i recently got a pair of the barefoot version and they're by far my favorite boots i've ever worn. i do a lot of hiking in steep, rocky terrain and the traction they get is fantastic. another really underrated feature is that the sole does not hold on to mud, even sticky clay
Thanks for the support and great feedback! We are always happy to hear of yet another pair of Jim Green Boots living up to their standard. Enjoy the journeys ahead 💪🐸
It does , in fact that's my main issue, I want the sole to NOT have a pattern, as I get goat poop or horse pop stuck under the boot after a day of working a Texas Ranch as a real cowboy. Even in the shoe promo video the boot had rhino dung on it. Fix that by removing the texture and it adds more protection from thorns. Here I wrangle 2 inch long thorns like in Africa too
@@JimGreenFootwearOfficialplease make the sole completely flay, to remove mug and especially dung. It gets caked, idk what that other guy is talking about, but cleaning out the dung and much out the bottom with a stick got old fast.
@@oscarbear7498 Nah, I like them with the patterns. Simply because I own a pair of Pokeboo rain boots with a completely flat sole and because there is to traction, it gets as slippery as F when stepping on poop, wet clay and rotten leaves. Super dangerous on mountaineous terrain.
I would love for a Jim Green kitchen shoe or boot to come out. Basically some existing model, but with a really oily leather for water resistance and a proper slip resistant sole (the kind with the really tight, high friction grid pattern) for wet/greasy tiles. That would be a market disruptor, so many kitchen shoes are DREADFUL quality disposable crap, and a shoe or boot I could resole would be fantastic.
Yeah I would love a pair of Jim Greens that I can wear while working as a butcher. My current shoes are pretty bad and I haven't managed to find a good shoe or boot to suit a butcher/kitchen environment
@@MavSavMorganwhat kind of butcher are you? If you are breaking whole carcasses you should be wearing rubber boots, if you work in a grocery store or small store front butcher shop, any sort of boot will do, worst that can happen if you get some meat on ur shoes lol. Just buy a pair of rubber boots and buy them on before you start cleaning, no shoes besides rubber shoes are gonna survive the hose everyday.
@@jaedonhurles3623 work in a small store front but quite busy, we have a big display. We do whole lamb breakdowns. I got a pair of barefoot rangers last week and honestly they have been working really well so far. They don't get very wet throughout the day only at the end of the day they get a little bit wet when we do cleanup but it isn't to bad. The toe cap gets wet but the rest of the boot stays pretty dry. Going to brush them off after every shift and see how they go. If the rangers get very wet during a shift I will wear my old boots the next day and let the rangers dry. But I may take your advice now and keep my old boots at work to wear during cleanup instead.
I really love my AR barefoots, though I wish they had a version without the tapered (rounded) toebox (more in the style of vivobarefoot and friends). I have somewhat wide feet been and have been wearing barefoot shoes for a while, and I notice them squishing my toes inwards. Toebox shape is as important as width for the barefoot aspect.
Good idea, They could call it the AR Barefoot+ or something. Though, as they are, the public won't perceive them as clown shoes. Going up .5 a size or wearing thin socks helps with more room at the toe area. I chose 0.5 above my brannock size, based on Rose Anvil's recommendation for those wanting a little roomier fit and that works for me.
Fair. I don't mind the appearance at all, it's more that I don't like the big toe being bent inwards (it's one of the reasons I got into barefoot shoes in the first place). I went up a whole size over my brannock size and it seems to still be a problem; you can also see it if you put in a vivobarefoot insert, the bit toe side ends up getting curled up even when the insert is 0.5-1 size smaller. Then again, I've kinda wide feet at the front so I can see how other people would not have that much of a problem with this.
Rose anvil is the reason I found out about your company and the gateway to my new favorite boots. I always look forward to wear my bf ranger they are solid boots
Hey, don’t forget their custom option. I know others have already ordered an AR on the barefoot last (w/ barefoot sole). Also, cost was quite reasonable from what I’ve heard from those who have done it (boot cost plus $20 plus shipping).
Very excited to order the barefoot African Ranger in what looks like the Walnut Veg Tan from the Numzaan, the color second closest to Jason on his right-hand side. Glad I saw this video as I already had a pair of the Fudge color in my cart!
I will watch this for sure later…I have to go to work, coincidentally in my AR resoled with vibram 2021s for a lot of standing on my toes. They sit next to my AR barefooted which I am in love with!!! Xoxo
Yeah, Rose Anvil said that you didn't need to re create the wheel, just adapt the African Rangers. But we do need roomier toe boxes. Rose Anvil has NARROW feet so these boots are more than roomy for him. Please consider.
My barefoot rangers are my every day wear. Since they arrived in December I have worn them everyday for every activity including, work, gym and hiking literally everything except running. They are hands down my all time favorite boot.
I just purchased a set of barefoot rangers, because they have the leather mid sole. If you slapped a leather mid sole on your regular rangers, I'd have a set of those as well. Leather breathes better, I have less problems with it and it lasts longer. I'm certain I'm not the only one that would feel this way either.
How do you compare this two models? Which of the two you use more often and which one you prefer? I still confused and can’t decide between this two models.
@@josemanuel2244 It seems he only has the Barefoot version. Look up Rose Anvil, he has videos about both boots for you to watch, and he cuts them both apart so you can see what is inside.
Just got a pair of each. The toe box is not quite as wide as I was hoping, but it's still the best I've ever had. Mostly I prefer the regular Rangers, but the steel shank drags them down. They're going to be the backup and I'll wear the barefoots most of the time. What I've really been looking for is an athletic shoe that looks enough like a boot to satisfy the safety man. Timberland White Ledge comes closest, but they're rather cheaply constructed and they never seem to have the "wide" [normal] fit in stock, which is still much too narrow in the toe box.
