Some of these companies need the love, like Rider, Helm, or Parkhurst who were on the upswing until covid seemed to hit them hard. Benzein is definitely the trendiest Indonesian bootmaker though, Iron Boots is a new company getting tons of hype, and Clinch are super high end and very recognized. I would've loved to see stuff like Mark Albert, Rancourt, etc., who have similar situations to Rider/Parkhurst and have been struggling during the pandemic.
@@Stridewise I thought so, too, but they launched that whole crowdfunding thing during the pandemic to stay afloat so I guess they got hit pretty hard, too.
Love my brand new Parkhurst boots. How many brands does the owner do the finishing such as burnishing, nailing, sanding, staining on every pair of boots. Andrew mentioned during my recent correspondence with the company that the pandemic was and continues to be an extreme challenge. I hope he can make it; it would be a shame to loose such a great brand.
I own 2 pairs of Russell moccasins boots and they are without a doubt my favorite boots I’ve ever owned. Pricey yes but with Russell you truly get what you pay for. Comfiest boots ever once broken in, brand new they can be a little stiff or hard but after a few weeks of solid wear, they feel like a sock! I’ll never wear another boot and I’ve wore a lot of different kinds due to wearing boots everyday for work!
Man those benzein waxed flesh look better as they age. I own a pair of Junkard now but watching Ticho's collection of Indo boots makes me wanna catch 'em all 😂
Crazy you didn't mention Urban Shepherd. Got a pair of cap toes from them 2 years ago. I got better than redwing quality for $175 (regular $225, but I got them on clearance). Portuguese leather, calf leather lined and Goodyear welted (and nailed) vibram sole. It felt like a total steal. To bad the pandemic hit them hard and I don't think they no longer ship to the US. Oh well.
Love your channel. I was wondering if you plan on discussing and reviewing some of the Northampton boots like Crockett & Jones, Cheaney and Trickers. I'd be interested to learn your opinions.
Best video to date Nick! I have been listening to Ticho on stitchdown podcast, great to see him. I might add Grant Stone Edwards to the list. Also great point about rapid blake stitch; Steve from Bedo Leatherworks explained and demonstrated it well in one of his videos, seems like a solid construction method and when a resole is called for I eould send them to Jim McFarland in FL and he can make them better than new without a doubt. Be well!
I'm new to this boot universe...ive only bought and worn Danner boots, historically. I'm excited to explore this world. i just purchased a pair of Wolverine 1000 miles and have recently created a wish list of a half dozen boot types/brands...mostly on what ive seen and learned on this channel. Thank you for what you're doing here. :-)
John Doe is super underrated, I talk about them all the time so I feel like *I* don't "underrate" them, but I forget that they still need and deserve promotion!
Nick, I love your videos, ‘have subscribed long time ago. I think Clinch isn’t underrated -it’s highly sought after hence very expensive. You made me think twice about Benzein though.
Oh god, I remember that Rider boots store. Right in the middle of the city between a Beglian restaurant and a upscale consignment store. Different part of the city they might have lasted. But heck, even Shockoe Denim is moving their location.
My favorite boots are boots I had hand made when I was stationed in Korea. Nick, I'd be glad to wear any of your boots for you. Hate thinking they're not getting worn and loved. ;-)
Most underrated/best value American heritage boot brands (All $400 and under for Goodyear welt, dr sole outsole, leather stack, logger/monkey/service boot style available) 1. Unmarked (mexico) 2. Monroe boots(Indonesia) 3. Willie's Leathers (Philippines) 4. Renav Goods Co (Indonesia) 5. Kings Boots (China)
Helm seems sold out of the most common sizes. Also their sizing calculator is confusing. If you say you are an 11 in sneakers, it recommends an 11 in their boots. If you say you are a 10 in Red Wings, it recommends a 10 in their boots. So which is it?
Im such a big boot/ leather enthusiast but gosh, I cant help but think of all the animals that were killed (cows, buffalo, horses, etc..) so we could have these beautiful works of craftsmanship. We owe it to these animals by utilizing our leather goods often and caring for them properly.
@@laxmitty21 Nice. I had one in high school and it lasted me many years until I gained some weight. I still have it and will give it to my son. I need a new one. They are freaking amazing. Timeless.
Midas Bootmaker is just a great brand. Look at the Moc Toe and the Service boot from them. They did a series of theese boots with Skolyx. All handmade and just fantastic!
Indonesia have very high quality boots, i have one boots that already 25 years old without care but still good! .. But todays makers cannot handles many orders and still need improvements in quality control to have consistency in their quality.
