Thursday Boot Company has carved a niche in the footwear market with its stylish, affordable, and Goodyear-welted boots. But how do they hold up under scrutiny? This Thursday Boots review dives into their quality, comfort, durability, and value, drawing from user experiences, expert insights, and hands-on testing to provide a balanced perspective for potential buyers. Whether you’re a boot enthusiast or looking for a reliable everyday pair, this guide will help you decide if Thursday Boots are worth the investment.
About Thursday Boot Company
Founded in 2014, Thursday Boot Company aims to deliver high-quality, Goodyear-welted boots at a direct-to-consumer price point, typically around $199–$250. Their lineup, including popular models like the Captain, President, and Hero, emphasizes timeless designs, premium leathers (often from Horween), and versatile styling for both casual and business-casual settings. The brand has garnered significant attention through social media marketing and influencer partnerships, but it’s not without criticism. Let’s explore the pros, cons, and real-world performance of Thursday Boots.
Key Features of Thursday Boots
1. Goodyear Welt Construction
Thursday Boots are known for their Goodyear welt construction, a hallmark of durable, resoleable footwear. This method ensures longevity and water resistance, making them a standout at their price point. Unlike pricier brands like Red Wing or Alden, Thursday keeps costs low by streamlining production and selling directly to consumers.
2. Premium Leathers
Most Thursday Boots use full-grain leather, often sourced from Horween Leather Company, renowned for its quality. Popular leather options include Arizona Adobe, Black Matte, and Terracotta. Some models feature exotic leathers like Chromexcel or suede, offering a range of aesthetics. However, some users note that the leather can be thinner compared to higher-end brands.
3. Comfort and Fit
Thursday Boots incorporate EVA foam insoles, which provide sneaker-like cushioning, making them more comfortable out of the box than traditional work boots. They’re designed to balance a slim, stylish silhouette with everyday wearability. However, sizing can be tricky—some users report a snug fit, especially in the toe box for sneakers or certain boot models. Wide-width options are available but limited in specific leathers.
4. Affordable Price Point
At $199–$250, Thursday Boots offer a compelling value proposition. They compete with brands like Red Wing or Wolverine but at a fraction of the cost, thanks to their direct-to-consumer model. This affordability has made them a favorite for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Pros of Thursday Boots
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Excellent Value: High-quality materials and construction at under $250 make Thursday Boots a strong contender in the budget-premium market.
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Versatile Styling: Models like the Captain and President transition seamlessly from jeans to business-casual outfits.
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Comfortable Out of the Box: EVA foam insoles and soft leathers reduce break-in time compared to traditional work boots.
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Resoleable: Goodyear welt construction allows for resoling, extending the boots’ lifespan.
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Free Shipping and Returns: Thursday’s customer-friendly policies make trying them risk-free.
Cons of Thursday Boots
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Quality Control Issues: Some users report inconsistent quality, such as stitching defects or premature wear on soles.
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Snug Fit for Some: Sneakers and certain boot models may feel narrow, especially for those with wider feet.
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Marketing Concerns: Critics argue Thursday’s heavy reliance on influencer marketing (e.g., Stridewise) can skew perceptions, with some reviews lacking transparency about sponsorships.
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Not “Buy It for Life”: While durable, Thursday Boots may not match the longevity of pricier brands like Red Wing or Truman.
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Limited Wide-Width Options: Wide sizes are available for some models but not across all leather types.
Real-World Performance: User and Expert Insights
Comfort and Durability
In a detailed review, Stridewise praises the Captain Boot for its comfort, citing the EVA foam insole and lightweight design as ideal for city wear. After a year of testing the Hero Boot, they noted its durability, withstanding hundreds of miles with minimal wear. However, Reddit users on r/ThursdayBoot and r/goodyearwelt have mixed experiences. Some praise the boots’ comfort and style, while others report issues like sole wear or creasing within months. One user on r/BuyItForLife noted that while their Thursday Boots lasted several years, they didn’t match the durability of Red Wing’s Iron Ranger, which was resoled after four years of heavy use.
Fit and Sizing
Fit is a common discussion point. A Reddit user on r/ThursdayBoot described the Lowtop Sneakers as “snug” and uncomfortable for wide feet, even after break-in. Conversely, the Captain and Diplomat boots are often praised for their true-to-size fit, though some recommend sizing down half a size for a snugger fit. Thursday’s website offers a detailed sizing guide, and their free returns policy helps mitigate fit issues.
Customer Service
Trustpilot reviews highlight Thursday’s responsive customer service, with 340 customers rating their experience positively as of July 2025. Issues like defective pairs or shipping errors are often resolved quickly, with replacements or refunds offered. However, one Reddit user reported receiving a pair of boots with scuffs and poor packaging, suggesting occasional lapses in quality control.
Marketing and Transparency
Thursday’s aggressive marketing has drawn criticism. A 2022 Reddit post on r/goodyearwelt accused the brand of “questionably dishonest” practices, citing sponsored reviews by YouTubers like Stridewise that don’t always disclose affiliations. While Stridewise maintains editorial independence, their frequent praise of Thursday products raises eyebrows among skeptics. Still, experts like Rose Anvil, who cut Thursday’s Captain Boot in half, found the construction solid for the price, though not flawless.
Comparison to Competitors
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Red Wing vs. Thursday: Red Wing boots (e.g., Iron Ranger) are pricier ($300+) but offer superior durability and thicker leather. Thursday’s Captain is a better value for casual wear but may not withstand heavy use as well.
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Wolverine vs. Thursday: Wolverine’s 1000 Mile Boot is comparable in price and quality but has a chunkier aesthetic. Thursday appeals to those preferring a sleeker look.
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Grant Stone vs. Thursday: Grant Stone offers better materials and finishing at a higher price point ($300–$400). Thursday remains the budget-friendly option.
Who Are Thursday Boots For
Thursday Boots are ideal for:
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Budget-conscious buyers seeking premium boots under $250.
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Urban professionals needing versatile, stylish footwear for work and casual settings.
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Those new to Goodyear-welted boots who want quality without a steep learning curve.
They may not suit:
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Boot enthusiasts prioritizing top-tier durability (e.g., Red Wing or Truman fans).
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Those with wide feet, due to limited wide-width options.
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Buyers wary of heavily marketed brands seeking fully unbiased reviews.
Final Verdict
Thursday Boots offer an impressive balance of style, comfort, and value, making them a solid choice for those entering the world of quality footwear. Their Goodyear welt construction, premium leathers, and affordable price point set them apart in a competitive market. However, quality control inconsistencies and a snug fit for some models warrant caution. If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable boot that won’t break the bank, Thursday Boots are worth considering—just do your due diligence on sizing and inspect your pair upon arrival.
For more insights, check out user reviews on Trustpilot or discussions on r/ThursdayBoot. If you prioritize longevity over cost, brands like Red Wing or Grant Stone may be better long-term investments.
Disclaimer: This review is based on extensive research, user feedback, and expert analyses from sources like Stridewise, Reddit, and Trustpilot. While we strive for accuracy, individual experiences may vary. Always verify sizing and quality upon purchase.
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