Wouldn't that be nice! Still a good deal.
RM Williams Craftsman Range $315 + 2000 Qantas FF Points ($545 RRP) @ Qantas Store » All Comments
Thanks OP!
Thanks! I didn't need another pair, but at this price why not.
Thank you!
woot! something to wear while I get my current pair resoled!
Great price!
Can you buy if you have no qantas points?
Sorry, you need 2000 points =(
Ha all good I don't remember having any but ended up having 2500 sitting in my account some reason. Thanks!
I only have 800 points left. Sadness is mine. I'm actually looking to buy some RM WIlliams too, was at th store today lol
Oh geez I've been agonising over buying these the last few weeks. I think this price has forced my hand.
Get the violin out I have no Qantas points. Damn it.
Great price, got one thanks OP
What's the difference between comfort craftsman and the normal craftsman
Comfort Craftsman has a rubber sole whereas the normal Craftsman is leather, I believe.
Thanks mate, so if I'm going to be wearing this everyday around town and office, then the leather sole is more hard wearing I believe?
The Comfort Craftsman sole is more comfortable and longer wearing for everyday use.
I prefer the rubber sole around town. Leather sole is a bit slippery, particularly if it gets wet.
It's the opposite. I've owned both. Leather sole doesn't hold up well in wet weather.
@derpdeder: Yeah for every day wear I think the rubber sole is best, but if you're only going to bring them out on special occasions, then the leather may be better since it does look quite nice.
leather sole is more hard wearing I believe?
Opposite. Leather will scuff a lot, you'll need to resole more regularly.
To illustrate how hard-wearing they are, I've had my first pair of Comfort Craftsman for almost ten years now and even with regular wear (2-3 days a week) the soles are only just getting to the point where they'll need replacing. The rubber has worn right down to the stitching, but the lass at the RM Williams store said that as long as the glue holds the soles will still be fine.
Oh wow that looks promising! I've only had those crappy Windsor Smith ones where I have to get the heel replaced every 6 months. How did the heel hold up on yours? Did you get 10yrs on the heel too
@montorola: Yes, I did. Of course, the actual amount of wear will depend a lot on how heavy your tread is and the surfaces you walk on frequently. I've mostly been on industrial carpet or tile for the majority of the time but I do often walk around town on concrete and bitumen.
@montorola: I walk about 5km a day, with wearing mine around 2-3 days a week. Have had my pair for about 10 months now, and they don't even look like they are different to when I bought them yet. In Comparison to some Hush puppies I had for 6 months, with the same use, the heel fell off last week and I went and returned it, to buy another pair of RM Williams.
My RM leather soles wore out after ten wears (not years, serious). I paid around $400 for them during the sales. I wore them once a week and had to return them after they lasted less than three months, now I'm paying $100+ for a full re-last (at least they gave me a bit of a discount). City-dweller, never wore them in the dirt, out bush etc. etc. didn't use them for sports, only wore them out on a Friday or Saturday night each week (maybe alcohol commonly spilt in bars is no good for leather soles?). Also made sure the uppers looked good with leather conditioner, cleaning spray and wipes after every wear…
I'd definitely go for the rubber sole, if that's an option.
@juzz0: That's concerning, as I generally prefer leather. I'd expect a cardboard sole to last about that long. What happened - did it wear down to the stitching?
Be aware there are three sole types. I think what you want might be the craftsmen with rubber sole, not the comfort craftsmen.
The comfort craftsman are the ones with the rubber sole and inner, hence the name “comfort” as they are the comfier of the 2, much softer. The leather sole are simply the Craftsman, thinner leather sole but a bit of a cleaner dressier look.
how does the dynamic flex come into the mix here in terms of comparison?
Much higher arch in the inner sole.
Kmart has shoes for 20 dollars.
“The reason that the rich were so rich, Vimes reasoned, was because they managed to spend less money.
Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles.
But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in ten years' time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet."
Except I would get 15 pairs of cheap boots for 1 of these boots.
That isn't even accounting for maintenance and resoling either. I spend too much money on shoes and I'm not going to even try to convince myself that it is saving me money.
Off you go then.
Good to see that the environment, labour laws and the preservation of local skills mean little to your purchasing decisions.
@Shiny Mew: I hope you posted that from your tree house powered by the sun on your Aussie Iphone22, with materials and labour that are 100% AUSSIEEEE.
@Duram: not everyone has the ability to have solar and as far as I’m aware there aren’t any smartphones manufactured in Australia, so Shiny Mew doesn’t have a choice really.
You however do have the ability to buy Australian made boots vs your Kmart boots.
Ah Terry Pratchett, RIP
Which of his books is this from, I've been meaning to read some Pratchett
Men at arms I think, or Guards Guards ?
@Pesty: Uuu, I think I have Guards Guards sitting around somewhere!
@ONEMariachi:
Confirmed, its Men at arms. I really like Vimes, loved his cynicism. Fav book is Small Gods
Overthrow the patrician
This story brought to you by the makers of Fifty Dollar Shoes.
$545rrp for a pair of shoes?
These can often be bought for at least $100 less than RRP, and if you look after them, they should last you quite some time. Plus, Australian made is always nice.
Mate haven't you heard these boots last 54 years and you can actually pass them onto your children.
Nothing like a stinky 50 year old pair of boots for my grandkids 18th birthday.
They also prevent cancer.
you never own a pair of RMs
They're to go with your Patek Philippe
@bradenpd: glad someone got the reference :)
They're nice boots, but they're not made of dragonhide. My older pair has been resoled once after 11 years, but the top leather has scuffs that won't buff out, and that's from normal wear.
I highly doubt my children will appreciate old boots even if they wore 8Gs. 54 years is a weirdly specific number.
hyperbole
noun
exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.'Half a century' or '50 years' is a generically large number that would be construed as hyperbole. Saying they last 54, is oddly specific and sounds like anecdotal experience. I doubt they'd last 54 years even if all they touch is the carpet in the Qantas business lounge.
:( already have two pairs, at this price i couldnt say no
Is it possible to exchange these from RM williams store if i buy the incorrect size?
People have said that they have done this when other deals have been posted and they have ordered the wrong size.
