Redback boots.

[Ken C.]

I'm in the market for a new pair of stationwear boots for work. I've had Rockies, Hi-Tecs, Bates.....the whole gamut. I found a brand of boots online called Redbacks from the land Down Under. The model I'm looking at are slip-on 6" boots. These would be perfect for wear in the firehouse. Has anyone ever tried them and can you recommend a US dealer?

 

[southern bigfoot]

A few years ago I used to buy Redbacks but the sole split within three months on both pairs I purchased. They have since changed their sole to a PU type sole and it might be better now, I don't know. I'm a landscaper and I'm very hard on boots and wear Oliver boots, found them great, very comfy!! I'd recommend 'em anytime. http://www.oliversafetyboots.com/index.html

 

[roughedges]

I've got a pair, the crazy horse model if I remember correctly. IMO, they are great boots, better than the rockports I wore before them and much better than any of the timberlands I wore as a kid. I've had them for about two years and I'd bet they have at least another two in them.


The soles are rated to 400 F, if I remember right, but I once stepped on a red-hot piece of metal while wearing them and it didn't do any damage at all except leave its imprint in the tread. I also like how the sole is formed to the upper, essentially making it one piece. I've always been hell on shoes and got very tired of boot soles that come loose and end up flopping around underfoot. No problem like that with the redbacks.

I got mine from http://www.redbackboots.com and will order from them again if I don't go with some customs the next time I need boots.

 

[ozibloke]

I work in construction and wear Steel Blue boots, another Aussie made boot. They are the most comfortable work boot Ive ever worn. Before I found these I used to wear Olivers. Another good boot

They come with a comfort guarantee, that if within 30 days they are uncomfortable they will refund or replace the boots.

http://www.steelblue.com.au/index.aspx

Cant see if they are available in the U.S though

 

[BlueyM]

I will second the Steel Blue boots. I wear a pair of black steel toecap ankle length laceups, and they are the most comfortable work boots I have ever owned. Good quality leather, dual density soles that are just starting to show wear after nearly three years.
For the fire station I would go with the elastic sided slip on ankle boots for quick reaction times.
Don't think much of Redbacks, I looked at some once and they looked like farmer's boots, with very stiff leather. Probably OK once they were broken in.

 

[Ming65]

How's this for being counter cultural - I like Mack boots the best. I fnd they are the only work boot around with a stiff enough sole to protect my dodgy ankles. I fnd all the Aussie made boots too flexible.

 

[Harry Callahan]

Check your local phone book. Look for a Matco Tools dealer. They are "authorized" Redback dealers. Sadly, they sell at MSRP (same as Redback's own website), but at least this way you don't have to pay for shipping and you have the chance to actually try them on. They are great boots. Very durable and comfortable. I've been very happy with the UBBK model.