Got the green barefoot a week ago. I have been using them for work! So far so good! great in fact I am used to xero drop barefoot shoes for casual wear. Jim Green barefoot does have more rubber and cushion on the sole
Great comparison video. I had a hunch that the uppers were the same and this confirms it. Very informative too about the differences. I was wanting to order a pair of custom barefoot Jim Green boot, now I know exactly what to ask for in the specs!
I have a pair of both and plan on getting the stock in black because I didn't know you had them. Stock model has been a good boot for the winter, plan to use my barefoot model as my "summer" boots. Both fit/feel great true to size.
I have the original A. Rangers, wear them a lot, & like the sole. It seems kind-of barefoot already, compared to my Danner & Red Wings. When does the AR8 come out in Green?
I'm curious if you've ever considered a leather sole option for the barefoot version for maximum breathability and ground feel (at the expense of having to resole more often)?
I recently bought the African Ranger barefoot (size 10.5) to wear as a work boot (I know they are not safety rated). I wore Keen wide work boots (wide EE, size 10) for several years but later I realized that the toe cap was not wide enough for my toes. My big and pinky toes would rub on the sides (never on the tips) and when kneeling for extended time I would temporarily loose circulation in my feet (pins and needles). Prior to using the Super Feet “orange” pain relief insoles in my Keens I had issues with planter fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. The insoles helped a lot but it didn’t fix my toe issue. I discovered “foot shaped” footwear and bought my first pair of Altra “Torin” 7 (size 10.5) shoes for walking. They offered a foot shaped toe box and a zero drop heel. They changed my whole outlook on footwear and brought relief to my feet (finally). That’s when I thought how I’d love to have that same feeling in a work boot. So I researched a bunch and decided to try the African Ranger barefoot. Being skeptical I didn’t know if I’d like or dislike them. They looked great so I’d give them a try since they had similar features of the Altra’s I owned. When I first tried them on I didn’t think they felt comfortable (just my opinion based on no insole). But I loved them even more in person that I had to find a way for me to keep them. I got a pair of Super Feet “green” insoles because they are a wide insole and would accommodate this boot. I found that this insole was a perfect match (for my foot needs) because the bottom plastic arch support is flat and the mid sole of this boot is firm due to the leather. I found that the Super Feet “orange” insole was better suited for a foam filled midsole boot and not for the African Ranger. So after using the African Ranger barefoot + Super Feet “Green” insoles for a few weeks I have not had any foot pain or discomfort. I’m so excited that I now have a great shoe and boot that is music to my feet. I’m officially a Jim Green boot fan and I plan on purchasing and wearing your boots for years to come. Thank you for making a unique boot that offers great features! One last thing, your laces are awesome. Many boots I’ve tried over the years for some reason the laces always come undone. Your laces stay tied all day (I wear your boots up to 12 hours a day) and I never have to retie them.
I totally agree on the laces comment. This is the first boot I can remember wearing that doesn’t require double knotting. The standard green is awesome too and I like the new subdued color options. I love the direction this company is headed in with the recent additions, colorways and the custom order option is a great way to pick and have made exactly what you’re looking for.
Agreed, and I would say about 2-3mm tighter in the heel would be great too. Then again maybe we just got odd feet? These changes would make it fit more true to size for me.
The rangers and especially the barefoot version are really hitting that inbetween step in my wardrobe that I didn't know existed. Casual and low profile enough to take the sneaker spot, but more robust and with much better materials. A summer boot, if there is such a thing 🤔🤔
barefoot AR was my first jim green. no problems at all wearing them in. this is how i want my shoes to fit my neanderthal frogfots. after that i got a nice pair of numzaan, guess how that went. i havnt walked properly for a week. but soon my heels are healed and we can continue breaking them in :). lessons learned i guess, until i forget. it not every year i break on fullgrain leather boots tbh
Love my African Ranger barefoot but they are really wide and my feet slide around too much when hiking. Are the standard AR boots a little snugger in the midfoot?
I have had the barefoot ARs for about a month now and love them! I ordered some buffalo ARs and they are supposed to come today. I can’t wait! I am quickly becoming a JG fanboy!
Thinking about buying a pair of boots. Well, looking at the barefoot boot, it seems to be pretty light but the question is I walk in the morning through the wet grass what is the best thing to keep them waterproof?
Great question and thanks for the interest! The best option would be a great beeswax care and condition. We have released a video on the channel touching on these cleaning methods and the results you may experience. Please get in touch should you have any further questions 💪🐸
I just got my barefoot rangers and had my first long walk in them. Out of the box the leather is very hard on the insole which I'm sure will take its time molding around my footshape. The outer leather is very nice as a leatherworker for sometime now I can attest in my humblest option this is a great leather boot.
I love my AR barefoot, but I would really love an even softer sole. I think the resin runner might be stiffening it a lot. My favourite vivos are literally 3mm to the ground. I could also use more width in the midfoot.
It would be nice if your shoes are easily available in Europe. As it is now I would have to order from Germany (I'm living in Sweden) and pay around 20euros for shipping. And more or less the same if I would need to return them.
Ireland is pretty similar, I gotta pay 50 euro for shipping from south africa PLUS customs so XD I rarely get a new pair but if that was taken down i'd proabably have 7 pairs
I got my barefoot ranger and vellies from the German site (seems actually shipped by a German retailer that has some kind of arrangement with Jim Green), fortunately the true size fits me fine so no need for returns but I agree it would be nice if the brand takes off in Europe and can have its own outlet. My next order will probably be directly from SA, paying the $50 for shipping + custom duty, as I would love a custom pair of AR8 with a leather midsole and D rings rather than eyelets, it is really nice to have the option to have boots made to your personal specs. I wish they started making a really light slip-on for summer as even the shoelly would look a bit silly on a summer beach...😂
@@paulsabucchi Yopu genuinely just blew my mind with the mention of the german site! Its actually nearly 100 euro cheaper to get them to ireland from Germany than SA so I really appreciate it. For custom orders I think SA is the only way to go but I am still making up a design and material list for what custom i would like to get but you just helped me out alot so thank you!.
