10 Best American Made Boots Brands
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Shopping For The Best American Made Boots
Boots are the go-to shoe for every fictional hero. From swashbuckling crusades to Sherlock steampunk mystery hunting, leather lace-ups helped in adding a toothsome edge to our favorite characters.
It’s up for debate on what kind of wellingtons Hollywood uses on set, but given the vast array of best American made boots brands on the market—we don’t have to fantasize about make-believe shoes. There are hundreds of unique designs on the market, and all we have to do is to roll up our sleeves and search.
With that in mind, would you care for a top ten list of some of the best American made boots brands that are currently trending? From L.L Bean to Thursday Boot Co., we’ve rounded up a few of the most popular designs that are all the rage this season. Without further ado, let’s get stompin.’
10 Best American Made Boots
1. L. L. Bean
Boots are made for walkin’, hikin,’ and most importantly, stompin.’ The great outdoors calls for a pair of hefty shoes unless you’re comfortable in hour-long escapades in streetwear sneaks.
Leon Leonwood Bean, the founder of L.L.Bean, recognized the importance of quality footwear, apparel, and equipment when out in the wild. Established in 1912, this nature-based brand has attracted a large fanbase of outdoor enthusiasts over the years.
So, why is L.L. Bean included in our best American made boots brands lineup? For one, its selection is quite impressive. They currently offer designs for men, women, and kids in the form of wellies, storm chasers, hunters, and the classic bean boot.
Most styles feature a rubberized duck outsole for additional waterproofing and cushioned insulation for more warmth. They usually come in traditional colors, that being light beige and dark brown. If you’re looking to score on a pair, they retail for $80 to $239.
Highlights
- Offered for men, women, and kids
- Lots of designs to choose from
- Features waterproofing technology, insulation, and added arch support
- Women’s sizes range from 6 to 11. For men, it includes 7 to 14
- Free shipping on orders $50 or more
2. Red Wing Shoes
Red Wing Shoes was established with the sole purpose of making the American dream as achievable as possible.
Charles Beckman, the initial founder of the company, supplied workers with adequate shoes back in 1905. Designed for mining, farming, and other forms of manual labor, RWS has maintained a long-standing tradition of quality craftsmanship to ensure safety and durability.
Today, the brand is home to over 990 footwear designs, 590 workwear apparel, and 390 accessories. Third-party tested for quality, customers don’t have to worry about flimsy fabrics and poorly constructed kicks here.
Currently, Red Wing Shoes offers styles for work and ‘heritage.’ Its selection of safety footwear is divided in three categories: safety toe, waterproof, and soft toe. For lifestyle boots, Red Wing offers the traditional lace-up silhouette built with harness leather. Price-wise, customers should expect to pay around $159 to $550 for a solid pair.
Highlights
- Built with sturdy features such as heavy-duty welted construction and harness leather
- Offers designs for work and leisure
- Provides a wide range of sizes for men and women
- Red Wing Shoes issues a 30-day unconditional comfort guarantee
- Free shipping on orders $75 or more
3. Frye
Rich history is a tell-tale sign of credibility. If you believe in long-standing traditions instead of brand-new innovations, Frye is as old as they come. Known for its sturdy selection of signature boots, this footwear company has been in business since 1863.
Founder John. A Frye was the king of cobbling craftsmanship at the time, as his designs were worn by the likes of Jackie Kennedy, Carole King, and Gene Autry. Frye’s impact on boot-making has even landed them in the Marlboro Historical Society museum.
Let’s talk about boots. Frye offers a vast selection of in-season designs to choose from. You’ve got the modern Engineer Short, the Paige Tall Riding boots for aspiring equestrians, and the Conway Harness for would-be cowboys.
Offered for men and women, the brand ensures that each style is constructed with the best materials. This includes a mix of leather, rubber, and suede. In need of a pair? If so, be prepared to pay anywhere from $279 to $479.
Highlights
- Built with sturdy materials
- Offers designs for men and women
- Provides Klarna as a form of payment
- Frye donates a portion of its profits to Feeding America
- Free shipping in select countries
4. Helm Boots
Josh Bingaman had a thing for boots. So much so that he started out selling his own designs at his former coffee shop. His love for espressos and lattes began to dwindle during the height of Helm’s debut, as his footwear was met with critical acclaim.
Established in 2009 in Oklahoma, Bingaman’s creations have continued to imbue the same rustic element that all boot lovers covet.
Constructed with premium materials, Helm states that hand-craftsmanship trumps cold manufacturing any day of the week. It takes a team of 14 footwear experts and 153 steps to finalize a design.
Despite its keen eye for quality control, why is this company included in our best American made boots brands list? For one, they’re recognized for their iconic white midsole, which acts as Helm’s signature.
It’s worth noting a majority of Helm boots feature an ankle cut with a lace-up design. If that’s your go-to style, prices start from $199 to $350.
