* SHOP THE IRON RANGER:
* SHOP THE BLACKSMITH:
* FULL ARTICLE + PICTURES:
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Not just the toecap! Guys often ask what the difference is between Red Wing’s two most popular boots and while it’s easy to think that it’s just it’s just the toecap but nay, I’ve identified no less than ten differences. They are!
00:00 Iron Ranger vs Blacksmith
00:40 The Similarities
01:13 1. The Toecap
01:30 2. The Price
01:38 3. The Laces
02:00 4. The Eyelets
02:27 5. The Collar
03:00 6. The Height
03:10 7. The Backstay
03:50 8. The Triple Stitching
04:16 9. The Available Widths
05:03 10. The Leathers
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#redwing #redwingironranger #redwingblacksmith #ironrangervsblacksmith…(read more)
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When it comes to high-quality, durable work boots, Red Wing is a name that often comes to mind. The Iron Ranger and Blacksmith are two of Red Wing’s most popular boot styles, both known for their rugged construction and timeless design. But what are the key differences between these two iconic boots? Let’s take a closer look at 10 important distinctions between the Red Wing Iron Ranger and Blacksmith.
1. Silhouette:
One of the most noticeable differences between the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith is their silhouette. The Iron Ranger features a cap toe design, giving it a more rugged, utility-inspired look. The Blacksmith, on the other hand, has a more refined silhouette with a plain toe and sleeker profile.
2. Leather:
Both the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith are crafted from high-quality, oil-tanned leather. However, the leather used in each boot is slightly different. The Iron Ranger is made from premium, full-grain leather that is known for its durability and aging beautifully over time. The Blacksmith, on the other hand, is constructed from water-resistant, roughout leather with a suede-like texture.
3. Hardware:
Another key difference between the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith is the hardware used on each boot. The Iron Ranger is equipped with nickel eyelets and speed hooks, providing a secure fit and easy on/off. In comparison, the Blacksmith features gunmetal eyelets and hooks for a more subdued, understated look.
4. Sole:
The sole of a work boot is crucial for comfort and durability. The Iron Ranger features a Vibram® mini-lug outsole, providing excellent traction and support for all-day wear. The Blacksmith, on the other hand, is equipped with a nitrile cork sole, offering a more flexible and lightweight feel while still providing traction on various surfaces.
5. Lacing:
The lacing system on the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith is another key point of differentiation. The Iron Ranger has a traditional 7-eyelet lace-up design that allows for a secure and adjustable fit. The Blacksmith, however, features a speed hook lacing system that makes it quicker and easier to put on and take off the boots.
6. Purpose:
While both the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith are versatile work boots, they are designed with slightly different purposes in mind. The Iron Ranger is geared towards heavy-duty work and outdoor activities, thanks to its cap toe design and durable construction. The Blacksmith, on the other hand, is more suited for everyday wear and casual settings with its plain toe silhouette and sleek profile.
7. Color options:
Both the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith are available in a range of color options. The Iron Ranger comes in classic shades like Amber Harness and Black Harness, while the Blacksmith offers unique colors like Copper Rough & Tough and Oxblood Mesa.
8. Fit:
When it comes to fit, the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith have slightly different sizing. The Iron Ranger tends to run slightly larger and wider, while the Blacksmith has a more snug and narrow fit. It’s recommended to try on both styles to determine the best size for your foot shape and arch.
9. Price:
The price difference between the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith may also be a determining factor for some buyers. The Iron Ranger typically comes at a higher price point due to its premium leather, durable construction, and iconic design. The Blacksmith, being a more casual and versatile boot, is often priced lower than the Iron Ranger.
10. Overall aesthetic:
Finally, the overall aesthetic of the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith is a matter of personal preference. The Iron Ranger is known for its rugged, heritage-inspired look that exudes toughness and durability. The Blacksmith, on the other hand, has a more refined and polished appearance that can easily transition from workwear to casual wear.
In conclusion, the Red Wing Iron Ranger and Blacksmith are both exceptional work boots with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you prefer the rugged utility of the Iron Ranger or the refined simplicity of the Blacksmith, Red Wing has a boot style that will suit your individual style and performance requirements.
