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We’ve worn our fair share of work boots over the years, and most of them fall squarely into one of two camps: rugged but clunky workhorses, or cozy but fragile pretenders. The Irish Setter Wingshooter ST promises something a bit different-a classic hunting boot heritage reworked into a modern, safety-rated work boot.On paper, it sounds almost too good too be true: full-grain waterproof leather, a non-metallic safety toe, a steel shank, and that unmistakable white wedge sole, all wrapped in the familiar Wingshooter styling.
Over the past several weeks, we’ve been putting the 6″ Wingshooter ST through its paces on concrete floors, in damp yards, and during long shifts that don’t always end when the whistle blows. We wanted to know if this boot is just a nostalgic nod to a beloved hunting icon, or if it truly holds its own against the demands of industrial and construction work.
In this review, we’ll walk through our first-hand experience with comfort, fit, durability, safety features, and day-to-day practicality, and help you decide whether the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST deserves a spot in your work lineup.
First Impressions of the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST Work Boot
when we first pulled these boots out of the box, the classic bird-hunting heritage was the first thing that hit us. The full-grain waterproof leather has that rich, slightly matte finish that feels both rugged and refined, and the contrast of the white wedge sole gives them a distinctive silhouette compared to typical work footwear. They look less like something destined for a dusty jobsite and more like a pair we’d be tempted to wear off the clock, yet every stitch and seam hints at purpose-built durability.
On foot, the transition from field to factory makes immediate sense. The non-metallic safety toe is barely noticeable in terms of bulk, and the steel midsole shank gives a reassuring sense of structure without weighing us down. The overall build feels solid but not stiff, with enough flexibility at the forefoot to move naturally while we walk. Our first minutes in them suggested a boot that aims to blend heritage style with everyday utility, offering features that stand out right away:
- Waterproof full-grain leather that doesn’t feel plasticky or over-treated
- White wedge sole for stable footing and smoother weight distribution
- Non-metallic safety toe for protection without the “clunky” feel
- Steel midsole shank for torsional support during long shifts
| First Available | July 1, 2024 |
| Customer Rating | 4.5 / 5 (3,005 reviews) |
| Category rank | #62 in Men’s Industrial & Construction Boots |
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How these Waterproof Safety Toe Boots Perform on the Job
On the job, we notice these boots feel like they were built for long shifts rather than just weekend wear. The full-grain,waterproof leather keeps our feet dry when we move between wet loading docks and indoor floors,and the non-metallic safety toe never trips a metal detector when we’re passing through secure areas. Underfoot, the white wedge sole grips surprisingly well on smooth concrete, while the steel midsole shank gives us a steady platform when we’re climbing ladders or working on uneven surfaces. We especially appreciate how the design borrows its comfort DNA from a hunting boot, so we get a broken-in feel much sooner than with many traditional work boots.
In daily use, these workhorses stand out for consistent support and reliable protection rather than flashy features. We can clock in, walk, climb, and crouch for hours without feeling like we’re dragging bricks on our feet. Key performance details we value include:
- Waterproof full-grain leather that shrugs off puddles and light rain
- Non-metallic safety toe that meets jobsite requirements without extra weight
- Steel shank for solid arch support on ladders and rough ground
- Wedge outsole that offers stable, flat-footed traction on factory floors
| Best for | Factory, warehouse, light construction |
| Protection | Non-metallic toe, steel shank |
| Comfort feel | Soft, supportive, all-day wear |
| Water resistance | Fully waterproof leather |
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Comfort Durability and Traction in Our Day to Day Wear
From the first few hours on our feet, we noticed how the full-grain, waterproof leather breaks in without breaking us down. The padding around the ankle and the sturdy yet responsive steel midsole shank give us that blend of support and flex we look for on long shifts. Even on damp mornings or when we move from office to factory floor, the waterproof build keeps our socks dry and our stride steady. We don’t feel pinched around the non-metallic safety toe either, wich is a welcome change from some bulkier work options that leave our toes feeling boxed in.
