Side by side
Nicks Boots vs Grant Stone
Nicks Boots
18 positive (78%) · 4 mixed (17%) · 1 negative (4%)
Trust + time weighted: +76%
AI summary — not a quote
Nicks Boots is highly regarded as a top-tier Pacific Northwest (PNW) bootmaker, frequently praised for its rugged construction and "buy it for life" quality. Enthusiasts often position the brand as a significant step up from entry-level heritage boots, noting its heavy-duty build and extensive customization options, though it requires a substantial financial investment.
Pros
- Exceptional durability and build quality, often compared favorably to other premium PNW makers like White's.
- Extensive sizing range, including very large sizes (up to 16FF) and multiple width options.
- Highly customizable through Made-to-Order (MTO) programs, including 360-degree stitchdown construction.
- Superior performance on job sites and in rugged outdoor environments compared to lighter-duty brands.
Cons
- High price point, with users noting costs typically range between $500 and $800.
- Utilitarian aesthetic that may not suit "smart" or formal dress requirements.
- Standard lasts can run narrow, often necessitating MTO for those with wider feet.
Top excerpts
PNW makers like White's and Nicks make wider widths through MTOs
For their retail you could get like 4-5 pairs of the real deal from White’s or nicks or 2+ pairs in exotic leather, all better made than these
Because I feel like damn near every time someone has questions about Thursday or seeks opinions they're usually hit with a wave of "Just save your money and buy Nicks" or whatever other brand that cost 500 - 800 dollars a pair.
Addict, Clinch, Zerrows, John Lofgren, Nicks, and some of the good Indonesian MTO brands if you want to take a bigger chance with sizing.
For PNW like Whites or Nicks I would send in for factory.
Grant Stone
54 positive (74%) · 11 mixed (15%) · 8 negative (11%)
Trust + time weighted: +63%
AI summary — not a quote
Grant Stone is widely regarded as a high-value "step up" brand in the heritage footwear community, frequently cited for finishing and quality control that exceeds entry-level competitors like Red Wing and Thursday. While it is transparently manufactured overseas, users often compare its quality to premium brands like Alden and Viberg but at a more accessible price point. However, recent price increases have sparked some debate regarding its status as a "starter" boot.
Pros
- Superior finishing and quality control compared to entry-level heritage brands.
- Excellent value, especially when purchasing factory seconds or during sitewide sales.
- Extensive sizing options, including hard-to-find EEE widths.
- High-quality material components, such as Horween leather and vegetable-tanned midsoles.
Cons
- Reports of a very long and difficult break-in period for some models.
- Recent price hikes have reduced its perceived value as a budget-friendly entry option.
- The Floyd last can feel excessively long or high-volume, often requiring significant sizing adjustments.
Top excerpts
Grant Stone and Alden have EEE in stock for many makeups
Grant Stone
Get a pair of casual boots from Grant Stone. They're a good step up in terms of finishing compared to Red Wing, and while their lasts are definitely not as good as e.g. Alden's, I still prefer them to other options under $400.
I am an 8 in Red Wing and Grant Stone, and a 7UK in Carmina.
Grant stone break in is indeed super long