I'm in contact with someone from Miles & Louie, from Mexico, right now, discussing their sizing over email. Their website is all in Spanish, but I believe they do have an Etsy page in English. I've seen a few positive reddit and other forum posts about them, so I decided to give them a shot. They're made to order and the price seems really good for what they offer, so I'm hoping to get my pair just right.
I have a pair of Chelseas from them and a pair of loafers on order. Very solidly built for a great price. Leather sole isn't super versatile for me workwise so I haven't gotten a ton of wear but certainly not one to sleep on. CS has always been fantastic.
@@df540148 Yeah, communication with them has been super smooth. I'm fine with either sole, just need to figure out my priorities. The flat, nonslip rubber is far more versatile, but the lugged sole will obviously be more grippy and will likely last longer.
What brand/style could you recommend that would be good for lots of urban walking that could maybe be resoled down the road? Something like the Red Wing Moc toe possibly?
You lost me at $650 for Chinese boots. Seriously? I can’t think of one item manufactured in China that is quality.. China = cheap junk that falls apart.
Edit: Benzein ( 01:33) changed their name to Briselblack in 2023, they're here now: instagram.com/briselblack_bootmaker/
I can vouch for Russell Moccasin. Best boots made. 100%. I absolutely love the Cavalier and Cavalier Crossover.
Some of these companies need the love, like Rider, Helm, or Parkhurst who were on the upswing until covid seemed to hit them hard. Benzein is definitely the trendiest Indonesian bootmaker though, Iron Boots is a new company getting tons of hype, and Clinch are super high end and very recognized. I would've loved to see stuff like Mark Albert, Rancourt, etc., who have similar situations to Rider/Parkhurst and have been struggling during the pandemic.
You know we considered talking about Rancourt but thought they were fairly well known, I guess we should have pushed ahead!
@@Stridewise I thought so, too, but they launched that whole crowdfunding thing during the pandemic to stay afloat so I guess they got hit pretty hard, too.
Love my brand new Parkhurst boots. How many brands does the owner do the finishing such as burnishing, nailing, sanding, staining on every pair of boots. Andrew mentioned during my recent correspondence with the company that the pandemic was and continues to be an extreme challenge. I hope he can make it; it would be a shame to loose such a great brand.
@@Stridewise giving Parkhurst love tonight, picking up those green kudus! ❤️
I own 2 pairs of Russell moccasins boots and they are without a doubt my favorite boots I’ve ever owned. Pricey yes but with Russell you truly get what you pay for. Comfiest boots ever once broken in, brand new they can be a little stiff or hard but after a few weeks of solid wear, they feel like a sock! I’ll never wear another boot and I’ve wore a lot of different kinds due to wearing boots everyday for work!
Man those benzein waxed flesh look better as they age. I own a pair of Junkard now but watching Ticho's collection of Indo boots makes me wanna catch 'em all 😂
Crazy you didn't mention Urban Shepherd. Got a pair of cap toes from them 2 years ago. I got better than redwing quality for $175 (regular $225, but I got them on clearance). Portuguese leather, calf leather lined and Goodyear welted (and nailed) vibram sole. It felt like a total steal. To bad the pandemic hit them hard and I don't think they no longer ship to the US. Oh well.
Yeah they're super hard to get a hold of now, it feels weird to promote them haha
I have a pair of Russell boots. I purchased them decades ago and they are still going strong despite slogging through swamps, woods, and snow.
Russel boots makes a minimalist line for bare footers. They are great.
ticho is not at all what i expected. great to finally know. what does Ben look like?
Love your channel. I was wondering if you plan on discussing and reviewing some of the Northampton boots like Crockett & Jones, Cheaney and Trickers. I'd be interested to learn your opinions.
He has a nice review of the Tricker's Stow boots; picked up the same pair myself and love em.
Best video to date Nick! I have been listening to Ticho on stitchdown podcast, great to see him. I might add Grant Stone Edwards to the list. Also great point about rapid blake stitch; Steve from Bedo Leatherworks explained and demonstrated it well in one of his videos, seems like a solid construction method and when a resole is called for I eould send them to Jim McFarland in FL and he can make them better than new without a doubt. Be well!
Great segment. I'm not really into chelseas but I would totally rock those Benzeins. Looks like a tough guy's chelsea.
Rolling Dub Trio from Japan is also an underrated boot brand.
