Hey all you boot lovers, it’s me again! I know I’ve talked about Red Wings before, but I’m back with another comparison of two of their most popular styles – the 1907 and the 875.
These two boots have a lot of similarities, but also some key differences that may make one better than the other for certain lifestyles and preferences. Stick with me as I break down the construction, fit, look, and price of the 1907 and 875.
Whether you’re a Red Wing fan looking to expand your collection or a newbie trying to decide between these two classics, I’ll give you the info you need to make the best choice for your next pair of boots.
Get ready to dive deep into two iconic heritage work boots from America’s favorite footwear brand!
Red Wing 1907 vs 875: Easy Comparison Guide
| Red Wing 1907 | Red Wing 875 | |
|---|---|---|
| Style and Design | 6-inch moc toe, slimmer profile, triple-stitched seams, speed hooks | 6-inch moc toe, double-stitched seams, eyelets |
| Insole | Orthotic inserts can be easily removed and replaced | Cannot be removed |
| Comfort | Features Traction Tred outsole, wedge-shaped design for arch support and shock absorption | Flat nitrile cork outsole lacking arch support, potential for arch discomfort during extended wear |
| Leather and Break-In | Copper Rough & Tough leather, oil-tanned, striking patina look | Oro Legacy leather, smokey, burnished quality |
| Weight | 67 oz | 1899.418 g | 64 oz | 1814.37 g |
| Construction and Durability | Goodyear welt construction, Puritan triple-stitch, durable | Goodyear welt construction, Puritan triple-stitch, double-layer vamp, external heel counter |
| Non-Slip Grip | Rugged, slip-resistant outsole | Vibram sole for enhanced grip on wet or icy surfaces |
| Waterproofing | Oil-tanned leather, water-resistant but not fully waterproof | Gore-Tex construction, fully waterproof even in heavy rain |
| Price | Typically around $320 | Usually $220 to $270 |
Durability
Construction
Red Wing is known for their solid construction using high-quality components. The 1907 and 875 are both built with triple stitching, durable eyelets, and Vibram outsoles that provide traction and last for ages.
Resoling
One of the best things about Red Wing boots is that they can be repaired when needed. I’ve had the soles replaced on my 1907s and 875s at least once. Red Wing’s craftsmen do an amazing job resolving the boots and giving them new life.
The 1907 and 875 should last you well over a decade with proper care and occasional resoling.
Overall, you really can’t go wrong with either style when it comes to durability and longevity. Both are high-quality, handcrafted boots that will give you years of comfort and service if you take good care of them.
The choice comes down to whether you prefer the character of oil-tanned leather or the stiffer, more water-resistant Chrome leather. Either way, you’ll have a pair of boots that will last a lifetime.
Comfort
Uppers
The uppers on both boots are made of premium Red Wing leather, but the 1907 has a softer, more pliable upper that molds comfortably to the shape of your foot. The 875 uppers are stiffer out of the box and take longer to break in properly.
I found the 1907 uppers to be instantly comfortable, while the 875 uppers caused some initial discomfort, pinching, and chafing during the break-in period. If comfort is your top priority, the softer 1907 uppers win out over the 875.
Weight
In terms of weight, the 1907 is a lighter and more flexible boot. While the 875 isn’t overly heavy, the 1907 is more nimble and feels less cumbersome during physical activity or walking long distances.
The lighter weight and increased flexibility of the 1907 make it the more comfortable choice if you plan to be on your feet for lengthy periods.
Overall, while both boots will eventually mold comfortably to your feet, the 1907 starts out ahead of the 875 in comfort and cushioning. The 1907 Traction Tred outsole, softer uppers, and lighter weight provide instant comfort that’s hard to beat. If comfort is a priority, the 1907 gets my vote as the most comfortable boot between these two Red Wing classics.
Style and Design
When it comes to style, the 1907 and 875 are quite different boots. The 1907 is a 6-inch moc-toe boot, while the 875 is an 8-inch round-toe boot. Personally, I prefer the sleeker profile of the 6-inch 1907.
In my opinion, the lower cut is more versatile and comfortable for walking. The moc-toe stitching and slimmer sole of 1907 also give it a dressier look that works well for both casual and business casual attire.
