![]() ![]() The crepe sole did have a decent utility value though, as the lack of deep thread underneath meant it was both easy to keep clean and wouldn’t catch on surfaces. Interesting how history keeps repeating itself, eh? Interestingly, Red Wing did this sole 60 years ago, so recent use by certain British gentlemans shoe brands is really a case of remixing past work-boot use with traditional leather shoes. The main design characteristics of the 877 are the moc-toe (or really, moccasin toe) and the white crepe sole. Or is it the other way round? Probably best to borrow an Irish Setter and take along when shopping if you are concerned about getting the truly classic style of boots. Todays 877 is described as being made using Oro Legacy Leather. The actual colour of 877 boots has changed a bit over the years, so the 1994 colour is different to the standard 877 colour today, although you can buy the old colour as, then described as 10877 in Oro-riginal leather. The russet coloured leather was originally the result of the leather being tanned using the sap of sequoia bark. If we are to dwell on the historical aspect for a moment, the “Irish setter” name comes from the distinctive colour of the leather used, a colour obviously reminiscent of the fur of the breed of dog it’s named after. True icons of footwear, in other words.Īnd stamped into the leather of these is the date they were made, 05/1994. Favourites of farmers, workers and film stars. They at least deserve to be taken home and fed properly with some oil and polish, right?įurther research shows that what I have lucked into is a pair of the Red Wing Irish Setters, the iconic 877 work boots, introduced in 1952 and in production ever since. At the price I’d be a fool not to snap them up! The right foot fits ok, the left is a bit tight, but we’ll see what we can make of them. Though the size has me concerned, so I put them back and continue my day. Strange. Nominal wear on the sole though, and no damage other than scuffs. Though, surely they look just like Red Wings?Īnd yes, the soles proudly display the Red Wing brand. A pair of big red boots! Seemingly a little uncared for, scuffed and leather a bit stiff, a size smaller than I would have ordered for myself, and an odd label on them “Irish setter”. 999 times out of a 1000 there is nothing worthwhile there, but on a rare occasion I will strike gold, like when I found my lucky brogues a few months back.Īlthough not quite in the same league, I recently had another lucky find. My Saturday trip to town always includes a visit to the local Salvation Army charity shop for a quick look through their stock. Jumble sales, small ads and charity shops all get our blood pumping that little bit harder. I confess, I come from a family of scavengers. ![]()
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