Fall Boot Series: Red Wing Beckman Round

My Beckman's are size
9.5
My other sizes are:
Allen Edmonds 10
Thorogood 10
Clarks Desert Boots 10
Converse Jack Purcell 10.5
Wolverine 1000 Mile 9
Chippewa 9.5

This is a brand that needs no introduction. Red Wing’s are universally revered by farmers and dandy urbanites alike. Charles Beckman founded his shoe company in 1905 in Red Wing, Minnesota when he couldn’t find boots that could slosh through the muddy streets of his town while having a style that matched his merchant status. Thus a brand renowned for both durability and aesthetic was born.

These are the 9011 Beckman Round in Blackcherry Featherstone Leather. Named after Red Wing’s founder, the Beckman line is a part of the company’s Heritage collection, which is designed and built just as they were originally, 50, 60, and in some cases over 80 years ago. Red Wing still makes their boots with a triple stitch ensuring durability by using 100-year-old Puritan sewing machines. These machines melt latex onto the thread while sewing, making the boots more water-resistant. Red Wing has an in-house team dedicated to maintaining the finicky century old machines with parts they make themselves.

Because of their original design, Red Wing’s have a reputation for requiring a breaking-in period. I found that to be true on my Red Wing 875’s, but the 9011’s pleasantly surprised me. Snug in all the right ways, I got rid of any heel slippage by using the lock lacing technique I mentioned a few weeks ago. If you find them to be too stiff right out of the box that can be easily fixed with some inserts.

The sole is the Vibram Roccia, a version of their Carrarmato sole – the world’s first mountaineering sole made of vulcanized rubber invented over 70 years ago. The lugs on the sole aren’t super thick, but they are a nice alternative to other boots in the class which feature flat leather or smooth rubber soles. The Beckman’s have Goodyear construction, and the full grain leather is from SB Foot Tannery, Red Wing’s own leather tannery.

Still proudly made in America, Red Wing’s may be a bit more expensive than other options, but just like with Allen Edmonds dress shoes, you’re getting what you pay for.

Pick up a pair on Amazon for $340.

Primer's Fall Boot Series

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Andrew Snavely

Andrew founded Primer in 2008 and brings 15+ years of men's style expertise. Known for his practical, relatable approach to style and self-development, he has been a recognized speaker at conferences and has styled work for top brands. Off-duty, he loves photography & editing, and enjoys road trips with his dog, Leela. Raised in rural Pennsylvania, educated in DC, and living in LA for nearly 20 years, Andrew's diverse experiences shape the relatable and real-world advice that has helped millions through Primer. On Instagram: @andrewsnavely and @primermagazine.