Or go to a store first for a fitting so you know what to order. People have also said that they have done this and the store doesn't mind if you just ask for a fitting so you can buy them online.
I've never had bad service in one of their stores, they are all super nice, regardless of the dumb questions I come and ask them.
Its important to get the sizing right with the RM's. They don't necessarily size the same as your regular shoe size (I had to go down 1/2 size).
Oh good not just me then I was looking at the sizing and I'm normally a US8.5 but looks like judging by the size guide im US 6.5 on their size guide.
I'm normally US 10 and I wear 7.5 with RMs..
I just went and got sized up in store and got the deal online. Normally a 9. Was a RM 7
I am usually a US 9.
Maybe check the guide for better advice.
https://www.rmwilliams.com.au/buyer-s-guide%3A-men-s-boots/m…
Or, you may want to fit insoles for more padding, since these don't have a lot to begin with. That's where visiting a store prior to purchase is a good idea.
Good price.
Lol it's definitely not rrp
Still waiting on my Frequent Flyer points from the Westpac card deal. Goddamn they are slow to pay them out.
I'm in the same boat, hopefully they come soon and these don't sell out!
I find that unlikely unfortunately.
are we getting those points at the 4th month?
I already got mine
I haven't had any points deposited from my first months statement, almost a month ago..
https://imgur.com/a/PfgThlT unlucky dude..
Which month was your statement issued?
@theguyrules: I'm the same, spoke to Westpac today about this. There is a problem for people who applied during a certain date. Its fixed and all points from the previous few months will be credited at the end of next cycle (that will be cycle 3 for me). Bonus points are separate and will credit with 12 weeks of the amount you had to spend.
@pn94: lucky!
@jeppetto367: ah ok nice. Hopefully son then.
@jeppetto367: Sale is over,oh well.
If you don't have Qantas points the boots are on sale here with $100 off RRP.
https://portphillipshop.com.au/men-rm-williams-boots
Nungar also has some styles and sizes on sale
http://www.nungar.com.au/catalog/index.php/cPath/48?osCsid=a…
If you dont' have points but them here http://www.nungar.com.au/catalog/index.php/cPath/48_415?osCs… cheapest place I've found in AU $405 for Craftman Flex + shipping, have bought two pairs from them and never had any issues.
EDIT: just saw your edit re nungar…
Thanks for that. I read on here that Nungar can be painfully slow to dispatch some times, but it could be the best alternative for now
The link I shared is sale stock so they are ready to be sent immediately.
For other boots Nungar say that they are ordered from RM Williams when you make your order so take 4-6 weeks to be made and sent.
It's in the description so people shouldn't be surprised.
RMW ADVISE THAT THERE IS AN APPROXIMATE 4/6 WEEK DELIVERY ON CORE EXTENSION/CUSTOM MADE BOOTS.
Spaceflight is right Nungar are fine if they are in stock, normally a couple of days. If in doubt call them their customer service on the phone is excellent they are a tradtional old school bricks and mortar store
Yeh but if your not in a rush its fine.
I order 2 pairs of the macquarie model - one came within a week and half. And the 2nd pair I'm still waiting (+4 weeks), but they advised no stock so RM is custom making.
Nungar also order boots with older leather that is not as flexible. Will last longer but won't be as supple as the retail versions. Made for actual hard work and not fashion.
Awesome price I paid $300 6 years ago (and it was a good price then), same boots worn almost every day at work still look good, they do need a resole now but pretty good for 6 years.
Mate, that's a (profanity) solid innings for footwear even needing a resole after 6 bloody years
I agree Im normally lucky to get 18 months out of normal "dress" shoes
Just went in store to try it on for size. First pair ever!
Nice one, I'm heading there after work!
Yea the guy Nick, with the sick moustache, is great! This was at MC store. If the store had it for even 400 I would have just gotten it there and then from them, very helpful and friendly service!
Bought two pairs - different colours, different soles. Great service at the shop! I can see why these boots are so popular.
Great price, wondering if they'll stay in stock long enough for me to run and get my size.
says sale till 30th Sept.
Also says 'Low In Stock'
freaking awesome price !!
Ughh only have 1k qantas points :(
See my and ozlegacy's links here https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/6329623/redir
You can buy them without points for not a lot more
I have comfort craftsmans and they sometimes squeak while walking, any idea how I can stop this?
Sit down.
Savage.
Take the mouse out.
haah if you work it out let me know, I have 3 pairs all comfort craftsmans and only 1 of the 3 squeak!
I think it is the leather rubbing in the folds as the shoe bends.
I have had it happen on leather and canvas shoes.
Take the laptop off them
I had this problem as well and I found that the squeaking was actually due to the socks I was wearing, I now wear them with Nike Sports socks rather than 'Happy Socks"
my dynamic flex do that - was the insoles - you can either spray glue some material to the plastic part or replace the insoles (gel for me)
Despite all the funny responses the best way is talcum powder under the insole. The noise is the insole rubbing on the sole of the shoe.
Fix lasts me 8 to 10 months.
the soles of my craftsmen dont come out? hmm
Windex
I visited a store with my squeaky boots and they sent them off to be fixed.
**sorry already said*** Just a touch of talcum powder in the boot will do the trick.
Am I the only one here who got the shoe size according to my regular shoe size? I'm a US 10.5. I got a 9.5 which is what the guy in store fit me for, and it equates to a US 10.5 as the Australian sizing is akin to the US sizing.
Or is everyone else just wearing the wrong sized sneakers?
For what it's worth i'm usually an 11 but my RM's are a 10H
That's correct if you convert the RM sizing to US sizing.
Edit: Aus sizing = UK sizing. Thus 9.5 Aus/RM/UK = 10.5 US
I'm the same I'm usually a US 10 in sneakers and wear a 9G in RMs. I must say though I have 5 pairs of varying ages (2yrs - 20yrs) and the sizing isn't consistent with the newer ones feeling larger than the old. I've now moved to the Dynamic Flex which "fill" the boot for me with it's insole.
Thanks OP! Been waiting for these (already tried on a while ago in RM store for correct size in readiness). I see you've also nominated the smarter option using just 2,000 points (rather than nearly 57,000 points which is on sale at Qantas rewards 40% off - down from nearly 100,000 Qantas points). Sweet deal!
