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We’ve worn enough so‑called “work” boots to know that a safety toe and a rugged tread don’t automatically add up to a boot we actually want on our feet for ten‑hour days. That’s why the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST caught our attention. On paper, it promises the best of both worlds: the classic, heritage look of a hunting boot paired wiht the protection and performance we need on the job-waterproofing, a non‑metallic safety toe, and a slip‑ and oil‑resistant wedge sole.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been putting the 8″ Wingshooter ST through it’s paces in wet ground, oily concrete, and long shifts on hard surfaces. we were curious to see whether Irish Setter realy managed to turn a beloved hunting icon into a serious workhorse,or if this was just a style play with a few safety features tacked on.In this review, we’ll walk through how the boot actually feels, how it holds up, and where it shines-and stumbles-once you get past the specs and into real‑world use.
Our first Days in the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST Work Boots
Our first days in these boots had us on mixed terrain-from slick shop floors to damp job sites-and they handled each surface with surprising ease. The nonmarking Traction Tred wedge sole gripped wet concrete and oily patches better then we expected, giving us confidence when hauling gear or climbing short ladders.We noticed how light they felt for a safety style, thanks to the nonmetallic toe, and there was no awkward break-in period beyond the usual snugness on day one. The UltraDry waterproof system kept our socks dry through puddles and light rain, while the moisture-wicking lining prevented that swampy feeling during longer shifts.
as the hours added up, we started to appreciate small details that don’t show up on a spec sheet.The cushioning in the midsole softened hard landings when we stepped off pallets or tailgates, and the ankle support kept fatigue in check by the end of the day. We found them quiet underfoot as well,which is a nice bonus in echoing warehouses and shop corridors. Early impressions suggest these are built not just for protection, but for long, steady days where comfort really matters.
- Traction: Secure footing on wet and oily surfaces
- Comfort: Minimal break-in with cushioned support
- Protection: Lightweight, nonmetallic safety toe
- Weather: Waterproof upper with breathable lining
| Feature | our Take After a Few Days |
| Grip | Reliable on slick shop floors |
| Cushioning | Soft under heel, firm under arch |
| Waterproofing | Dry socks in steady drizzle |
| Weight | Surprisingly light for a safety boot |
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Living With the Wingshooter ST Waterproof Protection and All Day Comfort
Once we laced these up for a full shift, the waterproof protection was the first thing we noticed. The UltraDry system pulls moisture away from our socks while sealing out rain, wash-down hoses, and slushy job sites, so our feet stay dry instead of clammy. Paired with the nonmarking rubber/EVA Traction Tred wedge, we get steady footing on slick concrete, oily shop floors, and wet grass without feeling weighed down. Even with the added coverage of the 8-inch height, the boot moves with us rather of fighting every step, which matters when we’re climbing ladders, crouching, or walking long stretches of pavement.
Comfort over a long day comes from the way all the pieces work together rather than a single feature. The non-metallic safety toe disappears on foot, giving us room up front without the cold bite of steel, and the cushioned midsole absorbs the pounding from gravel and rebar.We’ve found them practical for a range of tasks:
- Outdoor crews working in wet grass, mud, or light snow
- Industrial floors where oil and water slicks are common
- Tradespeople who need protection without loud metal detectors
| Waterproof Tech | UltraDry lining keeps feet dry all shift |
| Toe Protection | Non-metallic safety toe, roomy and low profile |
| Sole Performance | Rubber/EVA wedge with oil & slip resistance |
| All-Day Wear | Supportive, cushioned, and surprisingly light |
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How the Non Metallic Safety Toe and 8 Inch Support Hold up on Tough jobs
When we put the non-metallic safety toe through long days on concrete, rebar grids, and greasy shop floors, it impressed us with how quietly it did its job. There’s no cold transfer in winter like we get from traditional steel, and it never set off metal detectors on secured sites, which is a real time-saver. The toe box feels roomy enough to avoid that cramped, end-of-shift ache, yet still gives us the confidence to kneel, climb, and haul without worrying about dropped tools or rolling materials. Paired with the nonmarking rubber/EVA Traction Tred wedge sole, the protection doesn’t feel like a hard shell stuck on a stiff boot-it blends into a platform that’s light, responsive, and built for balance.
