Red Wing Iron Ranger 8083 Hawthorne Boots
Ex-display or customer return items, leather pattern is slightly different between both boots + cut mark on the side of right pair and pen marks on the side of left pair (please check all the images). Supplied in a generic brown box, original box was damaged, the product is authentic. PLEASE NOTE: This item does not qualify for free returns; buyers are responsible for return postage fee, and the return period is 14 days. The Iron Ranger 8083 boots for men from Red Wing were originally designed for miners in the Mesabi iron range in Minnesota to withstand any kind of rough terrain. These chukkas have now been adapted to the modern city life bringing dependable durability to today's working man. Manufactured from Muleskinner leather from the company owned S.B. Foot Tannery these high ankle boots feature a quadruple stitch detail and a double layered toe cap to provide extra strength. The lining and insole of these combat style boots are made of breathable leather and textile while the fastening is a combination of lace and speed hook closure. The construction is finished off with a Goodyear welt to enhance durability and strength while the non-marking and oil-resistant Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole provides extreme grip and traction.
Ex-display or customer return items, leather pattern is slightly different between both boots + cut mark on the side of right pair and pen marks on the side of left pair (please check all the images). Supplied in a generic brown box, original box was damaged, the product is authentic. PLEASE NOTE: This item does not qualify for free returns; buyers are responsible for return postage fee, and the return period is 14 days. The Iron Ranger 8083 boots for men from Red Wing were originally designed for miners in the Mesabi iron range in Minnesota to withstand any kind of rough terrain. These chukkas have now been adapted to the modern city life bringing dependable durability to today's working man. Manufactured from Muleskinner leather from the company owned S.B. Foot Tannery these high ankle boots feature a quadruple stitch detail and a double layered toe cap to provide extra strength. The lining and insole of these combat style boots are made of breathable leather and textile while the fastening is a combination of lace and speed hook closure. The construction is finished off with a Goodyear welt to enhance durability and strength while the non-marking and oil-resistant Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole provides extreme grip and traction.
Ex-display or customer return items, leather pattern is slightly different between both boots + cut mark on the side of right pair and pen marks on the side of left pair (please check all the images). Supplied in a generic brown box, original box was damaged, the product is authentic. PLEASE NOTE: This item does not qualify for free returns; buyers are responsible for return postage fee, and the return period is 14 days. The Iron Ranger 8083 boots for men from Red Wing were originally designed for miners in the Mesabi iron range in Minnesota to withstand any kind of rough terrain. These chukkas have now been adapted to the modern city life bringing dependable durability to today's working man. Manufactured from Muleskinner leather from the company owned S.B. Foot Tannery these high ankle boots feature a quadruple stitch detail and a double layered toe cap to provide extra strength. The lining and insole of these combat style boots are made of breathable leather and textile while the fastening is a combination of lace and speed hook closure. The construction is finished off with a Goodyear welt to enhance durability and strength while the non-marking and oil-resistant Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole provides extreme grip and traction.
Ex-display or customer return items, leather pattern is slightly different between both boots + cut mark on the side of right pair and pen marks on the side of left pair (please check all the images). Supplied in a generic brown box, original box was damaged, the product is authentic. PLEASE NOTE: This item does not qualify for free returns; buyers are responsible for return postage fee, and the return period is 14 days. The Iron Ranger 8083 boots for men from Red Wing were originally designed for miners in the Mesabi iron range in Minnesota to withstand any kind of rough terrain. These chukkas have now been adapted to the modern city life bringing dependable durability to today's working man. Manufactured from Muleskinner leather from the company owned S.B. Foot Tannery these high ankle boots feature a quadruple stitch detail and a double layered toe cap to provide extra strength. The lining and insole of these combat style boots are made of breathable leather and textile while the fastening is a combination of lace and speed hook closure. The construction is finished off with a Goodyear welt to enhance durability and strength while the non-marking and oil-resistant Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole provides extreme grip and traction.
in 3 offers
The lowest price for Red Wing Iron Ranger 8083 Hawthorne Boots right now is $524.00 at Stuarts London, compared across 3 retailers.