Where this boot really proves itself is in the sole. The white wedge design spreads out impact and grips surprisingly well on smooth concrete and dusty warehouse aisles, helping us stay sure-footed while hauling, climbing, or clocking overtime. After repeated wear,we’ve seen the upper hold its shape and the stitching stay tight,suggesting durability that matches the comfort level. To sum up our day-to-day experience:
| Feature | Daily Impact |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Leather | Dry feet in wet yards and shop floors |
| Non-Metallic Toe | Protection without extra weight |
| Wedge Sole | Smooth traction and cushioned steps |
- Comfort: Cushioned support that lasts through long shifts.
- Durability: Tough stitching and leather that hold up to daily grind.
- Traction: Reliable grip on concrete, shop floors, and light outdoor terrain.
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Who We Recommend These Wingshooter ST Boots For and Why
We recommend these boots for workers who split their time between the shop floor, the jobsite, and the outdoors, and who want classic upland-boot looks without giving up modern protection. The combination of full-grain waterproof leather, a non-metallic safety toe, and a steel midsole shank makes them a fit for light to medium industrial settings, warehouse work, and trades where long hours on hard surfaces are the norm. Those of us who appreciate a softer, more forgiving white wedge sole for standing and walking (rather than aggressive lugged traction for mud and rubble) will get the most from this design.
- Best for: Factory, warehouse, light construction, farm and outdoor service work
- Ideal wearers: People on their feet all day who value comfort and heritage styling
- Environment: Wet or unpredictable weather where waterproof leather really matters
- Not ideal for: Heavy demolition, extreme rough terrain, or jobs needing a full metal toe cap
| Profile | Why It Fits |
|---|---|
| Shop & warehouse crews | Cushioned wedge sole tames concrete floors |
| Tradespeople & techs | Non-metal toe passes safety checks, avoids metal detectors |
| Outdoor workers | waterproof leather handles wet grass, light rain, and slush |
For anyone who wants a work-ready boot with hunting-boot heritage and comfort, this pair sits in a sweet spot between style and utility. If that sounds like what we have been looking for on our own jobsites, it is indeed worth a closer look. Check current price and reviews on Amazon
Customer Reviews Analysis
Customer Reviews Analysis
after reading through dozens of buyer impressions of the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST, we noticed a clear pattern: these boots inspire long-term loyalty. Many reviewers are either on their second, third, or even fourth pair, and they tend to talk less about “liking” the boots and more about depending on them day in, day out.
Overall Sentiment
Customer feedback skews strongly positive. Words like “best boots ever,” “game changing,” and “well worth the money” appear repeatedly. Complaints exist, but they tend to be small, practical caveats (sole thickness for driving, leather scuffing on the toe, boot height) rather than deal-breakers.
| Aspect | Customer Mood | Typical Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Very Positive | “Most comfortable work boots I’ve had” |
| Durability | Positive | Holds up well in rough work |
| Fit & Sizing | Positive | True to size, roomy toe box |
| Style | Very Positive | Clean, professional, lots of compliments |
| Drawbacks | mild | Thick sole, tall shaft, toe scuffing |
Comfort & Break-in
Comfort is easily the star of the reviews.Several owners describe the Wingshooter ST as comfortable “right out of the box” or needing only about a week of break-in. One reviewer with a 4E-width foot mentions that once they passed that first week, the boots became “really comfortable” even for a very wide foot.
We see multiple themes:
- Minimal break-in for most: Many people slip them on and immediately feel relief, especially those on their feet all day (plumbers, electricians, construction workers).
- Support under load: users who walk 3-6 miles a day or stand on ladders for extended periods say their feet don’t ache by the end of a shift.
- Roomy safety toe: The non-metallic toe gets praise for not feeling “bulky or awkward,” with enough room in the toe box to avoid that cramped steel-toe feeling.
| comfort Point | Customer Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Out-of-box feel | Comfortable immediately or within a week |
| All-day wear | Feet “never hurt at the end of the day” |
| Wide feet | Works well in wide widths (4E reported) |
Fit, Sizing & Height
Most reviewers report that the Wingshooter ST runs true to size with a generous toe box.one buyer followed the crowd and went a half size down but chose a wide width, and was “very happy” with the fit; that hints at a slightly forgiving last that can accommodate minor size adjustments.