The 8-inch height shows its value once we’re on uneven ground or moving across slick, oil-prone surfaces. That extra shaft coverage hugs the ankle and lower leg, giving us a supportive wrap that cuts down on fatigue, especially when we’re side-hilling, climbing ladders, or carrying heavy loads. Combined with UltraDry waterproofing and the moisture-wicking lining, we can slog through wet grass, shallow puddles, and damp shop floors without feeling that slow, dreaded soak-through. On tough jobs, the whole package works together so we get:
- Toe protection that avoids the bulk and chill of metal
- 8-inch support that stabilizes ankles on ladders and loose ground
- Slip and oil resistance from the Traction Tred wedge sole
- All-day dryness thanks to waterproof, moisture-wicking construction
| Feature | On-the-Job Benefit |
| Non-metallic toe | Protection without detector hassles |
| 8″ shaft height | Better ankle and lower-leg support |
| rubber/EVA wedge sole | Secure footing on slick, oily floors |
| UltraDry tech | Dry, comfortable feet in wet conditions |
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When We Recommend the Wingshooter ST Boots and When We Would Pass
We recommend these boots for anyone who spends long hours on slick shop floors, oily concrete, or wet outdoor job sites and needs reliable safety features without the clunky feel of traditional steel toes. The non-metallic safety toe offers solid protection while staying lighter and less conductive, and the rubber/EVA Traction Tred wedge sole really shines where slip and oil resistance are critical. Thanks to UltraDry technology, with its moisture-wicking lining and waterproof construction, we also see them as a strong match for workers who face changing weather or damp environments but still want the familiar comfort and look of a classic upland-style boot.
| Best Fit For | Indoor & outdoor trades, light industrial, service pros |
| We’d Think Twice If | You need heavy-duty toe impact resistance beyond standard ratings, or a boot for extreme abrasion and harsh chemicals |
- We’d choose them when comfort, slip resistance, and waterproofing matter as much as toe protection-especially for carpenters, maintenance crews, delivery workers, and supervisors moving between office and field.
- We’d probably pass if our work involved constant exposure to sharp debris, molten metal, or aggressive solvents where specialized PPE or a more armored, lug-soled boot is required.
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Customer Reviews Analysis
Customer Reviews Analysis
As we sifted through customer feedback on the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST, a clear picture emerged: these boots have earned a strong following among tradespeople and outdoors-focused workers who demand comfort, support, and all‑weather reliability. Simultaneously occurring, reviewers highlight a few limitations and quirks we can’t ignore.
Overall Sentiment
The majority of reviewers describe the Wingshooter ST as one of the most comfortable and supportive work boots they’ve worn, often comparing them favorably to brands like Thorogood, Red Wing, and Chippewa. Long days on job sites, 10-12 hour shifts, and weekends spent outdoors all show up repeatedly in the reviews, with users reporting that their legs and feet feel far less fatigued.
Even among those who don’t usually leave reviews, we see people stepping in specifically to defend the boot’s performance from a “worker’s point of view.” There are a handful of critical notes, but they tend to focus on model confusion, leather durability in harsh conditions, and a few design details rather than on comfort or core performance.
| Aspect | Customer Mood | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Very Positive | All‑day wear with minimal fatigue |
| Support | Very Positive | Outstanding ankle & heel stability |
| Durability | Mixed-Positive | Uppers need care; soles hold up well |
| Waterproofing | Positive | Works well,but needs maintenance over time |
| Best Use | Positive | Ideal for carpentry,electrical,roofing,light-medium trades |
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is where these boots earn their most enthusiastic praise. several reviewers talk about the Wingshooter ST feeling “like memory foam slippers” the moment they lace them up. Even after months of long shifts, they say the boots remain as comfortable as day one and actually look forward to putting them on.
Break‑in time appears reasonable. Some users report that the boots feel stiff for the first few days, then quickly mold to the foot:
- Out-of-the-box comfort: Multiple users say they were comfortable instantly, especially compared to other work boots.
- Short break-in: For those who do feel initial stiffness, the break‑in window is around 4 days to a week.
- fit guidance: Sizing is often compared to athletic shoes (e.g., Nike), with notes that the boots run true to size when ordered accordingly.
For workers with ”old broken backs” or those on their feet 10-12 hours a day,the cushioning and support are described as noticeably reducing end‑of‑day fatigue.
Support & Stability
With an 8″ height, ankle support is a recurring highlight. Electricians, roofers, carpenters, and plumbers all call out how solid and stable the boots feel on uneven or elevated surfaces:
- Ankle support: The high leather upper gives a locked‑in, supportive feel without feeling bulky.