The all-time low was $481.00 on 12 Mar 2026 — today's price is 9% above the lowest ever. That's a little above the best price we've seen.
Prices last updated 14 May 2026.
Last updated at 14/05/2026 20:18:32
Red Wing Iron Ranger 6" Boot - Hawthrone UK 10
Delivery between 19–22 May $17.95
Iron Ranger 6 Inch Boot 8083 - Hawthorne Muleskinner - US 11 D
Free delivery
Red Wing Shoes 8083 Iron Ranger - Hawthorne Muleskinner Leather - US11/ EU 44
Delivery between 19–26 May $56.26
originally posted on redwingshoes.com
I bought my Iron Ranger Muleskinners in Aalborg, Denmark in 2008 (it's 2022 now). They were the most expensive in the store. As they were breaking in I thought, 'omg, what have I done???'. But after break in they fit like a glove. During the first year, I told my brother-in-law "these are the last shoes I'll ever need to buy" and his response was that I must not expect to live long. I have worn these daily for 14 years. I don't do anything to care for them. The cork sole is still going strong and the stitching everywhere is still intact. They still fit like a glove and, except where the eyelets wore through the tongue, they show no signs of wearing out anytime soon. I'm thinking about buying a 2nd pair in amber leather to have a slightly dressier pair, but it's not ... MoreI bought my Iron Ranger Muleskinners in Aalborg, Denmark in 2008 (it's 2022 now). They were the most expensive in the store. As they were breaking in I thought, 'omg, what have I done???'. But after break in they fit like a glove. During the first year, I told my brother-in-law "these are the last shoes I'll ever need to buy" and his response was that I must not expect to live long. I have worn these daily for 14 years. I don't do anything to care for them. The cork sole is still going strong and the stitching everywhere is still intact. They still fit like a glove and, except where the eyelets wore through the tongue, they show no signs of wearing out anytime soon. I'm thinking about buying a 2nd pair in amber leather to have a slightly dressier pair, but it's not because these are on their last legs. To me, Red Wings are the epitome of sustainable consumerism: spend a little (a lot?) more to buy something that will last over a decade or two instead of filling the landfills with cheap trendy trash. And I like keeping my money in-country, creating jobs for our economy. I'm a bit disappointed that Red Wing discontinued the cork sole, though they could definitely be slippery on ice. 14 years and still kicking. Me too.
originally posted on redwingshoes.com
I have purchased several pairs of Iron Rangers of the last 11 years. In terms of build quality and construction, all of them are very high quality. In fact, the highest quality of any boot I have purchased, and I have purchased just about everything across the high end industry (all the competitor names). Fit does vary a tad bit but I am a true 10.5 medium (no unusual foot issues) and all my Iron Rangers fit true to size with some minor variations (which is to be expected for a hand last boot). Unfortunately, I had to give two pairs of them away because the boots' last (or core) was so incredibly stiff and uncomfortable despite probably 100+ hours of walking and down yard work in several pairs of these boots. Basically, several years after buying and wearing the ... MoreI have purchased several pairs of Iron Rangers of the last 11 years. In terms of build quality and construction, all of them are very high quality. In fact, the highest quality of any boot I have purchased, and I have purchased just about everything across the high end industry (all the competitor names). Fit does vary a tad bit but I am a true 10.5 medium (no unusual foot issues) and all my Iron Rangers fit true to size with some minor variations (which is to be expected for a hand last boot). Unfortunately, I had to give two pairs of them away because the boots' last (or core) was so incredibly stiff and uncomfortable despite probably 100+ hours of walking and down yard work in several pairs of these boots. Basically, several years after buying and wearing the boots I developed a tremendous pain right underneath my right toe (but not with any other type of shoe or boot - only these three pairs of Iron Rangers). My left foot was all fine, but the right toe would be blistered and painful, similar to a pressure point, whenever I wore any of the three pairs longer than 30-45 min or so. I only kept the third pair because they were gorgeous, with such a beautiful patina, and I just couldn't bear throwing them out or giving them away. So...they sat in my closet for several years until I was recently in a brand new Red Wing Retail Store in NC. The store manager (who was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable) did "push accessories" just like another reviewer said he would. Well, I am really happy he