The 6″ height divides opinion slightly:
- Some users like the ankle support and taller profile, especially for uneven surfaces and ladder work.
- At least one plumber finds them a bit too tall for personal comfort and worries about potential ankle irritation, though they also admit they chose that height knowingly.
An interesting side note from multiple comments: these boots “feel like I grew 2-3 inches.” The thick sole and overall stack height are noticeable enough that wearers call it out.
Work Environments & Traction
While the exact job titles vary, the work environments look similar: construction sites, plumbing, electrical work, outdoor field work, frequent ladder use, and plenty of rough weather. Across these scenarios,the Wingshooter ST earns consistent praise for traction and stability.
- Surfaces: Users call out sure-footed grip on dirt, gravel, grass, wet ground, and ladder rungs.
- Ladder performance: One electrician specifically notes how well the sole supports the arch on ladder rungs, which is not a trivial detail when you’re climbing all day.
- Wet conditions: Multiple reviewers mention “no leaks” and good performance in bad weather.
The only downside tied to the sole is its thickness. At least one driver finds the chunky platform makes operating a manual transmission more challenging, a tradeoff that comes with the territory for a heavily built work boot.
Durability & Wear Patterns
Durability feedback skews positive, especially from people who traditionally wear through boots quickly.A construction worker’s parent notes that this is the longest-lasting pair their son has owned, despite his habit of destroying boots in harsh conditions. Another long-time user mentions they are on their fourth pair since 1990, which speaks to both longevity and repeat satisfaction.
The only recurring weak spot is the leather over the safety toe:
- Users who spend a lot of time on their knees (for example, electricians working on low outlets) report that toe leather can wear through faster than the rest of the boot.
- One owner preemptively recommends using a product like Tough Toe to protect the front, though they admit this solution isn’t the prettiest.
Outside of that specific wear area, durability remarks are largely positive: the boots stand up to “bad weather and roughness” and last longer than competing brands some buyers have tried over the years.
| Durability Area | Feedback |
|---|---|
| Uppers & stitching | Thick, strong leather; solid stitching |
| Sole | Thick, long-wearing; can feel bulky for driving |
| Toe leather | Prone to scuff/wear if kneeling a lot |
Style & Everyday Wear
For a safety-toe work boot, the Wingshooter ST gets surprising love on the style front. The classic Wingshooter look-clean lines, quality leather, contrast stitching-comes up again and again.
- several owners say they receive compliments from coworkers and people in the field.
- Reviewers call them “hella good looking,” “clean and professional,” and “great shoes” despite the clearly work-oriented design.
- A few people hint that they’d consider rebuying the exact same pair once they wear out, not just for performance but because they like the way they look.
For anyone who needs a boot that can live both on the jobsite and in more casual settings without looking out of place, customer feedback suggests these fit that niche nicely.
Waterproofing & Weather Performance
Several reviewers directly mention waterproof performance, and the pattern is simple: no leaks so far.Users in rainy weather and rough outdoor conditions report dry feet and reliable protection. Combined with the strong traction, this makes the Wingshooter ST a solid option for wet, muddy, or changeable climates.
Price, Value & Repeat Buying
At under $250 (and often less when bought online), customer sentiment leans heavily toward the idea that these boots punch above their price point. People call them “well worth the money” and a “must buy” for the quality and comfort delivered.
- Value vs. premium handmade boots: One reviewer acknowledges they’re not ultra-high-end handmade boots, but still says they’re “game changing” for fit and comfort at this price.
- Amazon vs. in-store: A few buyers mention finding better prices online than in brick-and-mortar shops, improving the value proposition further.
- Repeat purchases: Multiple owners plan to buy again or are already on their second,third,or fourth pair.
| Value Indicator | What customers Do |
|---|---|
| Price satisfaction | Describe them as “worth it” under $250 |
| Repeat buyers | Several on 2nd-4th pair |
| Future intent | Many plan to rebuy same model |
Common Drawbacks & Who Should Think Twice
Even with overwhelmingly positive feedback, these boots aren’t perfect for everyone. Based on user comments,we’d flag a few potential sticking points:
- Thick sole for driving: If you spend hours a day working a clutch in a manual transmission,the outsole might feel overly chunky.