These are great boots. Well worth the retail price as they are well made and last forever. Even better at this price, thanks for posting O.P.
It's a really good price. If I had QFF then I'd be tempted to get another pair, so it's probably a good idea I don't. Great find OP!
See my and ozlegacy's links here for options without points!
Heh. The beauty of OB is there’s always another option to get rid of your money!
Thanks for the heads-up but I bought my two pairs at a local retailer in town who have similar pricing so I don’t need to go far. We also have an RMW outlet that has awesome clearance sales every year on runout stock; I actually avoided it the past two seasons to save myself money on things I didn’t need! I’m almost embarrassed to admit a large portion of my wardrobe is RMW but I find the clothes and footwear fit really well and they always seem to last a long time. I gave away a shirt to the Salvos recently that was easily 6yo and had been worn regularly, but it was still in good condition.
Am I the only of a few who doesn't see the appeal of these boots?
Yes
They're pretty nice looking boots. What don't you find appealing about them? Or do you prefer square toes?
I don't like the gusset or the large loops at the top but I am not the target market… (neither bloke nor from the country)
God damn, need 200 points.
thanks OP finally got one for the missus
dammit dont have 2000 points
RM Williams are still good, but no where near as good as they use to be. Having said that they havent kept up with inflation so there is that.
I have a black comfort craftsman from 10 years back, barely scruffed, other than the stitching when polished it still looks new.
BUT I have a tan pair 8years old which I threw away last year… that pair had been permanently scuffed within 2 years, polish makes it look nice for a couple of weeks, then the scuff shows again. The left small toe side also wearing so thin that it wouldnt take much to poke through
I had a country girl tell me 5-6 years ago, that RM Williams had moved the tanning process to China, that's why they the boots fall apart more quickly.
I did buy a replacement pair last year, but dont/won't expect much. That pair is already showing wear and tear.
If you want your pair to last make sure it doesnt come into contact with anything… i accidentally kick a table.. much less wear it for actual country wear.
Inflation wise they should probably be around $700+, I'd pay that if the quality was there, dont think many people would though.
Here's a list of RM Williams suppliers, I don't know which one provides the leather.
https://www.rmwilliams.com.au/supply-chain-table/Supply_Chai…
The guy in the shop today told me they use French tanneries. Not sure where the leather is sourced from, but that contradicts what Baghern was told.
maybe they have it tanned at multiple places, but I'd like to know how they're saving costs using a developed nation
Either way they're selling boots for cheaper inflation wise, so they're cost cutting somewhere
According to this article from 2017 they haven't changed tanneries
https://trimly.com.au/blogs/trimlymusings/how-to-find-discou…Both their 100-year old screw machine and Pfaff sewing machines - labeled 'Made in West Germany'- still make up important steps in the production process. The leather is still sourced from the same tanneries.
Either way they're selling boots for cheaper inflation wise, so they're cost cutting somewhere
Or they are willing to make a lower margin or their raw materials are getting cheaper from production advances or their newer products (t-shirts etc) are subsidising the higher cost items to help keep the price where it is.
*Edit - not sure if this is applicable only for flights
Just came across this(although it seems targeted) not bad when you combine all - $275 plus 2k points - this is good as it gets!
Thanks for sharing. I saved it to my card just now, 30 minutes after making the purchase. AMEX customer service said i am still eligible for it, even though i saved it after purchase.
That's only for flights on www.qantas.com.au so it will not work on www.qantasstore.com.au
Phew, I was about to flip lol
These are of high quality and are really comfortable however they are the equivalent to straight jeans in the boots world. They look bulky and round and will suit you if you dress like Barnaby Joyce.
When in rome…
I've been measured in store and need a size F wide boot (narrow foot). However Qantas only stocks G and H widths, does anyone think it'd possible to order from the Qantas website and exchange in store for the correct size?
One of the other posts in this thread alluded to this being perfectly fine, assuming they weren't worn. YMMV though
I agree, they seem to treat customers properly, it's unusual these days!
Ordered a black comfort craftsman to go with my dynamic flex in chestnut :)
Hey just wondering what your opinion of the difference between the comfort craftsman and the dynamic flex, can't decide which one to get, will be for everyday wear
Just copped a pair. Thanks OP!!
Whoops forgot my manners - big thanks to the OP for sharing!
I have one pair of these, bought it 4 years ago and still new.
very good shoes.
When I log in it shows that it's 56900 points with non options to pay $315. Am I missing something?
Gotta use the slider to say "use 2000 points"
Quickest way to get 2k points fast?????
Find someone willing to transfer them to you.
Buy wine from Qantas wine is always pretty quick.
$2k worth of wine needed though, lmao
cool
Check bonus points deals. Points usually post the next day.
@llamaesque: Sorry, what type of deals?
If you're a wino, you could try something like this
Comes with 5k points
Buy points on Ozb classifieds. Worth around 1.3c per point but since you're buying so little there might be a premium.
yep, typical. 6000 points expired 3 days ago!
Qantas points expire. ?
If you don't earn any for like, 18 months, yeah.
Didn't know they expired either, one way to keep them active would be to use woolworths rewards and set your points to convert to Qantas points which gives you like 870 points whenever you earn 2000 points, something like that
Have a look to see if you have any receipts from the affiliated suppliers in the last 9 months - you can email them the receipt and the expiry will undo.
Accounting for 2000 points + delivery, is this approx $340?
I didn't have to pay for delivery. Total was $315 + 2000 pts ~ $335. Sydney.
10 How much is the delivery charge for my product?
The delivery charge is included in the points quoted for a product.The 2000 points is the delivery charge
Total legend thanks OP
thanks OP. Bought a comfort pair (rubber sole). Now I think i need a second pair with the leather sole for my wedding… And need a Chestnut brown pair, perhaps, too……
hmm, Black or chestnut?
both?
both at this price!
Hi Guys
I am normally US 10 + Wide feet, what size/type would you recommend?
I am after a Chestnut colour :)Cheers in advance
I'm a US10 with wide feet and I have 7.5H, but best to get sized if you have the time to =)
I'm the exact same size as you and I'm wearing an 8H.
