Thorogood 834-6449 Men's Genflex2 Tactical - 8" Side Zip Work Boot Review
The Thorogood 834-6449 Men’s Genflex2 Tactical 8" Side Zip Work Boot is designed for those who require support, safety, and comfort in demanding work environments. Crafted with care since 1892 by Weinbrenner Shoe Company, this boot epitomizes a rich heritage in American footwear manufacturing. Ideal for tactical use, it boasts a waterproof construction that also meets blood-borne pathogen compliance, making it a reliable choice for professionals in various sectors.
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Features
- Black full-grain leather and nylon upper
- BBP X-Stream Waterproof technology
- Removable single-density polyurethane footbed for added comfort
- Composite shank providing excellent arch support
- GEN-flex2 outsole for superior traction and flexibility
Pros
- Lightweight design enhances mobility
- Waterproof protection keeps your feet dry
- Blood-borne pathogen compliant for added safety
- Durable materials ensure longevity
- Side zip feature allows for easy on and off
Cons
- May require a break-in period
- Limited color options available
- Side zip may not be as durable under extreme conditions
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Thorogood 834-6449 | Similar Boot A (Brand X) | Similar Boot B (Brand Y) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Yes | No | Yes |
| Blood-borne Pathogen Compliant | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium | Heavy |
| Outsole Type | GEN-flex2 | Standard | Slip-resistant |
Detailed Review
Comfort: The removable single-density polyurethane footbed provides excellent cushioning, allowing you to remain comfortable even during long shifts. The boot's lightweight nature contributes to an all-day wearability that is hard to find in traditional tactical boots.
Durability: Constructed with full-grain leather and nylon, the Thorogood 834-6449 exudes quality and reliability. These materials are known for their resistance to wear and tear, which ensures that you get value for your investment over time.
Traction: The GEN-flex2 outsole is engineered for optimal grip on various surfaces, giving you confidence whether you're on a wet floor or uneven terrain. This feature is crucial for those whose jobs involve movement across diverse environments.
Overall Performance: With its tactical focus, this boot delivers where it counts—safety, functionality, and style. The side zip makes it easy to take on and off while ensuring a snug fit once worn.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional cushioning allows for extended wear without discomfort. |
| Durability | 4.8/5 | High-quality materials provide excellent longevity. |
| Traction | 4.7/5 | Superior grip on various surfaces enhances safety. |
| Style | 4.2/5 | Tactical look with a sleek design, though limited color choices may affect personal preference. |
User Reviews
Solid constructed boot. Very durable. Works well in loose gravel, and dense snow. Competely waterproof. Required thicker socks for the perfect fit.
Great pair of boots for EMS. The side zippers are great and allow for quick donning and doffing. I have had these boots for several months and the zipper is still in great shape. I have noticed that the back of the boot just of heel have some broken stitches. But I give these boots alot abuse and they seem to hold about as well as any other boot I have owned.
I ordered a pair of these boots, then read the reviews. I then tried to cancel the order. They shipped out anyway. Thorogood makes a great boot I have had several pairs and this pair is not the exception. GREAT PAIR OF BOOTS. Nice wide fit. They have the look of work boots and the comfort of tactical boots. No complaints so don’t let the poor reviews discourage you.
THE BOOTS ARE VERY COMFORTABLE BUT WORN EVERYDAY FOR AT LEAST 8 HOURS THEY ONLY LASTED ABOUT 3 MONTHS FOR WHAT YOU PAY FOR THEM I EXPECTED THEM TO LAST LONGER THAN THAT
High quality. Got really well. Wear well. Best boots I’ve ever worn for EMS. Side zippers are a little tough to close sometimes. Overall I highly recommend.
So I had to send them back because they were to Narrow for a 12 2E I was thinking they would be more than wide enough. To ,my surprise I was feeling something in the Left Foot on the Large Toe medial side, at 1st I thought I was feeling the Composite Toe, that is what I really needed in this 8" Boot, but then I found out they were Plain Toe and not Composite Toe. The Website was not very clear to me. For the fact they were not composite Toes is the main reason I send them back after a couple of Days. But I was not happy I had to pay for Return Shipping they wanted to charge me. So I raised a little heat with AMAZON and I was able to get my full refund back. I got Free Shipping when I ordered them but I was charged for Shipping when I returned them not happy about that at all. I Think in the future I need to try before I buy and it is difficult with Online Shopping, plus the 8 inch. boot does not come in Composite toe, but int the 6 inch boot it does, not even a special order would be considered. Bottom Line Is I am still looking for my Boot for work in a similar style because overall I really like this boot style.
This is the first work boot I have bought in the last 15 years that wasn't made by Danner. So far so good, the first day (14 hour night shift) left a few sore spots but since then have been comfortable. Too early for a 5 star rating but we'll see how they hold up. I've had Thorogood before and loved them, I don't expect anything less this time.
Comfortable and snug fit. I am an EMT and wear my boots for sometimes 18 hours a day or longer. They allow my feet to breathe and with the side zip, are quick to put on for that emergency call. They are easy to polish and shine.