R.M. Williams has been producing handcrafted boots of outstanding quality since 1932. Their Craftsman boots are said to be Australia’s national boots and are globally famous. I had seen these boots before however after a recent trip to Australia where it seemed as if everyone was wearing them and raved about the quality, it was time to try them for myself.
But do these iconic boots live up to their reputation?
To find this answer – as someone who is always smitten by these boots – I decided to check them myself.
And guess what?
I was blown away by the quality and craftsmanship and fully understood why these boots are so famous.
So, what exactly makes these boots so special?
The Craftsmanship Behind Every R.M. Williams Boots Pair
As the saying goes, the devil is in the details.
And for R.M. Williams boots, those details exemplify the meticulous craftsmanship behind each and every pair. Examining an R.M. Williams boot up close reveals a masterwork of leatherworking artistry.
Therefore, let’s take a closer look at the craftsmanship of these boots to discover what distinguishes them.
- Handcrafted from a Single Piece of Leather: Unlike many boots constructed from multiple pieces, R.M. Williams boots are expertly crafted from a single piece of premium leather. This unique construction method ensures superior strength, durability, and comfort.
- Elastic Sides: The elastic side panels are a hallmark of the Chelsea boot style, offering a snug fit and allowing for easy on and off. They also help to keep out dust and dirt, ensuring your feet stay comfortable and clean.
- Iconic Pull-On Tabs: The signature R.M. Williams pull-on tabs, often embossed with the brand’s logo, not only add a touch of style but also make it easier to pull the boots on.
- Classic Squared Chisel Toe: The squared chisel toe is a distinctive feature of R.M. Williams boots, contributing to their classic, timeless aesthetic. It’s a subtle detail that sets them apart from other boots on the market.
- Single Row of Stitching: The single row of stitching at the rear of the boot is a testament to R.M. Williams’ commitment to quality. It avoids unnecessary rubbing and ensures maximum strength, contributing to the boot’s longevity.
- Flat Leather Stacked Heel: The flat leather stacked heel provides stability and comfort while also adding to the boot’s classic look. It’s a versatile heel that works well for both everyday wear and dressier occasions.
- Goodyear Welted Construction: The Goodyear welt is a time-tested method of boot construction known for its durability and longevity. It involves stitching a welt to the upper and insole of the boot and then attaching the outsole to the welt. This construction method not only makes the boots exceptionally strong but also allows for easy resoling, extending their lifespan even further.
And what’s even better?
R.M. Williams offers not just one iconic style but a whole range designed to suit different tastes and needs. Now, let me walk you through a few of my favorite R.M. Williams boots.
Comfort RM Boots: The Heart and Sole of R.M. Williams
This is the boot that started it all.
The Comfort RM boots are the epitome of classic Aussie style, featuring a simple, elegant, and refined design. These boots are made from a single piece of yearling leather and feature a sleek, unbroken, stylish, and robust silhouette.
What I like most about these boots is that the leather of these boots molds to your feet over time and creates a personalized fit that gets better with each wear. The leather upper develops a beautiful patina over time, adding to the boot’s vintage-inspired aesthetic. And their Goodyear welted construction ensures superior stability and support.
- Colour: chestnut rum
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Leather
- Closure type: Slip-On
From my experience, these boots are incredibly versatile as well.
Whether you’re wearing a tailored suit for a business meeting or a pair of jeans for a casual weekend outing, the Comfort R.M fits the bill perfectly. Their rich chestnut color adds a touch of elegance and can easily be paired with both dark and light shades!
The Classic Chelsea Boots: Effortless Style
R.M. Williams’ Chelsea Boots is a timeless and versatile style named after the London suburb of Chelsea.
Similar in appearance to the Comfort Boot but with extra cushioning, the Classic Chelsea is ideal for those who prefer extra underfoot padding.
