I have been wearing Bates for the last 10 years. I buy a new pair of the same style every two years or so. Been wearing the same pair for 3-4 years now IIRC. I have a fresh set for when I want to look spiffy. Mine are pretty tore up from work. I use them at work in the pharmacy (as I do all the heavy warehouse type work) and then to my other work serving legal papers and arresting bad guys. I've run my foot over a few times with heavy equipment and/or doors, so the safety toe is a must for me. Nice 8 inch height, so they work just fine with an engine between your legs.
I've had a few issues in the past after a 9 months to a year, but the latest set have been fantastic and they go for around $120 now, I think. I don't bother with new soles or replacing anything else. Not at the prices people would want.
The boots are very "tactical" or LEO looking. Not for everyone.
GranD
New Reader
3/10/16 10:06 a.m.
In reply to ¯_(ツ)_/¯:
What about palladium boots, you can look here http://www.palladiumboots.com/men/footwear . I have black leather combat shoes with toe protection. They costed me 120$ and worth every penny.
Just ordered a pair of these:
I have Red Wings at home, but I needed a steel toe that could pass as a dress shoe as well. Plus work'll reimburse me up to $120. Got the Dr. Martens in the picture for $98 shipped. Will update when they arrive with a review.
I ended up with a pair of 8" Bates. I start Monday, so I guess I'll review them in a week or so- thanks!
5 week review! I've been wearing the Bates every day and am super happy with them. Comfy, holding up well, work well on the motorcycle although I hope not to crash test them.
Who offers a slip on thats mid-calf in a reasonably fashionable design? I get a boot allowance at work ($125/year, fairly generous for an office dick) and rock the China Docs that are around that much to my door unless I get them on price.
I cant be trusted with laces, and run through a pair of China Docs in about 18 months (Foundry Duty). I swap them between about 4 pairs of Nikes I wear on days I dont plan on being in the shop.
Those who say boots are more comfortable than sneakers are smoking rocks. I break out the steel toes for customer visits or weeks when I am doing real work, when I am putting ass to seat I wear Nikes.
In reply to 93gsxturbo:
These look pretty comfortable 
