Whether you work on farms, in the trades or in something trade adjacent, one thing is certain-- you'll be spending a lot of your life in boots. They are the tools you put on first thing so they better be good. Whether you are a miner, a roofer, a fisherman or carpenter, if your feet go you can't work any more.
In my years I've worn out some good boots and suffered with some cheapies. I've seen co-workers with steadfast loyalty to a brand of boots that exceeds that paid to NFL teams, beer choices or political party. I hear you, brothers and sisters.
Part of it is geography. From Seattle to the Bering Sea the choice of fishermen in Xtratuf. These brown rubber, ankle hugging boots are the only choice, insulated or standard. Even the government types wear them.
Down East you got you home grown Bean boots.
In the mountains and arctic you need insulation. Sorels are the standard.
For the tugs and barges, dredges and workboats, the choices open up. Some favor Danner and will patch them over and again. Some like Carolina, Red Wings or Timberland. The non-skid steel decks you work on will exact a toll.
I had a pair of knee=high Golden Retrievers I got on sale and liked. They were comfortable as the day is long. A second try split across the sole at the balls of my feet.
Of late I believe in Wolverines. The DuraShock models, if someone wants to trade my endorsement for a pair. I find them more comfortable than any other mid length boot and the soles last a good while. Pretty light, if you get away without steel toes. It's September now and even in California I can feel the change of seasons. Might be time to check this pair for cracks and thin spots. Sure can't hurt.
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