Hope that helps although I'd still recommend you try for yourself in store though.
Honestly would recommend you go in and get them sized. Chelsea boots always fit a bit funny at the best of times. I Just did it then, normally a US9ish and was 7.5H.
Great deal! Just bought a black pair of Dynamic Flex. Very comfortable shoe. Worn my brown pair close to 4-5 days a week for almost 4 years and still great!!!!!
Thanks OP
Note to others… I've had about 8-9 pairs of RMs over the years and disappointed with the dynamic flex. Problem I had (and may be my wear style, etc) is where the leather meets the rubber always split and required early resole.. For this reason if you're after rubber go the comfort model
Is it a big issue? I have the Comfort Craftsman and was thinking of picking up the Dynamic Flex from this sale in a different colour.
I've only had the one pair of dynamic flex but if you look at where the leather meets the rubber it's actually a weak point (shoe repairer said the same) comfort has this all in one piece
Mmm I get what you mean. Guess I'll just get another Comfort Craftsman in Chestnut then
@Menzoberranzan: i walk heavy on my heels and burn through them but RM genuine heels seem to cope the longest out of most shoes ive worn eg julius marlows were flat out a couple of weeks, ecco etc
Will this match my flexible waist line paints?
Thanks OP! Have been contemplating a second pair for a while now but this tipped me over the edge!
TRs too 😍
so with TRS .. assume i have to take them with ? going abroad before they will get to me …
did anyone get a narrow size (F)?
Got a pair. Thanks OP!
Ordered! Thanks OP!
I have almost 40,000 Qantas points. I've never got anything from the store before, but is it better to use as many points as I can or just the 2000 points?
Ideally, I'd like to only get one pair, but can't decide on colour. I'm leaning more on black, but chestnut does look nice too. Anyway, I'm definitely going to have to visit a store for sizing as I'm a size 10.5 with wide feet. I'll probably get the Comfort Craftsman boot as I'll likely just wear this occasionally on a night out with jeans or chinos.
If you have a use for the points in future (whether travel or anything else), stick to the 2000 points.
However, if you won't use the points at all, better to use them up now and save some cash instead of letting them expire.
Thanks OP!! i didnt have enough points, but you can buy points blocks here: https://www.qantas.com/au/en/frequent-flyer/your-account/poi… which made it a total of $363 for me (already had 1200 points). 2000 points cost ~$75 so it would bring the total to $390, which is still cheaper than nungar trading and portphilipshop.
You have an insufficient points balance to purchase Top-up points.
Can’t purchase if you have 0 points.
wasnt aware of that. only useful for someone that already has points, but not enough.
Thanks OP - I thought I'd check to see if I had any QFF and I had 9000 expiring in 3 weeks. So I'll grab a pair.
thank you! bought one - I'm a US 11.5 and bought a 9H
My feet are too fat to fit RMs. Now I'll never get onto SET.
Buy some runners instead.
They come in a wider fit too, unless youve already discovered that and it was unsuitable ofc.
Great news, less competition for the rest of us.
They do come in an X or Tambo extra wide fit. They’re not in this sale though.They do unfortunately have a widened toe so lose the chiseled look and look a bit like work boots.
Lucky mine are SET standards.
does anyone know if the sizing on the Qantas website is RM sizing ? or UK sizing ?
RM Sizing is UK sizing.
I would recommend popping into an RM store to get sized. They are a bit funny
Yes. Pop in. I have size 12 feet, but size 13 per the website. I ordered and received a pair of 13s, but now they're slightly bigger so I'm gonna head into a store to test them out then return them.
Neither do i have points nor the coin. 😢😢
Got an extra 10% off with code BDAYSEP18. Probably only works if it’s your birthday this month
Well done!!
Damn! I just received an e-mail with the same promo code after placing my order, and there's no way to cancel it.
Well, I guess $315 is still a great price.
You can cancel it if you hop on live chat.
so annoyed. I was actually born in September but I cant use the code. Dont know why…
out of interest, how do you add your birthday within your qantas profile? my birthday actually is in sept.. this would sweeten the deal. i've looked at my qff profile and can't see anywhere that determines your birthday loyalty etc
I can’t see it either. Must have been something I entered when I first joined a few months ago
What is this birthday business?
You get points for your bday?
mate you're a legend. saved me an extra 10%!
Happy birthday to us!
happy birthday to you! i used my brothers account given that his bday is actually in september :)
hahaha ;) nah he got a pair too
Haha nice one!
Did you guys get an extra 10% off the price as well as points?
Or just 200 points off?
nice one, grabbed 2 pairs!
I am one of many people at Sydney George St store and Westfield Lv 4 trying to get their size measured and buy from Qantas Store.
EDIT: I bought it using full points because I can never seem to used them on the flights for the days I want.
Did they seem to care? I know usually they want you to buy in store but wondering if it's different with RM Williams
I just told them that I need to think about the colour and come back.
Very good deal. Dont delay. I have one pair i shouldnt have worn the absolute christ out of but its a pair that wont end up in the bin
Thanks, a free pair of shoes after my latest credit card points payout. :)
I already have a black and a tan pair. Now thinking of getting chestnut. I can already imagine my wife screaming at me from a distance!
Better get her some shoes too to keep her quiet.
Do you find you wear the black pair much? Always feel the browns look so much better with blue/indigo jeans and could only imagine preferring the blacks when wearing black pants (which I don't tend to wear). I am myself trying to toss up between black and chestnut myself, after already having a pair of suede grey chelseas and a pair of dark tan chelseas.
I usually wear tan pair with my chinos (blue, khaki and navy) and also with my jeans. I get to wear black generally with black or dark grey coloured trousers. Brown shoes with black pants is a big no in corporate setting. Overall I prefer brown over black.
I have Chestnut and Black. Prefer my Chestnut
corporate here… always alternate black and chestnut with black pants…
Thanks OP, I've got a pair for these boots already and they're fantastic. Got myself another pair in black.
thanks OP, got one
$315 is a sweet deal.
