Blundstone 500 vs 600

plentifoo on 25/08/2022 - 22:39

Hey all, been looking to buy a quintessential Australian boot (twin pull tabs) mostly for walking, casual fri attire and the occasional car camping. I have narrowed it down to blundstone 500 and 600.

There are several websites out there comparing the both that essentially states the 600 is an upgrade in all ways, leather lining, more durable, refreshed herringbone stitching, etc. But it's marketed as a work boot whereas the 500 is in the classic line.

Aesthetically they look the same but the price difference? Massive. The 500 cost above $200 wherever you look, bstore has it for $220! But I can easily buy the 600s from a local work store for $109. Literally half the price. So what gives? Surely it isn't all just marketing?

Fashion & Apparel Blundstone Footwear

Comments

  • nubzy on 25/08/2022 - 23:50
    +4

    Get Redback's instead. Made in Aus, more comfy IMO and almost half the price. You can get them for $115 on eBay.

    • plentifoo on 26/08/2022 - 02:02

      I did consider them but the soles look too industrial and overall looks more like a work boot that I probably can't wear a button down shirt with.

      Got the 600 for $109 in the end.

      • ESEMCE on 26/08/2022 - 17:58

        Redback Alpine can sneak into the office.

      • nubzy on 26/08/2022 - 19:21

        Nah, the UBOK Bobcat's are a classic. Super comfy. Can be worn with jeans/chinos for smart casual outfits but they're so comfy and practical that you will wear them everyday, with everything.

        • ESEMCE on 28/08/2022 - 09:03

          Yeah or the Bobcat (but I don't like elastic sided boots)

    • mskeggs on 26/08/2022 - 12:11
      +2

      Strong agree. After a decade of Blunnies moved to these 8yrs ago and have worn through only one pair (admittedly, the second is looking a little old, and I have bought a 3rd pair for best!).
      Compared to a pair of Blundstones every 2-3 years. Aussie made, better priced.
      Fine for everyday wear in an office with chinos and button up shirt.

      • plentifoo on 26/08/2022 - 14:42

        The blundstones were cheaper and more accessible here in WA.

        I’m more a sneakers man on casual fri, this is more for the odd site visit and days I choose to dress ‘up’.

        So they’ll see much less use than the average work boot.

  • zhenjie on 25/08/2022 - 23:54
    +1

    Work stores often have legacy Blundstone prices, which are great value. Just ensure you don't get the steel captoe version if looking to wear them casually or hiking.

    • Jimothy Wongingtons on 26/08/2022 - 09:08
      +1

      i wear my steelcaps with everything, everywhere. haha

  • plentifoo on 26/08/2022 - 02:03

    Ic that's interesting. The 600 does not have a steep cap toe.

  • ECE on 26/08/2022 - 05:27
    +2

    I second the Redback which is not a steel toe 💪🏿

    • apsilon on 26/08/2022 - 08:17
      +1

      They do both steel toe and non steel versions.

  • apsilon on 26/08/2022 - 06:35

    I've seen a tear down of the two on Youtube but can''t recall the exact differences. I do recall the differences were marginal and IIRC the price difference in the US was only $10 or $20 between the two. $200 is way overpriced though. As few others have mentioned Redback is the better boot and cheaper despite being made here.

    EDIT: nope, sorry looked it up it was the 500 vs 550 I saw.

  • cashless on 26/08/2022 - 08:06
    +1

    Another brand to consider is Mongrel boots
    Also made in Aus, and at reasonable prices

    • apsilon on 26/08/2022 - 08:16

      As are Rossi and probably others. Steel Blue used to be but have gradually moved some unknown to me portion of their manufacturing OS. I wore Mongrel for years as that's what work provided and I only needed them when going into warehouse/manufacturing areas so didn't bother buying my own but I find Redback more comfortable but fit and comfort can differ between individuals.

      • CheapandUsed on 26/08/2022 - 09:38

        As are Rossi

        Not all of their boots, on their website it is only the ones listed under "Australian Made". Which is 6 of the 29 boots they sell.

        • apsilon on 26/08/2022 - 14:07

          Ahh, really? Another one. Are there any other than Redback and Mongrel left?

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join