England may have its Doc Martens and Australia has its Blundstones, but America’s boot is the Red Wing 877. Worn by countless workers, farmers, hunters and hipsters since its introduction in 1953, the 877 is revered for its comfort, durability and timeless styling. Still made in Red Wing, Minnesota with little changed for 60 years, this is a boot that inspires loyalty in its owners. On a recent visit to the Red Wing factory, we saw racks and racks of boots, in various stages of patina, waiting for new soles and laces. These are boots that America built and the boots that helped build America.
Photo by Gishani for Gear Patrol