Irish Setter boots have a long and rich history, becoming synonymous with hunting and work. The brand is known for durable, comfortable, and functional designs. This article explores the history, styles, materials, care, and popular models of Irish Setter boots.
History of Irish Setter Boots
Red Wing Shoe Company created Irish Setter as a hunting boot brand. The name itself reflects this heritage. Some of Red Wing’s popular heritage boots, such as the 877 moc toe, started as Irish Setter designs. These models gained popularity among hunters and outdoorsmen.
Red Wing then established Irish Setter as a separate brand dedicated to hunting boots. The Irish Setter eventually found its way into job sites. Many individuals in the trade found the boots comfortable and functional. Recognizing this, Red Wing expanded the brand to include a work boot line. The Wingshooter ST is a popular model in this line.
Styles of Irish Setter Boots
Irish Setter offers diverse boot styles. These meet the needs of different activities and professions.
Hunting Boots: These boots emphasize waterproof construction and camouflage patterns. They provide support and protection in outdoor environments.
Work Boots: These boots prioritize safety, durability, and comfort. Many styles feature safety toes, slip-resistant outsoles, and electrical hazard protection.
Moc Toe Boots: Moc toe boots have a distinct stitched U-shaped design on the toe. They offer a roomy fit and are popular for both work and casual wear.
Wedge Sole Boots: Wedge soles provide even weight distribution and comfort on hard surfaces.
Pull-On Boots: Pull-on boots offer convenience and ease of use. They are often worn in agricultural or ranching settings.
Materials Used in Irish Setter Boots
Irish Setter boots are crafted from various materials chosen for their performance and durability.
Leather: Irish Setter uses globally sourced leather for most of its work boots. Full-grain leather is common, often with an embossed pattern. The Ashby model uses leather from Red Wing’s S.B. Foot tannery in Minnesota.
Outsoles: The brand uses a variety of outsoles for different conditions. Many boots have rubber outsoles. Vibram outsoles are common on lug sole boots. Dual-density wedge soles are available on Moc Toe styles like the Ashby and Wingshooter ST. These soles combine EVA foam for shock absorption and rubber for traction.
Waterproof Materials: Many Irish Setter boots have waterproof construction. This keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
Construction Methods
Irish Setter uses several construction methods to make its boots. These methods affect the boot’s durability, flexibility, and ability to be resoled.
Direct Attached: In this method, the outsole is glued to the leather upper. This design is flexible and lightweight. It is also common in waterproof boots.
Welted Direct Attach: The upper attaches to the sole similar to a traditional welted boot. However, the outsole and midsole are injection molded onto the welt. This design offers good durability but makes resoling difficult.
Goodyear Welt: This method involves stitching the midsole to a welt. The outsole is then glued to the midsole. On some Irish Setter boots, the outsole is stitched to the welt around the toe. Leather welts are easier to resole, while synthetic welts may only last for one or two resoles.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends the life of Irish Setter boots. Regular cleaning and conditioning are important.
Cleaning: Remove dirt with warm water and a brush. Dry the boots with a cloth. For heavily soiled areas, use Foam Leather Cleaner with a cloth or brush. Wipe away the cleaner with a damp cloth and allow the leather to dry.
Conditioning: Apply a light, even coat of All Natural Boot Oil, Mink Oil, or All Natural Leather Conditioner. Use fingers, a cloth, or a sponge.
Protecting: Lightly mist the boots with Leather Protector from six to eight inches away. Use a sweeping motion. Leather Protector shields against dirt and moisture and will not darken the footwear.
Popular Irish Setter Models
Several Irish Setter models have gained popularity for their quality and performance.
Wingshooter ST: This 6″ waterproof boot has a non-metallic safety toe. It offers slip resistance and electrical shock resistance.
Ashby: This Goodyear-welted boot is known for its durability. It handles tough jobs and is available at a reasonable price.
Crosby: Crosby boots feature a composite safety toe. They include an EVA midsole, a Diamond Tread rubber outsole, and waterproof protection.
MudTrek: This 17-inch camo rubber boot is waterproof. It keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
Irish Setter vs. Thorogood
Irish Setter and Thorogood are two popular work boot brands. Both offer durable boots, but they have differences.
Irish Setter vs. Thorogood
Irish Setter and Thorogood are two popular work boot brands. Both offer durable boots, but they have differences.
| Feature | Irish Setter | Thorogood |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Roomier fit, more spacious toe box | Runs narrower |
| Comfort | Good shock absorption | Good shock absorption |
| Arch Support | Ashby model offers better arch support | Not great arch support |
| Construction | Direct attached, welted direct attach, Goodyear welt | Direct attach, Goodyear welt |
| Outsoles | Rubber, Vibram, dual-density wedge soles | Polyurethane wedge soles, Vibram outsoles |
| Leather | Globally sourced, full-grain leather | US tanneries |
| Manufacturing | Made in Vietnam | Some made in the USA, some in the Dominican Republic |
| Price | Lower price point | Higher price point |
| Buying Experience | Readily available at Red Wing stores | Harder to find in brick-and-mortar stores |
Shock Absorption
Irish Setter boots often have a more relaxed and spacious toe box. Both brands offer good shock absorption. Irish Setter’s Ashby has better arch support. Irish Setter uses direct-attached, welted, and Goodyear welt construction. Thorogood uses direct attach and Goodyear welt construction.
Irish Setter uses rubber, Vibram, and dual-density wedge soles. Thorogood uses polyurethane wedge soles and Vibram outsoles. Irish Setter uses globally sourced, full-grain leather. Thorogood sources leather from US tanneries.
The Irish Setter has a lower price point. Thorogood has a higher price point. Irish Setter is readily available at Red Wing stores. Thorogood is harder to find in brick-and-mortar stores.
Sizing and Fit
Irish Setter boots generally fit true to size. It is best to determine the size using a Brannock device at a shoe store. Thorogood boots are known to run narrow. Many people find it better to order a wide size in Thorogood.
Are Irish Setter Boots Right for You?
Irish Setter boots offer a blend of durability, comfort, and value. Their long history and diverse styles make them a popular choice. Whether for hunting, work, or everyday wear, Irish Setter boots provide reliable performance. Consider the specific requirements before choosing a model. With proper care, Irish Setter boots will provide years of service.
Key Takeaways
- Irish Setter is a brand with a rich history and a strong reputation for quality.
- The brand offers a wide variety of styles, construction methods, and materials.
- Proper care and maintenance extend the life of Irish Setter boots.
- Irish Setter boot provide a good balance of durability, comfort, and value.
- Consider individual needs and preferences when choosing between Irish Setters and other brands.
