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jmillz15

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Hello everyone, I received my Iron Works boots this past week. I've worn them a total of 3 times, and was wondering if anyone else could comment on their boots and how they've broken in ? I find that the upper collar is very stiff, this should soften up over time I imagine ?

A short side review: These boots seem to be very well constructed, and no doubt should last a long time. Last year I was deciding between these and Frye Brando Laceups, and went with the Fryes. If I were to do it again, I would pass on the Fryes and get the Katahdins...for the extra hundred over the Katahdins, you would expect some huge leap in quality, but there isn't thus far. I would highly recommend these boots to anyone looking for classically styled, sturdy work boots.
 

wannabeagiant

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The collar was stiff for the first wear but fine after that. I had no break in issues but I've never had problems with blisters, etc. so my experience might not be the best guide. I did, however, find the sole to be stiff for a while.

I agree with your view of these boots. They seem to be one of the best values in terms of quality out there. I can't imagine they're making much money off these. It's probably for nostalgic reasons that they keep it in the catalogue at such a low price. If they had this boot in a smooth leather without the toe cap, I wouldn't ever need to buy another boot.


... and cue the special flower remarks
 

riraito

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I bled from my ankles the first couple of wears.. now they're broken in and feel great
 

drewdub

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Mine broke in pretty quickly and I echo the sentiments of most others - these are a phenomenal value. I love my boots, they are very comfortable, very well made, and are holding up great after a year of use.
 

jarude

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How's the colouring on these? Really beige-ey ala regular workboots or something nicer? I want a pair of practical winter boots, but if they look exactly like workboots, then I may have to pass - I just find Red Wings so damn ugly, I want an alternative.
 

bs3009a

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The boots definitely take a few hard wearings to soften them up. But once they do they are like butter. I think the best thing is to rub them down with some mink oil every couple months. This really softens up the leather, waterproofs them and helps to dampen the dusty coloring. I just hit mine with some Mink Oil and now they have a great color and are awesomely soft.
 

KitAkira

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riraito

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I think the consensus is buy TTS, but I do feel like I could have sized down a half. Still fits well though
 

jmillz15

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Originally Posted by riraito
I think the consensus is buy TTS, but I do feel like I could have sized down a half. Still fits well though


how did everyone else size their boots ? I bought the size 9, and feel like I could almost size down a half size...for reference, i'm a 9 in converse/purcells and topsiders, and an 8 in clarks desert boots...
 

dmash

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Originally Posted by jmillz15
how did everyone else size their boots ? I bought the size 9, and feel like I could almost size down a half size...for reference, i'm a 9 in converse/purcells and topsiders, and an 8 in clarks desert boots...

your a 9 in converse, but an 8 in desert boots? that makes NO sense
 

ataru

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It makes some sense if he just means purcells... kinda strange if he's including chucks as that slash implies.
 

jmillz15

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Originally Posted by ataru
It makes some sense if he just means purcells... kinda strange if he's including chucks as that slash implies.

jack purcells to clear things up...
 

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