I've owned 2 pair of $150ish timerlands and each lasted about 7 years. I wear them only in fall/winter when I'm wearing jeans. I wear them every day and go on hikes and camping and work so they get dirty. I clean them and try to waterproof and polish regularly. I know everyone has their personal favs from looking through threads. But what I'm wondering is if any of the brands I'm exploring should be avoided.
I'd like a boot that if I take care of and have resoled can get 20 years or more out of. I have a 15 year old leather coat that still looks great and one that is 2 years old I'm still "breaking in". They get better looking with age b/c they're quality and I take care of them. Same goes for my 15 year old allen edmond dress shoes. I want the same for my boots.
I'm looking ONLY at boots with goodyear welts. Brands I've looked at are Redwing, Frye, and Danner. Frye's seem to be more fashionable and the other 2 more like work boots. Will I be disappointed in any of these brands? Can I take a pair of $500 Frye's into the mud for a weekend of camping and expect to be no worse for the wear if I clean them after? Anyone have any horror stories from these 3?
I'd like a boot that if I take care of and have resoled can get 20 years or more out of. I have a 15 year old leather coat that still looks great and one that is 2 years old I'm still "breaking in". They get better looking with age b/c they're quality and I take care of them. Same goes for my 15 year old allen edmond dress shoes. I want the same for my boots.
I'm looking ONLY at boots with goodyear welts. Brands I've looked at are Redwing, Frye, and Danner. Frye's seem to be more fashionable and the other 2 more like work boots. Will I be disappointed in any of these brands? Can I take a pair of $500 Frye's into the mud for a weekend of camping and expect to be no worse for the wear if I clean them after? Anyone have any horror stories from these 3?