Chippewa

Chippewa's commitment to quality craftsmanship and practical design has made them a trusted name in American work footwear, combining time-tested construction techniques with modern safety features and materials.

Chippewa Boots was founded in 1901 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, establishing itself as the Chippewa Shoe Manufacturing Company. The company began operations in a small warehouse that employed 175 people and produced up to 1,200 pairs of boots daily. This original warehouse, still standing today, is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, serving as a testament to the company's enduring legacy.

In its early years, Chippewa specialized exclusively in logger boots constructed with leather midsoles, spikes, and other features designed to assist loggers working in challenging weather conditions. This focus on practical, durable footwear established the foundation for Chippewa's reputation in the work boot market.

The company's commitment to quality caught the attention of the U.S. military during both World Wars, when Chippewa was called upon to provide rugged, reliable footwear for American forces. During the Cold War, Chippewa advanced cold weather technology, creating flight boots for the U.S. Air Force. The company also developed the high-altitude flight boot worn by CIA pilots of the U-2 Spy Plane, demonstrating their ability to meet specialized performance requirements.

In 1984, Chippewa was acquired by Justin Brands, and in August 2000, Justin Brands was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, bringing Chippewa under the ownership of Warren Buffett's conglomerate.

Chippewa boots are built using Goodyear welt construction, a traditional method that provides exceptional durability and allows for resoling throughout the boot's lifetime. The Goodyear welting process stitches the upper fabric, lining, and sole of the boot together, creating a flexible fit and added strength that makes the boots water-resistant and repairable.

Construction Features:

All boots are handmade by American artisans who specialize in handcrafting quality leather boots. While most Chippewa boots are manufactured in the United States, the company has established additional manufacturing facilities in other countries to meet worldwide demand.

Chippewa produces several distinct boot styles, each designed for specific applications and work environments. The company's lineup includes both classic work boot designs and modern variations with updated safety features.

Logger Boots:

Engineer Boots:

Thunderstruck Collection:

Service Boots and Oxfords:

Each model showcases Chippewa's dedication to practical design and durable construction, ensuring boots can withstand demanding work conditions while providing comfort and safety.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the quality and extending the lifespan of Chippewa boots. The Goodyear welt construction and premium materials used by Chippewa mean that with appropriate care, boots can last for many years and be resoled multiple times.

Regular Maintenance:

Recommended Products:

Resoling Services:

The Goodyear welt construction enables complete sole replacement, allowing Chippewa boots to be professionally resoled when the outsole wears down. This extends the life of the boots significantly, making them a worthwhile long-term investment. Authorized Chippewa dealers and qualified cobblers can perform resoling services, preserving the upper leather and overall boot structure.