6-Inch Classic Moc

The 6-inch Classic Moc is synonymous with Red Wing Heritage collection and represents over 70 years of American bootmaking tradition. The boot maintains the same construction methods and design elements established in its original 1952 release, with modern variations available in multiple leather options and colorways.

The Classic Moc was first introduced by Red Wing Shoes in February 1952, initially created for sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts. The design drew inspiration from traditional moccasin construction, with "moc toe" derived from the Algonquin word "moccasin," meaning "sole." The original model was designated as the 877, though the 6-inch version became known as model 875.

The boot quickly gained popularity beyond its intended market, becoming a favorite among farm workers, factory employees, and construction crews throughout the mid-20th century. This widespread adoption by American workers helped establish the Classic Moc as a symbol of industrial heritage during the country's post-war economic growth.

The design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction, with Red Wing maintaining the original construction methods and aesthetic details that made the boot popular among workers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The 6-inch Classic Moc employs traditional American boot construction techniques that emphasize durability and repairability. The boot features Goodyear welt construction, a process dating back to 1869 that stitches a thin leather welt together with the upper and insole. This construction method allows for resoling and extends the boot's serviceable life.

The signature moc toe construction creates the boot's distinctive rounded toe shape, while Puritan triple stitching reinforces stress points throughout the upper. The men's version includes a split reverse storm welt that provides additional water resistance around the boot's perimeter.

Red Wing's Traction Tred rubber outsole serves as the boot's foundation, designed to provide grip on various surfaces while maintaining flexibility. The women's version features a lighter polyurethane Traction Tred outsole for reduced weight and enhanced comfort. Each pair requires more than 230 individual steps to complete during the handcrafting process at Red Wing's Minnesota facility.

The Classic Moc utilizes leather from Red Wing's subsidiary, S.B. Foot Tanning Company, located in Red Wing, Minnesota. This vertical integration allows the company to control leather quality and consistency across production runs.

The most traditional offering uses Oro Legacy leather, which employs a proprietary blend of oils exclusive to Red Wing. This oil-tanning process allows the full-grain texture to remain visible without added pigment, developing a natural patina over time. Alternative leather options include Copper Rough & Tough, known for its durability and aging characteristics.

The leather undergoes Red Wing's specialized tanning process, which involves higher oil content than conventional methods. This treatment creates leather that is flexible, hard-wearing, and naturally water-resistant. Hardware components include nickel eyelets for the lacing system, chosen for their corrosion resistance and longevity.

As of 2025, the 6-inch Classic Moc remains in active production as part of Red Wing's Heritage collection. Current retail pricing is approximately $319.99 for standard leather versions, with premium options commanding higher prices. The boot is manufactured in Red Wing's Minnesota facility and maintains its Made in USA designation.

Available variations include multiple leather options and color combinations, with model 875 in Oro Legacy leather remaining the most traditional offering. Women's versions feature modified construction with softer leather and a shorter break-in period compared to men's models.

A notable collaboration with luxury fashion house Fendi was announced for Spring/Summer 2025, featuring Classic Moc boots in brown, pink, and black colorways with Fendi's signature "F" logo. This partnership represents Red Wing's expansion into high-fashion markets while maintaining its heritage construction methods.