Thorogoods is one of the most iconic names in the shoemaking industry. So if you want to wear this label, you’re doing nothing wrong!
This top-tier brand makes thousands of footwear every year. However, not all of them have the ergonomics to earn a place on the top shelf! So which one should you get?
Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! Here we’ve gathered 10 really worthy Thorogoods boots you can buy in 2021! These pairs are loaded with safety features, provide excellent arch support, ensure comfortable fitting, and last a lifetime. Once you wear them, you’ll be on the stairway to heaven, no kidding!
So, without wasting much time, let’s get to know them right away!
Before we get into our Thorogoods boots review, let’s first talk a bit about the company’s journey. Thorogood has been a prominent figure in the footwear industry for over 125 years as the Weinbrenner Shoe Company’s best-known subsidiary.
They started from humble beginnings and have grown into the biggest manufacturer of Made in USA boots.
Weinbrenner’s roots stretch all the way back to 1985 when Peter Weinbrenner, who was a cobbler at the time, immigrated from Germany and became a US citizen. 17 years later, his son Albert was born.
Albert decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and went on to become one of the pioneers in the field of American footwear manufacturing.
After spending a few years under the apprenticeship of his father, Albert left to start his own business. He opened up a small store in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his business partner at the time, Joseph Pfeifer.
This storefront served as the foundation when he later decided to produce his line in 1900 and formed the Albert H. Weinbrenner Company.
All images’ courtesy : thorogood_usa
The company started to grow as its production increased from its initial 60 pairs per day limit. In 1917, the concept of “Job-fitted” boots was introduced, and Weinbrenner decided to make it the cornerstone upon which the company is built.
They introduced their Thorogood brand of boots that were catered more towards the workingmen the following year, and they never looked back since.
Their philosophy was simple but radical. Your working condition will vary based on your job type, and work boots are a crucial part of your everyday equipment. Since different jobs have specific demands and environments, Thorogood produced specialized boots to match those demands and environments.
The Weinbrenner company mission has always been to support the hardworking people of America.
When the cities of Marshfield and Merrill, Wisconsin, approached Weinbrenner to bring new life to the community after the great depression, Weinbrenner decided to build his new plants there to create new jobs.
They’ve also had a rich history of supporting the USA armed forces, which still continue to this day.
Today, you’ll find over 250 different models of safety and work boots from Thorogood. Whether you’re a public safety professional, carpenter, lineman, firefighter, or simply a hiking enthusiast, they’ve got something for everyone.
Top 10 Thorogood Work Boots Review
If you’re in the market for a new work boot or you simply want something to protect your feet while working or hiking, you can rest assured because Thorogood has something for everyone. Narrowing our list down to only 10 boots was no easy fit. So, without further ado, let’s get right into talking about our picks.
If your job keeps you mostly indoors and you have to work on slick surfaces, then you’ll typically want a pair of slip-resistant shoes. Look no further because the Thorogood VGS-300 work boot is what you’ve been searching for.
These Thorogood boots provide all-day comfort on hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete with their exclusive VGS gel insert. These boots are designed for long shifts on hard surfaces.
The compression-molded EVA, along with the impact 300 gel heel, was designed to reduce impact stress from where you need it the most. Unlike low-quality inserts, you will never have to worry about them deflating and losing performance.
The inserts are all tested to withstand very heavyweights, so you’ll never have to think twice when lifting boxes.
As with all Thorogood boots, these also come with several safety features. The shoe comes with a composite toe as well as static dissipation and slip resistance.
Traction is one of the key things to look for when purchasing a pair of boots, and these are unmatched in terms of performance because of the exclusive tread pattern with a rugged lug and gripping pad.
Last but not least, made from full-grain leather, the VGS-300 Series boots are extremely lightweight. Since they were designed for medium-quality duty, these boots are light but sturdy at the same time. They might not last a very long time under heavy use, but you’re getting your money’s worth in comfort and flexibility.
What We Liked (Pros)
- Lightweight construction enhances your agility
- It comes with slip-resistant outsoles for excellent traction
- The exclusive VGS Gel insert will keep your feet comfortable
- Static dissipation protects you and your equipment
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- Not suited for heavy-duty
Verdict
The Thorogood VGS-300 Series work boots are lightweight, sturdy, and perfect for use indoors. If you're looking for a pair of boots that will keep you comfortable through a 12-hour shift, then these are just right for you.
Next up on our list are the Thorogood logger series 9″ work boots. Yes, these boots are actually designed for loggers, meaning that they are built to protect you from several elements of nature.
These boots come with rubber soles and a Vibram rubber midsole that provides unmatched traction. Since loggers have to work in harsh environments, these boots are slip-resistant and oil-resistant.
The heels and soles also protect you from electricity and heat. The shock-resisting heels and soles can withstand up to 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for a whole minute without any leakage under dry conditions. They will protect you and any equipment you use from electrical surges.
Thorogood logger boots provide you with adequate calf and ankle support to do your job and not suffer from any consequences. They also come with steel-toes tips that can protect your feet from impacts. The steel shank also protects your feet from underneath, so you don’t accidentally injure yourself during work.
The shoelaces and eyelets are designed to ensure a tight fit so there are no unnecessary movements and friction that could untie your laces and cause an accident. The logger series 9″ boot also features a removable, ultra-shock absorbent insole to provide comfort.
The waterproof and breathable membrane in the boot keeps your feet from getting wet while also being able to vent moisture and body heat. Although these boots are not insulated, they are pretty heavy-duty and can build up heat over the course of the day.
What We Liked (Pros)
- A waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry and crispy
- Made with a steel-toed tip to protect you from impacts
- Equipped with Vibram soles to ensure enhanced traction
- It comes with shock and heat-resistant features for better safety
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- It does not come with insulation
Verdict
The Thorogood logger series 9" boots are a solid choice for anyone looking for a heavy-duty work boot that doesn't compromise on safety.
The Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe boots provide excellent functionality while improving your overall look. These boots are trendy among people looking to get a bit of style out of their work boots.
Made from full-grain leather, these Thorogood pull on boots are manufactured in the USA as part of their American heritage lineup. The leather is soft and pliable, so you can expect to break them in quite easily. It’s also easy to take care of, so the boots are relatively low-maintenance.
They come with Thorogood’s exclusive Maxwear outsole that is meant to last at least 30% longer than their competitors. Like the Thorogood logger series boots, these soles also come with an electric shock resistance of up to 18,000 volts.
As a result, they are a perfect choice for anyone working around electricity. If this isn’t a feature that you’re particularly looking for, you can rest assured that you’ll at least be a bit safer in a thunderstorm. And, of course, you can always re-sole the boots if your soles wear out from constant use.
The interior is lined with a cotton drill vamp, so the sides and top of your feet feel soft. Inside, a removable Poron comfort cushion insole will absorb shock and keep your feet comfortable. The composite shank and the safety toe also work to protect your feet from drops and bumps.
What We Liked (Pros)
- Maxwear sole provides added durability
- The stylish moc-toes provide a unique look
- Designed with composite shank and safety toe protects your feet from injuries
- It doesn’t take very long for the break-in
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- Not waterproof
Verdict
The Thorogood American Heritage 11" Moc-toe looks stylish while not compromising on functionality. It's the complete package of safety features, looks, and comfort.
Now let’s talk about one of Thorogood’s hunting boots. The Thorogood Snake Boot 17″ is the perfect combination of utility and comfort. These boots are built tough and rugged, so you don’t have to worry when you’re in a snake-prone environment.
Thorogood hinting boots are made from Snake Guard Extreme material that will protect you from any snake bites. This high-quality material is a mix of 50% leather and 50% Cordura.
You can easily expect these boots to handle anything you throw at them due to the material’s toughness. They also come with a side zipper so you can get them on and off with ease.
The shaft of the boot measures approximately 17.75″ from the arch, so it protects your entire feet and then some. It’s also waterproof, so you can avoid having wet feet the whole day when you’re out hunting.
Comfort is another area that these boots excel at. It’s not unusual to spend a whole day in hunting boots, and protection from snakes only goes so far if the boots aren’t comfortable.
For that reason, Thorogood created these boots with a design to keep your feet comfortable through long hours. It also comes with a removable dual intensity polyurethane footbed that absorbs shock when you walk to maximize comfort.
Lastly, the boots come with the Z-track rubber outsole that protects you from slipping. The gripping pad and rugged lugs ensure that you get the most amount of traction anywhere you go.
What We Liked (Pros)
- Z-track rubber outsole for maximum traction
- Side zipper for easy access
- It doesn’t require any hectic maintenance routine
- The removable footbed adds comfort and absorbs impacts
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- It does not come with any laces
Verdict
If you're in the market for a solid pair of hunting boots to protect yourself from snake bites, this Thorogood boot is perfect. With top-class traction and comfort, it's hard to find a hunting boot better than this.
If you’re looking for a pair of boots that looks a bit more subtle, then the ASR Series Slip-resistant Oxford work shoe might be the right option for you.
These Thorogood work shoes are aimed towards individuals looking for a comfortable shoe to wear indoors without needing much protection. As such, these boots have a non-safety toe.
Since it comes in oxford height, the overall looks of these boots have a more toned-down look. You can easily rock these boots with a formal shirt.
The composite shank protects your feet from sharp objects and adds structure to the sole, and keeps it from being damaged. This is a must-have feature if you’re going to be working on ladders a lot.
The footbed is removable and made from polyurethane. You can expect maximum comfort from these boots because of the thick and soft nature of the cushioned insert.
The boots are made from full-grain soft leather and feature a cement construction and EVA midsole. As a result, they are lightweight and durable at the same time. The break-in period is also very short. However, it doesn’t come with any insulation and isn’t waterproof.
These Thorogood lineman boots also come with an athletic slip-resistant outsole that will give you incredible traction across both dry and wet surfaces.
What We Liked (Pros)
- The subtle outlook makes it suitable for formal occasions
- It comes with a removable polyurethane footbed for extra comfort
- ASR Slip-resistant outsole ensures maximum traction
- Made with super light EVA midsole for reduced overall weight
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- Lacks insulation
- The boots are not waterproof
Verdict
The Thorogood ASR series oxford is perfect for anyone looking to get a boot that won't look too outlandish and fit a formal setting without compromising on any comfort.
Thorogood has always made excellent hiking boots, firefighting boots as well as structure bunker boots. Their Firestalker Elite 9″ is no different. Since these boots were designed with firefighters in mind, they provide unmatched protection from the various elements of nature. These boots has all the features of a hiking boot, yet performing like wildland boots.
As one of the most popular Thorogood hiking boots, the Firestalker Elite boot is made with flame and abrasion-resistant tough leather. This leather provides resistance from not only flames but cuts as well.
The boot also features Cambrelle lining. As a result, it’ll keep your feet comfortable and be highly durable at the same time.
The boot’s interior is lined with a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet cool even when work is heating up. The polyurethane footbed also has the same property. It also has a triple-rib ladder shank that is made from steel for extra protection.
The threads and laces are made from Kevlar. The boots come with Thorogood’s exclusive Vibram sole rated for all-terrain fire and ice wildland that meets all the NFPA certifications. The sole is slip-resistant, so you can set foot on any surface without slipping.
What We Liked (Pros)
- Has moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry
- Meets NFPA 1977 Wildland certifications for better service
- Made with Kevlar lacers and threads for durability
- It’s resistant to flames and cuts
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- The boots are pretty heavy
Verdict
Thorogood's Firestalker Elite 9" is the perfect shoe for when you need to handle highly adverse terrain. Their excellent craftsmanship ensures that your feet stay safe no matter what.