If you don't have Qantas Points, I would recommend ringing the Salisbury store in Adelaide. Last time I picked up a pair of factory seconds, which I could not spot the minor defect, for $350 + $15 postage.
Anyone who's just short of points and doesn't wish to purchase more, I was told by their chat line I could email them receipts for purchases from their partner stores over the last 9 months - places like Harvey Norman, Asos - full list on QFF's site.
I got the following code for my birthday for an extra 10% hope it works for others :) “BDAYSEP18”
So now that we've bought the shoes, what sort of leather protection or polish do you guys use? Never really cared much for my previous leather shoes apart from putting kiwi polish on them every so often. But since these rms are expensive I want to look after them properly.
What kind of polish is to be used to make them nice and shiny?
I use RM Williams leather conditioner every 1-2 months and usually Kiwi polish every other day. RM Williams sells their special polish too to hide the scuff mark but it's an expensive business.
I've been wearing RMs as work shoes M-F since the late 90s, only ever used the RM product after ruining the first pair with Kiwi. The extra $10 per tin is worth it.
Lol how did you ruin it with kiwi? And what rm product did you buy
the guys at the shop will tell you that kiwi is a oil based polish and will ruin your leather.
They ended up cracking in all the creases. Only lasted 11 years…
Definitely buy a tin of the leather conditioner from RM. it’s a huge tin and will last for ages. This can also go on any color boot and any leather shoe to keep the leather hydrated.
In terms of polish you can buy a polish from RM if you like as it’s an exact match for color to your boot, yes it’s going to be a little more expensive but it’s an investment for the long term. These are boots that if you look after them look polished and fresh 5-10 years down the track
Bought using 100% points, which seems to be a great way to use the points <<prepares to be torched>>
Nice one OP<<prepares to be torched>>
Haha, have a +1 for that
Can these in black work in place of regular office work shoes, Florsheim, Julius Marlow etc. with standard trousers (usually grey) and business shirt or will they look dumb? Never had boots before
Depends on how formal your office is but I'm sure they'll be fine for most. It sounds like you're not wearing a suit or tie to work so I don't see RMs being a problem. A large proportion of men and some women wear RMs every day in the city where I work. Most opt for the brown and in my opinion they're also the most versatile (you can dress them up or down easily) but that's most just preference
I wear RM's with a suit for work all the time. Looks mint!
Ok, I'm new to those shoes, whats the difference between craftman and comfort? they look the same to me
Craftsman - Leather Sole
Comfort - Rubber Sole
Dynamic Flex - Mixed leather + rubber soleWhat is the difference between leather sole, comfort sole and comfort dynamic flex sole?
When you are deciding on which boots you want to buy, you will be able to choose from various sole types. Our most common sole types are listed below with a brief explanation of how they are made and what conditions they are suitable for:Leather sole – Premium dress boot sole. Sewn leather welt sole construction. Breathable leather innersole.
Comfort sole – Perfect for everyday wear. Sewn welt plain non-slip composition rubber sole with comfort innersole.
Dynamic Flex Comfort Sole – Perfect for dress wear. Sewn welt with composition leather and rubber sole. Comes with a removable, supportive innersole.https://www.rmwilliams.com.au/faqs/Footer_FAQs.html?lang=en_…
Edit: removed - simultaneous, duplicated answer.
HELL yes. Just bought the Comfort Craftsman Boot in Black and Chestnut. BARGAIN.
So, these are made in China?
Made in Adelaide
Roger, I understand that the other apparel is made offshore, but footware is still local…
Geez….my current pairs are ‘F’ fit.
Wondering if I can get away with a G fit……I've been wanting RM Williams forever and have been waiting for a deal to crop up… And the deal doesn't even apply to me. Wish I got Qantas points.
Snapped up 2 have 6 now, wife says "we buying a farm now?"
For those who paid cash, how long does it take for the tax invoice to arrive and what date did it have on it? I am heading overseas in 65 days and wanted to claim at the TRS. Just wondering how long I need to wait so that the invoice date is less than 60 days before departure.
Tax invoice came in the email confirmation just after I clicked buy.
Thanks for that. Sounds like I will have to wait until next week and hope they still have stock
Depends how much you want them. The GST is under $30 vs next cheapest price being around $125 more if they sell out. Plus you have to carry a big heavy pair of boots in your hand luggage unless you wear them on the plane. Need to weigh that up I guess.
Hi is it better to pay with points or cash and points. I have enough points to pay from a credit card deal
best value is as per post
Also for those needing tips on sizing I am usually a UK10-EU44 but wear 9.5G in RM so RM sizes run a bit larger than normal shoes
Bought my first pair of RM Williams! Thanks OP
anyone used their online size guide based on foot measurements and know how likely getting a right fit is?
I recommend getting sized up properly in the store. Before I got my first pair ages ago I went in to 3 separate stores. One store gave me the wrong measurement but the other 2 were spot on. Perfect fit when my online shoes arrived.
Best you call them up on the phone and speak to them
Thanks OP, was thinking of getting a chestnut pair to go with my black dynamic flex, so just grabbed same size. Decided to use Austraia’s second currency (FF points) in full seeing as have over half a million courtesy of work, which I will recoup in a couple of months anyway!
Thanks OP! Got a black pair of the Comfort Craftsman to go with Brown I already have. Great Boots!
tried to do sizing myself and ended up calling them. Advised to go into store for fitting. Is it rude to go into store for fitting and buy online?
I felt going into a local stockist (which isn't an RM Williams) would be rude. Not sure about an actual RM Williams store (haven't got one close anyway).
Ended up doing sizing myself - normally a US11.5 2E (extra wide), was a RM9.5 G (normal width) but upped it to be the H width on the basis that it must be popular enough to offer it not as a custom build. Wider shoe can also make a shorter size fit better too incase I got that wrong.
ended up going in store. sizing online was quite off! went down a size in length and width.
Nice, two pairs ordered just as my existing Julius Marlow boots wear through the sole after 1.5 years.
Interestingly, their sizing matches my Julius Marlow exactly for me (8.5 reg).