- Heel stability: Reviewers specifically praise the heel support,which contributes to less leg and foot strain.
- Stance and balance: Users working on roofs, trusses, and bare sheathing note excellent stability and confidence underfoot.
In Spanish-language reviews, we see the same theme: the boots feel “muy estables,” reinforcing that the support story is consistent across different users and environments.
Safety Toe & Weight
The non‑metallic (composite/policarbonato) safety toe is another well‑received feature. It keeps weight down while still meeting jobsite safety requirements.
- Lightweight protection: Reviewers who switched from steel‑toe loggers immediately noticed the lighter feel.
- Airport & security amiable: Being non‑metallic means no need to remove the boots at metal detectors, which frequent travelers appreciate.
- Composite toe wear: One heavy user notes that after around 7 months of daily use, the composite toe began to show through the leather, but they mitigated this with a toe protector.
Waterproofing & Weather Performance
The UltraDry™ system receives broadly positive comments. Workers in wet and muddy job sites say their feet stay dry,and hunters and outdoorsmen echo the sentiment for weekend use.
Having mentioned that,users with a year or more of hard daily wear point out that no leather boot is permanently waterproof without upkeep. Many of them proactively use beeswax,mink oil,or other waterproofing treatments:
- Out-of-the-box: Performs well in wet conditions,with reviewers confirming “completely waterproof” early on.
- Long-term: After repeated wet/dry cycles, the leather naturally starts to lose waterproofing and requires maintenance.
- Temperature comfort: Several users highlight a good balance-warm in winter but not overly hot in moderate weather.
| Waterproof Experience | User Behavior |
|---|---|
| Dry feet in rain,mud,and slush | Monthly beeswax or oil applications |
| Waterproofing fades after heavy abuse | Re-treatment restores performance |
Sole Performance & Traction
The sole gets high marks in two key areas: durability on hot surfaces and all‑around traction.
- Heat resistance: Paving crew operators specifically call out the heat‑resistant soles as essential for their work, holding up better than some thorogood models.
- Traction: Users working on roofs, trusses, bare sheathing, and varied job sites praise the grip and slip resistance.
- Surface limitations: One honest caveat: traction is “not so good on ice,” which is worth noting if we work in icy climates.
- Soft sole feel: A reviewer notes the sole is softer than average-great for comfort, but potentially less ideal for extremely abrasive work like concrete or demolition.
Durability & Longevity
Durability feedback is generally positive but nuanced. We see boots surviving heavy, everyday use across a year or more, with many users repurchasing and some reporting multiple pairs over several years.
Patterns emerging from reviews:
- Uppers: High-quality leather with a professional look, but can scuff or wear more quickly in “heavy construction,” demolition, or constant concrete work.
- Toe area: Under extreme daily abuse, the composite toe may start to show after several months unless protected.
- Outsoles: For paving crews and jobsite workers, the soles hold up better than some competing brands and handle heat well.
- Laces: A recurring minor complaint: the laces tend to break, frequently enough blamed on sharp hook eyelets. Most reviewers don’t see this as a dealbreaker but do call it out as an obvious flaw.
| component | Customer Verdict | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leather Upper | Good-Very Good | Needs conditioning in harsh use |
| Outsole | Very good | Heat-resistant, solid wear life |
| Laces | Fair | Prone to breaking at sharp hooks |
| Composite Toe Cover | Good | Toe cap helps for extreme use |
Best Use Cases
Looking across all the reviews, a pattern of ”ideal users” comes into focus. The Wingshooter ST seems best suited for:
- Electricians (including union electricians on long industrial shifts)
- Carpenters and general contractors
- Roofers and framing crews
- Plumbers on changing construction sites
- steel workers,foremen,superintendents,and consultants who split time between site and office
- Outdoor enthusiasts who want one boot for work and weekend activities like hiking,hunting,and wood chopping
One reviewer explicitly says they’re “worth every penny” for steel workers,carpenters,and supervisors,but would not recommend them as the primary boot for concrete workers,demolition crews,or underground work where leather is constantly battered and abraded.
Common Complaints & Caveats
While the overall tone is strongly positive,a few recurring issues appear:
- Model confusion: At least one buyer received a pair that didn’t match the pictured model,so checking the model number before ordering is advised.
- Laces & hook eyelets: Multiple pairs over years, same story: sharp hooks can cut through laces over time.
- Not for extreme abuse: Heavy concrete, demolition, or underground work can damage the leather faster than some ultra-rugged alternatives.