did as he pushed me to purchase a set of leather sole inserts and whola! Boom. Problem fixed. He really knew the product's quirks.That old 2014-era pair of well worn brown Iron Rangers (see photo) that had been sitting in my closet for years now fit like a long lost slipper. I spent the past two weeks doing daily yard work (mowing, aerating, seeding, planting, etc.) and the boots felt amazing. Whether you try these awesome boots on in the store or purchase on-line, do not forget to at least consider a set of leather insoles/inserts if you are having the same problem as the core or "last" in this boot is incredibly rigid. The leather inserts have a smooth inner foam pad and they allowed me to actually wear and "re-enjoy" this fine old worn boot. This might be obvious, but my issues developed over time and were not fixed with any other sole inserts. I tried 4 or 5 different brands before I gave up and put the boots in the closet to collect dust. Rather, only the Red Wing leather inserts worked. You're already at a $350 boot so why not spend an extra $45 to get it to fit right if that's needed? Maybe why that's why Red Wing store managers are "pushing" accessories? If so, then it's a damned good reason. Otherwise, I wouldn't have continued to wear these boots and would have given up on the brand (despite its reputation). Bottom line, I don't think any shoe or boot manufacturer is making a boot anywhere that is better than these now iconic Iron Rangers. All of that said, I do have one final suggestion to Red Wing (as I know they will be reviewing this): please consider (i) a slightly more flexible last in the future and (ii) a Vibram or similar sole with more knobbing or traction. Other than the stiff last, the only other downside to this boot is the very slippery sole.It slips in anything from oil and wet grass to light ice and powder snow. I have slipped on all of them at some point in these boots due to the slick sole. If the Iron Ranger boot had (i) a more comfortable or flexible last and (ii) a little traction or knobbing, this boot would be a 10 out of 10 with zero room for improvement. It has the potential to be the true GOAT of American work boots, but these two minor issues give it, in my humble opinion, a slightly lesser grade.
originally posted on redwingshoes.com
I bought a pair of the 8111s from my “local” Red Wing store (about a 3.5 hour round trip from my home) two years ago after returning two pairs of boots previously. One pair of work boots were causing serious heel pain (not blisters, but bone pain) and a replacement pair of 875s that had a pretty serious stitching irregularity that had the laces going at a crazy angle on one of the boots. There was like a 3/4 inch variation in fore/aft alignment on the lacing portions of leather. So I went to a physical store to buy a new pair of Red Wings to call my own forever. Turns out the one pair of 875s they had were also sewn incorrectly but this time it was one toe area being significantly smaller than the other.No big deal. Grabbed a pair of 8111s and went home happy. ... MoreI bought a pair of the 8111s from my “local” Red Wing store (about a 3.5 hour round trip from my home) two years ago after returning two pairs of boots previously. One pair of work boots were causing serious heel pain (not blisters, but bone pain) and a replacement pair of 875s that had a pretty serious stitching irregularity that had the laces going at a crazy angle on one of the boots. There was like a 3/4 inch variation in fore/aft alignment on the lacing portions of leather. So I went to a physical store to buy a new pair of Red Wings to call my own forever. Turns out the one pair of 875s they had were also sewn incorrectly but this time it was one toe area being significantly smaller than the other.No big deal. Grabbed a pair of 8111s and went home happy. Turns out the toe caps were significantly different sizes and I somehow didn’t realize it until I was home. I came to the conclusion that there were just going to be irregularities do to the manufacturing process and thought it would all work itself out in the break-in process.Two years later and the boots still fit markedly different from each other in the toe box. Not enough to make them unwearable, but more than enough to notice every time I walk in them.I had my feet 3D scanned at a Red Wing Store and was told that they are the exact same size down to the decimal point. The salesperson told me I had “about the easiest possible feet to boot-fit for.”These boots are every great thing people have said about them for years. But be sure you inspect them closely when you purchase them. I gave up on finding the perfect pair figuring it wasn’t a big deal. Unfortunately I was wrong.Try them on in-store. Compare the two boots to each other, and walk out with a phenomenal set of boots that should last you years to come.
