Premium work boots are built to withstand the rigors of demanding work environments.
But even the most premium ones are bound to wear out eventually, and this is when you’ll typically need to shell out money for a replacement pair.
In the case of Thorogood boots, though, buying brand-new footwear isn’t the only solution when the soles show significant signs of damage.
This is because the manufacturer offers refurbishment services that can extend the boots’ life.
The services are especially helpful if the leather uppers are still in good condition and most of the wear is concentrated on the soles. Let’s check out the Thorogood handcrafted refurbishment services you can choose from to get the most out of your trusty work boots.
What are Thorogood Refurbishment Services?
Thorogood refurbishment services are offered by the brand with every purchase of its boots.
These services restore the function and form of worn-out boots, so they can still be used long after the soles show signs of deterioration.
Thorogood’s expert craftsmen meticulously do the restoration services to guarantee that the boots will be brought back looking good as new.
These trained professionals will also ensure that the boots won’t be damaged further when they go through the necessary refurbishment steps.
When you buy Thorogood boots, you’ll notice that there’s a card included inside the box.
This registration card allows the boot owner to enroll in the brand’s paid refurbishment services, which are available for most Thorogood products.
The form needs to be filled out and sent back to Thorogood, after which it gets back to the client with an order form and mailing kit, including the details about the available restoration services.
Thorogood offers the following boot restoration service options:
Classic Restoration ($90)
- Outsole replacement
- New laces
- Cleaning and polishing
This option offers a more basic level of restoration.
It’s ideal when only the outsoles look worn out and need to be replaced so the boots can continue functioning properly.
A classic restoration option is good if the leather uppers are still in good condition and may need a new pair of laces to freshen up its look.
Thorogood will use a Vibram sole of comparable look and quality to replace the old outsole if the same sole isn’t available.
Complete Restoration ($125)
- Outsole replacement
- Midsole replacement
- New insoles and laces
- Stitching requirements
- Cleaning and reconditioning
This option is better suited for work boots that need a more comprehensive level of restoration. Just like the more basic option, this one includes the outsole replacement with either the exact sole or, if not, a Vibram outsole that closely resembles the original one’s qualities.
A complete restoration service from Thorogood also includes the replacement of the midsoles and insoles with new components if the old ones are already compromised or heavily damaged with long-term use.
The extensive restoration process will also take care of any stitching needed to bring back the high-quality appearance and performance of the boots.
Cleaning and reconditioning of the leather uppers are also done as part of the complete restoration service to rejuvenate your favorite pair of Thorogood work boots fully.
Signs that Work Boots Need Refurbishment
Outsole feels slippery
Outsoles are supposed to have a good grip on the ground. If the soles become slippery, it’s time to get your boots refurbished if they’re eligible for the service.
Replacing slippery soles can help prevent slipping accidents, especially when walking on tricky surfaces.
Sole treads are uneven or worn out
The soles’ treads are designed to provide ample traction for safer walking experiences.
If the treads look too worn out or are almost flat, they won’t be able to grip the ground securely.
Smooth or worn-out treads can make the boots feel unstable or slippery, increasing the risk of slipping.
Replacing the old sole with a new one with intact, deeper treads will improve safety while walking in variable ground conditions.
Sole starts to separate from the upper
If the sole starts to break apart from the upper, the boot’s function and look can be severely compromised.
The resulting gap can cause wetness and debris to get into the boot, exposing the foot to unwelcome elements.
The boot also won’t look as attractive with a space between the upper and sole.
Stitches are loose or damaged
Sturdy stitching keeps the boots’ different sections securely bonded to one another. If the stitches break apart or start to loosen, the boots’ safety, comfort, and appearance are negatively affected.
A boot restoration service can repair the stitching to keep the boots intact and restore their appearance and function.
Leather looks worn out
High-quality leather is designed to stand the test of time.
However, long-term use will show obvious deterioration, especially if the leather is not properly cared for.
Thorogood’s complete restoration service includes cleaning and conditioning the leather to revitalize its appearance. This service can bring back the outstanding aesthetics of your beloved work boots.
Cleaning and conditioning the leather makes it more pliable and comfier.
Why You Should Get Work Boots Restored
Make the most out of your investment
A pair of high-quality work boots is a worthy investment that can serve you well. These boots typically come with hefty prices, depending on the brand, design, and other factors.
You can make the most out of your investment by extending the life of your work boots through a restoration service.
Extend the life of high-quality uppers
If only the outsole needs to be replaced, the leather uppers can still be saved and fully maximized with a refurbishment service. The leather can be revitalized with a brand-new outsole that will deliver the required support and traction for proper boot function.
Premium-quality leather uppers can be used for much longer after the outsoles are damaged if the construction method allows the sole to be replaced.
More economical than buying new boots
When work boots’ soles are damaged or heavily worn out, the initial reaction would be to plan to buy a new pair. If the boots’ construction allows it, a restoration service is more cost-efficient than buying a new pair.
Thorogood’s comprehensive restoration service at $125 costs roughly half the expense for a brand-new pair of Thorogood boots or options with similar quality, which goes for around $250.
Maintain safe, stable footing on different surfaces
Replacing worn-out soles can significantly minimize the risk of slipping.
Brand-new outsoles with intact treads have stronger traction and a firmer grip on most surfaces.
The stronger grip makes walking safer in different ground conditions, maintaining a steady gait that won’t easily be compromised by challenging floors and terrains.
Prevent liquids and debris from entering the boots
Repairing the stitching between the upper and sole has aesthetic benefits and restores the boot’s performance. It closes the gap between the two sections, stopping water and debris from getting in.
This step is included in Thorogood’s complete restoration option offering a more comprehensive refurbishment service.
Walk around comfortably and efficiently
Grippy outsoles make it easier to walk confidently on varying surface conditions while enjoying secure footing. If the soles’ treads are uneven or worn out, they can compromise stability and comfort while walking.
Replacing old outsoles with new ones makes the boots more comfortable to walk in, which can also lead to improved productivity in the workplace.
Conclusion
Thorogood’s refurbishment service offers a way to prolong the life of suitable boots significantly. The company has expert craftsmen taking on professional restoration services, ensuring excellent results that give lovingly used and abused work boots a second life. Thorogood offers 2 options for its boot renewal services, catering to different restoration requirements. The more basic Classic Restoration option deals mostly with outsole replacement, while the more comprehensive Complete Restoration package includes replacement of the outsole, midsole, and insole, stitching needs, and cleaning and reconditioning the leather. These refurbishment services make it possible for old work boots to be maximized for much longer in a way that’s considerably more economical than buying a new pair.
FAQ's
- Are all Thorogood boots eligible for refurbishment?
- No. Most Thorogood boots are suitable for restoration services but there are a few exceptions depending on the boot’s design and the way they’re constructed.
- Is resoling possible for work boots with glued-on soles?
- No. Resoling is suitable only if the work boots have soles that are stitched on, such as those that have Goodyear Welt construction.
- Do the replacement outsoles used by Thorogood last long?
- Yes. Thorogood uses brand-new Vibram outsoles to replace the old ones. These soles are expected to last long, working with high-quality leather uppers to deliver superior aesthetics and performance.
- If the leather upper has extensive damage, can it still be restored?
- No. A damaged leather upper can’t be refurbished successfully to bring back its proper appearance and function. In this case, it’s better to buy a new pair of work boots.
Luke Davis
Luke is the lead author on WorkWear.org. He has a vast experience in construction engineering and project management in California and Texas, where he had the chance to put to test a wide range of safety boots and PPE. Outside work, Luke is an avid hiker and not surprisingly a DIY fanatic!
