Chippewa Men's 9" Waterproof Insulated Steel Toe EH 25420 Logger Boot

Update 3/1/16 - the replacements started squeaking on the right boot this week, now about a month into wearing the replacement set. Seems there's nothing I can do about it and I'll just have to live with it. Not docking any more stars but worth noting it seems to be a common design issue after breaking them in.I really like these boots and I want to get that out if the way first. The leather uppers I chose were briar oiled so they match my oilskin Drizabone jacket. For anyone that hasn't had oiled boots, they will have a coating out of the box that may come off on your hands, but it fades with wear.I purchased these due to Chippewa reputation and the fact that the boots have a goodyear welt - I can take them to the cobbler down the street to replace the sole when they wear out. This has been what kills all my boots in time. The fit and finish is top notch, stitching is straight and seams are well done. The thinsulate insulation is noticeable but not hot and overall does a fair amount of weight. The boots are very heavy and bulky and add nearly two inches to my height. They are a gigantic step up in qualtiy from my Timberland Pros and definitely feel more long lasting.Boot fit is stiff and break in took about a week of 2-3 miles a day of wear. They went from moderately uncomfortable around my heel and arch to perfectly form fitting. It just takes some sore feet for a few days. They do fit a bit larger than my old Timberland Pro boots. I'm an 11E in those but a 10.5 3E in Chippewa. I also keep a set of cedar shoe trees in them to keep the shape and extend their life.My biggest issue and thus the four stars is that the right boot started squeaking incredibly loudly between the sole and insole after only two weeks, right after breaking in. I emailed Chippewa who sent back a canned response warning against improper use and abuse (really?) and to contact the store for an "inspection". Amazon was great and even though they were worn at this point, took then back and overnighted replacements (which thankfully don't squeak yet after a week, but we'll see). Very disappointed with Chippewa on standing behind their product.

Love these boots.Had to order 3 times.Make sure you measure your feet.Their Web site says order a half size shorter than your tennis shoe.I found that too tight in the INSULATED/STEEL TOE.First,Measure your foot.Sit down. Place paper under foot.Mark the absolute longest point in front and back of foot.Then,Mark the absolute widest point.Take the longest measurement (length and width) from both feet.Use that to determine what to order.(See a size Chart)This should prevent ANY discomfort to heals, toes( inside big toe or outside toes) and the proper boot length will support the entire bottom of the foot.Cramped boots are tough on feet.You should be able to wear thick socks or use a medium thick boot insert if you want.These are the best made boots I've found and the free return ensures you'll have the most comfortable boots too.UPDATEBoot CareI emailed customer service for their thoughts on this and they responded immediately with:Good Morning Matt,For oil treated leathers, we recommend the use of a cream based conditioner, such as Apache Cream, to maintain the moisture in the leather. To water resist these boots, the use of Aqua Seal or Snow Seal as well as Welt Seal is recommended, depending on the conditions the boots are being subjected to.We appreciate your continued support of our brand.HeidiRetail ConsumerCustomer Service SpecialistChippewa Boot CompanyA Division of Justin Brands, Inc.Pretty good eh?Hope info helps you.Matt

I have been an electrician in the construction industry for about ten years and have worn this particular style of Chippewas since year one. This is the third pair I have purchased in that time frame if that tells you anything about their durability - they certainly hold up well, and I put them through a lot. Concrete, ditches, you name it.I will say that they are quite heavy; if you are used to a pair of hiking boots then this pair may take a little getting used to. They also take a bit longer than average to break in - again, heavy duty, highly durable materials. But they are definitely a great pair of boots. They are comfortable to work in all day, the logger style heel really helps with my standing and walking posture and alleviates lower back pain. The insulation is enough to make them warm in the winter but not hot and sweaty in the summer. Steel or safety toe is a requirement for almost all job sites now, and I've heard people complain that steel toe boots can freeze your toes in the winter - not the case with these. All the stitching is of great quality and I've never had any issues with that. And the flashy "made in USA" flag is always a winner on a job site, especially when there are union employees involved.Overall, I feel that these boots will meet or exceed pretty much anyone's expectations. Don't let the price tag turn you away, you'd probably pay just as much or more if you have to keep replacing those crappy boots you've been buying every 6-9 months.