Red Wing Iron Ranger 6" Boot - Hawthrone UK 10
Delivery between 19–22 May $17.95
Iron Ranger 6 Inch Boot 8083 - Hawthorne Muleskinner - US 11 D
Free delivery
Red Wing Shoes 8083 Iron Ranger - Hawthorne Muleskinner Leather - US11/ EU 44
Delivery between 19–26 May $56.26
I bought my Iron Ranger Muleskinners in Aalborg, Denmark in 2008 (it's 2022 now). They were the most expensive in the store. As they were breaking in I thought, 'omg, what have I done???'. But after break in they fit like a glove. During the first year, I told my brother-in-law "these are the last shoes I'll ever need to buy" and his response was that I must not expect to live long. I have worn these daily for 14 years. I don't do anything to care for them. The cork sole is still going strong and the stitching everywhere is still intact. They still fit like a glove and, except where the eyelets wore through the tongue, they show no signs of wearing out anytime soon. I'm thinking about buying a 2nd pair in amber leather to have a slightly dressier pair, but it's not ... MoreI bought my Iron Ranger Muleskinners in Aalborg, Denmark in 2008 (it's 2022 now). They were the most expensive in the store. As they were breaking in I thought, 'omg, what have I done???'. But after break in they fit like a glove. During the first year, I told my brother-in-law "these are the last shoes I'll ever need to buy" and his response was that I must not expect to live long. I have worn these daily for 14 years. I don't do anything to care for them. The cork sole is still going strong and the stitching everywhere is still intact. They still fit like a glove and, except where the eyelets wore through the tongue, they show no signs of wearing out anytime soon. I'm thinking about buying a 2nd pair in amber leather to have a slightly dressier pair, but it's not because these are on their last legs. To me, Red Wings are the epitome of sustainable consumerism: spend a little (a lot?) more to buy something that will last over a decade or two instead of filling the landfills with cheap trendy trash. And I like keeping my money in-country, creating jobs for our economy. I'm a bit disappointed that Red Wing discontinued the cork sole, though they could definitely be slippery on ice. 14 years and still kicking. Me too.
I have purchased several pairs of Iron Rangers of the last 11 years. In terms of build quality and construction, all of them are very high quality. In fact, the highest quality of any boot I have purchased, and I have purchased just about everything across the high end industry (all the competitor names). Fit does vary a tad bit but I am a true 10.5 medium (no unusual foot issues) and all my Iron Rangers fit true to size with some minor variations (which is to be expected for a hand last boot). Unfortunately, I had to give two pairs of them away because the boots' last (or core) was so incredibly stiff and uncomfortable despite probably 100+ hours of walking and down yard work in several pairs of these boots. Basically, several years after buying and wearing the ... MoreI have purchased several pairs of Iron Rangers of the last 11 years. In terms of build quality and construction, all of them are very high quality. In fact, the highest quality of any boot I have purchased, and I have purchased just about everything across the high end industry (all the competitor names). Fit does vary a tad bit but I am a true 10.5 medium (no unusual foot issues) and all my Iron Rangers fit true to size with some minor variations (which is to be expected for a hand last boot). Unfortunately, I had to give two pairs of them away because the boots' last (or core) was so incredibly stiff and uncomfortable despite probably 100+ hours of walking and down yard work in several pairs of these boots. Basically, several years after buying and wearing the boots I developed a tremendous pain right underneath my right toe (but not with any other type of shoe or boot - only these three pairs of Iron Rangers). My left foot was all fine, but the right toe would be blistered and painful, similar to a pressure point, whenever I wore any of the three pairs longer than 30-45 min or so. I only kept the third pair because they were gorgeous, with such a beautiful patina, and I just couldn't bear throwing them out or giving them away. So...they sat in my closet for several years until I was recently in a brand new Red Wing Retail Store in NC. The store manager (who was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable) did "push accessories" just like another reviewer said he would. Well, I am really happy he did as he pushed me to purchase a set of leather sole inserts and whola! Boom. Problem fixed. He really knew the product's