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Red Wing Heritage: More Than a Century of Quality Boots

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Red Wing boots have been a top choice for American workers for over 100 years. Known for their high-quality and durability, they have become an essential part of the American experience. We’ve curated the ultimate guide to Red Wing boots, showcasing their top styles.



Overview

For more than 100 years, Red Wing Heritage boots have been a staple for American workers, cementing their reputation as one of the top names in high-quality footwear. From miners to paratroopers to everyday office workers, Red Wing has become an integral part of the American experience with their durable and reliable boots. Though a well-worn pair may feel just as comfortable as your favorite slippers, there are times when we can’t wait for them to get that way.

Crafted from soft and durable full-grain leather, Red Wing’s rugged boots offer both comfort and style. The sturdy outsoles provide reliable traction on any terrain, making them perfect for transitioning seamlessly from work to weekend adventures.

Skyblue Overland has hand-picked the ultimate selection of Red Wing boots for our comprehensive guide, covering their top styles available.

The no. 23 last, nicknamed the “Roughneck” was created in the 1950s and is Red Wing’s most iconic boot. Photo: Red Wing


Table Of Contents

Article Navigation: Click on any of the listed items in the table of contents below to jump to that section of the article. Similarly, clicking on any large, white section header will jump you back to the Table of Contents.


Iron Ranger

Back in the 1930s, the Iron Ranger was specifically designed for iron miners. But over time, it has become a must-have for people from all backgrounds due to its iconic design and durability. The most recognizable aspect of these six-inch boots is the tough leather toe cap, adding to their unique style and long-lasting quality.

With leather insoles and a cork midsole, each pair of boots is designed to adapt to the unique shape and needs of its wearer over time. The construction features a Goodyear welt and Puritan triple-stitch for durability, while precision lacing is made possible by brass speed hooks. The Iron Ranger also boasts a Vibram® 430 Mini-lug outsole for stability.

  • Outsole: Vibram® 430 Mini-Lug
  • Construction: Goodyear Leather Welt
  • Leather Type: Full Grain, Oiled
  • Hardware: Nickel Eyelets And Hooks
RED WING HERITAGE Iron Ranger Boot in Hawthorne Muleskinner
The Iron Ranger is an American icon beloved for its standout style and long-lasting construction. With its toe cap, speed hooks, and Vibram® outsole, there's no mistaking this leather legend.
Price: $350
RED WING HERITAGE Iron Ranger Traction Tred Boot In Oro Legacy
The Iron Ranger Traction Tred is a contemporary hybrid of Red Wing's most iconic styles. Built with the signature Iron Ranger upper and paired with a Traction Tred outsole, this distinctively durable and comfortable boot is the ultimate take on two American classics.
Price: $350
RED WING HERITAGE 6-Inch Iron Ranger In Copper Rough & Tough
The Iron Ranger is an American icon beloved for its standout style and long-lasting construction. With its toe cap, speed hooks, and Vibram® outsole, there's no mistaking this leather legend.
Price: $350

 


Roughneck

The Roughneck boot was originally created for oil rig workers in the 1950s. These workers, known as “Roughnecks,” had a reputation for undertaking hazardous tasks. The sturdy 6-inch leather design provided both support and protection, while the fierce lugged Vibram® outsole ensured traction on any terrain. Furthermore, the boot boasts durable Puritan triple-stitch construction and a Goodyear welt, allowing for easy resoling and providing years of dependable use.

  • Outsole: Vibram® Lug
  • Construction: Goodyear Welt
  • Leather Type: Full Grain, Waxed
  • Hardware: Dull Gilt Hooks And Eyelets
RED WING HERITAGE Roughneck In Briar
The Roughneck stands out as a rugged 6-inch moc with Vibram®'s original lug outsoles for aggressive, all-season traction. True to its name, the Roughneck stands up to heavy wear and lasts for years.
Price: $320

 


Classic Moc

The iconic Classic Moc was originally crafted by Red Wing in 1952. Over the years, it has become a beloved lifestyle boot that is recognized all over the world. Originally designed for sports people, it quickly gained popularity among individuals working on farms or in factories due to its durable build, reliable grip, and unmatched comfort for all-day wear.

The Classic Moc’s design remains timeless, as the boot continues to be crafted with the same care and tradition as it was in its early days. Moc toe construction and the iconic Traction Tred rubber outsoles remain at the forefront. The Puritan triple-stitching and Goodyear welt ensure that this boot remains a legend for its durability.

