactured in China. But Oak Street Boot's are made in a America, and with Canada's trade agreement, we don't pay duties. We just pay tax on it. When you account for the cost of duties, Oak Street Boots and Grant Stone are about the same price in Canada once all is said in done, exchange, duties, tax etc. However, Oak Street typically has sales 2-3 times a year for about 20-30% off making the price point significantly cheaper than Grant Stone's. And I think that an Oak Street Boot is a comparable boot to Grant Stone, plus they come with real Danite soles, not the facsimiles that Grant Stone gives you. Quick math reference chart (note: exchange rate subject to change): Grant Stone Diesel boot = $395 USD (as of March 30th 2024) Convert to Canadian = $395(1.35) = $533.25 CDN With Duties = $533.25(1.20) = $639.39 CDN With Tax Total = $639.39(1.13) = $723.09 CDN Oak Street Bootmaker Trench Boot = $488 USD (as of March 30th 2024) Convert to Canadian = $488(1.35) = $658.80 CDN With Tax Total (No Duties) = $658.80(1.13) = $744.44 CDN So $723 vs $744, about a $21 CDN difference in favour of Grant Stone. But remember, Oak Street has significant sales a couple times a year. Oak Street Bootmaker Trench Boot = $390.40 USD (Approx with 20% off sale) Convert to Canadian = $390.40(1.35) = $527.04 CDN With Tax Total (No Duties) = $527.04(1.13) = $595.56 CDN So with a sale, Oak Street comes in at roughly $127.53 less for a made in a America boot with real Danite soles. *This is just my opinion. Do you're own research to decide what's best for you.
Excellent point. I'd rather support Oak Street Bootmakers any day over Grant Stone. Grant Stone makes great boots, but at some point people need to support workers in their own country if quality is largely the same. I'm a big fan of Oak Street and their quality products fit me very well.
I had the mistake of jumping to Vibergs early in my traditional boot wearing and they made it hard to buy very many other brands. I simply love them. 🍻
I always admire the honesty and intelligence of your reviews. Best boot videos on TH-cam.
Your attention to detail in each of your videos as well as your fun filled demeanor make your channel about boots the best on TH-cam. Thank you Sir.
I really appreciate the additional operations and business perspective that is unique to your career experience. People always talk about the unique value each individual creator has based on their background on TH-cam as a platform. That value comes across very clearly from your content.
As an Aussie, I've managed to purchase 2 pairs of Vibergs on a good sale from stores that charge minimal shipping. I own a pair of Diesel boots too but as I can minimise the cost difference and the 2030 is such a good fit and look its always Viberg for me
(I paid around AUD 750 delivered for both my Vibergs)
Damn good price! If you’re in Melbourne the Up There Store have sales sometimes
You buy Viberg, you’ll be very satisfied and content. It will last a long time. Mine is already 6 years old and still looking new. I do take care of them.
I was lucky enough to find 3 pairs of Viberg service boots in my local thrift store for only $70 each. Plus, they were brand new and exactly my size. I'm so glad I looked them up and bought them right away. Love these boots!
Stumbled on this video and have to say thanks for your clarity and explanations! You speak like a professor and professional. Thank you!
My boot journey started with Thursdays, Beckett Simonon, and Meermin. Once I got the “boot bug” so to speak, I graduated to Grant Stone, Parkhurst, and Caswell. At this level, the quality, fit, leather selection and styles are excellent. Now, could I buy a more expensive boot like Viberg? Sure, but why unless they are twice as good as the Grant Stones and they are not. Naw, it makes no sense to spend over twice as much to get Vibergs no matter how long they have been around. Point is at a certain level you can spend a lot more to get not much more in the boot world.
I own pairs of Viberg and Grant Stone. I agree with you. However if you want to experience something that is designed, built and feels different from the boot brands you already own I highly recommend getting a pair of Nick's or White's. Those traditional PNW boots are a completely different animal. Viberg does stitchdown extremely well but they don't build their boots like tanks. At least not the ones I have held or worn. If you want the best value in a PNW style boot Bordon is also a brand worth looking into. It's not at the exact same level as the Spokane makers but it's very close.
Started with Thursdays and Beckett Simonon as well, don't own Caswell or Grant Stone but have seen them.