quirks.That old 2014-era pair of well worn brown Iron Rangers (see photo) that had been sitting in my closet for years now fit like a long lost slipper. I spent the past two weeks doing daily yard work (mowing, aerating, seeding, planting, etc.) and the boots felt amazing. Whether you try these awesome boots on in the store or purchase on-line, do not forget to at least consider a set of leather insoles/inserts if you are having the same problem as the core or "last" in this boot is incredibly rigid. The leather inserts have a smooth inner foam pad and they allowed me to actually wear and "re-enjoy" this fine old worn boot. This might be obvious, but my issues developed over time and were not fixed with any other sole inserts. I tried 4 or 5 different brands before I gave up and put the boots in the closet to collect dust. Rather, only the Red Wing leather inserts worked. You're already at a $350 boot so why not spend an extra $45 to get it to fit right if that's needed? Maybe why that's why Red Wing store managers are "pushing" accessories? If so, then it's a damned good reason. Otherwise, I wouldn't have continued to wear these boots and would have given up on the brand (despite its reputation). Bottom line, I don't think any shoe or boot manufacturer is making a boot anywhere that is better than these now iconic Iron Rangers. All of that said, I do have one final suggestion to Red Wing (as I know they will be reviewing this): please consider (i) a slightly more flexible last in the future and (ii) a Vibram or similar sole with more knobbing or traction. Other than the stiff last, the only other downside to this boot is the very slippery sole.It slips in anything from oil and wet grass to light ice and powder snow. I have slipped on all of them at some point in these boots due to the slick sole. If the Iron Ranger boot had (i) a more comfortable or flexible last and (ii) a little traction or knobbing, this boot would be a 10 out of 10 with zero room for improvement. It has the potential to be the true GOAT of American work boots, but these two minor issues give it, in my humble opinion, a slightly lesser grade.
I bought a pair of the 8111s from my “local” Red Wing store (about a 3.5 hour round trip from my home) two years ago after returning two pairs of boots previously. One pair of work boots were causing serious heel pain (not blisters, but bone pain) and a replacement pair of 875s that had a pretty serious stitching irregularity that had the laces going at a crazy angle on one of the boots. There was like a 3/4 inch variation in fore/aft alignment on the lacing portions of leather. So I went to a physical store to buy a new pair of Red Wings to call my own forever. Turns out the one pair of 875s they had were also sewn incorrectly but this time it was one toe area being significantly smaller than the other.No big deal. Grabbed a pair of 8111s and went home happy. ... MoreI bought a pair of the 8111s from my “local” Red Wing store (about a 3.5 hour round trip from my home) two years ago after returning two pairs of boots previously. One pair of work boots were causing serious heel pain (not blisters, but bone pain) and a replacement pair of 875s that had a pretty serious stitching irregularity that had the laces going at a crazy angle on one of the boots. There was like a 3/4 inch variation in fore/aft alignment on the lacing portions of leather. So I went to a physical store to buy a new pair of Red Wings to call my own forever. Turns out the one pair of 875s they had were also sewn incorrectly but this time it was one toe area being significantly smaller than the other.No big deal. Grabbed a pair of 8111s and went home happy. Turns out the toe caps were significantly different sizes and I somehow didn’t realize it until I was home. I came to the conclusion that there were just going to be irregularities do to the manufacturing process and thought it would all work itself out in the break-in process.Two years later and the boots still fit markedly different from each other in the toe box. Not enough to make them unwearable, but more than enough to notice every time I walk in them.I had my feet 3D scanned at a Red Wing Store and was told that they are the exact same size down to the decimal point. The salesperson told me I had “about the easiest possible feet to boot-fit for.”These boots are every great thing people have said about them for years. But be sure you inspect them closely when you purchase them. I gave up on finding the perfect pair figuring it wasn’t a big deal. Unfortunately I was wrong.Try them on in-store. Compare the two boots to each other, and walk out with a phenomenal set of boots that should last you years to come.