Never ladies boots. :'( Will have to end up paying full price for them! (DJs only stock D width for ladies which is quite narrow/uncomfortable in the leather sole but perfect in the rubber sole. But DJs only stock the leather sole. So not much chance for discounted RMs outside of D width+leather sole)
Out of interest, do people find that the Craftsman boots are quite heavy (compared to other Chelsea boots) and their feet gets tired after walking around in them all day? I was considering getting the RMW Sydney boot which is apparently lighter, but couldn't pass up this deal.
I don't find mine heavy at all and could wear them all day!
After peoples opinion here. IVe got a pair of RM's with a leather sole and i generally always buy leather shoes with a leather sole as ive been told they generally last longer.
What are peoples thoughts on the rubber soles RM's? are they more comfortable? do they slip less in wet weather? I generally always get my leather soled shoes/boots topyed after a month or 2 of wear to get extra long wear out of them.
Interested to hear peoples thoughts
From my research I've heard that the leather soles wear much quicker and end up being more expensive long run. Also heard that they are quite slippery. With my comfort craftsmen I've not had any slipping issues. With these RM's you really shouldnt have any need to be resoling that often, just make sure that eventually when the first layer of the heel is about to go to get RM to replace them, think itll run you 50-60 and last a while
The comfort craftsman (rubber) is definitely longer lasting than the craftman (leather) and is pretty comfortable.
Having said that, I also have a pair with leather sole that I put topy on. Not going into a debate on its merits, but it's my go-to pair. I tend to avoid the hybrid (e.g dynamic flex) types for my shoes as I had poorer durability experience with other brands.
End of the day, you can't go wrong either way and it's down to preference. The key thing is to properly maintain them.
I get the classics then TOPY them
That way - they still feel like leather soled shoes, and have the extremely thin rubber to make them not slippery/bit waterproof
"why not just buy the comforts" you might ask? Well they just feel too rubbery, lack that leather soled feelWould definately suggesting using a good cobbler though. Also TOPY's are thin so don't expect them to last 5 years
If I never walked outside, and just on carpet, i'd go leather sole. Otherwise rubber.
I thought I was fine with a size 12 (what I normally get), but I actually measured my feet and They're 31cm/ 310mm which is roughly a size 13 on the guides.
I rang up Qantas and they put in a change request for my order.
They also said if it doesn't fit I can send it back (obviously as long as it's in resalable condition).
Thanks OP bought two.
Confused - keeps showing me $399.45 + 2k points. Am I doing it wrong?
Me too. Maybe they upped the price
I've just gone to purchase and noticed the same.
Yes, the price has gone up now.
How does the price go up $85 in a day? Regret not getting it yesterday but didn't know my size yet!
It literally went up about an hour and a bit ago… :(
@TightTerry: Worth it to call the Qantas store to plead my case?
Should have ordered, change size later if needed
@TightTerry: I got home and it was still $315, cooked dinner and sat down to order and now $399. (profanity) sake.
@blibster: I doubt you can change size per Qantas store's change of mind policy. You're better off getting the right fit before you order
I just went in for a fitting. Tried the comfort in 6h and it was probably half a cm too narrow for my little toe. Does the leather generally loosen enough to make it fit better? I want to get some boots that will last, but afraid of buying in hopes it'll wear in.
My current work shoes have only lasted me like a year of wear.I hope they don't loosen, as that would make the shoe misshapened. I tend to find leather doesn't.
Could you go up to a 6.5 or 7 as they will be wider where you toe hits?
I did try a 6.5, it was too loose on the heel and my foot would slip, it was much more comfortable at the toes though.
I guess I don't fit them… and with the price increase I won't get them anyway. I should probably be happy I'm not spending $300 on shoes…
The toe box is the part of the boot that will not soften/loosen with wear. So its important that the toes are not squeezed from the get go!
From experience RM Williams have a little bit of give across the widest part of your foot but not a huge amount. Near the toes don’t expect them to loosen off much as they have a cap on the end
How long is your foot? I feel like I might need a size 6 too
(profanity) hell, the price has gone up another $85…
WHen I checked this morning it was 2000 points and $315 now it is 2000 points and $399. What happened?
It got ozbargained…
I'm surprised it lasted this long to be honest, they must have sold what, at least 1000 pairs? All at a $100 or so loss? Still hoping mine ship!
I'm bracing myself for mass cancellation emails
Please no
@Zaenille:
Mine were shipped this afternoon, so should be fine
thanks, got a pair this arvo. glad i made it for the $315 price :)
first RM williams, first boot, first brown coloured work shoe !
Hopefully it gets posted out!
Well if you want to buy using QFF points it is still valid as the same amount of points as before.
Even if you value at 1c per point, it comes out way more expensive than retail.
(1c pp is very low)
Better value than anything else in the store though
If you work out from the value of a retail gift card from point you can almost see how much you would have paid. That is still not bad from what is the RRP out there.
Bugger, missed it
So, i ended up buying for the $399 + 2000 points deal as this is still a great price for RM's and pretty much as cheap as you see them.
I emailed Qantas and stated that the slider said $315 + 2000 points when i processed the transaction, it didnt, but i thought i would try my luck.
Qantas came back and stated that it was actually a technical glitch with the system and that the $315 price shouldnt have been listed, it was always meant to have been $399.
Hopefully for the lucky few who got the $315 price that they actually honor this price and dont kill the order or make you pay the extra $84.
Also - For people still keen, the deal has technically expired as they arnt offering the $315 anymore but the $399 price with 2000 points is still a fantastic price and just about as low as you are going to see with RM's. so if you are in the market for a pair, id snap this up.
Yes I often wonder about the ethics of ozbargainers. It seems the norm to just lie if it works.
Unfortunately that's more a sad reflection of modern society.
Just got an email saying my order which was scheduled for delivery on 19 Sep, has now been delayed to 4 Oct……
I was the same, also got the delay e-mail
Same. Delayed until expected delivery 4th October.
More time to order some shoe trees then while awaiting the arrival!
Which shoe trees would you recommend?
Trimly has some Chelsea boots one that's decent locally.
Same. But when I placed my order initially it already said a projected date of the 4th October so my expectations were already for at least a month.
Did you get the shipped e-mail now?
Just received an email: order has been delayed with Revised expected delivery October 4th.