@@dcstiger I pretty much wear Nick's Tactical (for work) and White's Perry Select (for casual and because I never had a pair of moc toes before). On ocassion I'll wear my Beckett Simonon Silva for a rain/wet weather boot (rarity in California) and Thursday Stompers and JK 300X to keep the rotation fresh.
Yeah, “Law of Diminishing Returns”
Just wanted to say I love your channel.
I think there’s serious market potential with Teik’s Backyard Vat Champagne.
🤣🤣🤣
Absolutely fantastic comparison. Grantstones are absolutely the best value for excellently made boots. Vibergs are grail boots for many. They are in no way twice as good as grandstones. Buy what you can afford or want.
Again another great video. I think as a working-class guy, i would rather have two Grant stone boots than one viberg boot.
I have 3 grant stone boots all sz 10.5E and I just revived my first pair of Viberg’s sz 10. I know this doesn’t count for much with most boot owners, but the Viberg waist is 20mm narrower than the Grant Stone boot, that’s a feature usually found in high end dress shoes. And to make an E width boot look that slim is very impressive.
Did you mean 2mm? 20 seems like a lot. The bridge of my foot is slightly wide and trying to make the right choice :)
@ I meant 20mm. The difference is significant. The waist on the Viberg boots are similar to my dress shoes
Excellent comparison!
I’m lucky enough to own Viberg and Grant Stone boots and I love them both. They both make me smile every time I pull them from the boot-rack.
However, I know that my next pair will be another pair of Grant Stones and not Viberg. Grant Stone just makes more sense in every way.
What an incredible video, the thing about boots for me is that most luxury brand names actually deliver extremely high quality for the price; unlike clothing where they just slap a giant text of the brand in an objectively inferior quality product and charge a billion dollars.
For me, I'd gladly pay the extra for a pair of Viberg for that intangible "feel good" and wear it on special occasions, at the same time I love that I can get just as good quality and comfortable Grant Stone and not feeling like I have to be extra careful while wearing them.
P.S I know I ain't gonna hurt a pair of Viberg but I am not gonna take the risk walking into puddles
I just purchased a pair of Black Chromexcel Ottawas from Grant Stone because I’ve been hearing nothing but good things about them and I need a dressier, black boot in my wardrobe. I haven’t seen it in person yet, but from what I can tell from the internet, if Grant Stone was made in the US, their boots would easily be $550-$650 USD. The quality control looks top notch and the boots and shoes they make look amazing. I can’t wait to get mine.
Another great, concise video loaded with valuable information. I got hooked on GS thanks to TH-cam vids including yours. I only own one Viberg (fantastic boot), but many GS. While Chromexcel isn’t my favorite leather offering from either company, the majority of my boots are in fact chromexcel and they have held up nicely. I must be a lottery powerhouse because only one of my Edward’s exhibits less than fantastic grain. My recent Field Boot purchase probably has the best creasing which has made me rethink its use. I bought it as a true yard work beater boot, but it has aged so well I’m rethinking its use. I’ve seen some people claim that GS’s choice of clicking has slipped ever so slightly but my personal experience is simply the opposite. And of course GS’s eye for QC has been consistently marvelous throughout without exception. My recent Field and Diesel are as close to flawless as I could imagine… I simply cannot find a flaw. My Viberg 310 seems a little sturdier of course, and I am extremely happy with it as well. But I keep on preferring to buy two GS’s over one Viberg in price for all my uses.
Thank you, Tek. This was exactly the comparison I was wanting to see. I would love to see you do a similar comparison of Truman and the Bordon Tukano. Excellent vids.
I have both, they are pretty compariable, both are solid boots. The only caveat is that the speed lug on the Bordon bends more easiliy, it is not as solid as the Truman. Also, the Bordon is stitchdown, not Goodyear welted, so walking in the Bordon feels harder because there is no cork layer as with the goodyear welted boots.
Thank you Teik for another superb boot review. I do own both Grant Stone and Viberg and stared my boot journey buying lesser cost brands to finally arrive at Viberg. I like the Viberg style and am willing to pay their price but it does hurt the wallet. Keep your best foot forward and give us your honest opinions. Your friend Alex.