I find the comfort of these boots outstanding compared to foam filled boots. Other boots left my back in a pain that surprised me for only being in my 20s. The shank and heel from these boots offer arch support that allow me to be on my feet for 8 hours straight and not be in pain. I have also gotten a lot of compliments for the contrast between the deep leather against the silver eyelets.The quality control is not as nice as I would expect from the price point, however. For one, stitches through the welt are not even. Looks goofy, but functionally works.Within 9 months, part of the sole to welt adhesive failed on my left boot. The stitches are the only thing holding on the sole now in that area. The lack of a recessed stitching also means that the stitches will ... MoreI find the comfort of these boots outstanding compared to foam filled boots. Other boots left my back in a pain that surprised me for only being in my 20s. The shank and heel from these boots offer arch support that allow me to be on my feet for 8 hours straight and not be in pain. I have also gotten a lot of compliments for the contrast between the deep leather against the silver eyelets.The quality control is not as nice as I would expect from the price point, however. For one, stitches through the welt are not even. Looks goofy, but functionally works.Within 9 months, part of the sole to welt adhesive failed on my left boot. The stitches are the only thing holding on the sole now in that area. The lack of a recessed stitching also means that the stitches will wear out quicker. Once that happens, I will have to get a resole, prematurely, as the exposed inside could allow debris to enter and ruin the comfort.Overall, the boots have some nice looks and comfort aspects to me. However, the quality control for the price point leaves something to be desired. I will continue to use these boots and get them resoled once the failure occurs. Unfortunately, I have already decided to purchase better finished replacement boots elsewhere once it becomes time.
Lack of total perfection doesn't mean I'm not very pleased with my Iron Rangers. I am. Rugged leather upper with thick oil infused pull up quality, Vibram mini lug low profile outsole, leather insole with cork filler in the goodyear welt construction, and classic workwear looks. That is a great overall boot package. All for under $400.00. You'll have a hard time finding those features in a U.S made boot for that price. It's been a couple of months and break in wasn't totally painless, but not bad at all when you know what to expect. There's only one imperfection and that's when the technician was sanding the edges of the outsole to match the welt, they were having a bad day and came very close to the stitching in the welt on one side of one boot. I debated on ... MoreLack of total perfection doesn't mean I'm not very pleased with my Iron Rangers. I am. Rugged leather upper with thick oil infused pull up quality, Vibram mini lug low profile outsole, leather insole with cork filler in the goodyear welt construction, and classic workwear looks. That is a great overall boot package. All for under $400.00. You'll have a hard time finding those features in a U.S made boot for that price. It's been a couple of months and break in wasn't totally painless, but not bad at all when you know what to expect. There's only one imperfection and that's when the technician was sanding the edges of the outsole to match the welt, they were having a bad day and came very close to the stitching in the welt on one side of one boot. I debated on whether to send them back, but it really didn't affect the performance of the boot at this stage, and you have to be looking for it to even notice it. It just isn't an issue now. Although I don't think it will ever be an issue, when it comes time for recrafting, I'll send them to Red Wing and if it is a problem, I have every confidence they will stand by their product. So, although there is that imperfection which I'm sure will amount to nothing really problematic now or in the future, I'm very happy with these boots and look forward to many years of service.
This is follow up to an earlier review.My true shoe size is 13.5D; I purchased the Iron Rangers in size 12D. The 13s fit like 14s; a bit long, and definitely too wide. The 12s are the perfect width, maybe even a bit wide after a full break-in. However, they are a bit short, which I find makes them a bit uncomfortable for walking any distance. I sense my toes brushing the ends, and it affects my stride. I really need 12.5s, but Red Wing doesn’t make my size.However, I wear them a lot as casual footwear. Full break-in took months, but after a year of regular wear these boots started to become my first choice when leaving the house. I believe in traditional shoe construction, and these boots are just so comfortable and supportive. Surprisingly, they are not hot in ... MoreThis is follow up to an earlier review.My true shoe size is 13.5D; I purchased the Iron Rangers in size 12D. The 13s fit like 14s; a bit long, and definitely too wide. The 12s are the perfect width, maybe even a bit wide after a full break-in. However, they are a bit short, which I find makes them a bit uncomfortable for walking any distance. I sense my toes brushing the ends, and it affects my stride. I really need 12.5s, but Red Wing doesn’t make my size.However, I wear them a lot as casual footwear. Full break-in took months, but after a year of regular wear these boots started to become my first choice when leaving the house. I believe in traditional shoe construction, and these boots are just so comfortable and supportive. Surprisingly, they are not hot in warm weather.I would not buy them again, but only because of the fit issue. My next pair of boots will come from a small Canadian boot manufacturer that has 13.5D lasts, whose production boots fit me perfectly. They will actually make custom service boots, albeit for a couple of dollars more than the Iron Rangers cost.But if you can get the right fit, the Red Wing heritage products are excellent.
