The US has some of the best food in the world (even though it’s a bit unhealthy). You may not know, but they make some of best boots in the entire world. From steel-toed styles to waterproof designs, there are a plethora of excellent options to choose from—each a testament to quality, durability, and American ingenuity.
Read on as I explore the best American boots currently available. Whether you need a pair for the winter or something for work, I’ve handpicked the must-own designs every guy should consider.
What you need to know
In order to create this list I carefully researched trusted brands throughout the country, and read through hundreds of customer reviews. Taking you from mud-riddled work sites to the streets of urban exploration, the best American made men’s boots are a key part of every guy’s footwear rotation. So, whether you’re chasing horizons or navigating the concrete jungle, join me as I take a closer look at the designs—from Red Wing’s to Rancourt & Co’s—that make sure your strides are not just comfortable, but also seriously stylish.
Why it’s great: In the world of rough and ready footwear, it doesn’t get much better than a pair of Red Wings. In the early 1950s the iconic brand introduced the moc-toe boot, which was designed for farmers and hunters who spent long, cold, rainy days in the field. Today, they’re still loved by outdoorsmen but are just as popular amongst the fashion elite. Why? Not only do they look great, they’re roomy, weatherproof, and handsomely tough. Better yet, they’re still made by hand in Minnesota from oil-tanned, full-grain leather.
How to wear them When you’re not wearing them with your work gear, try them with jeans or chinos that have been slightly rolled. On top, I’d suggest a chunky knit sweater and your go-to flannel shirt. For ultimate comfort, don’t forget boot socks.
Flaws are not deal-breakers Quality doesn’t come cheap, but these boots are well worth the investment. Look after them and they’ll be in your wardrobe for decades to come. Brand recommends a half-size down in this shoe. If you have a foot that is particularly wide, however, stay with your normal size.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 8-13 | Colors Available: 1
Why it’s great: Irish Setter is a popular brand that falls under the Red Wing umbrella. It is known for its high-performance, durable footwear, which was designed for both outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. Irish Setters is a brand named after a highly-skilled bird dog. This breed shares the same qualities of endurance, reliability, and agility. These work boots offer a more affordable option to my top pick, yet are no less brilliant. They’re made with oiled full-grain leather and have a polyurethane footbed for long-lasting comfort and all-day performance.
How to wear them Dress them up for the weekend by pairing them with selvedge jeans and a cable-knit sweater. If it’s cold, a quilted gilet would make a stylish additional layer.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. They’re not quite as robust as Red Wings or your standard combat boots. That doesn’t mean they’re going to fall apart at the first site of adversity, mind.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 7-14 | Colors Available: 2
Why it’s great: These black boots are ideal for men who want a durable and comfortable shoe for work. The boots were designed to meet the needs of hard-working individuals. They have dual-density inserts that provide excellent cushioning and support. Additionally, the outsoles are slip-resistant for extra safety. The Goodyear storm welt construction provides both flexibility and toughness, while they’re available in a regular and wide fit.
How to wear them Show them off while you’re on the job or wear them at the weekend with some timeless wardrobe staples. I’m talking hard-wearing denim, flannel shirts, long-sleeved tees, and chunky socks.
Flaws are not deal-breakers They tend to run a bit narrow, so consider the ‘wide fit’ if you usually find your footwear feels tight.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 5-15 | Colors Available: 5
Why it’s great: Wolverine has been crafting men’s American made boots for over 100 years, so it’s no surprise they’re pretty damn good at it. This pair features a waterproof full-grain leather upper, plus a strong steel toe that’ll protect you from common worksite hazards. The slip-resistant soles keep your feet on the ground while the cushioned insoles ensure a comfortable landing.
How to wear them You won’t be walking down any catwalks in these, but they won’t look out of place with jeans if you do decide to wear them outside of the workplace.