This was fantastic, Teik. I love the articulation and classify your channel brings to the table. Would definitely love to see more Truman boots reviewed, especially as Grant Stone creeps closer in price to them.
Hi Teik, I'm a new subscriber, love your channel! Just getting into boots myself, have a pair of RM Williams and just ordered a pair of Thursday Captains after watching your videos! I'm also in Perth and also a size 7.5UK generally, so it's great to hear your sizing advice as well when I can't try on a boot before ordering online!
Great review. I don't own any Grant Stone boots, but my Vibergs are slowly aging like fine wine. I think that Viberg and Truman are the best brands for casual rugged boots.
Do you wear the same size in Truman’s and Vibergs?
@@mikethomasmcm Yes, remember that Viberg runs on the UK sizing. This means that my 8.5D Viberg's are the same as my Truman's 9.5D US sizing.
Cannot agree more about the Truman boots, these are the new kings of value IMO.
Great review, I own numerous pairs of Grant Stone but no Vibergs. Frankly, I can afford a viberg but I just don't feel it is a good value. I can get 2 pairs of Grant Stone in two different styles and colors and it will cover more style choices.
It's funny how you say it like my boss. He can afford an Australian worker, but why do that when he could hire 2 from India and still have funds left over.
Are local employees good value?
@@g43654 and your point is what? We are talking about boots and finding value in boots. It is like buying Louis Vutton Bags, not everyone is taken by them, too high priced when compared to other quality bags at a much lower price. It is a question of value and getting the most value for your money.
I loved the impromptu business lesson, wouldn't mind seeing one in every video
Great video. I watch all your videos and enjoy the detail you include. I trust your sizing recommendations because I have the same size foot. Size 8D in Parkhurst and Grant Stone and 8 1/2 D in Oak Street Bootmakers.
Such a elaborative and informative review, especially when you compared lots of the big names. Always a pleasure to watch your video, please keep on producing. Btw, would you consider to review some Japanese boots like rolling dub trio or clinch?
You really are putting out some great videos right now, I would love a pair of Viberg boots but $800 US is over $1200 Aussie and I have a phobia about crossing the $1000 mark. $950 approximately for my trickers and Crockett & jones is as much as will ever spend on a pair of boots
But then again, the enjoyment of owning and wearing them last year’s longer than the pain of paying for them has gone
Value in my eyes is how they fit my foot and how they look to me. In a world where you find something that fits you well, that's valuable to me, whether it's $100 or $800. Yes at some point one has to cut off at a certain price point.
Great comparison, very eloquent, and informative
Part of the reason I like to buy a product, is the history of the product and the company. I get more excited about a product that has deep roots in history, and I’m willing to pay more for that.
Moreover, and I think this is kind of a given, but reputation of a company goes along way, and knowing that the company has been around so long, gives you confidence in long-term ownership of a product. Who knows if a company that started say five years ago, is still gonna be around next week.
Thanks for another great video Teik!
Great video and review
For me, the value or worth of something is what you’re willing to pay, and I’m willing to pay Viberg prices all day long. Being on different social media platforms, I believe the appeal to a lot of Grant Stone buyers is not only the price, but also the amount of product that Grant Stone puts out on a regular basis. It’s a little easier to have a collection of 20+ pieces of varying footwear (style and colors) at $380 or $395 or something that’s discounted quite a bit through their “seconds” or sales. Viberg does discount, although it’s rarer, and you definitely won’t see a full run of sizes being discounted. It’s typically when a stockist gets to the last few pairs that they can’t move.
Another thing to factor in the overall price is resale(worn and unworn). There some Viberg makeups, old Viberg and new that can be sold for 20% off retail try doing that with a Grant Stone. Some of the older Viberg rare make-ups people will all day long, pay full retail, or maybe even more if they’re unworn or very lightly worn.
So for some of us that like a little bit higher end footwear this is appealing.
These are all things that play into a “value” of a product. Not to mention quite a few of Viberg make ups are sold out within minutes. Other than shell with Grant Stone you don’t see this happening very often.
Thank you for all you do! Love the videos and love your view and experience with so many boots.
Value is being happy with boots that fit and look well on me. So far I’m happy with Grant Stone brass boots. Don’t own Viberg but would definitely buy some if I knew they (2040,310’s) would fit and look well. I say, buy what makes you feel good. I know there are people that can’t afford $380 boots let alone $800 but that’s a different story. Please stop saying GS should cost more!
