BootsGuru helps you pick boots that fit your job, your feet and your budget. This page explains exactly how our recommendations are made, including what we have worn ourselves and what we haven't.
Two Kinds of Recommendations
1. Hands-on notes
Some boots our author Ethan Walker has worn himself. When that's the case, we say so clearly and label it Ethan's notes. We only describe what he actually experienced: the conditions, roughly how long he wore them, and what he liked or didn't.
Boots Ethan has worn so far:
- Thorogood American Heritage 6" Moc Toe - real-world wear. Easy break-in, supportive footbed, a good balance of durability and everyday comfort.
- Irish Setter Ashby 83605 - daily wear in demanding work. Comfortable moc toe, supportive fit, and leather that got more comfortable with use.
- Baffin Impact - 40+ hours across two winters, with temperatures around -25°C. Exceptional warmth and protection, but bulky. Read the full Baffin Impact review.
We'll add to this list as Ethan wears more boots.
2. Research-based picks
Most boots on BootsGuru we have not worn. For these, we don't give personal test scores or claim to have tested them. Instead, we pick them from research:
- Safety specs: the safety toe type and any ASTM F2413 markings and hazard ratings (EH, PR, Mt) the brand lists. See steel toe vs composite toe for what those ratings mean.
- Construction: welt or cement construction, outsole, insulation weight, waterproof lining and whether the footbed is removable.
- Owner feedback: star rating, number of ratings and Amazon's "Customers say" summary. We favor boots with thousands of ratings and consistent feedback, and we tell you when feedback on fit, sizing or durability is mixed.
- Brand and standards sources: manufacturer specs, temperature ratings and sizing guides, plus standards bodies like OSHA and ASTM. We cite these in the article with the date we checked them.
How We Choose What Makes the List
- The boot has to suit the job or need the article is about, not just be popular.
- We look for a clear reason to pick each boot, and we give you both sides with Buy it if and Skip it if.
- We include options across price ranges where good ones exist.
- We drop boots when ratings fall, listings change or better options appear.
What We Don't Do
- We don't claim to have tested boots we haven't worn.
- We don't invent test scores, lab results or measurements.
- We don't accept payment to include a boot or change a verdict.
How We Make Money
BootsGuru is reader-supported. If you buy through our Amazon links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. That never decides which boots we recommend or what we say about them.
Spotted a Mistake?
Prices, ratings and listings change often. If something on our site is out of date or wrong, please contact us and we'll fix it.
- Ethan Walker, BootsGuru