Got my IR8085's about 6 months ago and they are now my go to boot. I own quite a few heritage boots from competitors and these have become my favorite for day to day wear.I wear a 9.5/10D depending on brand and I got these in a 9.5D. With thick socks they fit snug but not unbearably tight. A lot of room in the toe box but snug and supportive at the arch and heel.The break in period was *rough*, as with most full leather construction heritage boots, but after about 1-2 months they feel great. The full leather construction will never feel like a modern boot, its just not what they are, but after the break in period they are they boots I go for every day. To break them in I would wear them until my feet started to feel fatigued and then I would change into a ... MoreGot my IR8085's about 6 months ago and they are now my go to boot. I own quite a few heritage boots from competitors and these have become my favorite for day to day wear.I wear a 9.5/10D depending on brand and I got these in a 9.5D. With thick socks they fit snug but not unbearably tight. A lot of room in the toe box but snug and supportive at the arch and heel.The break in period was *rough*, as with most full leather construction heritage boots, but after about 1-2 months they feel great. The full leather construction will never feel like a modern boot, its just not what they are, but after the break in period they are they boots I go for every day. To break them in I would wear them until my feet started to feel fatigued and then I would change into a shoe/boot that was already broken in. Over time I stopped having to switch shoes.Pros: These are a versatile and durable boot that look stylish and also get the job done. A great entry point to the heritage boot world that won't break the bank like other heritage brands. The copper coloring fades beautifully and develops its own personality after a while. If you like the "out of the box" look of these, you're going to have to accept the fact that they will change color and texture over time. They'll darken in constant friction spots (ankle where jeans rub etc) and lighten in the creases.Cons: Iron Rangers no longer are a great "work" boot by comparison. These are a culmination of 1920's and 30's technology to make a specific boot for the time. Now days other RW boots like the (s914) Supersoles or (s405)Traction Treds are going to be better for actual manual labor work. It would be dishonest to say these would make a great boot for roofing or laying concrete.Iron Rangers make a great day to day boot to replace a tennis shoe/light boot. Stylish enough to dress up, and casual enough to beat the heck out of them. If you need a dedicated manual labor boot I'd suggest something else. If you need a day to day boot that you can mow the lawn in, walk the dog, pick up the kids, go to the store, ride your motorcycle, work in the shop, and not realize you are still wearing them after 12 hours...these are it.
I bought these 3 weeks ago, so a review of their long-term use this is not. First, I highly recommend going into a RW store if you can, just to avoid gambling and potentially having to return them for a different size.Now, onto my experience with the 8084. I received the boots less than a week after ordering them and my first impression was the powerful scent of the leather as I opened the box. Once in hand, it took all of 3 seconds to fall in love. These boots have a fantastic silhouette, I especially love how aggressive the the taper is leading up to the opening at the top and how it plays with the exaggerated bulbous look of the toe cap, it's quite "out there", in a good way, at least in my opinion. I'd also like to note that the boots feel solid as heck in my ... MoreI bought these 3 weeks ago, so a review of their long-term use this is not. First, I highly recommend going into a RW store if you can, just to avoid gambling and potentially having to return them for a different size.Now, onto my experience with the 8084. I received the boots less than a week after ordering them and my first impression was the powerful scent of the leather as I opened the box. Once in hand, it took all of 3 seconds to fall in love. These boots have a fantastic silhouette, I especially love how aggressive the the taper is leading up to the opening at the top and how it plays with the exaggerated bulbous look of the toe cap, it's quite "out there", in a good way, at least in my opinion. I'd also like to note that the boots feel solid as heck in my hand, and that my pair showed no loose stitches, scratches, or defect of any kind. QC on this pair was top notch. Once on foot, I was pleasantly surprised by how supple the leather felt, as my expectation would be that they'd be stiff for the first few wears, but I kid you not, the uppers were comfortable from the first wear and they've only become more comfortable in the short time I've had them. They look great with dark jeans and chinos and just love their look and the sturdy, assured feel that wearing them gives me. I'm sure it won't be long until I get a few more colors just for variety's sake, but for today I'm incredibly thrilled everytime I lace these up.