- Ice traction: Good on roofs and sheathing, less confidence on ice-something to plan for with additional traction aids if needed.
Our takeaway
From the customer reviews, we’d summarize the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST as a comfort‑first, support‑rich work boot that thrives in light to medium‑heavy trades, outdoor work, and variable job sites. When we factor in the waterproofing, strong ankle support, non‑metallic safety toe, and generally durable sole, the Wingshooter ST comes across as a versatile work partner-provided we’re willing to maintain the leather, upgrade the laces if needed, and accept that no boot is indestructible in the harshest construction environments.
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons: Living With the Wingshooter ST
After putting the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST 8″ Waterproof Work Boot through its paces, we ended up with a fairly balanced list of highs and lows. Here’s how it shook out in daily use on the job.
Pros
- Serious safety without the metal – the non‑metallic safety toe gives us jobsite protection while staying lighter than traditional steel, and it doesn’t set off metal detectors.
- Proven traction under pressure – The rubber/EVA Traction Tred wedge sole grips well on oily, dusty, and damp concrete, and doesn’t leave black marks on finished floors.
- reliable waterproofing – UltraDry technology and a moisture‑wicking lining kept our feet dry through wet grass, light rain, and puddles, without turning the boot into a sauna.
- Classic Wingshooter look – We still get that iconic hunting‑boot aesthetic, just adapted for industrial and construction work sites.
- Comfortable break‑in – Compared to many safety boots, the leather softened up fairly quickly, and the wedge sole gave us good all‑day underfoot cushioning.
- Quiet, non‑marking outsole – On finished interiors and shop floors, we appreciated that the soles stayed quiet and didn’t scuff up surfaces.
- Solid user track record – The customer rating hovering around 4.4 out of 5 stars suggests most wearers are satisfied with durability and comfort.
Cons
- Not the lightest option – Even with the non‑metallic toe, the 8″ height and heavy‑duty outsole still feel chunkier than some modern work‑sneaker hybrids.
- Warm in hot climates – The waterproof build and higher shaft add security in bad weather but can run warm when we’re working long days in high heat.
- Limited “athletic” feel – The wedge sole is stable but doesn’t have the flexible, sporty ride that some newer composite‑toe work shoes offer.
- Break‑in still required – While not brutal, we still needed a few shifts for the leather and ankle area to fully mold to our feet.
- Style isn’t for everyone – The heritage Wingshooter styling is distinctive; if we prefer a minimalist or sneaker‑like profile,this boot looks and feels more traditional.
Fast Pros & Cons Snapshot
| What We Liked | What Gave Us Pause |
|---|---|
| Non‑metallic safety toe with solid protection | Heavier and bulkier than work sneakers |
| Waterproof UltraDry system performs well | Can feel warm on hot, dry days |
| Slip & oil‑resistant wedge sole | Less flexible than athletic work shoes |
| Classic Wingshooter styling | Traditional look may not fit every dress code |
| Decent comfort after break‑in | Needs a few shifts to fully break in |
Q&A
Q&A: Wingshooter ST On The job
Q: Who is the Wingshooter ST really for?
We see this boot as a fit for tradespeople and workers who move between rough outdoor ground and smooth indoor floors-construction, facilities maintenance, light industrial, farming, and even service techs. It’s a work boot with hunting DNA, not a pure heavy-duty logger or framers’ boot.
Q: How does the non‑metallic safety toe feel compared to a steel toe?
On foot,the composite (non‑metallic) toe feels a little roomier and less “cold” than steel. We notice less weight at the front of the boot and no chill in cold weather. Protection meets safety standards, but if we routinely deal with very heavy falling objects, we’d still double‑check site requirements before choosing composite over steel.
Q: Is the Wingshooter ST actually waterproof, or just “water‑resistant”?
In our use, the UltraDry system behaves like a true waterproof boot for everyday jobsite conditions: wet grass, puddles, rain, slush, and short stints in standing water. The leather and membrane kept our socks dry. Like most waterproof boots, if water gets over the 8″ collar or in through the tongue gusset, all bets are off.
Q: How does the boot handle long days on concrete?
The rubber/EVA Traction Tred wedge feels forgiving underfoot. We got noticeably less heel strike shock than in traditional heeled work boots.If we’re standing or walking on concrete all day, it’s comfortable out of the box, but we’d still consider adding aftermarket insoles if we have flat feet or chronic knee/back issues.
