Club Obi Wan

Hi ya!
Listen you guys, I´m getting intrested about the RED WING-shoes.
To me,those shoes look P-R-E-T-T-Y close to Alden-Shoes and therefore, has anyone bought them? What do you think about them.
I happend to find a store in Finland that sells Red Wing-shoes.
(V.P. ,asuit Espoossa , löytyykö sieltä Red Wing -myymälää?)

Not sure about the ones you're refering to, but I can vouch for Red Wing Shoes. My last three pairs of shoes have been RW and they are an awsome shoe that holds up to almost any kind of punishment. I would love to see a pic of the Alden alterinative if anyone has one or can post a link.
Regards,
-Chewie

Check out this link:

http://www.redwingshoe.com/europe/produ ... =Lifestyle

Some of them do look like good alternatives. Cool boots!

Regards,
Swindiana

MARQ wrote:(V.P. ,asuit Espoossa , löytyykö sieltä Red Wing -myymälää?)

Terve taas. Oisko kuvia uudesta rotsistas? En ole kyllä koskaan kuullutkaan koko firmasta, mutta nopealla etsinnällä löysin pari suomalaista jälleenmyyjää, joista vois ehkä kysyä.
http://direct.where2getit.com/intl/resu ... ry=FINLAND
http://www.redwingshoes.com/europe/loca ... &x=11&y=13

Huh?

Historically, Redwings have been stated by the designer of the original Indy costume to BE the ONE...and ONLY boots that Ford wore. We all know that Ford substituted his Aldens at the last minute due to comfort, but the Redwings were the first choice by the designer to be THE official Indy boot. SO, you'd actually have a precedent!! Regards. Michaelson

which ones on that page in particular?

The 8146 looks pretty darn close to the Aldens to me.

Plenty of stores in the US... the link was to the store locator for europe
Try http://www.redwingshoes.com/ , it's on the top right of your screen


Cheers
MLM

More caffiene, Clinton, more caffiene!!!! There's a Reg Wing store a couple of miles from me in Fort Wayne. Before I finally saved up for my Aldens, I went in to see what they had as a viable alternative, but they didn't have anything in stock that I liked. From what they show on their website, however, it looks like there are some good choices!

bink

Michaelson wrote:Huh?

Historically, Redwings have been stated by the designer of the original Indy costume to BE the ONE...and ONLY boots that Ford wore. We all know that Ford substituted his Aldens at the last minute due to comfort, but the Redwings were the first choice by the designer to be THE official Indy boot. SO, you'd actually have a precedent!! Regards. Michaelson

I remember a conversation MK had with Debroah Nadooleman-Landis - the costume designer. It wasn't that long ago. She insists to this day, that Harrison wore RedWings for Raiders per her design. Hehhh...hehhhh...hehhhh

Yep. One story that I will always remember was one that Lee Keppler told me years and years ago....in one of his visits to the props area where he had access to many of the original Raiders items, he said there was a box that had several items tossed in that were proported to be connected to Raiders. He specifically wanted to find a boot so he could source what the actual boots WERE that Ford wore, and in that box he found one Aldens 405...and one Redwings boot that favored the Aldens. He did not remember which Redwings model it was,as the Aldens was tagged 'IJ', but it was marked Redwings. Like I said, this was told to me YEARS ago...so....Take that for what it's worth.... Regards. Michaelson

Anyone know if the Red Wings make good hiking boots?

I J

Sergei wrote:I remember a conversation MK had with Debroah Nadooleman-Landis - the costume designer.

Sergei,

Did Debroah Nadooleman marry John Landis, as in Animal House? If so, I was not aware of that. Or, was it someone else that just happens to be named Landis?

the 2912s look close dont they?

Hey, Bufflehead, I have relatives with the last name of Landis, but I don't think they're related. They are just as wacky, however.

bink

Sorry if this was mentioned previously (I didn't see it if it was), but it appears that Red Wing does not allow the online ordering of it's products:
http://www.shoestoboot.com/moreinfo.cfm ... ategory=45
(scroll down to where it says "ordering information")

I guess that means there won't be online prices, either?

binkmeisterRick wrote:Hey, Bufflehead, I have relatives with the last name of Landis, but I don't think they're related.

To each other? You're right, that IS wacky.

Greg wrote:Sorry if this was mentioned previously (I didn't see it if it was), but it appears that Red Wing does not allow the online ordering of it's products:
http://www.shoestoboot.com/moreinfo.cfm ... ategory=45
(scroll down to where it says "ordering information")

I guess that means there won't be online prices, either?

Good point, Greg. Thanks, that'll stop us from digging...

ClintonHammond wrote:If I get a chance to hit some of my local shops that carry 'em, I'll report back with some prices....

)

Please do....I'd like to see what their pricing is.

ClintonHammond wrote:Stop digging???

Never!

I think Greg could have pointed out, "They're digging in the wrong place!"