Highlights
- Sizes range from 6 to 16
- Dyed in neutral tones
- Made out of sturdy materials such as Balthazar leather
- Helm offers a pre-owned program
- Provides restoration services for a fee
- Free shipping on all shoe purchases
5. Wolverine
Like a muscular he-wolf howling in the night, Wolverine imbues that same edgy energy in its footwear selection. Recognized for its masculine build, the brand’s boots are designed to last through the turmoils of everyday wear.
The company’s intimidating facade actually tells a humbling backstory of one hardworking man. Founder G.A Krause was the former helm of Wolverine all the way back in 1883. He produced footwear and gloves for hundreds of American workers.
There’s a reason why Wolverine is featured in our best American made boots brands lineup. Known for its iconic 1000 mile boot, this company hasn’t deviated from its long-standing tradition of durable leather construction and quality control. Of course, customers can find other designs as well.
Offered for men and women, styles range from waterproof work boots to the Torrent Duck boots. If you’re keen on ‘joining the pack,’ prices range from $90 to $400.
Highlights
- Built with nifty features such as spring cushioning and durashock technology
- Built with sturdy materials
- Offers Afterpay as another form of payment
- Implements the Project Bootstrap initiative to help inspire skill trade workers
- Positive customer reviews
- Free shipping on orders $120 or more
6. Chippewa Boots
Chippewa Boots runs on pure American spirit. Founded in 1901, this footwear brand started off in a small factory located in Wisconsin.
They design boots for the hard-working man, which include loggers, engineers, and U.S soldiers. Unfortunately, there’s not much to know about the founder of Chippewa, but we do know that it’s currently acquired by parent company, Justin Brands.
Made for outdoor enthusiasts, Chippewa boots are constructed with several durable features. Wearers can look forward to waterproofing, safety toes, cushioned insulation, electrical-safe designs, and puncture resistant textiles. Currently, the company offers 5 different series to choose from, such as Bolville and Cross Terrain.
Sadly, this best American made boots brands review cannot provide an accurate price estimate, as buyers are unable to purchase their shoes directly on their website.
Highlights
- Considered a reputable brand within the industry
- Is built with several integrated features such as heat resistant technology
- Offers designs for men and women
- Sells accessories such as shoelaces
- Available in certain retailers
7. Danner
Danner boots aren’t made to sit pretty. They’re designed for rough-roading, hiking, and any kind of nature-based escapade. Founder Charles Danner was partially inspired by the great American outdoors, which explains the rustic, well-worn element of his footwear collection.
Formally created for loggers since 1932, the company imbues a sense of proud traditionalism in each pair of shoes. As eloquently put by the brand, “From the gleaming alpine lakes and the plummeting river gorges, to the thick forests and the sweeping coastlines, Danner boots are of this place.”
Made in the USA, Danner boots are divided into six different categories: hike, work, lifestyle, hunt, military, and tactical. They’re constructed with the best materials, so you don’t have to worry about getting a new pair every season.
From the women’s Adrika Sienna boots to the Men’s Elk Hunters, the brand utilizes a mix of steel toes, Gore-Tex technology, and full-grain leather. Price-wise, you should expect to pay around $95 to $520.
Highlights
- Constructed with innovative technology and sturdy materials
- Provides a repair service
- Wide range of sizes
- Danner issues a 1-year warranty for its boots
- Offers Klarna as another form of payment
- Free shipping on orders $60 or more if customers sign up to become a member
8. Nicks Boots
Nicks Boots were founded by Nikolai Blahuczyn, affectionately known as “the Original Nick” in the Pacific Northwest boot world. The brand began producing its high-quality boots in 1964 in Spokane Valley.
Recently acquired and renamed as Nicks Handmade Boots by owner Steve Mowe, its core company mission has stayed relatively the same. They believe in quality craftsmanship, durability, and practicality.
Designed for workers and outdoor enthusiasts, Nicks’ collection includes heritage, safety toe, and fire boots. These are further divided into three separate series: Builder Pro, Hot Shot, and Urban Logger.
Built with Vibram Lug soles, arch support, and tanned leather, you can take care knowing that Nicks doesn’t skimp on quality. If you’re interested in investing in a pair, be prepared to fork over a chunk of your savings. Prices start at an astounding $535.
Highlights
- Built with genuine leather and other nifty features
- Designed for outdoor use
- Offered in various lengths and widths
- Customers can request additional add-ons, such as key clips and drink sleeves
- Buyers can file for a try-on boot request
- Nicks provides a 1-year warranty to cover manufacturing defects.
9. Truman Boot Co.
Truman Boot.co is your classic rags to riches story. In 2014, founder Vince Romano started production in a small horse barn situated in rural Pennsylvania. As product demand began to grow, he decided to move west to Colorado.
After amassing a team of expert boot-makers, Truman experienced exponential growth. Thousands of American workers found trust in the brand’s expert craftsmanship and quality materials.
Designed with Goodyear welted construction and durable leather, Truman Boot.co maintains a strict level of quality control. Customers can choose from a variety of different styles, which vary from built-to-order, made-to-order, and ready-made. Expertly crafted with intricate stitching, sturdy outsoles, and a smooth animal skin exterior, it’s rather easy to justify the $400 markup.