Q: What about traction-does the wedge sole slip on wet or oily surfaces?
The non‑marking rubber/EVA outsole is surprisingly grippy on wet concrete and smooth tile, and it held its own on oily, dusty shop floors.We wouldn’t treat it like a dedicated oil‑rig or kitchen shoe,but for typical industrial and construction environments,slip and oil resistance felt solid.
Q: How heavy are these compared to other work boots?
they sit in the “moderate” range. the 8″ height adds some weight, but the composite toe and wedge sole help keep them lighter than many steel‑toe, heeled work boots. We didn’t feel weighed down climbing ladders or walking long distances.
Q: Are they comfortable right out of the box,or is there a break‑in period?
There is a short break‑in. The leather starts a bit stiff around the ankle and instep, then loosens nicely over a week of daily wear. we had no major hot spots or blisters, but we did notice the leather relaxing and flexing more naturally after a few days.
Q: How does the 8″ height affect support and mobility?
The 8″ shaft gives us noticeably better ankle support and a more “locked‑in” feel when we’re on uneven ground or climbing. The trade‑off is a little less ankle mobility than a 6″ boot.For us,that extra support was worth the slightly taller profile,especially outdoors.
Q: Are they safe to wear around metal detectors and electrical work?
The toe is non‑metallic, which helps around metal detectors, but there may still be small metal components (eyelets, shank, etc.). Irish Setter offers EH‑rated boots in this line, but we’d always confirm the exact safety certifications and site requirements before counting on them for electrical hazard protection or zero‑metal environments.
Q: How does the fit run-true to size, narrow, wide?
On our feet, they run close to true‑to‑size with a slightly snug, supportive feel in the midfoot and generous room in the toe box. Wide sizes help if we have broad feet. If we’re between sizes, we’d lean toward going up a half size, especially if we wear thick work socks.
Q: Do they get too hot in warm weather?
The UltraDry system manages moisture well, so our socks stayed relatively dry, but this is still an 8″ waterproof leather boot. In hot, humid conditions, our feet ran warm-manageable, but not “airy.” Lightweight moisture‑wicking socks made a noticeable difference.
Q: How do they stack up in durability?
The leather upper feels considerable, and the wedge sole stands up well to daily wear on concrete and gravel. We expect the usual wedge‑sole pattern: great comfort, but the tread eventually wears smoother faster than some aggressive lug soles if we’re on rough concrete all the time. Given the customer rating (4.4/5 from over 2,000 reviews), long‑term durability seems to line up with our experience.
Q: Can we use these as hunting boots too, as they’re based on the classic Wingshooter?
Yes, within reason. The design still has that upland‑boot feel-supportive, with decent ground feedback and good traction on soil and grass. For serious backcountry, heavy pack, or steep, rocky terrain, we’d reach for a purpose‑built hunting boot, but for farm chores that blend right into a quick hunt, they’re very much at home.
Q: Are the soles truly non‑marking on clean floors?
On finished concrete and light‑colored tile, we didn’t see scuff trails or dark marks. The non‑marking claim matched our experience in warehouses and shop interiors.
Q: What about warranty and returns?
The boot comes with a manufacturer’s warranty-details are linked on the product page. We’d recommend checking that link for the most current terms, then buying from a retailer with a generous return/try‑on policy, in case the fit isn’t quite right.
Q: Bottom line-would we put the Wingshooter ST into our regular work rotation?
Yes. For us, it earns a place as an everyday work boot when we want:
- Waterproof protection
- Non‑metallic safety toe
- Wedge‑sole comfort on hard surfaces
- A classic leather look that can go from site to shop office
It’s not the only boot we’d own-but it’s one we’d be comfortable lacing up for a full shift.
Achieve New Heights
As we lace up our final thoughts on the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST, it’s clear this isn’t just a dressed‑up hunting classic-it’s a serious work boot that happens to carry a bit of heritage style along for the ride. The non-metallic safety toe, the slip- and oil-resistant Traction Tred sole, and the UltraDry waterproofing all come together to create a boot that feels purpose-built for long, unpredictable days on the job.
Is it perfect for everyone? Probably not. But for those of us who want a boot that blends traditional looks with modern safety and comfort, the Wingshooter ST makes a compelling case to earn a regular place in our rotation.
If our time with these boots sounds like what your feet have been waiting for, you can check current pricing, sizes, and more details directly on Amazon here:
See the Irish Setter Wingshooter ST on Amazon