Thank you for your interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that in 2024 we are aiming to open up shop in the UK. This should make Jim Green boots more readily available around your ends and an increase range of boots available 💪🐸
Could you include the Stack height and drop of each style Ranger? Both look good to me. I adapted to zero drop and walked better but the minimalist stack height has been an issue for me. A small drop and a medium stack have been my sweet spot. Thank you and best wishes.
I have found this to be the case. I've worn nothing but zero drop for about 5 years, and the small drop of the standard boots has not been a problem for me. I needed a boot with a shank and more sole than my barefoots, and the standard ones haven't given me foot or joint pain in the week I've been wearing them.
Thank you for your interest in Jim Green @DTrainMachine-u5c. All of our leathers are chrome-tanned and dyed at the tannery. This process helps to preserve the leather and give it a consistent colour. If you are looking for a specific colour or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our information department on info@jimgreenfootwear.co.za. They can provide more information and are always happy to assist in getting the correct pair of Jim Green boots in your hands and on your feet.
This has been the one big area for improvement I’ve mentioned as well. I have a custom order in for the standard AR but with the higher quality leather mid sole. Everything else about the boot is good to go!
I agree. I also have a custom pair of AR in black with leather mid and insoles with the mini lug soles. The Nuuzman boots are very nice thick vegtan. I like them a lot but definitely a bit more time and still breaking them in
Good day, to guarantee every boot meets the safety rating, each one would need to undergo specific testing procedures. This process isn't feasible for custom orders. However, the steel toe cap that we will provide meets safety standards ASTM.
Which of the leather options would be better at taking a wax (Smith's or Sno Seal) for adding some water resistance? Think of picking up a pair of barefoot rangers for hiking, but live in the rather wet Pacific Northwest of North America.
did you all add a poron insert or something, it looks like there is something that I didnt see in the rose anvil video under the brown piece of leather on the back the insole in my pair on African Ranger bare foots
These barefoot rangers have saved my back and knees. My balance is much better and I love the ground feel. Can’t wait to try the barefoot troopers. One day I’d love to see a safety toe barefoot boot so I can get back into the trades again and protect my joints.
I bought a pair of numzaan boots and African rangers, I really like both of them, but on the African rangers I could feel the steel shank, it kinda makes a lump under the foot. Maybe I will order a custom pair without a shank
I got the barefoot African rangers 2 weeks ago and they're the first barefoot shoes I've ever tried. I went on a trip to Italy for a week where it was supposed to rain a ton so I wore my timberlands while walking 8 - 10 miles a day and had a horrible time of it. I've had bad plantar fasciitis for years and heard barefoot might help with that so I took it into account along with the fact that I'd be getting a much lighter, more flexible boot and holy crap have I been impressed. I've worn these every day for the last 2 weeks and my feet feel great. No break in period for me, these felt amazing out of the box. All I've done is hit them with some sno-seal for water proofing.
Thanks for the support and great feedback! Always good to hear of yet another pair of Jim Green boots living up to their standard. All the best for the future adventures and please do get in touch should you have any questions along the way 💪
Hi and thanks for the interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that we are exploring opening up shop in the UK and hope to achieve this in 2024. For the time being we would recommend placing an order through our South African webstore, please get in touch should you have any questions 💪🙌
How wide are the barefoot Rangers at the balls of the feet per size? I've sent an email and commented a bunch on your social media posts but haven't received a reply.
I got a pair of the barefoot AR's because of the Rose Anvil video and liked them so much that I got the stock AR's in buffalo hide. They will probably outlive me.
Hello! I've got a question, but first I want to say I fell in LOVE with your barefoot rangers! They are amazing, thank you so much for your work. Here is my concern: I am hesitating to buy a pair of regular rangers for different uses, but I got wide feet. The barefoot ones fit me quiet well, but the width is allmost the minimum I can take (otherwise I start to feel squished and less stable/comfy). I have been looking at the custom options on your website, but there seem to be no compromise between the barefoot last and the classic Jim Green last. I would be sooo down for your classic boots with drop, steel shank etc, if they would be about as wide as the barefoot ones... And even with this video, it's unclear how much more narrow they are. In that regard, It would also be helpful to have not only the lenght, but also the width, on your size guide (sadly, only a few brands care for that detail). I Am in France, so getting your shoes cost me extra, and it is to pricy to send back, so I have to make shure... Anyway, I hope this comment is constructive, thank you in advance for you answer.
I love my Barefoot Rangers! First things first. I got exceptionally fast service here in Vandalia , Illinois! I think it arrived in under five days. This is a real boot, made from real leather and it took a little break in time! For the first week or so they chewed my ankles! (Thick wool socks make all the difference.) Now, at this point they merely "gum" them almost gently! In a few more weeks we will be the best of friends! These are real end of the world foot wear that will stand up to most anything I'll be into. I'm looking into perhaps painting them with Otter Wax and sealing it with a heat gun for greater waterproofing. Has any of your other customers waxed their Nubuck boots this way?
Do you have anything in the works with stores in the USA so we can go and try them on before jumping in? I love the idea of the Barefoot Ranger, but buying online at ~US$190 is a bit of a risk.
Thanks for the interest! Great news is that we offer exchanges and returns on orders placed from our online stores should you have a sizing issue, please do get in touch should you have any further questions💪🐸🙌
I just received my barefoot ARs today and love them! Please make a barefoot AR with a safety toe. There are NO barefoot safety toe shoes worth wearing.
I think because they don't work together at all - barefoot is flexible, natural. the strength required for a safety shoe just does not, afaik, suit. maybe inserting a sole that mimics barefoot could be a solution, but otherwise it just does not seem logically possible from my understanding.
Both these models are great. But I when I think barefoot I think minimal zero drop, lite, thin stack, high ground feel (Xero, Lems) When I think boots rugged, capable, durable, break-in, prolonged comfort come to mind. The barefoot model has the cosmetics, but is it really a boot?? I don't feel so, but I have the Std Rangers and they're unique, everything a true boot should be. Ought to be in the legacy boot conversation w/ Iron Ranger/ Blacksmiths & 1K Miles.
