How to Choose the Right Red Wing Shoes for You

Your Guide to buying the best Red Wing

Overview

This buying guide is designed to help anyone interested in purchasing a pair of Red Wing boots. It will go over all the essential details that need to be considered when making a decision on which pair of Red Wing boots is right for you. It will cover topics such as the types of boots available, the different materials used in the construction, what to look for in terms of fit, and the different features offered in different models. By the time you've finished reading, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision on which pair of Red Wing boots you should buy.

Key features

  1. Type and Size - Consider the type of Red Wing boots you are looking for (ie. hiking, work, etc.) and the size you need. You should measure your foot using the Red Wing shoe size chart for the most accurate size.
  2. Material - Consider the material of the Red Wing you desire. Red Wing boots are made with full-grain leather, Oil-Tanned leather, and other materials.
  3. Style - Red Wing offers a variety of styles from lace-up, slip-on, zip-up, and more. Pick a style that best meets your needs.
  4. Sole - Different Red Wing models offer different sole types. Consider which sole type you want, such as Rubber, Vibram, and Nitrile Cork.
  5. Special Features - Various Red Wing models include special features such as waterproof liners, steel toe protection, and more. Consider which features you want and need in a boot.
  6. Price - Red Wing boots come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly to more expensive models. Consider your budget and purchase the boots that best fit your desired features and quality.

See the most popular Red Wing on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durable Construction - Red Wing shoes are built to last. Made with quality leathers and materials, their shoes can withstand tough conditions and have become a go-to choice for those who need heavy-duty footwear.
  • Comfortable Fit - Red Wing shoes are designed to provide a comfortable fit, so that they can be comfortably worn for extended periods of time.
  • Stylish Look - Red Wing shoes have a classic, timeless style that never goes out of fashion. With a variety of styles, colors and materials, there is something for everyone.
  • High Quality - Red Wing shoes are made with top quality materials and craftsmanship, so you can be sure that you are getting a great pair of shoes that will last for many years to come.
  • Affordable Prices - Red Wing shoes are made with quality, but at an affordable price. This makes them an ideal choice for those who don’t want to spend a fortune for a good pair of shoes.

Cons

  • Price - Red Wing can be on the more expensive side when compared to other brands.
  • Sizing & Fit - Red Wing shoes and boots fit differently than most other brands and the sizing can be a bit tricky to get right.
  • Break-in Period - Red Wing boots and shoes might take a bit longer to break-in compared to other brands.
  • Repairs - Red Wing shoes and boots need to be taken to a cobbler for repairs, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Best alternatives

  1. Alden - American-made shoes with Goodyear welted constructions and high-quality leathers.
  2. Allen Edmonds - A classic American dress shoe company offering both Goodyear and Blake-stitched constructions.
  3. Cole Haan - A trusted consumer shoe brand offering a variety of styles for different occasions.
  4. Trickers - A British shoe brand offering traditional handcrafted footwear.
  5. Crockett & Jones - A British shoe company offering Goodyear and hand-stitched constructions.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

Common questions

  1. How do I know what size of Red Wing shoes to buy? Red Wing recommends measuring the length of your feet and comparing them to the size chart that’s available on their website. The size chart is tailored to the specific style of the shoes you’re considering.
  2. What is the best way to care for my Red Wing shoes? Red Wing recommends using a soft cloth and warm water to clean the shoes. It’s important to apply a waterproofing product to the leather after cleaning to prevent water and salt stains. Red Wing also recommends using a cedar shoe tree to help maintain the shoe’s shape.
  3. What type of warranty comes with Red Wing shoes? Red Wing offers a limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects and material failures, as well as workmanship errors. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, or misuse.
  4. Are Red Wing shoes true to size? Red Wing shoes generally fit true to size, however the best way to know for sure is to measure your feet and compare to the size chart on Red Wing’s website.
  5. Are Red Wing shoes waterproof? Red Wing does not make shoes that are specifically marketed as waterproof. However, they do make shoes with water-resistant leathers and linings, as well as waterproofing products that can help protect the shoes from water and salt stains.

Trivia

In 2017, Red Wing Shoes made a special edition of the Iron Ranger boot made of suede, in a color the company dubbed 'Oyster'. This special edition was so popular that it sold out within two hours after it was released, and the company had to make more to meet the demand. The ‘Oyster’ edition Iron Ranger has become a sought-after collectible item among sneaker and boot aficionados. Source: https://www.redwingshoes.com/blog/oyster-iron-ranger-boot-sells-out

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.