I'm also regretting not buying two or three pairs, just to have them on rotation.I received the same email: scheduled for delivery on 19 Sep, has now been delayed to 4 Oct. Considering the price though, i'm not too fussed.
Any recommendations for alternatives? Looking for some shoes for work - I'm an educator.
Country Road have very good Chelsea boots for the price and often have 25% off sales. I got two pairs for $321 (both Jeffersons, cognac leather and grey suede). Also got $55 credit from the purchase for joining their club which got me a pair of their $129 jeans for $41 on the Father's Day 25% off sale.
Compared to the RMs: they have the leather join under the gusset which is cheaper to manufacture, but the leather CR pair are also burnished which the RMs aren't. Burnishing is usually more expensive and lifts the shoe to another level. Rubber sole, but not as chunky as normal rubber soles so has more a leather sole look from the side. It's quite a hard rubber too.
CRs are Blake-stitched which is typical in Italian shoes and far better than glued, but slightly cheaper to do than the RM's welt.
I shined up the new leather pair with some Saphir polish and waxes and it made them look more like $500 boots.
Only complaint - after probably 5 wears the top of the gusset elastic has gone bunched from being overstretched getting my foot in (but that will be covered by pants).
Had a nice comfortable pair from CR… just doesnt last though… like most males… I hate shopping
Not good to hear, although I'd only wear them once every few weeks. Glad I got them cheap.
Reckon that this has to be a great bargain right now.
In fact I might have to post it as a separate post for those who missed out on the Qantas dealGet some oxfords. Not a boot.
Yeah that's why I'm using now, but they need to be replaced. Any brand suggestions?
Buy this shoe: https://www.ctshirts.com/au/black-goodyear-welted-oxford-rub…
And get a shoe tree with it.
I can give you a 20% off code if you really do want to buy it. They make great quality shoes.
Oxfords aren't an alternative to a boot - they're look way out-of-place with jeans whereas boots rock. Need both styles. Oxford boots ok with jeans though.
Dude didn't ask for a boot. He asked for shoes for work. Boot is not professional at all unless your Barnaby J.
@smuggler: Agree for Lawyer/Finance/Execs… Oxfords just about mandatory, or at least darker, non-brogued or capped Derbys.
But for an educator - non-rugged looking Chelseas with thinner soles I wouldn't consider underdressing unless wearing a suit.
I wear Brogue shoes too. Maybe that's why I haven't been promoted. xD
Don't buy CR, get shoes from ctshirts.
CT Chelseas at $249 look inferior - unlike some of their other shoes they don't mention sole stitching which typically means they're glued on.
I been wearing them for years. They're good quality.
Get the $300+ shoes if you want British made shoes.
@smuggler:
Yeah, my $300 ct brogues have lasted over 5 years so far with one resole. Built well and look great.
WTF - went for sizing today and are about to order..now its $100 more :( At least i'm ready for the waiting game.
Very impressed with the whole transaction. Received them today (interstate, super quick) and their sizing chart worked spot on for length and width. I even called up RM Williams to change the colour even before they received the order, as Qantas couldn't do it without cancelling the order, and the amended colour arrived.
Wow, received an email 2 days ago saying it was delayed to early October then DHL guy knocked on my door this morning and delivered them. Stoked! I'm in Adelaide so maybe they came straight from the factory perhaps
Hey guys first time posting, was going to get the comfort craftsman in chestnut but just realised I have enough credit card points to take $200 off the price at David Jones ($345) but they only have the dynamic flex
has anyone got the dynamic flex and what are your thoughts on it compared tp the comfort craftsman
Cheers
I tried briefly in store. Immediate difference was a fair bit of arch support and the heel of your foot seemed to sit taller. Also a little bit more flex and padding. I’ve started wearing orthotics and heel/arch support inserts for some shoes so decided to buy these to wear as is
Lots of arch support in Dynamic Flex. They kinda hurt my arch firstly, but now they're completely fine. Dynamic Flex have combined rubber and leather sole, so won't be as durable as comfort craftsman. In my experience, the Comfort Craftsman soles last a lot longer, if you get a size larger in the Comfort Craftsman and buy the inserts it's the same shoe IMO.
After trying in store I bought the dynamic flex in chestnut. Paid mostly in points. First RM’s shoe purchase, thanks!
How did you find the size difference between the flex and comfort? The store I went to didnt have any flex to try on but they said it's a little more snug
I found flex to be more snug. I had another comfort pair which used to fit fine. I ordered flex online in the same size but it didn't fit at all. It was too tight. In the end I removed the insoles from flex and now can wear them fine.
I contacted RM William's about the sizing and they insisted that the sizing is the same.
Is there any real benefit to the flex if you're a removing the insoles as they are the reason I was going to buy them? I might go the comfort instead as I know they fit
@r3volt: Unfortunately I didn't have the option to return so only way to make them fit was to remove insoles. I replaced thicker RM Williams insoles with some thin ones and now they fit fine.
My second pair is Comfort and I love it. If I was to buy another pair then I will go with Comfort again. I find comfort sole to be more longer lasting compared with Flex so I don't specifically see any special advantage of going with Flex.
@ozioziozi:
Thanks for your reply.I think I'll just go comfort and use a thin insole if I feel I need it
The Dynamic and Comfort definitely are a different fit for me. Comfort is a G where as Dynamic needs to be a H.
The dynamic flex is a different last compared with the comfort and classic craftsman, so it fits a tad more snug.
Also another thing to be aware of is that you can't resole to a leather or rubber sole in the future. The Comfort and Classic though you can resole from one to the other.
Got mine today which wasn't expected… I got an email saying that the shipment was delayed to 4th October.
When did you order?
Received mine just then, ordered the day the deal was posted
Looks like Qantas Store is getting a lot of these out earlier than they said (they said Oct 4th).
Ordered 2 pairs on Sept 4th and they are both on board Startrack for delivery today (11th Sept).where did you get the delivery details? I only see "processing" and expected delivery date 5th oct when i log in and check the order
Yesterday mine said expected delivery 4th Oct.
Today is shows it was despatched yesterday for delivery today.
I think Qantas Store are trying to push these out sooner than they say
Well, I received my shipment yesterday, except it wasn't the make, size, or colour I ordered.