Brother needs the WIDEST TOE BOX 😂 We all have different desires, but to answer your question no, they would need a new last, soles, etc. It's wide enough for foot health but if you have wide feet I think they might have wider sizes, if not then i think you are out of luck, sorry
@@applejuice9468 I wear Be Lenka typically. From what I can tell they're using a sole sheet that they cut to fit to the rest of the boot. Seems like there's a lot of eastern European countries using a similar last for barefoot footwear -- they might be able to get one. The problem with most wide lasts is that they just widen all the way through. I just need it widened at the forefoot/toebox area. Widest area of the boot for me needs to be right at the toes without a drastic taper like most shoes do.
@hina Re: just widening all the way through; In one of their videos about this boot you can see that is what they did with these. They took the AR last, flattened the bottom, and made the whole thing wider, but the toe box shape is still tapered along the big toe. One problem with just widening all the way along is the fit will be sloppy in the middle & heel for the female foot and narrower-footed males.
Thank you for your interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that in 2024 we are aiming to open up shop in the UK. This should make Jim Green boots more readily available around your ends and an increase range of boots available 💪🐸
Love my barefoot African Rangers! Great to own a barefoot boot with an actually solid construction. Do you plan on coming out with a barefoot version of the Stockman?
If you ever come out with a women's fit version of the 'barefoot' with a true natural-shape toe box (no taper along the big toe), I would jump on it so quickly!
@@user-ym4lj8ms3n I don't think they would; not a significant majority of them, as the female foot is generally proportioned a bit narrower and lower volume than the male. These BF Rangers are made even wider through the whole foot than the regular African Rangers. I'm keeping my eye out and my hopes up for future design updates on the BF boots!
I hiked 30km a day for 10 days in a pair of vivobarefoot trail runners, I was the only one to have no blisters or feet problems. Barefoot shoe lovers feet become so much stronger, its a totally different game.
![[ ออกกอง ] วัยหนุ่ม 2544 โลกหลังลูกกรง..ทัวร์กองถ่ายหนังใน "คุกของจริง" | JUSTดูIT.](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vB--aOkZCpw/mqdefault.jpg)
You should add a donation option to your website incase someone shops for a different boot but still wants to give to the Áfrican rangers.
African Rangers are my every day boots.
i recently got a pair of the barefoot version and they're by far my favorite boots i've ever worn. i do a lot of hiking in steep, rocky terrain and the traction they get is fantastic. another really underrated feature is that the sole does not hold on to mud, even sticky clay
Thanks for the support and great feedback! We are always happy to hear of yet another pair of Jim Green Boots living up to their standard. Enjoy the journeys ahead 💪🐸
It does , in fact that's my main issue, I want the sole to NOT have a pattern, as I get goat poop or horse pop stuck under the boot after a day of working a Texas Ranch as a real cowboy.
Even in the shoe promo video the boot had rhino dung on it.
Fix that by removing the texture and it adds more protection from thorns. Here I wrangle 2 inch long thorns like in Africa too
@@JimGreenFootwearOfficialplease make the sole completely flay, to remove mug and especially dung.
It gets caked, idk what that other guy is talking about, but cleaning out the dung and much out the bottom with a stick got old fast.
The bearfoot Ranger is the most comfortable I've ever hiked in, BUT! I'm wearing through the soles in 30 days of Wear.
@@oscarbear7498 Nah, I like them with the patterns. Simply because I own a pair of Pokeboo rain boots with a completely flat sole and because there is to traction, it gets as slippery as F when stepping on poop, wet clay and rotten leaves. Super dangerous on mountaineous terrain.
I would love for a Jim Green kitchen shoe or boot to come out. Basically some existing model, but with a really oily leather for water resistance and a proper slip resistant sole (the kind with the really tight, high friction grid pattern) for wet/greasy tiles. That would be a market disruptor, so many kitchen shoes are DREADFUL quality disposable crap, and a shoe or boot I could resole would be fantastic.
gotta name it the
Chef Ranger
Yeah I would love a pair of Jim Greens that I can wear while working as a butcher. My current shoes are pretty bad and I haven't managed to find a good shoe or boot to suit a butcher/kitchen environment
@@MavSavMorganwhat kind of butcher are you? If you are breaking whole carcasses you should be wearing rubber boots, if you work in a grocery store or small store front butcher shop, any sort of boot will do, worst that can happen if you get some meat on ur shoes lol. Just buy a pair of rubber boots and buy them on before you start cleaning, no shoes besides rubber shoes are gonna survive the hose everyday.
@@jaedonhurles3623 work in a small store front but quite busy, we have a big display. We do whole lamb breakdowns.
I got a pair of barefoot rangers last week and honestly they have been working really well so far. They don't get very wet throughout the day only at the end of the day they get a little bit wet when we do cleanup but it isn't to bad. The toe cap gets wet but the rest of the boot stays pretty dry.
Going to brush them off after every shift and see how they go. If the rangers get very wet during a shift I will wear my old boots the next day and let the rangers dry. But I may take your advice now and keep my old boots at work to wear during cleanup instead.
@@MavSavMorganyou can wax leather (boots) to make them pretty water resistant. Proper beeswax works well for me but there are a few options.
I really love my AR barefoots, though I wish they had a version without the tapered (rounded) toebox (more in the style of vivobarefoot and friends). I have somewhat wide feet been and have been wearing barefoot shoes for a while, and I notice them squishing my toes inwards.
Toebox shape is as important as width for the barefoot aspect.
Good idea, They could call it the AR Barefoot+ or something. Though, as they are, the public won't perceive them as clown shoes. Going up .5 a size or wearing thin socks helps with more room at the toe area. I chose 0.5 above my brannock size, based on Rose Anvil's recommendation for those wanting a little roomier fit and that works for me.
