Boots & Brews Podcast

Troy and Tyler get into the nuts and bolts of what actually makes a good work boot, from design to construction to what's new on the shelves. They break down why features like puncture resistance go through serious R&D to meet international safety standards, and clear up boot height measurements (that 6-inch or 8-inch number starts at the heel). They also dig into stitch-down vs. glued soles, and why the right choice depends on the job, whether that's construction or warehouse work. Plus, a look at Ecoite shoes made from recycled materials, the BOA enclosure system, and a preview of the upcoming Elk Grove tent sale with deals up to 50% off. Troy even names his most-worn boot, the 1222 Traction Tred Lite.

Troy and Tyler sit down with their first guest, Jason from Thermotech Solutions, to talk trades, boots, and everything in between. Jason runs an HVAC, refrigeration, and mechanical facility services company, and shares why he requires his employees to wear safety-toe Red Wing boots on the job, subsidizing part of the cost as a way to protect his crew. They dig into what it really takes to make it in the trades, why taking care of your feet matters for the long haul, and where tools like AI fit into skilled trades work today. Jason also opens up about a serious on-the-job injury and shares a few laughs about his favorite Red Wing styles, dressier options included.

In this episode of Boots & Brews, Troy and Tyler talk about supporting the trades and the next generation of people entering them. With skilled labor in high demand, they discuss why the trades offer a real path to a great career without the debt, and what Red Wing is doing to back the students and apprentices choosing that path. Troy shares how the Roseville and Elk Grove stores work with local schools and trade programs to offer scholarships to aspiring students.

In this episode of Boots & Brews, Troy and Tyler dig into what makes a true contractor's boot. Contractors ask more of their footwear than just about anyone , and the right boot has to keep up. Troy breaks down the features that matter most: durable leather, supportive construction, safety toes, and outsoles built to handle everything from mud to ladder rungs, and explains how to match a boot to the kind of work you actually do

In this episode of Boots & Brews, Troy and Tyler dig into boot maintenance: what to do, when to do it, and how often. Troy breaks down the cadence of proper boot care, so your boots hold up through the long shifts and hard conditions they were built for.
 

Troy and Tyler walk through the Red Wing Shoes foot scan process. Troy interprets the results live for Tyler, showing just how quick and easy it is. Troy also explains why he recommends it every time you buy a new pair of boots.

In this episode of the Boots & Brews podcast, Troy and Tyler discuss everything comfort and how to protect your most common tool — your feet.

In this episode of Boots & Brews, Troy and Tyler break down how the right orthopedic insoles can completely change the way you move, work, and feel day to day. Troy explains how modern technology takes the guesswork out of finding the right fit by analyzing pressure points, arch type, and alignment.
 
They also discuss why “one-size-fits-all” solutions fall short and how properly fitted insoles paired with the right footwear can help reduce fatigue, prevent long-term issues, and improve overall performance.

In this episode of Boots & Brews, Troy and Tyler break down everything you need to know about King Toe boots. They talk through what sets King Toe apart from a standard work boot. Troy explains how that extra space can help reduce pressure, improve comfort during long shifts, and even prevent common issues like pinching and fatigue.

Troy and the crew sit down to talk about the thinking behind the Red Wing Traction Tred Lite from Red Wing Shoes. They get into how work boots are actually developed, starting with a core design and evolving into different versions based on what real workers ask for in the store.Troy talks about why wedge soles are so popular on jobsites and what Red Wing changed to make the Traction Tred Lite lighter, more comfortable, and longer-lasting. They also talk about the evolution of the product from cork to puncture-resistant technology.Along the way, they share practical tips on boot care, including cleaning debris like concrete dust off your boots and why moisture-wicking socks make a big difference if you're on your feet all day.