Chelsea Boots

[Zach R.]

I was wondering if anyone had any pairs or preferences with models that they would like to share? To me, they are more versatile than traditional lace up boots, and could serve well alongside my trusty Aldens for knock-around boots as well as nights out on the town.

I've been looking at Blundstone's, Timberlands, Frye's, and Red Wings...they all look nice, but I can't find any real life reviews and experiences with them other than the occasional faulty pair or either one-star or five-star reviews.

Timberlands are the cheapest, by far. The Blundstone's have a big history (but are now made in China instead of Australia, and also have irreplaceable souls). Frye's are stylish, but I'm not a big fan of the "already worn" look. The red wings have an odd toe-shape, but seem the highest quality (as well as the most expensive).

[hoose55]

Hello!
I have no experience with any of the brands you have mentioned but I own a pair of J. Crew Redwings. I wish I had a second pair because only because I know I will miss these when they are gone. They are more expensive, but you get what you pay for.
I hope this helps.
J-


http://www.gosuperego.com/

[Indiana MarkVII]

hoose55, that's a bad link, or it's outdated. I tried it twice and it didn't work.

[Kittlemeier]

Don't mean to keep heaping on boots that aren't available but I've got two pairs of Timberland "Limited Collection" Chelsea boots. One in dark brown and one in black. They're a little dressier than most but I love 'em. They have a neat stamped design on the back(not for everyone) and a carved sole(that couldn't be seen after thirty minutes outside). They really look nice since they've been worn in a bit and polished. Nice depth to the leather(Horween, like the new 403 Aldens).

I don't think I'd like the rubber soled Chelseas. I kinda like leather soles for boots like these.

Here are pics of the black and mid brown. Mine are a darker brown.

[Zach R.]

Do they weather well? Despite (or in spite of) the fact that they don't make them anymore, they're almost exactly what I want

[Zach R.]

I'm still leaning heavily towards the Blundies, though, I think they'd be a nice change of pace.

[Indy Magnoli]

What about R.M. Williams? I had a pair for years (would have lasted a LOT longer if I had treated them properly) and have heard people maintaining theirs for well over a decade.

Kind regards,
Magnoli

[Zach R.]

Perfect! Combines everything I like about the Blundstones and the red-wings, thanks for the recommendation.

Unfortunately, there are so many models it's hard to choose

[theinterchange]

boots, yeah

[Kittlemeier]

Do they weather well? Despite (or in spite of) the fact that they don't make them anymore, they're almost exactly what I want

Since you asked, they've worn in nicely. Kinda like a decent dress shoe would. The heel cup(or whatever it's called, the piece of sole that comes up and surrounds the heel of the foot) is what gets noticed the most when I'm around anyone who pays attention to such things.

Forgot to mention they're waterproof also, at least up to the elastic.

On the RMWilliams, I'd personally go with the Craftsman or the Turnout. I like Chelsea boots with a nice dress toe, not too square or pointy, and a low dress heel. But I've not seen any in person.

[cyclops]

Hi,

I've owned R M Williams boots for about 5 years. I buy the Yard boot - I wear them every day. The Yard boot has a glued, screwed and sewn sole - it isn't going anywhere. The leather is thick, and waterproof I don't drive so walk lots and stand around waiting in the rain at railway stations a lot. So far no wet feet....

They last well and if you treat them properly look good after a couple of years of daily wear. Soles can be replaced by R M Williams.

Cheers
Cyclops