RecognitionOne395 t1_j1tfrq7 wrote on December 27, 2022 at 6:38 AM

Sorrell are absolute garbage now. Had a pair that barely lasted one winter before the rubber toe area started cracking (where it creases from walking). Bought at the end of a winter. Worn the next winter so they were not covered by the 12 month warranty. Got to love that 12 month warranty on a pair of $160 boots. Especially considering they were worn no more than 100 times.

Srs_Bizz t1_j1uid93 wrote on December 27, 2022 at 2:29 PM

Of the brands mentioned, I think you can be choosey and find something that will meet the need. Single-piece leather construction boots... or as close as you can get to that... will be darn close to BIFL if not truly BIFL when maintained correctly. Choose good boot maintenance products with nontoxic qualities, keep your boots cleaned and well oiled to prevent water intrusion, and you should have a great pair for a very long time.

I personally sprung for Asolo boots a while back, and those look nearly as good as they did when purchased nearly 15 years ago. I use these to traverse hard ice, snow, mud, and everything in between. Manage the woodlot on my property. Scuff them against rocks on occasion when hiking too. They just keep going! They are thick leather, and with a thick pair of winter socks I've been comfortable down to -20F.

But you don't have to buy Asolo to get that, other companies also produce single-piece leather boots with minimal stitching. Remember, stitching = increased weakness in the material. Good luck!

DrKennethNoisewater- t1_j1wm1vl wrote on December 27, 2022 at 11:06 PM

I wear single piece leather boots all winter in Wisconsin with good socks. But if someone is looking for insulated and considering LL Bean and snow, not sure how great it’d be. I wear Chippewa Apache 6” or Thorogood Moc toes (both steel toes) and I’m fine. But if I’m in deep snow or outside for extended periods of time I use my Rocky’s