Fair. I don't mind the appearance at all, it's more that I don't like the big toe being bent inwards (it's one of the reasons I got into barefoot shoes in the first place). I went up a whole size over my brannock size and it seems to still be a problem; you can also see it if you put in a vivobarefoot insert, the bit toe side ends up getting curled up even when the insert is 0.5-1 size smaller.
Then again, I've kinda wide feet at the front so I can see how other people would not have that much of a problem with this.
I love my barefoot african ranger. First high quality leather boot I've ever purchased and i want to wear them everywhere.
i’m so excited for the huston black barefoot! I wanted a black leather boot that wasn’t shiny
I anxiously await green barefoot Ranger boots being my third pair.
Rose anvil is the reason I found out about your company and the gateway to my new favorite boots. I always look forward to wear my bf ranger they are solid boots
Once the barefoot version is available in Huston green I'll place my order!
African Rangers are my favorite boots. I'm so happy I purchased them.
Still holding out for the BF AR in green! :) Hopefully available in Europe somehow.
Hey, don’t forget their custom option. I know others have already ordered an AR on the barefoot last (w/ barefoot sole). Also, cost was quite reasonable from what I’ve heard from those who have done it (boot cost plus $20 plus shipping).
I love my African Rangers and the Nuuzmam boots
Thank you for the support! All the best for the journeys ahead 💪🐸
Very excited to order the barefoot African Ranger in what looks like the Walnut Veg Tan from the Numzaan, the color second closest to Jason on his right-hand side. Glad I saw this video as I already had a pair of the Fudge color in my cart!
I will watch this for sure later…I have to go to work, coincidentally in my AR resoled with vibram 2021s for a lot of standing on my toes. They sit next to my AR barefooted which I am in love with!!! Xoxo
i resoled my ARs with vibram 2060s. the ridged wedge soles combined with the composite midsole was very uncomfortable to me especially on concrete.
You should make a video about the re-sole process! I wondered how you go about that, how to find soles that match the shape etc
Yeah, Rose Anvil said that you didn't need to re create the wheel, just adapt the African Rangers. But we do need roomier toe boxes. Rose Anvil has NARROW feet so these boots are more than roomy for him. Please consider.
My barefoot rangers are my every day wear. Since they arrived in December I have worn them everyday for every activity including, work, gym and hiking literally everything except running. They are hands down my all time favorite boot.
My rangers are the best boots I have had. Cant wait to get the new colors.
Barefoot for hiking, regular for climbing ladders and walking trusses. Thanks!
I just purchased a set of barefoot rangers, because they have the leather mid sole. If you slapped a leather mid sole on your regular rangers, I'd have a set of those as well. Leather breathes better, I have less problems with it and it lasts longer. I'm certain I'm not the only one that would feel this way either.
How do you compare this two models? Which of the two you use more often and which one you prefer?
I still confused and can’t decide between this two models.
@@josemanuel2244 It seems he only has the Barefoot version. Look up Rose Anvil, he has videos about both boots for you to watch, and he cuts them both apart so you can see what is inside.
I agree with this, an option for support of the shank with the better midsole
Just got a pair of each. The toe box is not quite as wide as I was hoping, but it's still the best I've ever had. Mostly I prefer the regular Rangers, but the steel shank drags them down. They're going to be the backup and I'll wear the barefoots most of the time.
What I've really been looking for is an athletic shoe that looks enough like a boot to satisfy the safety man. Timberland White Ledge comes closest, but they're rather cheaply constructed and they never seem to have the "wide" [normal] fit in stock, which is still much too narrow in the toe box.
Got the green barefoot a week ago.
I have been using them for work!
So far so good! great in fact
I am used to xero drop barefoot shoes for casual wear.
Jim Green barefoot does have more rubber and cushion on the sole
I purchased a pair of the barefoot style last summer and it is a very well made boot. Thank you for all that you are doing for the rangers.
Great comparison video. I had a hunch that the uppers were the same and this confirms it. Very informative too about the differences. I was wanting to order a pair of custom barefoot Jim Green boot, now I know exactly what to ask for in the specs!
You guys should add composite toes and make the best work boots
I am so pumped about these can’t believe you made them. Instant order!
I have a pair of both and plan on getting the stock in black because I didn't know you had them. Stock model has been a good boot for the winter, plan to use my barefoot model as my "summer" boots. Both fit/feel great true to size.
I love the barefoot boots so much.
I have the original A. Rangers, wear them a lot, & like the sole. It seems kind-of barefoot already, compared to my Danner & Red Wings. When does the AR8 come out in Green?
I'm curious if you've ever considered a leather sole option for the barefoot version for maximum breathability and ground feel (at the expense of having to resole more often)?
I recently bought the African Ranger barefoot (size 10.5) to wear as a work boot (I know they are not safety rated). I wore Keen wide work boots (wide EE, size 10) for several years but later I realized that the toe cap was not wide enough for my toes. My big and pinky toes would rub on the sides (never on the tips) and when kneeling for extended time I would temporarily loose circulation in my feet (pins and needles). Prior to using the Super Feet “orange” pain relief insoles in my Keens I had issues with planter fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. The insoles helped a lot but it didn’t fix my toe issue. I discovered “foot shaped” footwear and bought my first pair of Altra “Torin” 7 (size 10.5) shoes for walking. They offered a foot shaped toe box and a zero drop heel. They changed my whole outlook on footwear and brought relief to my feet (finally). That’s when I thought how I’d love to have that same feeling in a work boot. So I researched a bunch and decided to try the African Ranger barefoot. Being skeptical I didn’t know if I’d like or dislike them. They looked great so I’d give them a try since they had similar features of the Altra’s I owned. When I first tried them on I didn’t think they felt comfortable (just my opinion based on no insole). But I loved them even more in person that I had to find a way for me to keep them. I got a pair of Super Feet “green” insoles because they are a wide insole and would accommodate this boot. I found that this insole was a perfect match (for my foot needs) because the bottom plastic arch support is flat and the mid sole of this boot is firm due to the leather. I found that the Super Feet “orange” insole was better suited for a foam filled midsole boot and not for the African Ranger. So after using the African Ranger barefoot + Super Feet “Green” insoles for a few weeks I have not had any foot pain or discomfort. I’m so excited that I now have a great shoe and boot that is music to my feet. I’m officially a Jim Green boot fan and I plan on purchasing and wearing your boots for years to come. Thank you for making a unique boot that offers great features! One last thing, your laces are awesome. Many boots I’ve tried over the years for some reason the laces always come undone. Your laces stay tied all day (I wear your boots up to 12 hours a day) and I never have to retie them.