Well, I think they heard me and raised prices!!!!!
They sure did. Worth it anyway
What do you think about whites semi dress boots and will you buy it ?
Great comparison! Like any luxury good, return on investment is non-linear. I would say that my Vibergs are roughly 40% better than my Grant Stone. Given that I plan to wear them for many years, I agree that they are absolutely worth the price. The delta cost per wear will be minimal over the course of 5-10 years.
Quickly becoming my favourite channel. Would you do a grant stone vs RM William comparison one some day?
What about worker compensation, health, safety and happiness? Surely those are considerations too.
A little disappointing that GS increased their pricing
By a big jump too
Have to adjust price for CPI.
@@bobbysebastian2116 China's CPI is going down the last few years and I have had a recent high end machined parts order placed this year cost the same as it did 2 years ago.
They get their powdered steel from the USA for those parts (crucible, CPM).
Love your reviews Teck, wish you could do a review of Viberg's Scout Boot which are good year welted boots
Exceptional analysis Teik, as always. PD: Those are some nice Vibergs ☺️
Diminishing returns are a thing in absolutely every aspect of life, but I can see where the low price is coming through on the grant stones.
Yes, it is Horween CXL which is a great product but it is a lower level of clicking of their leather options as it really isn't aging as well as my other CXL boots.
My 3 month old Grant Stones already look as worn and used as my 4yo Vibergs. This does not mean they will continue to age so dramatically, but it is a point worth noting.
In the video, it was said, “and once upon a time, Florsheim.” What changed?
Great video on an interesting topic. Viberg has released some nice makeups recently that had me considering buying. In the end I bought a Grant Stone and a Parkhurst for a combined expenditure of “about” the price of a recent Viberg. Both boots arrived today and this video made me wonder, would I rather sit here with two pairs of outstanding beautiful boots, or one pair of outstanding beautiful boots? This time I can say I’m happy with my choice. We live in a time of terrific options.
100% agree with your comments.
With GS recently increasing prices and Viberg being the price they are, what do you think about Whites offering a new stitch down at a lower price than their standard boot?
PNW makers are obviously trying to catch a lower price point. I don’t know, I’m a bit of a traditionalist and I think if they make a cheaper version it should be a new model and not an MP.
Great Video , very well explained as usual. Thanks mate
Can you do a video about the "original custodians" land that which you are recording on? I'm curious to know why you mention it on every video. Nevertheless, another great video.
Also, the Vibergs look gorgeous in a timeless way. They have that classic vintage look! Not sure why, the when my eye meets the Viberg it just looks better than the Grant Stone. I honestly don't like the Grant Stone's service boot last, but high quality overall. I own a pair of the brass boots in Kudu which I love. But, if I'm going for a service boot (if ever) I'll probably go for the Viberg.
Original custodians being the Australian Indigenous peoples. I have Wiradjuri ties, that means my Indigenous family lines are from a certain region in Australia (central southern NSW).
What Tiek here is doing is an acknowledgement, a showing of respect for the fact that non-Indigenous people are now using the land on which Indigenous people have a spiritual and practical connection to on a cultural level.
We have problems here in Australia, just like any nation that was colonised by another race/culture. This is a way of reminding people about the situation in a respectful manner.
Are acknowledgements / welcome to country moments overdone? In my view, yes, it isn't having the impact we all hoped and it can push more of a divide with many than it does bring them together, but we are always learning how to make it work better.
Google “Acknowledgment of Country in Australia” and visit reconciliation.org.au
Thank you for the explanation! I was curious and I understand the respect to be had. Much gratitude to the indigenous people of your land and home. God bless! @@awdtw
Vibergs are more elegantly lasted, it shows. But their lasts are not as universal fitting as the Grant Stone, and GS only has the one last for their Diesel. While I love my GS and I have 12 pair, Vibergs are better designed, better leather options, and multiple last choices making the fit closer to perfect for you. I would love a more elegant last version of the Diesel and Edward, and maybe a flat welt option. That kind of inventory takes more cash reserves from the manufacturer, and only $500 + boots get you there. You could custom order a boot from TLB Mallorca with whatever last you wanted, hardware, leather, and get a similar “work boot” made for you for $500. You can call and talk to the owner. That was a long winded way of saying I agree with you.