- Kneeling-heavy work: Electricians, HVAC techs, or anyone who crawls and kneels a lot will want to protect the toe leather or accept that it’ll scuff faster.
- Shaft height comfort: If your ankles are sensitive or you prefer a lower cut, the 6″ height might feel tall until you adjust, or may just be more boot than you like.
Our Takeaway from the Crowd
Putting all the reviews together, we see a boot that consistently delivers on the fundamentals that matter most to working feet: comfort, support, traction, and durability, with waterproofing that dose what it promises. Style and value emerge as welcome bonuses rather than afterthoughts.
If your days involve long hours on your feet, ladders, wet or uneven ground, and you need a safety toe that doesn’t feel like a cinder block, customer feedback strongly suggests the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST is more than just hype-it’s a proven workhorse for a wide range of trades.
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons: How the Wingshooter ST Performed on the Job
After putting the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST to work on real job sites,here’s how the boot stacked up for us.
Pros
- Comfortable “out of the box” feel – Minimal break-in for a full‑grain leather boot; we stayed on our feet all day without hot spots.
- Waterproof performance – Wet grass, shallow puddles, and slushy parking lots didn’t seep through during our shifts.
- Non-metallic safety toe – Meets safety requirements without setting off metal detectors or adding excess weight up front.
- Supportive steel shank – Underfoot support feels solid when climbing ladders or working on uneven ground.
- Iconic Wingshooter style – Looks more like a classic upland boot than a clunky work boot,which we appreciated off the clock.
- White wedge sole comfort - Cushioned feel with smooth transitions when we’re walking miles on hard floors.
- Quite on factory floors – The wedge outsole stayed relatively quiet and grippy on concrete and coated surfaces.
Cons
- Wedge sole limitations - Great on flat concrete and packed ground, but not our first choice for loose gravel or muddy slopes.
- 6″ height is a trade‑off – Lighter and more mobile, but offers less ankle coverage than an 8″ work boot.
- White sole shows wear fast – Scuffs, stains, and shop grime become visible quickly, especially in dirty environments.
- Runs warm for some – The waterproof build and full leather upper can feel toasty in hot, humid conditions.
- Not the lightest in its class - The non‑metallic toe trims weight, but the steel shank and leather still give it a significant feel.
At a Glance
| Category | Our Take |
|---|---|
| Comfort | All‑day wearable with minimal break‑in |
| Protection | Non‑metallic toe + steel shank feel reassuring |
| Terrain Fit | Excellent on flat floors; average in loose terrain |
| Style | Classic hunting‑boot looks in a work‑ready build |
| Best For | Factory floors, light construction, shop work |
Q&A
Q&A: Irish Setter Wingshooter ST Work Boot
Q: Who is the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST really for?
We’d say it’s ideal for tradespeople, factory and warehouse workers, and anyone who wants a serious work boot with a more ”heritage” look. If you move between job sites and everyday errands, it bridges that gap nicely.
Q: How protective is the non‑metallic safety toe?
It’s rated for impact and compression like a traditional steel toe, but without adding as much weight or setting off metal detectors. On the floor, we never felt under‑protected, even around pallets, tools, and rolling carts.
Q: Does the waterproofing actually work, or just on paper?
We walked through wet grass, shallow puddles, and a few hose-downs. the full‑grain waterproof leather and seam construction kept our feet dry in those conditions. It’s built for wet workdays, not standing in ankle‑deep water for hours.
Q: How comfortable are they for all‑day wear?
There’s a break‑in period-less than a week for us-but after that, they settle into a comfortable, supportive fit. The 6″ height gives decent ankle support, the wedge sole spreads out pressure, and the interior feels more like a hunting boot than a stiff industrial boot.
Q: What’s the deal with the white wedge sole-does it hold up on job sites?