I totally agree on the laces comment. This is the first boot I can remember wearing that doesn’t require double knotting. The standard green is awesome too and I like the new subdued color options. I love the direction this company is headed in with the recent additions, colorways and the custom order option is a great way to pick and have made exactly what you’re looking for.
Just got my barefoot African rangers soo far I love them
just ordered a pair of the barefoot version
barefoot is all i buy due to foot issues, than you for your passion and offering!
Great video! Been hoping for more sizing comparisons.
Good day and thanks for the interest! We would recommend checking out Rose Anvil 2 for his size guide on the boot 💪🐸
Just got a pair of the barefoot version. Another 5mm wider in the toe box (or less curve) and they would be perfect.
Agreed, and I would say about 2-3mm tighter in the heel would be great too. Then again maybe we just got odd feet? These changes would make it fit more true to size for me.
Any plans to release the Barefoot model with buffalo leather?
Will be up on our website for presale in the next week or two once we finalize delivery dates
@@JimGreenFootwearOfficial looking forward to it!!
How about a Stockman barefoot? I mean: a chelsea barefoot and Blundstone alternative?
I special ordered a stockman on the barefoot last and sole. Should be here in a couple weeks. JG was easy to work with for this custom request
I normally don’t wear boots as I feel most comfortable in sneakers but your sales pitch has absolutely convinced me, Wikus from District 9.
Thanks for the great feedback! We look forward to hearing the adventures ahead in your boots 💪💪
The rangers and especially the barefoot version are really hitting that inbetween step in my wardrobe that I didn't know existed. Casual and low profile enough to take the sneaker spot, but more robust and with much better materials. A summer boot, if there is such a thing 🤔🤔
barefoot AR was my first jim green. no problems at all wearing them in. this is how i want my shoes to fit my neanderthal frogfots. after that i got a nice pair of numzaan, guess how that went. i havnt walked properly for a week. but soon my heels are healed and we can continue breaking them in :). lessons learned i guess, until i forget. it not every year i break on fullgrain leather boots tbh
Love my African Ranger barefoot but they are really wide and my feet slide around too much when hiking. Are the standard AR boots a little snugger in the midfoot?
I know you probalby dont check this but what is the heal toe drop in the regular rangers
I have had the barefoot ARs for about a month now and love them! I ordered some buffalo ARs and they are supposed to come today. I can’t wait! I am quickly becoming a JG fanboy!
Thank you for the support! We are always a message away should you have any questions and all the best for the adventures ahead 💪💪🐸
Thinking about buying a pair of boots. Well, looking at the barefoot boot, it seems to be pretty light but the question is I walk in the morning through the wet grass what is the best thing to keep them waterproof?
Great question and thanks for the interest! The best option would be a great beeswax care and condition. We have released a video on the channel touching on these cleaning methods and the results you may experience. Please get in touch should you have any further questions 💪🐸
If you can get Sno-Seal, it's a great natural beeswax waterproofing product. It's been a go-to in my family for decades.
I just got my barefoot rangers and had my first long walk in them. Out of the box the leather is very hard on the insole which I'm sure will take its time molding around my footshape. The outer leather is very nice as a leatherworker for sometime now I can attest in my humblest option this is a great leather boot.
Well i like the thinking that the barefoot ranger are wrestiling shoes. They are epic so excited
Which one is best suited for hiking and snowy conditions
Pleeeeaase make these with the walnut vegan tan
rose anvil collaboration led me to buy, smart move jim green!
I love my AR barefoot, but I would really love an even softer sole. I think the resin runner might be stiffening it a lot. My favourite vivos are literally 3mm to the ground. I could also use more width in the midfoot.
I think the next boot to make would be a barefoot version of the African Ranger 8-inch (AR8)
Keep your eyes peeled, we have something in the works coming soon 👀👀
I was very happy to find a reseller in europe.
I do need to break in my barefoot rangers some. Still loving them though…
It would be nice if your shoes are easily available in Europe. As it is now I would have to order from Germany (I'm living in Sweden) and pay around 20euros for shipping. And more or less the same if I would need to return them.
Ireland is pretty similar, I gotta pay 50 euro for shipping from south africa PLUS customs so XD I rarely get a new pair but if that was taken down i'd proabably have 7 pairs
I got my barefoot ranger and vellies from the German site (seems actually shipped by a German retailer that has some kind of arrangement with Jim Green), fortunately the true size fits me fine so no need for returns but I agree it would be nice if the brand takes off in Europe and can have its own outlet. My next order will probably be directly from SA, paying the $50 for shipping + custom duty, as I would love a custom pair of AR8 with a leather midsole and D rings rather than eyelets, it is really nice to have the option to have boots made to your personal specs.
I wish they started making a really light slip-on for summer as even the shoelly would look a bit silly on a summer beach...😂
@@paulsabucchi Yopu genuinely just blew my mind with the mention of the german site! Its actually nearly 100 euro cheaper to get them to ireland from Germany than SA so I really appreciate it. For custom orders I think SA is the only way to go but I am still making up a design and material list for what custom i would like to get but you just helped me out alot so thank you!.
Thank you for your interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that in 2024 we are aiming to open up shop in the UK. This should make Jim Green boots more readily available around your ends and an increase range of boots available 💪🐸
@@JimGreenFootwearOfficialIts great that you expand but a UK store will make it even more expensive for the rest of Europe since UK left the EU.