@@drzaius844 I like long winded (passionate) responses. Haha, thanks for adding to the conversation!
Hey Teik. Your professional evaluation skills clearly shine in these kinds of videos. Personally, I would be on the wrong side of survey opinion regarding goodwill value. Hooked as I now am (damn you!), and as a more dressy boot ought to be next on my list, the Diesel in saddle tan, leather sole definitely appeals. Despite the fact I'm short and hairy, the Essex is too orange for my liking. You know where I'm going with this, so do let me know if you're willing to let go. Neither wife needs to know!
🤣🤣🤣
Given the price difference between Viberg and Grant stone, I would be very disappointed if Viberg's didn't click like they do. Though since I have no Viberg experience, I wouldn't know how they would react to customers not being pleased with their clicking. Would they be open to an exchange or some other incentive should the customer decide to send back the boots?
I noticed more budget brands like Thursdays are pretty ambivalent about how they click the leather used in their boots. If you get a pair that matches up well without variance too wild, that's luck on your part but my experience with Thursdays so far have been the opposite. This is doubly so when you get anything natural.
Great video Teik. You were very diplomatic about your comparison. Personally, I would go with grant stone only if value was a consideration. I was informed by other TH-camrs and online literature that Vibergs are expensive, as they have high standard clicking process in place as part of QC. Which essentially means, the increase in cost is due to reducing the use of leather cuts with imperfections. For me personally, small imperfections on leather uppers are fine, as leather is supposed to be inherently imperfect (minor) to a degree. Not sure whether a high standard clicking process is sustainable. I hope they use the offcuts for accessories or may be even second pairs. Then again, I will buy a Viberg myself. Heritage and quality alone will be motivation enough to justify the higher price from British Colombian wages and attention to detail. Trust me, there are people out there buying cotton canvas (same material they used to build biplanes in the early 1900s 😂) bags from LV thinking that they are leather for 3000 dollars plus.
Good point about the off cuts
Do you ever wear sneakers? If so I highly recommend Archibald London ultralight . They use deer skin and they are crazy comfy and light
Only to go running or to the gym these days
Hi Teik, Chromeexcel is also cow hide? i'm planning to buy my first leather quality boots, do you think buffalo leather is good for a first timer, i think buffalo leather is tougher than cow hide or so would that make first timer feel more uncomfortable? i'm think about buying Ranger boots from Craft and Glory who make leather boots in buffalo leather. i dont have lot of options in India.
CXL is cow hide. Buffalo can be supple depending on how it’s tanned. Craft & Glory sound nice but I haven’t had it in my hands.
@@Bootlosophy Yeah i could try other brands which you suggest but I'm only worried about return and exchange or I'll wait for your review on Craft and Glory boots quality.
these days,, Vibergs are $820 USD! base model too..yikes,, black CXL i want is 860
Viberg hasn't used foam for a few years now
Do you know what year they changed from foam to cork? Same question changing from steel to wooden shank…
Grant Stone lasts don't seem to know that the waist of the boot should have some tapering, making the style a little boring through there.
@@tonymoore2100 fits nice tho’! lol
I have a pair of Viberg's that I got on sale while severely intoxicated. I love them, their amazing and extremely unique. That being said, holy moly they are not worth twice the price of my friend's Redwings.
Just found your channel 👍, can you do more Moc toe work foot reviews. Carolina, Thorogood, Red Wing
Another great episode!
Just checked Grant Stone website and the Diesel boot now $395
Yeah this was recorded late last year
Not sure if I'll ever be able to afford a pair of Vibergs. I'm hoping I can someday. But if I have to "settle" for Grant Stone then I think I can live with that haha.
Great review
What I really can say is that my Vibergs still smell like the best leather quality ever.
How long did u have your vidberg ?
@@Angel-AbC9this pair is close to ten y.o.
Funny you say that. My CXL Edward’s only had a feint smell out of the box. I guess the hides lose their smell when their shipped in containers back and forth from China.
