BRUNT vs. Red Wing: My Comparison of Rugged Boots for Tough Jobs
After a long day of work on the construction site, my boots are the only reason my feet don’t hurt like hell. I’ve spent years looking for the best work boots to help me get through the day, so I’ve got a pretty keen eye for what’s worth my money.
There are a lot of work boots out there promising comfort, durability, and quality, but I wanted to find out for myself if those promises are true. After asking around at work, two favorite boots kept coming up: BRUNT Workwear’s Next Gen 6” Marin Comp Toe Boots and Red Wing’s 6” Traction Tred Boots, so I knew I had to test them out. Here’s my take.
If You Want All-Day Comfort… BRUNT
As someone who walks on concrete for hours a day, trust me when I say these are probably the most comfortable work boots I have ever worn. I didn’t even need to break them in because they were built to be comfortable straight out of the box.
They’ve upgraded to a polyurethane midsole and lightweight nylon shanks that take the pressure off your feet during a long day. After wearing Brunt’s boots, I don’t have persistent feet, knees, and backaches that leave me hobbling around like an old man. They also have a built-in adjustable width, so I can get as snug a fit as I’d like. Their new Cush’n footbed allowed me to stay working and active all day.
If You Care About Affordability…BRUNT
When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, the Marin Boots hit the nail on the head. These boots are way more affordable at $149 compared to Red Wing’s $249.99 boots, especially since Red Wing keeps raising their prices.
But don’t let the lower price fool you. These shoes don’t skimp on quality or safety features. Plus, they offer a risk-free trial on the job so you can see how they hold up and feel for yourself.
If You Prefer a Stiffer Boot… Red Wing
If you’re looking for a stiff enough boot to keep your ankles and feet supported, especially on hard, uneven terrain, without overly straining your muscles and tendons, Red Wing is a great choice. However, be aware that though Red Wing’s boots are sturdy and durable, they take a long time to break in.
If Durability Matters to You… BRUNT
For boots that last, BRUNT’s the way to go. They use tough, premium, barnyard-resistant leather that stands up to harsh treatment like chemicals and scrapes better than most, so I know my feet are protected in a rough environment.
I’ve been wearing BRUNT Marins for a while now, and I’ve always been impressed by how well they hold up after months of constant wear and tear.
If You Usually Walk on Slippery Surfaces…Both
Honestly, it doesn’t matter what your trade is. Odds are that one of the many days you hit the job site, there’ll be a slippery floor, and it can get pretty frustrating if you have to watch your step constantly.
For slip resistance, they both have rubber outsoles that provide excellent grip, stability, and traction. So overall, I think both are great options.
If You Can’t Stand Wet Feet… BRUNT
There’s nothing worse than wet feet and socks during a long workday, especially when they can lead to blisters or athlete’s foot. Luckily, BRUNT’s boots have a top-notch waterproof system that keeps feet dry, no matter the environment or the weather. They have a 100% waterproof membrane, and the leather is treated to keep water out.
My Pick: BRUNT Marin
After putting both boots to the test, it’s clear that BRUNT Workwear’s Next Gen 6″ Marin Comp Toe Boots offer some serious pros. The comfort level is top-notch, and they can hold up against everything I’ve thrown at them, whether on the scaffolding or concrete floor of a construction site.
And it doesn’t hurt that they look great too, with the option to choose between black and brown.
As a bonus, their risk-free trial lets you test them out yourself– no commitment required. For me, they’ve proven their worth every step of the way.