Could you include the Stack height and drop of each style Ranger? Both look good to me. I adapted to zero drop and walked better but the minimalist stack height has been an issue for me. A small drop and a medium stack have been my sweet spot. Thank you and best wishes.
I have found this to be the case. I've worn nothing but zero drop for about 5 years, and the small drop of the standard boots has not been a problem for me. I needed a boot with a shank and more sole than my barefoots, and the standard ones haven't given me foot or joint pain in the week I've been wearing them.
Just add a square-toe/foot shaped toe box that doesn't push the big toe inward, and you have the first PERFECT boot ever created! So close Jim Green 🤏
Amy plans for a steel or composite African ranger barefoot boot?
which color is the most natural? Is there a colorway that doesn’t have added dye? Thank you
Thank you for your interest in Jim Green @DTrainMachine-u5c. All of our leathers are chrome-tanned and dyed at the tannery. This process helps to preserve the leather and give it a consistent colour.
If you are looking for a specific colour or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our information department on info@jimgreenfootwear.co.za. They can provide more information and are always happy to assist in getting the correct pair of Jim Green boots in your hands and on your feet.
Do you ever plan on making a version of the regular African Rangers with a leather midsole?
I'd love to see this as well.
Why not just use vegtan leather midsole and resin runner on both style of African Rangers
This has been the one big area for improvement I’ve mentioned as well. I have a custom order in for the standard AR but with the higher quality leather mid sole. Everything else about the boot is good to go!
I agree. I also have a custom pair of AR in black with leather mid and insoles with the mini lug soles. The Nuuzman boots are very nice thick vegtan. I like them a lot but definitely a bit more time and still breaking them in
Can you guys make these in 8 inch (steel toe/shank, electrical hazard rating for construction work)?
Good day, to guarantee every boot meets the safety rating, each one would need to undergo specific testing procedures. This process isn't feasible for custom orders. However, the steel toe cap that we will provide meets safety standards ASTM.
Are you saying we can get the barefoot ranger in steel toe?
Which of the leather options would be better at taking a wax (Smith's or Sno Seal) for adding some water resistance? Think of picking up a pair of barefoot rangers for hiking, but live in the rather wet Pacific Northwest of North America.
are the regular african ranger good for handyman who walks on concrete all day?
Could you do a razorback vs mean machine ? I have no idea what thebfifferenc is
did you all add a poron insert or something, it looks like there is something that I didnt see in the rose anvil video under the brown piece of leather on the back the insole in my pair on African Ranger bare foots
God I wish they had the African ranger with a “clean” moccasin style tread. I’d buy that thing in a heartbeat.
Can easily be resoled very inexpensively.
Do you have a dedicated desert boot coming in the future? @Jim Green Footwear
These barefoot rangers have saved my back and knees. My balance is much better and I love the ground feel. Can’t wait to try the barefoot troopers. One day I’d love to see a safety toe barefoot boot so I can get back into the trades again and protect my joints.
I bought a pair of numzaan boots and African rangers, I really like both of them, but on the African rangers I could feel the steel shank, it kinda makes a lump under the foot. Maybe I will order a custom pair without a shank
I have one question. Im from Germany, and I am interested in the african Ranger. Can the African Ranger be re-soled by any Normal shoemaker?
Where can I buy these in Canada?
Waiting for the veg tan version
I got the barefoot African rangers 2 weeks ago and they're the first barefoot shoes I've ever tried. I went on a trip to Italy for a week where it was supposed to rain a ton so I wore my timberlands while walking 8 - 10 miles a day and had a horrible time of it. I've had bad plantar fasciitis for years and heard barefoot might help with that so I took it into account along with the fact that I'd be getting a much lighter, more flexible boot and holy crap have I been impressed. I've worn these every day for the last 2 weeks and my feet feel great. No break in period for me, these felt amazing out of the box. All I've done is hit them with some sno-seal for water proofing.
Thanks for the support and great feedback! Always good to hear of yet another pair of Jim Green boots living up to their standard. All the best for the future adventures and please do get in touch should you have any questions along the way 💪
What is the difference between the black and houston black leathers on the african ranger?
I would really like a pair of African Ranger barefoot boots, but I don’t know whether you have a dealer in the UK?
Hi and thanks for the interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that we are exploring opening up shop in the UK and hope to achieve this in 2024. For the time being we would recommend placing an order through our South African webstore, please get in touch should you have any questions 💪🙌
How wide are the barefoot Rangers at the balls of the feet per size? I've sent an email and commented a bunch on your social media posts but haven't received a reply.
Are you going to offer US size 6 and 6.5?
What's sizing like for each of these boots? Are they true to size?
If i buy a barefoot ranger do you still donate a regular ranger ?
We do indeed, will have on feet over 3000 pairs donated by middle of the year
I got a pair of the barefoot AR's because of the Rose Anvil video and liked them so much that I got the stock AR's in buffalo hide. They will probably outlive me.
Owning both the barefoot and stock, which do you prefer?
My barefoots are fantastic. Have worn them daily for over a month; they are wonderful. How soon til we see the barefoot AR8?
We do have something in the works for our Barefoot AR8, keep your eyes peeled 👀💪
Hello! I've got a question, but first I want to say I fell in LOVE with your barefoot rangers! They are amazing, thank you so much for your work.
Here is my concern: I am hesitating to buy a pair of regular rangers for different uses, but I got wide feet. The barefoot ones fit me quiet well, but the width is allmost the minimum I can take (otherwise I start to feel squished and less stable/comfy). I have been looking at the custom options on your website, but there seem to be no compromise between the barefoot last and the classic Jim Green last. I would be sooo down for your classic boots with drop, steel shank etc, if they would be about as wide as the barefoot ones... And even with this video, it's unclear how much more narrow they are. In that regard, It would also be helpful to have not only the lenght, but also the width, on your size guide (sadly, only a few brands care for that detail). I Am in France, so getting your shoes cost me extra, and it is to pricy to send back, so I have to make shure...