  • Outsole: Traction Tred
  • Construction: Goodyear Leather Welt
  • Leather Type: Full Grain, Oiled
  • Hardware: Nickel Eyelets
RED WING HERITAGE Classic Moc Boot in Black Cherry
The iconic 6-inch Classic Moc from Red Wing Heritage features a distinct moc toe and Traction Tred outsole. After break-in, the black cherry Excalibur leather develops beautiful undertones while maintaining its full-grain shine.
Price: $320
RED WING HERITAGE Classic Moc Boot in Alpine Portage
The 6-inch Classic Moc is synonymous with Red Wing Heritage. The boot's unmistakable moc toe and Traction Tred outsole form a silhouette that sets the standard by which all others are measured. Dual-toned stitching and archive-inspired leather elevate the iconic silhouette.
Price: $320
RED WING HERITAGE Classic Moc Boot in Oro Russet
The 6-inch Classic Moc from Red Wing Heritage features a distinct moc toe and Traction Tred outsole, creating a timeless silhouette. This particular model (8875) showcases Oro Russet leather and an Irish Setter label inspired by the brand's original best-selling shoe in the postwar era.
Price: $360

 


Classic Chelsea

During the 1950s and 1960s, Chelsea boots gained popularity in the UK, especially on the fashionable King’s Road in inner western London. They were worn by celebrities like the Rolling Stones and Jean Shrimpton, contributing to their association with the trendy culture of Swinging London and giving them the name “Chelsea” boot.

Red Wing introduced their Chelsea boot, a variant used as work boots in the 1990s. It was popular among ranchers for its convenience in late-night livestock emergencies. They could easily slip on their footwear and be ready to go.

Experience the ultimate comfort and style with Red Wing Heritage’s Classic Chelsea boot. Each pair is expertly crafted by hand, ensuring a comfortable fit from day one. The fully cushioned footbed provides immediate comfort and only gets better with wear. Easily slip on these boots thanks to the high-quality side goring, and enjoy their handsome design and durable construction, featuring the renowned Traction Tred outsole for long-lasting support.

  • Outsole: Traction Tred
  • Construction: Goodyear Leather Welt
  • Leather Type: Full Grain, Oiled
RED WING HERITAGE Classic Chelsea Boot in Amber Harness
The 6-Inch Classic Chelsea in Amber Harness Leather is an American icon beloved for its standout style and long-lasting construction. With its toe cap, speed hooks, and Vibram® outsole, there's no mistaking this leather legend.
Price: $300
RED WING HERITAGE Classic Chelsea In Hawthorne Muleskinner
The 6-inch Classic Chelsea in Hawthorne Muleskinner leather provides handcrafted comfort in a sleek, pull-on silhouette that features premium leather paired with the iconic Traction Tred outsole.
Price: $300
RED WING HERITAGE Weekender Chelsea In Copper Rough & Tough
The Weekender Chelsea boot by Red Wing offers comfort and style for downtime. With a relaxed silhouette, no break-in is required thanks to Stitchdown construction. The boot also features a Hill sole, ComfortForce® footbed, and convenient side goring for easy on and off.
Price: $260

 

Blacksmith

The Blacksmith boot is a descendant of the sturdy work boots worn in workshops during the day and polished to perfection for nights out. Its original purpose was to shield the feet and ankles from burning cinders at the forge, but now it also keeps out dirt in the summer and snow in the winter.

Staying true to its origins, the Blacksmith boot combines sturdy construction and high-quality materials for both durability and aesthetics. Made with premium leather and a three-quarter Goodyear leather welt with Puritan triple-stitching, it sits atop a Vibram® 430 Mini-Lug outsole that offers reliable traction in any season.

  • Outsole: Vibram® 430 Mini-Lug
  • Construction: Goodyear Welt
  • Leather Type: Full Grain, Waxed
  • Hardware: Dull Gilt Hooks And Eyelets
RED WING HERITAGE Blacksmith In Briar
The 6-inch Blacksmith is a boot beloved for its highly wearable, everyday versatility. A sleek, smooth toe leads the way and solid hardware adorned with flat waxed laces are as every bit durable as they are dignified.
Price: $330
RED WING HERITAGE Blacksmith In Copper Rough & Tough
The 6-inch Blacksmith is a boot beloved for its highly wearable, everyday versatility. A sleek, smooth toe leads the way and solid hardware adorned with flat waxed laces are as every bit durable as they are dignified.
Price: $330
RED WING HERITAGE Blacksmith In Black Prairie
The 6-inch Blacksmith is a boot beloved for its highly wearable, everyday versatility. A sleek, smooth toe leads the way and solid hardware adorned with flat waxed laces are as every bit durable as they are dignified.
Price: 4330

 


Work Icon: Red Wing’s Traction Tred

With premium craftsmanship and iconic style, the Red Wing’s Traction Tred family of boots offers heavy-duty support and protection for high-environment trades where you need to be solidly on your feet.


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