If you’re a fan of vintage shoes and want your work boots to have a more classic look, then you can check out the Thorogood 1957 series 8″ Flyway boots.
These Thorogood flyway boots are made from full-grain leather that will last you a long time. These leathers are soft and pliable. As a result, you can expect to break them in very little time.
The leather also adds natural water resistance to the boots. But Thorogood goes a step beyond that by adding an X-Stream waterproof membrane that is breathable.
It comes with an Indy 6 outsole and an antique Goodyear welt construction. The sole is made with rubber and can be easily re-soled if it wears off. The treads are designed to let you get the most amount of traction when climbing steep heels or walking through mud.
This boot is one of the products made directly in their USA factory. So, you can expect your flyway boots to be made from the highest quality material and have professional craftsmanship.
Now for comfort. The midsole of the boot is made from rubber and, as such, absorbs shock with every step. The footbed is made from memory foam, so you are never uncomfortable while wearing them.
What We Liked (Pros)
- It comes with a full-grain leather upper for exceptional durability
- Has anti-slip outsoles for a secure grip on any terrain
- The X-stream waterproof technology keeps your feet dry
- Made with memory foam footbed to keep your feet comfortable
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- It might be a bit tight around the toes
Verdict
The Thorogood 1957 series 8" Flyway boot is tailor-made to effectively resist mud and slipping that is perfect for a modern man who appreciates classic styling. If this description sounds like you, then you should check them out.
The 1957 series 8″ boots from Thorogood combines style with functionality and comfort. This pair of boots has it all.
These Thorogood winter boots are built with full-grain leather, perfect for dealing with harsh weather while being easy to maintain. They require very little care, and you can expect them to last a very long time.
It comes with Thorogood’s exclusive MAXWear Wedge sole that boosts the overall durability of the shoe. As with most Thorogood shoes, you can easily re-sole them if you ever need to.
The soles are shock-resistant and rated to be able to withstand an application of almost 18,000 volts. They will also protect you from slipping on any surface.
The footbed has a Poron comfort cushion that is removable. It absorbs shock, so you get maximum efficiency while walking, so you’re never uncomfortable.
Made in the USA, these boots come with excellent craftsmanship. The fiberglass shank keeps the boot lightweight while providing protection at the same time.
These boots feature a classic look that will go with almost anything. Unlike other work shoes that prioritize function over style, the 1957 series Moc Toe doesn’t cut any corners. You can easily wear these shoes on and off the job.
What We Liked (Pros)
- It has a waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry
- Comes with Poron comfort cushion footbed for shock absorption
- Made with a timeless look that goes with a casual setting
- The MAXWear Wedge prevents slipping accidents
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- Your toes might be cramped
Verdict
When selecting a work boot, if you prioritize style, then look no further. Because the Thorogood 1957 series 8" Moc Toe is right what you're looking for. It's stylish, comfortable, waterproof, and provides excellent functionality. What more could anyone ask for?
The Thorogood Gen-flex 2 is one of the Thorogood tactical jump boots. It is designed with a number of features that provide you with additional comfort when working long hours.
These are also perfect for using as uniform dress boost, combat boots, police boots, EMS boots, and firefighter work boots.
The key distinctive feature of this pair of boots is the sideways zipper. Since they are made from 100% leather, these boots will last a very long time. On the inside, they are lined with mesh lining, so your feet stay ventilated.
These boots are not waterproof, so you might want to apply some waterproof treatment before you leave the house on rainy days.
They come with the Gen Flex II rubber outsole, which is very reliable. They’re designed to let you move your feet naturally while also having a solid grip on all types of surfaces. They’re also oil and slip-resistant, and the underside has lugs facing all directions for extra lateral stability.