The 875 has a bulkier, more rugged style with its taller shaft and round toe box. The round toe does provide more wiggle room for your toes, so if maximum comfort is your top priority, the 875 may have a slight edge.
For workwear and outdoor use, the 875’s burlier build is ideal. The taller shaft provides more ankle support and protection from debris.
In the end, choosing between the 1907 and 875 comes down to your intended use and personal style preferences. For everyday casual and business wear, I favor the sleeker, more stylish 1907.
But if you need a hard-wearing work boot or want maximum comfort, the 875 is a great choice. Both are handsome, well-made boots that will last for years, so you really can’t go wrong with either.
The main differences in style and design between the 1907 and 875 Red Wing boots are:
- Shaft height: 6 inches (1907) vs 8 inches (875)
- Toe box: Moc toe (1907) vs Round toe (875)
- Sole: Slimmer (1907) vs Bulkier (875)
- Versatility: 1907 works for casual and business; 875 better for workwear and outdoors
- Comfort: 875 may have a slight edge due to more room in the toe box and shaft
In the end, the style you choose comes down to how you intend to use the boots and your personal preferences. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a pair of handsome, high-quality Red Wing boots.
Waterproofing and Non-Slip Grip
When it comes to water resistance and traction, both the 1907 and 875 boots perform admirably, but there are some differences worth noting.
Waterproofing
The 1907 boot features Red Wing’s signature oil-tanned leather, which is water-resistant but not fully waterproof. I’ve found that in light rain and snow, my feet stay dry, but after prolonged exposure or submersion in water, they’ll get wet.
The 875, on the other hand, is built with waterproof Gore-Tex, so your feet will stay bone dry even after walking through puddles or trekking in heavy rain. For most people, the 875’s superior waterproofing is worth the extra cost.
Non-Slip Grip
Both boots have a rugged, slip-resistant outsole, but the 875’s Vibram sole seems to provide a slightly better grip on wet or icy surfaces. The deeper lugs and wider tread patterns help prevent slipping, which gives me more confidence and stability when the weather turns nasty.
That said, the 1907’s traction has served me well for years and should work great for most casual use and light outdoor activities.
Break-In Period
Here’s where the 1907 pulls ahead. Its oil-tanned leather upper and cork midsole mold quickly to your feet, so break-in time is minimal. The 875, on the other hand, has a stiffer, waterproof upper and can take weeks of regular wear to feel fully broken in. Unless you need waterproofing, the 1907’s faster break-in may make it the more comfortable choice, especially for those on their feet all day.
In the end, both are high-quality, durable boots that will keep your feet dry and grounded for years to come. It comes down to how much water resistance and traction you need, and how quickly you want that custom-fit feel.
For most casual use, the 1907’s greater comfort and flexibility at a lower cost probably make it the better pick. But when the weather turns harsh, the 875 reigns supreme.
Pros and Cons: Red Wing 1907 vs 875
Red Wing 1907
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extra comfort and durability | Some users find it heavy and bulky |
| Crafted with premium leather and cushioned insole | |
| Provides excellent support for all-day wear | |
| Classic and versatile design, suitable for casual and formal occasions |
Red Wing 875
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Timeless style and rugged build | The break-in process can be longer due to sturdy construction |
| Made from full-grain leather with a sturdy sole | |
| Outstanding traction, suitable for outdoor activities |
Pricing: What’s the Difference in Cost?
When it comes to price, you’ll pay a premium for the 1907s. As Red Wing’s signature heritage work boot, the 1907 typically retails for around $320. The 875 moc-toe is usually $50 to $100 less, around $220 to $270.
Why the difference? A few reasons. For starters, 1907 is made of premium Red Wing Oro Legacy leather, which is full-grain, oil-tanned, and water, stain, and perspiration resistant.
The 875 uses Red Wing’s Oro Russet leather, which is also high quality but a bit more basic. The 1907 also features a Vibram Christy wedge outsole that’s slip, oil, and abrasion resistant, while the 875 has a Traction Tred rubber outsole with less durability.
The 1907s also took more time and handcrafting to make. All the pieces of the boot are stitched together using high-quality thread and the Puritan triple-stitch technique. This includes stitching the upper to the midsole, and the midsole to the outsole.