Indiana Jerry wrote:

ClintonHammond wrote:Stop digging???

Never!

I think Greg could have pointed out, "They're digging in the wrong place!"

LOL, true but for full effect I would've had to have someone say it with me and I just couldn't work out the timing here on the 'net.

Mikey and I have corresponded via email. He mentioned that this is the one to get:
http://www.redwingshoes.com/images/boots/large/8249.jpg

Clinton, sorry but that's the only link he gave me.

ok so whats the verdict? Which Redwings look to be the closest match to Aldens?

The 8146 is on the Red Wings Europe page (a search there will turn it up).

I would say that the 8249 is even closer to the Alden, but I haven't been able to find it at Red Wing's or their other brands. May I also say that they have a really annoying website? Who doesn't sell their stuff online?!?

ClintonHammond wrote:Is there a point of HAVING a web-site to show off your stuff if yer NOT gonna also sell it from that web site?

)

Sure. Plenty of the world's biggest brands have Websites, but don't sell through them.

When you have a sales channel, also selling direct from your Website is a big no-no. Sometimes companies try it, and they get slaughtered by reseller feedback.

So yes, there's a point. A huge one, actually.

Didn't know that...I thought Clinton was serious, and agreed w/ the sentiment...thanks for the background, Rob, I've had that same complaint about a number of manufacturers and didn't realize what the holdup was.

EDIT: P.S. I may have missed it, but I didn't see a link to the product detail above for the 8249. Here's both links...
8146
8249
(Thank you Deadlock for the first link, I just tinkered w/ the url text to make the second one, and it worked. )

That 8249 seems more 'geared up', that is, it's got an extra shank and an ANSI std rating...I'm betting that's the more expensive one.

J

ClintonHammond wrote:Note the smiley...

I wasn't be totally serious chum

)

Sorry, I didn't see how the smiley related to the question as there didn't seem to be any nudge-nudge, wink-wink to it, and thought Is there a point of HAVING a web-site to show off your stuff if yer NOT gonna also sell it from that web site? was a question you actually wanted answered.

Glad you got something out of it Jerry

There was a great example down here when Compaq still existed. They obviously sold products through a channel, but oneday decided to open their own stores and website and, essentially, compete with their own channel. Obviously, the parent company can always undercut the channel - even to the point of offering 'loss leaders' to get business... needless to say, the resellers revolted. One of Australia's largest electrical and computer stores instantly banned Compaq product from its shelves, which would have cost the company, bigtime.

Luckily theres a shoe store just down the street that carrys Redwings. Might have to stop in for a visit.

Okay, this may get banned, but I sorta looked for both boots at that auction place that shall remain nameless... It looks like the 8249 has steel toes.

Cool! Yeah, it sounds a bit torqued up - fiberglass shank?

Hi,


"The style 8249 that requested information on is actually a special make-up shoe that has to be oredered in lots of 6 per size/width. "

So they are not generally available - but I guess if 6 people who were the same size / width wanted them they could be.

No indication of price.

Cheers
Cyclops

I contacted Red Wing about availability of their international line of boots
in the US and here's their response:

Hi Bill,
The styles you listed are part of our international line and I am sorry are not able to be purchased through our US retailers.

Sincerely,
Matt Streiff
Red Wing /Worx Customer Service
Red Wing Brands of America, Inc.
1-800-Red-Wing (733-9464)

If anyone finds an online source of the International line I think that's the
only way that us Yanks are going to see them here. Seems kind of dumb
to limit certain styles to certain parts of the world, but that's what they're
doing. I've not been impressed at all with the US line offerings, at least
not the styling.

Regards,
Indybill

Especially considering they're all made over in your neck of the woods, Bill! Regards. Michaelson

Does anyone have an idea what price these will be? I am thinking of making an order - I can also ask about the American situation as well and it might be possible that if a few people wanted some I could pick up some extra pairs and ship them over.

I probably wont get them if they are that expensive though, but I will still try to find out the situation.

Ken

Ken, these boots are about $170.

Thank you ITG! The boots you found look like a fantastic "Real World" Indy work boot. I've been needing a new pair of boots for the Airport and with the steel toe these look perfect! They also fall under the catagory of a "Legitimate" purchase as far as the Ministry of Wife and Mother is concerned!! So...I'm going to do some looking on this side of the border.

There is a Red Wing dealer in Winnipeg, Manitoba...only about 5 hours from me that may be considered "Non-domestic".

I'll see if they might be available for sale...

All I can say is "Well done, ITG, Well Done!

Warmest Regards
Kilgour Trout

Michaelson wrote:Especially considering they're all made over in your neck of the woods, Bill! Regards. Michaelson

Thus my frustration with them. :evil: Don't they know that gearheads
could send their sales through the roof on a certain select type of
boot?