Finally, there’s a face to Mr. Tichoblancos
now we know how he looks like. I thought he was a middle age gent.
I'm new to this boot universe...ive only bought and worn Danner boots, historically. I'm excited to explore this world. i just purchased a pair of Wolverine 1000 miles and have recently created a wish list of a half dozen boot types/brands...mostly on what ive seen and learned on this channel. Thank you for what you're doing here. :-)
Great video, definitely would've included meermin jumper boots, John Doe and urban Shepard in my list, awesome 👌
John Doe is super underrated, I talk about them all the time so I feel like *I* don't "underrate" them, but I forget that they still need and deserve promotion!
Agree with the Russell boots!
Also John Lofgren and Edward Green!
Great Glest you had on today!!!
As a Canadian it’s pretty hard to go wrong with either Canada West or Boulet
Tahura and Prof barnet are very underrated brands that offer Double welt construction that you see from White Kloud.
I love my 2 Helm boots. Great company, long lasting boots!
I have been so curious what Ticho looks like, haha!
I forgot to mention "Cordwainer" shoes/boots from Spains Alicante , Great price and quality GYW 100% leather
Holy shit! Ticho is actually real! 🤣
Finishing with Clinch, that's a big jump!
Wait Business in the Front, Party in the Back Ticho Version wtf... Im all in..
Do you have any videos on good looking boots that can do 1000 miles walking without shredding feet?
Hi
When you do a Benzein Search they say permanently closed.
Great Video! Full of Great Information.
Yeah you have to just go to their Instagram/Whatsapp!
@@Stridewise
Hi. Thank You.
I have the (non-kudu) green Parkhurst Allens, absolutely love them one of the most handsome boots I've ever seen and the construction is excellent
You might want to check out Willies leather boots from the Philippines...
IMO that benzein silhouette is the best looking chelsea boots.
Great video! Brands that do MTO and have wide and custom sizing get my business and Helm and Russell are close to my heart.
Adelante is great for MTO and custom sizing!
Enjoyed this one🥾 some great boots there
Nick, I love your videos, ‘have subscribed long time ago.
I think Clinch isn’t underrated -it’s highly sought after hence very expensive.
You made me think twice about Benzein though.
Agree about Clinch. Grails for many. Same with White Cloud, problem is you have to go to Japan for a fitting.
Oh god, I remember that Rider boots store. Right in the middle of the city between a Beglian restaurant and a upscale consignment store. Different part of the city they might have lasted. But heck, even Shockoe Denim is moving their location.
My favorite boots are boots I had hand made when I was stationed in Korea. Nick, I'd be glad to wear any of your boots for you. Hate thinking they're not getting worn and loved. ;-)
I'd like to see your take on oxford style boots.
Are balmorals the only option?
Most underrated/best value American heritage boot brands (All $400 and under for Goodyear welt, dr sole outsole, leather stack, logger/monkey/service boot style available)
1. Unmarked (mexico)
2. Monroe boots(Indonesia)
3. Willie's Leathers (Philippines)
4. Renav Goods Co (Indonesia)
5. Kings Boots (China)
I love the T shirt with the boot on it were can I buy this ?
It's from Stitchdown, out of stock rn but might come back! the-stitchdown-shop.myshopify.com/collections/shop-shirts
Helm seems sold out of the most common sizes.
Also their sizing calculator is confusing. If you say you are an 11 in sneakers, it recommends an 11 in their boots. If you say you are a 10 in Red Wings, it recommends a 10 in their boots.
So which is it?
Great content gentleman..Top shelf…..
If I’m spending 500-700 on a pair of boots I’m buying Nicks any day of the week over all of these brands.
I was thinking about the same. Why would I pay 600 for something made in China?
Nick: wearing a fucking peacoat
This dude: boot shirt
lmao!
Suggestions for decent boots for wider foot and tall instep?
Thanks.
Im such a big boot/ leather enthusiast but gosh, I cant help but think of all the animals that were killed (cows, buffalo, horses, etc..) so we could have these beautiful works of craftsmanship. We owe it to these animals by utilizing our leather goods often and caring for them properly.
Most leathers are byproducts of other industries, and natural deaths of animals.
How much for the benzein chelsea?
I would love to order a pair of parkhurst, but they dont offer EE widths 🤞yet🤞
What about Gokey or Macrostie Leathers? Way underrated!
You should try Bridlen shoes and boots.
Haha I put them in an upcoming short about indian brands
Benzine! Am coming for you.
Do you know about a brand ghat makes basic black matte combat boots apart from thursdays?