Highlights
- Offers designs exclusively for men
- Construction with antique hardware and Goodyear welting construction
- Hand-crafted to ensure expert quality
- Truman can resole your boots upon request
- Provides resources on how to care for their footwear
- Sizes range from 4 to 14
10. Thursday Boot Co.
Despite its brand name, Thursday Boot Co. footwear can be worn any day of the week. It’s the perfect blend between function and fashion, as the brand believes there’s no need to sacrifice either or.
Founded by Nolan Walsh and Wilson Conner, this shoe company offers designs for nature enthusiasts and regular New York Citizens. Trust me, the hustle and bustle of Manhattan are on par with the rugged lifestyle of the great outdoors.
Since 2014, Thursday Boot Co. has stayed true to 4 integral values: comfort, durability, versatility, and transparent pricing.
They work with skilled artisans to ensure the best quality. Offered for men and women, customers can find an impressive array of designs to choose from. This includes lace-ups, chukkas, chelseas, and the classic high heel. In terms of price, a pair of boots cost anywhere from $140+.
Highlights
- Offers a wide selection of modern styles
- Designed for men and women
- Made out of durable materials such as suede, elastic goring, and shock-absorbing insoles
- Free shipping on all orders over $50
How to Shop For The Best American Made Boots
We’re fairly certain that we only included the best American made boots brands on the market. From the modern designs patented by Thursday Boot Co. to the masculine silhouettes posited by Wolverine, there’s a style out there with your name on it. Of course, there’s a chance that we left out a few companies, which is why we developed this helpful checklist.
For those who’ve encountered a brand outside of our top 10, here are some ways to differentiate quality from amateur.
Brand
If a brand holds a long-standing tradition of generational boot-making, it’s natural to expect a level of pride emanating from its official website. They should be transparent in sourcing and manufacturing. Other green flags include an inspiring origin story and any additional resources related to boot care.
Quality
Any brand can knock up a pair of boots. If you prefer decade-long construction over $20 knockoffs, it’s important to consider quality construction and premium materials. There shouldn’t be any loose threads, flimsy textiles, or a general lack of adequate support.
Materials
Materials and quality go hand-in-hand. To ensure durability and long-time wear, customers should definitely consider textile composition. Reputable brands usually use a mix of genuine leather, suede, rubber, and other sturdy components during construction. It’s usually not a good sign if your given pair is starting to look worn and torn after a few initial uses.
Sustainability
If you’re an ethical shopper, you’re probably concerned about sourcing, labor rights, and other sustainable initiatives. Some boot companies use recycled materials such as metal and leather as more eco-friendly alternatives. If a brand is green, they’ll usually advertise their efforts on their ‘about us’ page.
Care
A majority of the best American made boots brands we featured retail past the $100 markup. With that in mind, it’s absolutely crucial to conduct some routine care and maintenance. Most companies offer helpful resources and additional accessories on their website. In some cases, orders will come with some instructions on how to maintain their footwear.
Budget
So, what’s your budget? A good pair of leather boots can easily run-up in the $200s. It’s definitely an expensive investment, but it’s one worth making. Designed with quality materials and expert craftsmanship, the brands we featured aren’t known to falter from regular wear and tear.
Should You Get Boots a Size Bigger?
According to our research, customers with wide feet may have to purchase a half size up. If you don’t follow the latter, it’s probably best to stick with your regular size. Too large or too small shoes will usually equate to blisters, chafing, and other forms of foot pain. Of course, those who often wear thick socks may find larger shoes more suited to their style.
If you’re particularly worried about sizing, this ‘best American made boots brands’ review highly suggests double-checking the measurements provided on your chosen brand. In some cases, a few companies will recommend customers to opt for a half-size up or down depending on the design.
What Boots Are In Style 2022?
Aside from designs posited by Balenciaga and Prada, boots that offer a 50/50 mix between function and fashion usually include Chelseas, ankle booties, and the classic Combat stompers. Designed to look stylish and sturdy, they can easily add a touch of edge to any outfit. Best of all, they can be worn in multiple situations, ranging from hiking to regular city-venturing.
If you prefer stylish boots over functional designs, we highly recommend checking out Frye and Thursday Boot Co. Those who covet practicality over everything else may find Chippewa and Wolverine as more suitable options.
Final Thoughts
From Red Wing to L.L.Bean, we’re practically spoiled when it comes to choosing boots. So far, we learned that function and fashion can go hand-in-hand together.
The intermix of quality craftsmanship, sturdy materials, and enhanced support doesn’t always equate to ugly, which is exemplified by styles sold by Frye, Truman, and more.
Hopefully, you’ve found your chosen pair among our top ten best American made boots brands list. Season-less and durable in construction, fingers crossed that you don’t have to invest in a second pair next year.
How We Chose The Best American Made Boots
Before choosing any brand, we scour the web and all the biggest e-tailers to ensure we know all the available options on the market. We look at customer reviews, star ratings, brand ethos, processes, materials, accessibility, and so much more. We weigh the pros and cons, so you don’t have to, helping you make informed shopping decisions.
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