I purchased a pair of copper-colored Red Wing Iron Ranger boots from a Red Wing store in Stockton California. The staff were professional and helpful. I usually wear a size 11 1/2 to 12 but the size 11 fit my foot beautifully. The fit was snub, but not binding with plenty of toe wiggle room. I took them home and followed instructions to break them in around the house wearing thicker-than-normal socks. Again, perfect, comfortable fit--okay, since it was new leather, the they will get more comfortable, but there was zero suggestion that these boots would be anything but phenomenally comfortable over time. I was so impressed that I decided to get as pair in black. That was hard. Most of the black Iron Ranger sizes are on backorder at Red Wing stores. This was indicated ... MoreI purchased a pair of copper-colored Red Wing Iron Ranger boots from a Red Wing store in Stockton California. The staff were professional and helpful. I usually wear a size 11 1/2 to 12 but the size 11 fit my foot beautifully. The fit was snub, but not binding with plenty of toe wiggle room. I took them home and followed instructions to break them in around the house wearing thicker-than-normal socks. Again, perfect, comfortable fit--okay, since it was new leather, the they will get more comfortable, but there was zero suggestion that these boots would be anything but phenomenally comfortable over time. I was so impressed that I decided to get as pair in black. That was hard. Most of the black Iron Ranger sizes are on backorder at Red Wing stores. This was indicated online, but I persisted and called several stores in several states and to paraphrase the general response, "They are out of stock until sometime in 2023." So I "persisted" again and found a pair of size 11 at a Red Wing dealer (not store) in New York and they are on their way. I LOVE these boots.
I'll try to keep it short and concise, I've spent a lot of money on Red Wing over the past couple of years because of how much I loved the brand, although QC has truly left me wondering if the money spent was ever worth it.As can be seen in the photos my boots appear to have dry rot or something in the copper rough and tough leather. This isn't the first time i've had this issue. I had the same thing happen to a lesser degree in two pairs of 1907s as well.I was denied warranty because there was a small amount of mildew starting to show from under the leather sockliner in the heel of the insole (the mildew is NOT what affected the leather on the OUTSIDE of the boot as my 1907s never had mildew in them and had the same issue). I've regrettably had to throw out ... MoreI'll try to keep it short and concise, I've spent a lot of money on Red Wing over the past couple of years because of how much I loved the brand, although QC has truly left me wondering if the money spent was ever worth it.As can be seen in the photos my boots appear to have dry rot or something in the copper rough and tough leather. This isn't the first time i've had this issue. I had the same thing happen to a lesser degree in two pairs of 1907s as well.I was denied warranty because there was a small amount of mildew starting to show from under the leather sockliner in the heel of the insole (the mildew is NOT what affected the leather on the OUTSIDE of the boot as my 1907s never had mildew in them and had the same issue). I've regrettably had to throw out $2000 (canadian I might add) of Red Wings in the last 8 months because of mildew issues. I'm not sure if I'm just extremely unlucky or Red Wing has changed something in their manufacturing but I'm now scared to even wear my 8138s, 875s, and even my 8864s in fear of mold growth (I should add I always wear shoe trees and rotate shoes to prevent over saturation of moisture, yet I still get hit with issues) - and having to throw out another $1500 worth of boots on top of the now $2500 including this pair of IRs. I may be foolish for spending so much but I really wanted to support a brand I really enjoyed.Safe to say I will not be recommending Red Wing because of all the issues i've had with their boots.
