This is the 2nd set of Red Wings I've ever purchased. Just a heads up, the reviews are true. These shoes run large. Most people go down 1 size but if you wear a 9.5, it's best to size down to an 8. Yes..........1.5 sizes down. Don't ask me why because I really don't know. I had spent a good hour at a Red Wing store getting fitted and trying on various sizes. Size 8 if you normally wear a 9.5.Thank you Pierelli Global Brands for sending me the boots quickly and at a very good price.Now about the boots........it will suck the first 2-4 weeks of wearing them. When new, the leather is stiff and quite unforgiving. Especially if you are like me where I had to size down 1.5, it starts off pretty tight. However, be patient with them. Put on a layer of boot oil to help break them in, wear some thick socks, and nurture it a bit. The insole will start to conform to your feet and the leather will stretch and soften. How quickly it breaks in will depend on how often you wear them but I notice a change after wearing them everyday for about two weeks. Once that happens, these things will be your best friend. The shoes will feel like they were custom molded to your feet. And the beauty is that they get more comfortable the more you wear it. I had literally hiked 3 miles in my old pair of 9111 Classic Round models without a problem. My best advice is to try them on first! Either at a Redwing store, or somewhere that carries Redwing shoes with a knowledgeable salesman. Just remember the leather will stretch so make sure they fit snug brand new.Specifics about this model, they are very stylish and versatile. You can wear them with some dark jeans for a night out, or it can work with faded jeans for casual, or whatever. You can even wear these out to work all day, come home, polish it up and put them back on for a date. It's very very versatile! I purchased the black leather model and I almost don't want to use them because it might seem a little too formal. It also looks delicate which makes me not want to wear it too much to scuff up. Don't get me wrong, they are by no means delicate. These babies can take a beating and then some. But it just looks so clean when new I just want to baby them. Given another 6 months, I'll probably be living in these things.Another thing to keep in mind about the Iron Rangers is that they have no traction in the snow. A picture of sole will tell you everything. It does not have any lugs/treads at the bottom which keeps it from getting decent traction on the ground. They are made to be "work boots" but I wonder sometimes because of the sole. Either way, just make sure you be careful when the weather acts up.Lastly, make sure you get yourself some type of boot oil or polish to treat it every month. These things are made of thick leather which will last forever if periodically cared for. Most dirt and debris can be solved with a wet cloth and a brush, but if you live in a city where there is constant exposure to road salt, oils, and chemicals, its best to oil them up regularly.Overall, these things are fantastic! I would recommend these to anyone looking for a stylish boot that will last for years. If you are looking for something comfortable immediately out of the box, then they might not be for you. But otherwise, I'll gladly recommend them. They are pretty pricey. That is about all the advice I can give that hasn't been said already on other reviews. Hope this helps.