The combination of soft leather and cushioned footbeds provides all-day comfort, whether on the job site or exploring the city. Besides, its low profile and elastic side panels make it incredibly easy to slip on and off. This is a big plus for those busy mornings when you’re in a rush…
- Colors: Black, brown, dark olive, saddle, hot fudge, and lichen
- Sole material: Leather
- Outer material: Leather
Chelsea boots are the perfect complement to tailored trousers, dark denim, or even a suit. Their versatile design allows them to seamlessly transition from the office to after-work drinks or a special event.
The Suede RM Boots: Ready for Anything
For those who need a boot that can handle tougher conditions, the Suede RM Boot is the way to go. Made from durable, water-resistant leather, these boots are built to withstand the elements.
A closer inspection reveals the boot’s lugged rubber sole, with its deep tread pattern engineered for exceptional traction on wet, uneven, or slippery surfaces. Whether traversing rocky trails or muddy farmyards, the Suede RM sole provides steadfast grip and stability. The thick sole also shields the boot from wear and impact, extending its lifetime of reliable service.
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- Colour: Often offered in classic neutrals like brown, black, and tan
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Suede
- Closure type: Slip-On
However, don’t underestimate the boot’s versatility. While their core purpose is tackling the great outdoors in style and comfort, the Suede RM also transitions effortlessly to more refined settings.
Paired with dark denim and a button-down shirt, these boots clean up nicely for casual evenings on the town. Their sleekly tailored form and luxury leather ensure the wearer stands out from the crowd, even in social situations.
Things to Consider Before Buying R.M. Williams Boots
An informed decision leads to real value with R.M. Williams boots known to last a lifetime. So, consider the following factors before buying R.M. Williams for yourself:
- Leather Type: Consider how and where you’ll wear the boots to decide on leather. For rugged everyday wear, yearling leather works well. For dressier looks, polished leather like calf or suede may be better. Also, factor in weather – yearling is hardier than suede, for example.
- Sole Options: Consider the terrain and activities you’ll encounter before you select the sole option. Leather soles offer a classic look and are suitable for dressier occasions, while rubber soles provide superior grip and durability for everyday wear. Some models offer a combination of both for versatility.
- Style: Determine how you intend to style the boots – casually, formally, as work boots etc. The Craftsman, Gardener and Chelsea styles are more versatile while others like pull-on or lace-ups suit certain outfits. Consider features like flexibility, grip and hardware depending on your needs.
- Budget: R.M. Williams is an investment but affordable, considering their quality and longevity. However, the various styles have different price points. Check your budget and requirements to pick the best value option for your needs. Opt for high-quality leather if cost is not a constraint.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the perfect pair of R.M. Williams boots that will serve you well for years to come.
How to Properly Care for Your R.M. Williams Boots
R.M. Williams has its own range of leather care products. It’s recommended to apply leather conditioner (I use this one) to yearling, calf, and bovine leathers using a clean cloth every four to six weeks. For suede boots, use the Suede Protector (try this one) before initial wear and at regular intervals.
To clean your boots, wipe them down with a damp cloth and remove any excess dirt or dust. You can then use the R.M. Williams Leather Cleaner and a damp cloth to remove any stains. Avoid using leather cleaner on burnished boots, instead, lightly polish them with the R.M. Williams Stockman’s Natural Boot Polish.
If your boots get soaked, let them dry naturally away from heat and stuff them with newspaper to retain their shape.
How to Choose the Right Size R.M. Williams Boots
R.M. Williams boots are based on men’s UK sizing.
The width fittings range from F (narrow) to H (wide).
It’s recommended to go with the larger size if your feet are between two sizes. For example, if you’re a US Brannock 11.5-12, you’d likely fit into a 10.5 G in R.M. Williams boots.
Verdict…
After thoroughly testing and wearing these R.M. Williams boots for several months, I can confidently say that they are a worthwhile investment. The quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail are truly exceptional, and the boots have proven to be remarkably durable and comfortable.
While the price tag may be higher than some other boot options, the value you get in return is well worth it. These boots are built to last, and with proper care, they will only continue to improve in appearance and become more comfortable over time. Overall, they get a solid thumbs-up from me!