Regards,
Indybill

Hey Folks, I just got off the phone with a Canadian representative of Red Wing (retail division) and after explaining my interest in the boot, she said any of our Canadian Retail stores should have no problem ordering in the 8249. She said that there didn't seem to be any restrictions from her information and said the boot should be straight forward in ordering. (She said they had a lot of 9-9.5 D's). She was actually really nice and seemed interested that their boot was being discussed on our forum.

So...for all I know go out to your local Red Wing seller and order.

I'm going to get measured up in Winnipeg, Next time I'm there.

If my American friends can't source them at home, maybe I can help set up a contact.

Warm Regards
Kilgour Trout

Kilgour Trout wrote:Thank you ITG! The boots you found look like a fantastic "Real World" Indy work boot.

I can't receive credit for the thanks...I'm just a passer on of info.

I just found out that there are about five or six Red Wing Boot stores within a 30-minute drive from where I live! If they are durable, and in stock, I may go for the style # 8249. I'm gonna call tomorrow...

Kind Regards,
Captain D

Of all the boots I'd have to vote for the 8135's. Does it seem like perhaps shoe companies are catching onto us gearheads? When I bought my "close enough to Indy" Re Wings five years ago they didn't even make any moch toes. Now they seem to have six or seven styles.

I called around to a few local shops selling Red Wing boots today with no luck. Looks like most of the models/styles I was looking into aren't found here in the United States . Oh well, lol....

Kind Regards,
Captain D

P.S- For those who own the Alden boots...do they have rubber traction or are they just smooth underneath?

Captain D-Aldens are smooth on the bottom...neoprene material...not good for ice...but you could have the sole replaced with something that has traction. I know I've read about some of the guys doing just that.

Hey Captain D : If you don't mind ordering from a Canadian Red Wing store you may be able to find them. Your Dollar is still 20 Cents better than ours and could make the price even better. Let me know if you'd like me to do more research....the Winnipeg store is quite open other orders on the model we like.

If you need a reason to justify the purchase, the steel toe makes it well worth it. (at least thats my feeling ) I love the Aldens but unless someone offers them a lot cheaper I need a better line of reasoning to get them. The Red Wings have the vibram sole and the steel toe which is very nice for work. They also have a reputation for being very comfortable and lasting a long time.

Now I just need a better line of reasoning to go to Winnipeg

Warm Regards
Kilgour Trout

Hey there! "Thank you" for offering to help!

This morning, on my way to college, it sounds like I need front breaks replaced on my car pretty soon. So, I may have to postpone these boots until I know how much $$ I gotta put out in the next few days . But, I "DEFINITELY" appreciate your offer to help and I'll keep in touch with you in the next few days and see how much of my paycheck that I have left . But yes, I think I was gonna shoot for the #8249 style if I can find em' (or something close)....

Take care & I'll keep in touch, my friend!
High Regards,
Captain D

I just thought I would throw my 2 cents in here. I just recently bought the RW 8126 boot at my local RW retailer. It did have to be special ordered and they took two weeks to come in. But WOW! I can't say enough good things about them. Yes, the cost is a little high ~$190.00, but that is nothing compared to the Aldens. The boots are extremely comfortable right out of the box and they look great. Once wearing them, the lug-sole does not stand out as much as you might think. I am extremely happy with them. So those of you looking for a good Indy-boot alternative, this might be a good choice for you!

Just FYI, now those of you fellow Indy Fans residing in the U.S. who are interested in the boots...now you know you can order them here stateside.

And here is the link to picture of the boots in case you were looking for them:

http://www.redwingshoe.com/europe/image ... e/8146.jpg

Indiana Pete

Just out of curiosity...To those owners of Red-Wing boots, do these boots tend to run on the larger size or just pretty much standard size fitting?

Thank you for any input!
Kind regards,
Captain D

I got hold of some Red Wings a couple of days ago. I went for the 8146 model, though the ones I got are slightly more red/brown than the picture link posted by Indiana Jerry. They had the 8249 model which was slightly cheaper but the sole on the ones they had in stock wasn't a rugged walking boot type, which is what I was after.

As for size, I was suprised how roomy they were around the toes, considering how thin they look. At first I thought about going for a size smaller but decided that I liked having a bit of breathing space. Also, I was recently told by one of the trainers at the gym that your feet go up by half a size when you run (due to blood circulation) and I'm guessing it would be the same for a good days hiking. I also wanted to leave room for a supportive insole, since my arches are a bit flat.

Anyway, I'm very pleased with them so far. Apart from the usual ankle rub of new boots (remedied by a couple of shoe pad stickers) they are quite comfortable and well built.

Interesting info, thanks for posting! And, congrats on your new boots!
Regards,
Captain D

If these had the black sole and a flat toe seam they would be great. They look a little more classic in the heal, though they could be the basicly the same as a lot of the boots that were linked earlier and just look differnt because of the photo angle. Of course if they are $175 why not get Aldens? Not that much of a jump to the real thing.