✰ Also, check out my 10 Best Boots On the Market: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kuHyyefNGE
Wow learned a lot. Thanks
If only the blacksmith came in 14s. I like them without a toe cap
Thanks for the great content! I picked up my blacksmiths in black this week. Sooooo good!
How can you take advice about boots from someone who doesn’t even know how to treat and condition them
I really hate the look of the heels on Red Wings.
soaked them iron rangers in wd40
I bought the French brand RedSkin boots and it is awesome. Almost eight years still perfect condition.
Every boot video says to size down. I went to the Red Wing store and they did the foot scan machine on me along with the Braddock device. Both put me at a solid 10.5 C and they recommended a size 11. A 10 or 10.5 would have been very tight IMO. My first pay of Thursdays I sized down to a 10.5 but they returned them for an 11. Also, no one mentions sock thickness in all the boot reviews, huge different from a thin dress sock compared to a Merino wood hunting sock. I can't be the only one who does not "size down" unless a brand is know to run very large.
Doesn’t the toe cap make the IR a little wider? That’s what I’m noticing.
I was looking for my first pair of RW today and I was leaning towards the IR but seeing the BS in store I leaned towards it and ended up buying them instead
Definitely go with the black smith if you want something you can wear to work or out to a casual/gathering event of some kind. It passes as a work boot and a dress boot
i wonder if you wiped the over conditioned iron ranger with witch hazel; that it may remove some of the oils. Then you can retreat them. Witch hazel is an astringent, which you probably know. i am just wondering if it could remove oils without damaging the leather. we use it on out face, so it should not damage the leather.
I worry what it says about me that I am mesmerized by a profoundly nerdy examination of the differences between two boots I do not own. I found it a deep and satisfying essay.
I was a bit disappointed on the Iron Rangers; the toe cap does not go all the way to the stitching, (hence it looks like a clown shoe). If they would of re-enforced the toe cap to the “actual”stitching, then it would be all cool! I’ll probably get my Iron Rangers added a composite toe cap (and make sure it goes to the true stitching).
If I was in the market for a service type boot, then the blacksmith would be my choice. With that said, I dont actually like lace service boots all that much. I do have moc toe 1907s, and they are worn fairly regularly. Most of the time however I prefer chelsea boots. Red Wing weekenders for super casual, work chelsea for work, and a nice roughout or suede for evenings out with my wife. I occasionally wear a chukka, but they always seem a bit loose to me. I have the correct size, but they arent a supportive feeling boot.
I really don’t like the laces that come with the Iron Ranger.
Bought my 1st pair of RW's!!! It is the IR's in Black. Worn them for a total of 3 days and break-in doesn't seem as bad as some have described. On my feet for 6 to 8 hrs a day and very tolerable. Very good quality and happy with my purchase. Actually thinking of getting another pair in Rough and Tough. Went a 1/2 size down and EE, Fits Perfect!!! Contemplated Blacksmiths at the time but Love the IR's.
Great info! I wear a EE & you made it a simple choice for me. Thanks!
why oh why are the blacksmith's not available for women?
For my first pair of RW, I went to look at Iron Rangers but went home with a pair of Blacksmiths. Aesthetically more pleasing, but they took months of daily wear to break in, and creases a little too much. I keep them oiled so they are a shade or two darker than its original copper color.
goin with the blacksmiths. they look better and heard their mor comfortable compared to them rangers. blacksmith is clearly the winner
As a guy with around 25 pairs of Red Wings…Iron Ranger, Blacksmith, and Beckman (mostly), there is one other thing you need to know about Blacksmith that I have experienced, which is not an issue with the Iron Ranger. I have a high arch, and for me, I can pull on a pair of Iron Rangers, with no difficulty. But, with my Blacksmiths, I must use a shoe horn to get into the boot. No issues once my foot gets into the boot, but without the shoe horn, I am not able to wear my Blacksmiths. So, if you have a high arch, and want to rock the Blacksmiths, the 10ish bucks for a Red Wing shoe horn is money well spent.
Great delineation!Thank you!
exactly what is the color of the Blacksmiths? copper? thank you
Impressive single leg squat! 😉
10 and up looks like clown shoes. Under 10 looks ok.
The Blacksmith really seems like a shorter version of the Harvester
The only difference you should know is that you should get the iron ranger.
I’m pretty sure you already know this but if you use saddle soap it will definitely restore the original color. You may have to do it a couple times but it will work.