Every place I have worked I had boot allowance of $60-75, so usually got new every year. Ive tried a number of brands. Actually liked Timberlands the best. I say liked, because I have had 4 of the same and they all felt pretty good from new except the most recent pair are terrible. Have been wearing them like one day a week to try breaking them in. Luckily my old ones are still wearable. I had a couple pairs of Red Wings, Good boots, but made in China like so many others now. As I recall they were both easy break-in, but I cant say they were any better than the older Timberland's at twice the price.