The white wedge sole is grippy and stable on smooth concrete and wood, and it distributes weight evenly, which our feet appreciated by late afternoon.It’s not a deep‑lug sole, so for muddy, uneven ground it’s less ideal than a traditional heeled work boot.
Q: Is there a steel shank, and can we feel it?
Yes, there’s a steel midsole shank. We noticed the support,not the hardware. It helps prevent foot fatigue when we were on ladders, scaffolding, or standing in one spot for long periods.
Q: How heavy are these compared to typical steel‑toe boots?
They’re lighter than a lot of bulky steel‑toe work boots we’ve worn, thanks to the non‑metallic toe and wedge construction, but they’re still substantial enough to feel like real work footwear, not casual shoes.
Q: Do they run true to size?
On our feet, they ran close to true, with a slightly snug feel at first that eased up after a few days. If you’re between sizes or wear thick work socks, we’d lean a half‑size up.
Q: Are they comfortable in hot or cold weather?
They’re uninsulated, so in warm to mild weather our feet stayed reasonably comfortable, especially with good socks. In winter conditions, we’d pair them with thicker wool socks or reach for something insulated.
Q: Are these boots good for people who are on concrete all day?
That’s actually where they shine. The combination of wedge sole and shank support worked well on hard, flat surfaces like factory floors and shipping docks.
Q: How’s the traction? Do we slip around?
On dry and mildly wet concrete, traction was solid. The wedge sole did fine with sawdust and light shop debris.On oily or heavily greased surfaces,we still stepped carefully; they’re not magic on slick industrial spills.
Q: How durable do they feel?
The full‑grain leather feels thick and structured,and the stitching is tidy and consistent. After normal job‑site abuse-kneeling, scuffing, hauling-we saw cosmetic scuffs but no structural issues. We’d expect them to be a multi‑season boot with basic care.
Q: Can we wear them off the clock without looking like we’re still at work?
yes. The design leans heavily into Irish Setter’s hunting heritage, so they read more like a classic moc‑toe wedge boot than a clunky safety boot. We wore them with jeans after hours and they didn’t look out of place.
Q: Do these boots have electrical‑hazard (EH) protection?
This specific pair uses a non‑metallic safety toe and steel shank, but EH rating depends on the exact model certification. we always check the label or manufacturer’s spec sheet before relying on any boot for electrical work.
Q: How does the Wingshooter ST compare to the original hunting Wingshooter?
The work version keeps the same recognizable moc‑toe style and leather feel but adds the non‑metallic safety toe, steel shank, and a more job‑ready build. It’s essentially the work-boot cousin of the classic field boot.
Q: Are they worth the price?
Given the workmanship, comfort, and dual use (on the job and off), we found the value solid-especially if you want one boot that covers both work and casual wear.If you only need a pure beater boot for heavy mud and harsh chemicals, there may be more specialized options.
Q: What are real buyers saying?
At the time we checked, they were sitting around 4.5 out of 5 stars from thousands of reviews. most praise the comfort and looks; the few complaints tend to focus on sizing quirks or expected wear from hard use.
Q: What about warranty or returns?
Irish Setter provides warranty details through their official channel (linked on retailer pages). Before buying, we always look at both the manufacturer’s warranty and the store’s return policy, especially for footwear that might need a size swap.
Q: Would we buy the Wingshooter ST again?
For jobs on concrete, shop floors, or light outdoor work where we still care about how a boot looks after hours, yes. It earns its spot in a work rotation-especially for those of us who like a bit of heritage style with our safety toe.
Unleash Your True Potential
As we lace these up one last time, it’s clear the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST isn’t just a hunting classic in disguise-it’s a capable, modern work boot that quietly gets on with the job. The full-grain waterproof leather,stable steel shank,and surprisingly comfortable wedge sole make long shifts feel more manageable,while the non-metallic safety toe brings needed protection without the weight or bulk some of us dread.Are they perfect for every trade and every foot? Probably not. But for anyone who wants a heritage-inspired boot that can move from muddy sites to concrete floors and still look at home, the Wingshooter ST earns its place in our rotation.
If you’re ready to see how they hold up in your own workday,you can check current pricing,sizes,and more details here:
See the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST on Amazon