I don’t think anyone is doubting Grant Stone quality anymore. That dialogue has been beaten like a dead horse. Their boot designs are rather plain and not the most appealing. Having large feet like me exaggerates this fact. I’m not a big fan of the “tadpole” shape when I look down at my shoes (too be fair, OSB’s Elston last looks worse on me. Like I’m wearing Subway sandwiches on my feet)
It's the same leather though?
Excellent video
Viberg are not cheap because they pay a living wage in Victoria B.C, one of the most livable cities in Canada.
Thanks Teik. Great analysis. Kinda off topic, just had a question on sizing since I think you own both the new Parkhurst 602M last and Grant Stones Leo last. Do you size the same in those lasts? Appreciate your time.
I do but the 602M is slightly roomier
@@BootlosophyThanks much Teik. Take care.
Thanks Tek
Unfortunately this video has information which is not correct at all. I really hope people do some re-search before puttting out misleading information.
1. Grant Stone does not state that their veg tanned leather was made in the USA. There is no commercial tanning of veg tanned leather for soles, midsoles, indoles and counters taking place in the USA.
2. The Viberg service boot uses a wood shank and cork. Viberg does not use a steel shank and foam.
3. The Viberg insole / midsoles comes from France or Germany. Depending on the style.
I bought the grant stone diesel after considering viberg and others. Just couldn’t justify the $800 cost at my age. If I was 30-40 years old, maybe.
I can't figure out if you are 22 or 62....more information please😊
@@goodyearspokane 73.
Great video, thx
idk what world you’re living in but vibergs are now 860 for entry level leathers, 860 for a chromexcel service boot. they’re at least 100 dollars over priced and quite frankly, bordering on stealing from their customers
The best boot is the ones you wear. I have several pairs of Viberg boots and one pair of Grant Stone Boots even though the China factor prevented me for a long time from buying. All I can say is I wish I had more feet to wear my Vibergs. I’m looking for someone with the same size to give the Grant stones to. Are they bad no but nothing other than Whites fit me, my feet, like Viberg regardless of the last except 310 last that I had to go down a half size to be perfect. Whites are heavier and chunkier so more often than not I’m reaching for Viberg’s hands down whether new or second hand purchases.
I'd just buy two pair of Parkhurst for 800 bucks :)
Hi Teik. I use a strong magnet to check my boots for a steel shank by running the magnet on the insole and outsole of the boot where the shank should be. The magnet is attracted to the steel shank in my Red Wing Iron Ranger. I have a current season pair of Viberg Service Boots and the magnet is not attracted to the shank.
You burst the balloon of glamour and mystique . The substance that keeps the commercial/capitalism, going.
I would by one vidberg only because to dam expensive and then like 3 grant stones
One is stitch down the other is GYW. I know witch one is more comfortable underfoot
A Patek is not worth multiples of JLC based on design or finishing, but there are intangibles that people are clearly willing to pay for.
And for those who are into mechanical watches, Viberg boots are laughably cheap in comparison.
Can you please review Luos Jiet boots. I purchased a pair of Indiana Jones MocToe Boot in BrickRed Grain Cowhide on a recommendation by two other boot reviewers you know. The right shoe has a spliced welt. The 4 brass speed laces are to narrow for the flat wax laces to fit properly without a struggle. Seems like poor quality control. The boot fit is very tight compared to my Grant Stones, Beckett Simonon and Thursday's. They have yet to answer my email from two weeks ago. I'm starting to think the company has been influencing boot reviewers with compensation. I sincerely hope that I'm dead wrong. I'm reaching out to you to do this because I believe you are above that kind of behavior. Thank-you for your consideration.
For what it's worth, I also tried Luos Jiet and purchased a wine colored "Indy" from them. I consider myself lucky that my pair came without any noticeable flaws -- actually very well done. What you are reporting about their customer service is horrible, though. If they don't improve in that department I expect they will not be successful in gathering American buyers. They are supposedly aligned with XBXS in some way, you might try reaching out to XBXS. Sorry you had this experience, I feel for you. It's a roll of the dice with these new makers, I think.
I haven’t really liked the look of them, and since I buy my boots to wear myself, I’m not willing to take a bet on something I might not like to wear, so I don’t review them.
management consulting?!?!
@@sleepygrumpy question?!?!?!
All chromexel leather are not the same , there are 250 dollar boots that uses chromexel leather and its no way the same as the cut viberg gets so thats a lesson in its self.