Anyway, I hope this comment is constructive, thank you in advance for you answer.
are the barefoot models able to be resoled?
Yes
I love my Barefoot Rangers! First things first. I got exceptionally fast service here in Vandalia , Illinois! I think it arrived in under five days. This is a real boot, made from real leather and it took a little break in time! For the first week or so they chewed my ankles! (Thick wool socks make all the difference.) Now, at this point they merely "gum" them almost gently! In a few more weeks we will be the best of friends! These are real end of the world foot wear that will stand up to most anything I'll be into. I'm looking into perhaps painting them with Otter Wax and sealing it with a heat gun for greater waterproofing. Has any of your other customers waxed their Nubuck boots this way?
I saved up the money and I'm ready to buy some but you don't have any size 12's in the brown or suede!!!!!! How will I know when they're in stock?
We have recently sent off a container to the US for a restock, we are hoping to have this touching down end of May/Early June with more stock 🙌💪
Do you have anything in the works with stores in the USA so we can go and try them on before jumping in? I love the idea of the Barefoot Ranger, but buying online at ~US$190 is a bit of a risk.
Thanks for the interest! Great news is that we offer exchanges and returns on orders placed from our online stores should you have a sizing issue, please do get in touch should you have any further questions💪🐸🙌
I just received my barefoot ARs today and love them! Please make a barefoot AR with a safety toe. There are NO barefoot safety toe shoes worth wearing.
In their custom section on the website I believe you can select the safety toe as an option.
I think because they don't work together at all - barefoot is flexible, natural. the strength required for a safety shoe just does not, afaik, suit. maybe inserting a sole that mimics barefoot could be a solution, but otherwise it just does not seem logically possible from my understanding.
I just bought the Barefoot African Ranger because of Anvil vids lool
Both these models are great. But I when I think barefoot I think minimal zero drop, lite, thin stack, high ground feel (Xero, Lems) When I think boots rugged, capable, durable, break-in, prolonged comfort come to mind. The barefoot model has the cosmetics, but is it really a boot?? I don't feel so, but I have the Std Rangers and they're unique, everything a true boot should be. Ought to be in the legacy boot conversation w/ Iron Ranger/ Blacksmiths & 1K Miles.
Just ordered some barefoot yesterday!
do you have a UK distributor? these are the perfect non for me.
Thanks for the interest! Great news is that we are aiming to open up shop in the UK in 2024 👀
So the regular African Ranger boot has the same foot shaped toe box as the barefoot Ranger version?
Thanks for making this comparison video!
The barefoot AR toebox is slightly wider.
I want the bear foot sole to be completely flat. As i get goat poop and mud stuck and digging out is annoying
bro anyway to buy your shoes in Mexico? cant wait to get my hands in some of those AR8 boots
Why is the barefoot green so much more muted than the regular green on the right? Any way we can ensure that more muted color when we order? Thanks!
Good day! The Barefoot Ranger in video is a well worn boot. The stock African Ranger is a brand new unworn pair 💪💪
Thank you! @@JimGreenFootwearOfficial
Is it possible to get an even wider toebox on the barefoot?
Brother needs the WIDEST TOE BOX 😂 We all have different desires, but to answer your question no, they would need a new last, soles, etc. It's wide enough for foot health but if you have wide feet I think they might have wider sizes, if not then i think you are out of luck, sorry
@@applejuice9468 I wear Be Lenka typically. From what I can tell they're using a sole sheet that they cut to fit to the rest of the boot. Seems like there's a lot of eastern European countries using a similar last for barefoot footwear -- they might be able to get one.
The problem with most wide lasts is that they just widen all the way through. I just need it widened at the forefoot/toebox area. Widest area of the boot for me needs to be right at the toes without a drastic taper like most shoes do.
@hina Re: just widening all the way through; In one of their videos about this boot you can see that is what they did with these. They took the AR last, flattened the bottom, and made the whole thing wider, but the toe box shape is still tapered along the big toe.
One problem with just widening all the way along is the fit will be sloppy in the middle & heel for the female foot and narrower-footed males.
I will purchase a pare of Jim Green for my 13 year old
Are you guys going to do a Buffalo hide barefoot african ranger?
you plan on making your boots available in europe?
A good range of their boots are available through their German website and shipped from Germany via DHL to all Europe
@@paulsabucchi should have been more specific. i'm mostly interested in the barefoot boot
Thank you for your interest towards Jim Green Footwear, great news is that in 2024 we are aiming to open up shop in the UK. This should make Jim Green boots more readily available around your ends and an increase range of boots available 💪🐸
Love my barefoot African Rangers! Great to own a barefoot boot with an actually solid construction. Do you plan on coming out with a barefoot version of the Stockman?
I agree. These arent gimicky bullshit. These shoes are pretty stylish, rugged, and not weirdly marketed
If you ever come out with a women's fit version of the 'barefoot' with a true natural-shape toe box (no taper along the big toe), I would jump on it so quickly!
do you think the mens would still fit a woman? I have pretty wide feet but im still wondering.... would love a boot like this!
@@user-ym4lj8ms3n I don't think they would; not a significant majority of them, as the female foot is generally proportioned a bit narrower and lower volume than the male. These BF Rangers are made even wider through the whole foot than the regular African Rangers.
I'm keeping my eye out and my hopes up for future design updates on the BF boots!
@@childcrone aw man, that blows. Thanks for the advice, I'll also keep an eye out!
@@user-ym4lj8ms3n Not advice really, just replying with my observations about these boots :~)
I hiked 30km a day for 10 days in a pair of vivobarefoot trail runners, I was the only one to have no blisters or feet problems. Barefoot shoe lovers feet become so much stronger, its a totally different game.
No doubt. I try to be barefoot most of the time but for exercise one must needs at least a wide toebox