Mike Rowe Works Boots

Mike Rowe Works work boots and shoes from CAT Footwear.

Shortly after we learned of the Mike Rowe Works line of work boots and shoes from CAT footwear, CAT was kind enough to send us a pair for review.

I’ve got good news and I’ve got good news:

The pair I reviewed—wearing them on everything from weekend lawn mowing expeditions to six consecutive 18-ish hour days at the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition project in Knoxville, TN (sorry, different show,) to framing on concrete—rocked it. The other good news is that the boots I worked in, Endeavor, were an early introduction in the now more fully appointed line of shoes and boots for different applications. This is just the beginning of a new line of CAT gear for feet.

What I like about the Endeavor is that it is extremely comfortable. The—and the only way I can

The Endeavor's "bristle" style sole is ridiculously comfortable.

describe it is “bristle” style—sole is awesome. Combined with molded EVA midsole and steel shank construction this makes moving around less of a burden for feet.

I also like the streamlined, basic leather good looks of these street-hiker style-ers. They’re not tricked-out and uber layered with various overmolds and design-y stuff which in its own right delivers a nice “I can wear that almost anywhere” design. The uppers are definitely rugged as are the lace eyelets. One tradeoff for the uber comfort is the bristle style sole. It wears fast at wear points (heel strike) which I found wearing them 2 1/2 work weeks in a row one week at EM:HE. My Endeavors aren’t all that worn down but it is important to point out. I’m no shoe design engineer, but I wonder if the sole would last longer if there were pads in certain places rather than bristles.

Anyway, CAT themselves describe Endeavor as more of a weekender boot—rugged and comfortable enough for lawn work, home improvement, chasing the dog through the woods, and hanging out at a party or taking the kids shopping. Actually, for standing on hard surfaces, which kills my back, like when I take my kids shopping, these are supremely comfortable and can take me from errand to task to chore and more without worry.

So, long story short: I like the Endeavor and I’m excited there are more boots in the line.

Work it.

Mark

Mark is a licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor. He writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.

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