The midsole is compression molded with Impact 300 gel which allows for shock absorption on even the most uneven surfaces. It’ll also provide cushioning for your feet, so you’re comfortable during long shifts or hikes. The composite shank and toe also protect your feet from sharp objects.
They also feature a rubber bumper that protects your shoes from accumulating scratches over the years and keeps them fresh.
What We Liked (Pros)
- It comes with the Gen-Flex II outsole for maximum grip
- The composite toe and shank offers extra protection
- Designed with rubber side bumpers to protect the shoe from scratches
- Shock absorbent midsoles for a more comfortable experience
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- The boots are not waterproof
Verdict
The Thorogood Gen-flex2 8" tactical jump boots are one of a kind. Tactical boots require a lot of functionality while being comfortable to wear, and these Thorogood duty boots do just that.
The Infinity FD series is one of Thorogood’s newest lines of work. Infinity in Infinity FD stands for how long you’re able to wear the boot. Regardless of your work or workplace, these boots deliver all the necessary features while maintaining their reliable brand standards.
The boots are made from the highest quality full-grain leather that is durable. They come with 3M thin insulation that will keep your feet warm during the harshest winter. Additionally, these boots are also waterproof.
The sole is made with Thorogood’s patent-pending construction technique. The Flex-drive real-welt allows you to have the maximum amount of flex in your toes.
The 51% welt construction adds extra stability to the heel and more flex in the ball of the foot where you need it the most. The soles also provide a strong grip on any surface so you can avoid slips while working.
Paired with it is their infinity midsole that’s known for its high rebound, which saves energy with each step. The combination of these two features gives you maximum performance and comfort. These pairs come with composite toe protection and a composite shank as well that keep your feet safe from falling or sharp objects.
What We Liked (Pros)
- It is made with waterproofing to keep your feet dry
- Has 3M Insulation to keep your feet warm.
- The Flex-Drive Infinity offers multi-traction and flexibility
- Walking is more efficient with the new infinity midsole
What You May Not Like (Cons)
- It might take a while to properly break-in
Verdict
The Infinity FD Series 6" work boots are built to give you maximum comfort. Because of Thorogood's innovative technology when manufacturing the outsole and midsole, your feet will never hurt a day in your life.
An interesting review by Austin Ross
Frequently-Asked-Questions
Are all Thorogood boots made in the USA?
Most of Thorogood’s boots are made in the USA in their Wisconsin factory. However, a little more than a third of their production is imported instead of locally manufactured. Notable products that are made in the USA are the American Heritage series and the 1857 series.
Are Thorogood boots water-resistant?
Most Thorogood boots come with water resistance to a degree. However, there are some like the ASR series slip-on oxford does not come with water resistance.
Are Thorogood boots worth the money?
Thorogood has been making classic boots for the hardworking people of America for over a century. Their boots are extremely popular among the working class, and for a good reason.
The boots are built with the highest-quality material and excellent craftsmanship and come at an affordable price, making Thorogood boots a great bang for your buck.
What is a steel toe in a Thorogood boot?
A steel toe is a cap made out of steel that is built into a work boot to protect your toes.
What is a composite toe in a Thorogood boot?
A composite toe does the same thing a steel toe does, except it isn’t made from a non-magnetic and non-metallic toe cap that is not as heavy as a steel toe.
What is a moc toe in a Thorogood boot?
The moc toe is just a particular style of a safety toe that is distinguishable by the seams running around the front of the shoe.
Is a steel toe better than a composite toe?
Many people think that steel toes offer more protection, but it’s up to you to decide since composite toes are much lighter.
What is a shank in a Thorogood boot?
A shank is a material that is placed in the midsole to reinforce your arch and provide support. Depending on your selection, a work boot can have a metal or composite shank. Some boots don’t have shanks at all for added flexibility.
Final Words
Thorogood is in the business of making classic boots that don’t compromise on either functionality or comfort. Each one of our picks for the Thorogoods boots was chosen after thorough analysis. Hopefully, we’ve been able to help you decide which one suits you best.