They are 380 dollars no more, I am afraid. It's 390
I enjoy both but Viberg blows them out of the water in my opinion
Once again, a wonderful comparison! The differences simply could not be better explained.
Here is why I chose Viberg:
1. I'm Canadian and like buying Canadian products.
2. The city of Victoria (where Vibergs are made) on Vancouver Island, is an EXPENSIVE place to live and work in. Therefore, labour there is EXPENSIVE. We may not like paying Viberg prices, but Viberg pays it's employee's fair, first world wages. Grant Stone might be an American headquartered, ethical company, paying wages that exceed the Chinese average, but Grant Stone's financial commitment in its workers will never match the commitment required to sustain a well paid workforce located in Victoria.
3. No matter how ethical the Grant Stone company is, a large portion of it's operating costs end up going to the Chinese Communist Party, at very least in the form of taxes. I wish we could ignore global politics, but in this current world, we do so at our peril. China is not some benign state. It poses a real global threat to democracy and peace. I cannot overlook this fact.
Cheers
All good points
The good will element is drastic when you consider the posibility of sweatshop labor. I would pay double for anything if it mean I wasn't fueling slavery. China has upped quality, but if I've stuggled at times in America for decent treatment, I can only imagine what a chinese worker would say if allowed to speak and as I understand, they are not. However, Vibergs are overpriced
so I'd buy neither.
Or buy used vibergs at half the price of new or less. Still excellent and long lasting boots. Or buy any of the other PNW boots 2nd hand or 3rd hand for half price.Still excellent boots and will last years. Chinese working conditions are not the same they were decades ago. I would think the slave labour label applies more to cheaper fast fashion goods made in Bangladesh, Vietnam, India, Pakistan etc. and to a lesser extent China now.
FAIR evaluation...
Why would one buy boots made by the Red Chinese, they are the enemy.
@@cz_ww2117 ummm Grant Stone is in the US?
@@Bootlosophy Full-grain leather heel counters
Micro stud rubber outsole
Every pair crafted on Xiamen Island, China
This is what it shows online, on their web page.
If you're Canadian and watching this and thinking about a Grant Stone purchase, I would like to add a suggestion. Get an Oak Street Bootmaker boot on sale instead. Why? Because Grant Stone boot purchases come with a 20% duty fee for Canadians, this is because they're manufactured in China. But Oak Street Boot's are made in a America, and with Canada's trade agreement, we don't pay duties. We just pay tax on it. When you account for the cost of duties, Oak Street Boots and Grant Stone are about the same price in Canada once all is said in done, exchange, duties, tax etc. However, Oak Street typically has sales 2-3 times a year for about 20-30% off making the price point significantly cheaper than Grant Stone's. And I think that an Oak Street Boot is a comparable boot to Grant Stone, plus they come with real Danite soles, not the facsimiles that Grant Stone gives you.
Quick math reference chart (note: exchange rate subject to change):
Grant Stone Diesel boot = $395 USD (as of March 30th 2024)
Convert to Canadian = $395(1.35) = $533.25 CDN
With Duties = $533.25(1.20) = $639.39 CDN
With Tax Total = $639.39(1.13) = $723.09 CDN
Oak Street Bootmaker Trench Boot = $488 USD (as of March 30th 2024)
Convert to Canadian = $488(1.35) = $658.80 CDN
With Tax Total (No Duties) = $658.80(1.13) = $744.44 CDN
So $723 vs $744, about a $21 CDN difference in favour of Grant Stone. But remember, Oak Street has significant sales a couple times a year.
Oak Street Bootmaker Trench Boot = $390.40 USD (Approx with 20% off sale)
Convert to Canadian = $390.40(1.35) = $527.04 CDN
With Tax Total (No Duties) = $527.04(1.13) = $595.56 CDN
So with a sale, Oak Street comes in at roughly $127.53 less for a made in a America boot with real Danite soles.
*This is just my opinion. Do you're own research to decide what's best for you.
Excellent point. I'd rather support Oak Street Bootmakers any day over Grant Stone. Grant Stone makes great boots, but at some point people need to support workers in their own country if quality is largely the same. I'm a big fan of Oak Street and their quality products fit me very well.