If you find a flaw, it’s not a deal-breaker. I’ve noticed a few question marks over their durability, with some reviewers claiming they’re not the best choice for really heavy-duty jobs. Although these comments were a minority, they are worth noting.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 7-14 | Colors Available: 8
Why it’s great: Huckberry’s custom-made boot is as beautiful as it is tough (just think Brad Pitt in Fight Club). Named after the small town of Brunswick, they’re handmade in Maine from Tasman leather and cleverly built to help you look the part no matter what the elements throw at you.
How to wear them They look great with pieces that are hardworking, such as flannel shirt and crew neck sweaters. You can show off your pants by turning up the hems of your pants.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. For ultimate comfort, they’ll need some breaking in. Invest in thick socks to speed up the process. Wear your boots while doing your daily chores. You might look a bit crazy, but it’ll be worth it in the end.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 8-13 | Colors Available: 1
Why it’s great: When dress boots feel too smart and sneakers just won’t cut it, Red Wing’s Weekender Chukkas offer a stylish, comfortable (and affordable) option. Made with the brand’s traditional construction methods and materials, they’re flexible, lightweight, and surprisingly tough. The ComfortForce® footbed is squishy soft, while the premium leather upper is water, stain, and perspiration-resistant.
How to wear them These chukkas work well for both the weekend and the week. They can be worn with jeans, an Oxford shirt or even khakis. They’ll look just as good with jeans and an Oxford shirt as they do with khakis and a crew neck sweater.
Flaws are not deal-breakers Like most Red Wing boots these are large. Brand suggests a size down to find the perfect fit.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 8-13 | Colors Available: 1
Why it’s great: These aren’t your ordinary pair of Chelsea boots. They may look like it, but they’re far tougher than the other styles you have owned in the past. The full-grain leather is equipped with elasticated gores and Traction Tred soles.
How to wear them I own a pair of similar shoes and they look best with plain crew neck T-shirts and slim-fitting jeans. It’s always a great idea to wear a few layers during the cooler months (think casual shirts and wool knitwear).
Flaws are not deal-breakers Red Wing shoes may take a while to become comfortable. Once you get there, though, you’ll be enjoying some of the best American made boots out there. Consider going down a half-size from your usual sneaker size.
Material: | The sole Material: | Sizes Available: 8-13 | Colors Available: 1
The Best American Made Boots: What to Consider When Shopping for Boots
Craftsmanship
When searching for the best American made men’s boots, craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials should be at the top of your list. American bootmakers take pride in their craftsmanship and ensure that every pair is constructed with care for durability. Choose boots with high-quality leather and sturdy hardware, as well as well-constructed shoes. Consider investing in boot oil to provide extra protection.
Style
The style and purpose of the boot should be considered. Men’s American made boots cater to a wide range of requirements, from rugged work boots designed for heavy-duty tasks to stylish and versatile options ideal for everyday wear. Choose the right style for your needs, whether they are boots for work, outdoor activities or casual wear.
Comfort
For maximum wearability, boots of high quality are designed with proper support. Many brands also offer ergonomic designs and cushioned inserts for added comfort. A well-fitted shoe not only helps to prevent discomfort, but it also promotes foot health.
Why you should trust us
I’m an experienced writer for all things man, boots included. From pull-on styles to those straight out of a Western, I’ve owned my fair share of men’s boots. But this guide wasn’t only written using my own experiences—I’ve had more than a little help from hundreds of other boot wearers (and fans of quality American craftsmanship). The list of double digits has been reduced to just seven styles, aka the best American-made boots.
Final Verdict
You’re nearing the end of this list of the top American-made boots. One style in particular deserves to be at the top of your wishlist. Whether you’re a builder, banker, or biohacker, Red Wing’s iconic design is the perfect option for hardworking hands and fashion aficionados alike. It’s tough, easy on the eye, and super comfortable, making it a fine addition to any guy’s footwear collection.
The FAQ
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It is the US that has brought us some of our best boot brands. Red Wing, Wolverine and Thorogood are some of the most notable boot brands. These companies are committed to American-made products, supporting local economies while ensuring that their customers get quality boots.
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