The 875s also use stitch-down construction but with fewer pieces to stitch and join. The additional craftsmanship and premium materials that go into the 1907 boots ultimately translate to a higher price.
For many boot lovers and Red Wing fans, the premium is worth it for the 1907’s superior construction, comfort, and longevity. These boots should last 10-15 years or more with proper care and resolve.
The 875 is still an excellent, durable boot, but may show more wear and tear over the years. If budget is a concern though, the 875 is a more affordable option that will still provide years of comfortable use.
In the end, you have to weigh the differences in quality, durability, and cost to determine if the splurge on the 1907 is right for you. For some, the signature boot is a must-have.
For others, the 875 fills the need for a dependable, hard-wearing boot at a lower price. Either way, you can’t go wrong with an American-made Red Wing classic.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
As an avid Red Wing boot fan, I’ve owned several pairs over the years and wanted to share my experience with two of their most popular styles: the 1907 and 875.
The 1907 is Red Wing’s iconic 6-inch moc toe boot. When I first bought these boots, it took a while for the thick leather to break in and mold to my feet. But once broken in, they became the most comfortable boots I’ve ever owned.
The 1907s are extremely durable and long-lasting. I’ve had my pair for over five years, and they still look great after being used heavily.
The 875 is Red Wing’s classic 6-inch round-toe boot. I found these more comfortable right out of the box, as the leather is slightly softer and more pliable.
However, the round-toe design seems less durable and scuffs up more easily. The 875s are still high-quality, hard-working boots, just not quite as tough as the 1907’s iconic moc toe.
For casual everyday wear, I prefer the 1907’s. Their moc toe design and thicker leather make them nearly indestructible. For jobs that require a safety toe or for anyone who prefers a slightly roomier fit, the 875’s are an excellent choice. You really can’t go wrong with either model.
In the end, it comes down to your priorities and needs. If you’re looking for a virtually indestructible boot that will last a lifetime, the 1907 is hard to beat. For maximum comfort right away and solid, hard-working performance, the 875 is a perfect boot. I don’t think you can make a bad choice here.
My advice would be to try on both styles, walk around, and go with the pair that feels the best on your feet. You’ll have a trusty set of Red Wing boots that will serve you well for years to come.
Red Wing 1907 vs 875 FAQ: Answering Common Questions
How much do the 1907 and 875 boots weigh?
Both 1907 and 875 were constructed with premium materials, so they had some heft to them. The 1907 weighs in at around 68 ounces per boot for a man’s size 9. The 875 is a bit lighter at around 64 ounces. While not the lightest boots out there, the weight comes from high-quality, durable leather and a sturdy Goodyear welt construction.
For most people, the weight difference between the two styles is negligible. However, if you do a lot of walking or are on your feet all day, the slightly lighter 875 may be easier on your legs and back over long periods of time.
How long do Red Wing heritage boots last?
With proper care and maintenance, both the 1907 and 875 can last for many years. As a rough estimate, you can expect 3-5 years of regular use from 1907 and 875 before needing resoles. With periodic repairs, resoling, and conditioning, these boots can last 10 years or more.
The key is not to wear them every single day, which allows the leather to rest and dry out between wears. You should also regularly clean, condition, and waterproof the leather to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
Red Wing’s heritage boots are built to last a lifetime with the right care and refurbishing. The high-quality construction and materials mean that even after the soles or heels wear out, the uppers can often be restored and the boots re-soled.
Some people have had their Red Wings for 20-30 years or more through resoling and repairing as needed. With some TLC, your 1907s or 875s can become trusted lifelong companions.
Are the 1907 and 875 boots waterproof?
The 1907 and 875 boots are not waterproof out of the box. However, the thick, oil-tanned leather uppers are water-resistant and can handle light rain, snow, and puddles. For wetter conditions, you’ll want to treat the leather with a waterproofing product like Red Wing’s own water and stain protector spray. Reapply the waterproofing every few months to maintain protection.
While waterproofing treatments can help, no boot is 100% waterproof forever. Prolonged exposure to very wet environments can eventually saturate the leather and any waterproof membranes.
So, if you frequently work outside in rain, snow, or other wet settings, you may want to consider a fully waterproof boot option. But for most casual use and with proper waterproofing, the 1907 and 875 should perform just fine in moderately wet weather.