He looks like the dad from Inside Out
So that’s what Ticho looks like 🤔
For someone who hides his face all the time you'd think he'd be uglier but he's a god damn supermodel
parkhurst has such nice looking welts
I really like my Parkhurst boots but the last doesn’t work all that well with my feet but I highly highly recommend them to anyone.
Interesting I find the last works really well for me. What’s your foot shape like?
How about Astorflex? The boots are hand made in Italy.
Check out the Japanese boot brands Rolling Dub Trio and Brother Bridge 👍
got some Russell boots for free had em resoled their still like new, think i wore em twice
i just ordered my first pair! the company has had a change of mangement and now they're growing super fast, it's exciting
thanks men
What ever happened to Brooklyn Boot Company Made in Pennsylvania USA. I bought a pair on sale for $50.00. The boots are built tough.
Why not Rancourt?
Nick, where on earth did you get that Peacoat in the opening shot?
Army/Navy surplus stores always have them.
@@markmullen1852 got a 1950 vintage off EBay, shit is immacualte
@@laxmitty21 Nice. I had one in high school and it lasted me many years until I gained some weight. I still have it and will give it to my son. I need a new one. They are freaking amazing. Timeless.
What about Wilcox boots?
Sneaky Steve from Sweden makes really good boots 👍
Well, Benzein seems impossible to get in touch with. Too bad I like a couple of their offerings too. :(
Those Japanese boot look like boots in pics from the 1800s in the US
Jim Green boots
Which last are those Benzein Chelseas?
It's called the Seventh
moar hotdog content plz
What, no diaper-soled boots? Tichoblanco: loafer voice, heritage boot looks.
Russel moccasin is the best
Richmond Virginia ✊🏻
Boots go on your feet.
ticho looks more australian than nick.
Ha ha ha
Midas Bootmaker is just a great brand. Look at the Moc Toe and the Service boot from them.
They did a series of theese boots with Skolyx. All handmade and just fantastic!
So I started looking up the rider Boots until they said they had a fishy smell 😕
Oh, it doesn't really. They're great boots you must get them
Love your videos! Truman moc toe!
wow all r awesome 👍
I know that’s what I’m looking for in a boot one that smells like fish 🐟 🤮
Indonesia have very high quality boots, i have one boots that already 25 years old without care but still good! .. But todays makers cannot handles many orders and still need improvements in quality control to have consistency in their quality.
Please stop talking about Benzein... by the time I get an order decided they’re going to be so popular and the lead times are going to be crazy
Iron Boots 铁履， wow， it is a Chinese brand.
I'm in contact with someone from Miles & Louie, from Mexico, right now, discussing their sizing over email. Their website is all in Spanish, but I believe they do have an Etsy page in English.
I've seen a few positive reddit and other forum posts about them, so I decided to give them a shot. They're made to order and the price seems really good for what they offer, so I'm hoping to get my pair just right.
I have a pair of Chelseas from them and a pair of loafers on order. Very solidly built for a great price. Leather sole isn't super versatile for me workwise so I haven't gotten a ton of wear but certainly not one to sleep on. CS has always been fantastic.
@@df540148 Yeah, leather soles wouldn't be practical for me either, so I'll be picking between their lugged sole or the non-slip rubber.
@@RichRayEML You can likely get a custom sole for not a huge upcharge since everything is MTO. Give them an email, super responsive and nice.
@@df540148 Yeah, communication with them has been super smooth. I'm fine with either sole, just need to figure out my priorities. The flat, nonslip rubber is far more versatile, but the lugged sole will obviously be more grippy and will likely last longer.
So since I don’t have social media, I won’t be able to buy from a lot of these guys. I’ll just have to stick with the Pac NW makers.
come on man at least make a whatsapp
700 dollars for a pair of boots from China, ya NO!
Poor kangaroos.
And none of these boots could be used for actual work. Pretty boy dressy boots that are god awful ugly.
What brand/style could you recommend that would be good for lots of urban walking that could maybe be resoled down the road? Something like the Red Wing Moc toe possibly?
You lost me at $650 for Chinese boots. Seriously? I can’t think of one item manufactured in China that is quality.. China = cheap junk that falls apart.
The background is too boring to watch this video. Sorry, bro.
Ok
Ariat
that's... that's one of the biggest boot brands in the world. They're worth four hundred million dollars
Daaasaamn . I got mine(Chelsea---mans shoe) for $180,in Costa Rica... good deal eh matey ? LOL@@Stridewise