Looks like something got lost in translation from Qantas' systems to RM's systems.
Received mine today!
Anyone from Sydney received their boots yet?
Yup. Two pairs
Received mine today! (newcastle)
When did you receive your shipping confirmation from Qantas?
Yesterday :) Sorry for the late reply
Ordered 04/09 @ 8:30pm… received shipping notification from Qantas 10/09… boots in hand today (11/09)
YAY~!!
Which size/colour/sole did you get? Heading to Europe for 6 weeks on Saturday and optimistic I might get them before then.
bog standard black 7.5 craftsman
Damn ordered the exact same on 4th at 4pm, guess it's just a lottery! Enjoy your boots!
Ohh hopefully I'll get mine soon. Ordered 5th at 515pm
My points finally came in, and the deal is over. Aw man.
got mine today, cant help but feel ive possibly got half size too big (11G)
Now isn't that a coincidence - I got mine last night and at 10.5G they're half a size too small.
If you have the Black Comfort Craftman, then PM me and we'll see if we can work a swap!dark tan :)
Oh well. I’ll try my luck in store
My anecdotal experience was that they were pretty reluctant. I tried 3 stores in total.
The first seemed willing but had no stock of my size;
The second wanted to charge me the difference to a full price shoe
The third said they would do it as a 'one off' but normally I'd have to go back to Qantas.FYI when I asked Qantas on the phone, they said that they'd accept changes for a different size, but you'd need to pay return postage (and obviously wait for the replacements to get sent out, which might take a while given the backlog.
As new as you can get. Manufactured 2 days after I ordered and delivered a week later.
How do you tell when it was manufactured?
Written on the box. “DOM”
other than baby powder, any other suggestions to stop my shoes squeaking? lol i've tried different socks etc and i'm squeaking throughout the office
the hard plastic on the stock insole makes the noise (for my pairs anyways)
replace the insoles - scholl gel ones from woolies/coles work well
or stick some thin fabric to the underside of the stock insoles
Just this for next time in case anyone doesn't av a qantas frequent flyer account, free sign up
https://www.qantaspoints.com/join-now?code=ANZI hope people are not wearing these shoes as formal shoes, looks wrong on so many levels. Get some Oxfords
Very good service by Qantas and RM Williams. Ordered on Saturday 8th and delivered on Wednesday 12th
Partial shipment is better than no shipment I guess! :) 1/2 has arrived - Sydney. Guessing that they didnt have the leather soles readily available? Only my comfort ones have arrived.
damn, was hoping this was going to be a 'i received one shoe' story ;)
How much luck do you think I would jave in trying to return these to Qantas?
I ordered the light brown craftsman but when I got them, they were much darker IRL than in the photos on the website and are almost the same as my chestnut CC's. They're so close in colour that it's pointless having two pairs of exactly the same boots :-(
Interesting as I went in store and found chestnut was much darker than dark tan
The dark tan and chestnut colour variance should be very noticeable. If they are comparable then I'd expect that they must've goten the order wrong.
Qantas store T&Cs state no returns or exchange as far as I can read. You can give it a go but don't hold out it
do you have an RM Williams store nearby?
my mate ordered the wrong size and they just replaced it for him.
mine are 0.5 too small to - what store did he return to ?
Not exactly sure which store, but was in Melbourne
Spoke to Qantas (nicely). Told them my Comfort Craftsmen were 0.5 size too small. They set up return for me, but I had to pay return postage ($20 with PoD & tracking).
Posted last Friday from Sydney. They went to Brisbane (have since found out there’s a Salisbury in Brissie, the same name as the SA suburb where RMW is based). A week later they are now in Melbourne having completed a tour of east coast capitals. Return would be going fine apart from AusPost screw up.
People still waiting?
Waiting for my black leather sole pair.Comfort pair has arrived. Is yours the same?
Dark tan comforts
Received my DT comforts - Sydney. Guess it might just be a lottery when they get shipped out.
yep still waiting
Got home and my boots had arrived! Totally unexpected.
Thiswas brisbane.
Just ordered a pair for $358+2000pts using an account with a Sept birthday and code BDAYSEP18.
Yay order shipped expected tmr
got mine today woohooo
date of manufacture 21/09/2018Has anyone managed to swap their boots in store? I got measured up as a 9.5 F but QANTAS for some reason or another only sell the G and M.
Got a pair anyway, hopefully they fit okay or the store will let me swap em over.
Still waiting on my boots, anyone else?
Delivered last week Friday. Manufacturer date 24/9/18. They are great!
Hey,
When did you order the boots? I got in pretty late just wondering if the qantas ETA is accurate haha.
5/9 at 5pm. My expected delivery date was (always) 5th of Oct. It seems others had a faster expected delivery date but got shifted back to Oct.
@mrtin: Ah okay thanks! Hopefully they come a bit quicker then they quote haha. A month turnaround is quite long for a product shipping within Aus
@PepsiMaxS: Mine were manufactured 24/9/18 and I received it on 28th so good service in my opinion given they had to make it!
@mrtin: Yeah that’s true. When I called to change the size from G to F the lady said to expect 4-6 weeks because they would have to make it. I assumed the G would have been in stock.
Anywho, really excited for them to arrive.
@PepsiMaxS: How did you manage to get the size change. I was told by Qantas store that it wasn't possible to get an F size and RM Williams weren't any help either. Thanks
@syntic: Hey,
I just called them and said something along the lines of the shoes were a gift from my father who didn’t realize I needed a narrower shoe and they were happy to change them up for me.
They did advise a longer lead time though
Changed mine twice in store for a wider different colour
Changed mine through qantas store (asked nicely).
Takes a while and you have to pay to return to RMW, but all worked out well in the endAwesome. Thanks all.
I went into store yesterday and they said they were happy to swap…. phew!I ordered the wrong size… I went into RM williams store in the city (sydney) to swap but was told i could only swap if i paid the difference between what i paid and what they were selling them for. I walked over to the QVB store and they swapped over without any question
Really depends on who you get on the day
did you offer to pay them in frequent flyer miles using your fitbit?
When I read the title I thought it was $315 with 2000 bonus QFF points…