Thorogood 1957 Series 6 Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boots for Men

Thorogood: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation

In 1892, at the age of 27, Albert H. Weinbrenner opened a cobblery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his partner Joseph Peffer, primarily serving the "Jobbing" trades. This marked the beginning of the Weinbrenner Shoe Company, which would go on to become the renowned Thorogood brand.

The company's evolution is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and meeting the needs of specialized workforces. In 1900, the Albert H. Weinbrenner Co. was formally established. The first product catalog was printed in 1916, and the company boasted more leather cutting machines than any other in the United States. The "Job-fitted" concept was introduced in 1917, and Weinbrenner became a major contributor of boots to the U.S. Army during World War I.

The 1930s saw the company take its first steps into safety footwear production, and in 1942, it celebrated 50 years in business by converting its entire production to military footwear for the duration of World War II, catering to both combat and dress styles. This military focus also gained popularity with civilians.

In 1943, the company's workers organized under the International Boot & Shoe Workers Union, but the management-worker relationship remained outstanding. The famous "Hike n' Camp" boot, the Official Boy Scout Boot, was introduced in 1964 and became the company's best-selling boot.

Over the years, the company underwent various ownership changes, including a local group purchase in 1988 and an employee-owned ESOP in 2000. Thorogood demonstrated its commitment to the community by donating hundreds of pairs of boots to Ground Zero workers after the September 11th attacks.

Today, Thorogood continues to innovate, with the introduction of the 1892 Heritage line of handcrafted, lifestyle boots in 2014 and the launch of its first western wear product, Thorogood's Square Toe Wellingtons, in 2022. The company has also made significant investments in upgrading its domestic facilities and manufacturing processes.

Thorogood's unwavering focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and comfort has made it a trusted choice for specialized workers across various industries, from electricians and carpenters to ironworkers and utility linemen. The brand's commitment to union-made, American-made footwear, along with its exclusive MAXWear outsoles and attention to detail, have earned it a loyal following among those who demand the best from their work boots.

As Thorogood celebrates its 130th anniversary in 2023, the brand continues to build on its rich heritage, expanding its product offerings and enhancing its manufacturing capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Thorogood's legacy of quality, innovation, and job-fitted design is a testament to the enduring spirit of American craftsmanship.

product information: