Boot Wars: Blundstone vs Redback vs Rossi

Choosing a boot is not easy. Not if you’re like me and you choose a pair and wear them till they start walking themselves. When I’m looking to buy a new pair of boots, I don’t mind paying a bit extra if I know they’ll last the distance. Because really, I’m buying a new pair of best mates. They’re going to work with me every day, out to the pub for a cold one on Friday work drinks, out fishing on the weekend or to see a band or a rodeo. Like great mates, I want to know they won't let me down. 

I tend to have two pairs on the go – my good ones and my work ones. My good ones become my work ones when the work ones are laid to rest. I always feel a bit sad when it comes time to bin the old work boots. It feels like losing one of the family.

So buying new boots is a big purchase and one I’ve given a lot of consideration over the years. Here are my pros and cons for the three major Aussie boot brands.

Blundstone

When most people think of Aussie work boots, the Blundstone 600 style in stout brown comes to mind. They’re the boots made famous by another great Aussie export “Stomp”, a group of blokes tap-dancing in them. The slim ankle and slightly bulbous nose is recognisable anywhere, and I’ve been known to walk up to a bloke in the street overseas and say “G’day!” just because he’s wearing some Blunnies. Never been made a fool of either, well not yet at least.

They’re a slip-on work boot, so they’re easy to get in and out of and they’re surprisingly lightweight for such a solid-looking boot. Made out of one piece of leather that moulds perfectly to your feet over time and a thin profile sole with good tread, so you don’t feel far from the ground.

A few pros they have over the competition:

• Backed by Blundstone's Comfort Guarantee
• Lightweight
• Versatility- they’re stylish enough to wear going out & strong enough for work
• Cushioned heel pad for increased shock protection
• Moulds well to your feet and gets more comfortable with wear

And The Cons:

• The Innersoles included are on the thin side, so if you prefer more support, you’d be best off buying some good quality Innersoles to go along with your purchase. I recommend the Comfort Air Innersoles.
• Manufactured Overseas

The Fit:

• Regular fitting
• Half sizes are just wider not longer

Redback

While Blunnies may be the more famous brand, Redback is the choice of the locals, especially for a work boot. The Redback UBOK Bobcat in Claret (Dark Brown) is the most famous around here. They’re made out of 3 pieces of leather instead of Blundstone’s one, which means they fit great from the first wear. Blundstones can be a little snug at first while the leather moulds to your feet, Redbacks hug your feet like a lover from the first go. 

All Redback boots feature an air-cushioned sole which gives you that bouncy, lighter-than-air feel underfoot. Great for when you’re on your feet all day. They’re also very much the traditionalists down at Redback – they find the right formula and they stick with it. They are less fashion-driven than the other two brands, so you know if you loved your first pair of Redbacks, chances are your next pair will be instant love as well.

The Pros:

• 100% full-grain leather
• Australian Made
• Lightweight
• Air cushioned sole is like walking on a cloud
• The 3-piece leather formation makes these boots comfortable from first wear
• The deep tread gives premium slip resistance

The Cons:

• More suited for work than casual wear as the design looks more industrial.

The Fit:

• Regular fitting, but slightly wider than the other brands
• Half sizes are just wider not any longer

Rossi

The Rossi 303 Endura in Claret (Dark Brown) is an underrated every-day boot. Not as well known as the other two brands, it has a lot of fine qualities that make it worth a look. Made with top materials such as full grain natural kip leather, the famous Endura rubber sole and even a leather tab at the back instead of the usual material ones that wear out over time – these boots will last and last. These boots used to be Australian-made, unfortunately new owners have moved manufacturing overseas.

The Pros:

• Air cushion mid-sole
• Cushioned Innersoles as well
• Strong leather rear pull tab
• Minimal stitching means the leather moulds well to your feet and gets more comfortable with wear

The Cons:

• Heavier in weight due to the rubber in the sole
• Made overseas

The Fit:

• Regular fitting but a bit narrower than the other brands.
• Half sizes are a true half size, as they are longer and wider

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For more on choosing boots:

• Safety Boot Roundup: Our Top 5
• Top 5 Dress Boots
• Slip On vs Lace up

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