Red Wing Traction Tred 8 Boot

Published by 
Al Roberts
Last updated: 
January 11, 2024

The crepe-sole Red Wing Traction Tred 8 boot has been a favorite of ironworkers, factory workers, roofers, carpenters and many others for almost 70 years.

Red Wing introduced the style in 1952, inspired by boot designs of the 1930s, and offered them in a russet-colored leather upper that was tanned with the sap from sequoia trees. The result was a rich, handsome color that was not unlike the fur of an Irish setter. It soon became a hit, and Red Wing sold nearly 50,000 pairs just in the year 1954.

Moccasin​-Sty​​​​​le Toe

They added a moccasin-style toe for comfort and flexibility, with a cream-colored wedge crepe sole that was designed for hunters who needed a boot that was truly quiet underfoot. It soon became a favorite of not just hunters, but workers who needed a boot that was surefooted and comfortable for working on ladders, scaffolds, high iron, concrete and anywhere else where comfort and stability were important.

It’s a traditional design that has changed little since a pair was ceremonially given to President Dwight Eisenhower way back in 1960.

About the Red Wing Traction Tred 8

Model number: 877

Leather: Oro Legacy Leather

Construction: Goodyear Leather Welt

Insole: Texon®

Eyelets: Hardware-nickel

Upper design: moccasin toe

Sole: Blown crepe rubber

Care: Leather Protector, NaturSeal™

Defined heel: no

Safety Features

The shoemaking giant definitely designed the Red Wing Traction Tred 8 with safety in mind. It is the product of years of experience in designing and manufacturing boots for working people.

  • Crepe Sole: The crepe sole is comfortable and flexible with excellent support, and its wedge heel reduces the risk of snagging or tripping, which is especially important for people who work on scaffolding, ladders or roofs. It doesn’t feature the heavy lugs of many other styles of boots, meaning it won’t pick up as much in the way of stones, mud, and debris, and the non-marking crepe rubber is an excellent choice for roofers who don’t want to mar shingles.
  • Best Slip Resistance: For slip resistance, it has a “Best” rating, meaning it’s a great fit for service industry jobs. It also has a “Best” rating for resistance to oil, gasoline, and chemicals, and its tough uppers can stand a lot of abrasion and abuse in rough work.
  • Comfort: The best pair of work boots won’t do you much good if the fit isn’t right and if they’re not comfortable enough to not wear out your feet at the end of eight hours. Comfort is where the Red Wing Traction Tred 8 really shines.
  • Support and Stability: Its wedge heel and crepe sole are flexible enough to feel like a pair of sneakers or cross-trainers while offering terrific support and stability. Crepe soles are especially favored for the flexibility they offer for the arch and forefoot.
  • Ankle and Heel Support: The moccasin stitching is designed with an ample toe box, and its 8” height is great for supporting the ankle and heel.
  • Oil-Tanned Leather: The leather uppers are from S. B. Foot Tanning Company, the preferred vendor for a variety of boots from Red Wing. The oil-tanned leather is resistant to water, stains, and perspiration and is supple, yet tough. Oil-tanned leather looks more natural since its manufacturing process uses fewer finishing products.The end result is a very traditional-looking work boot that’s easy to care for and stays looking good for years.
  • Goodyear Welt Construction: Finally, the Red Wing Traction Tred 8 is unlike many other crepe-soled boots. It features Goodyear welt construction. This means that it can easily be resolved when the time comes.

30-Day Comfort Guarantee

Whenever you buy a pair of boots from Red Wing, you have the peace of mind that comes with their Comfort Guarantee. During the first 30 days, if for any reason you find you’re not happy with your Red Wings, you can return them for a no-questions-asked refund.

1-Year Defects Warranty

There’s also a full year warranty against defects in workmanship or materials. However, this only applies if the problems showed up during normal wear and tear. Just keep your receipt and return the boots to your Red Wing dealer. The dealer will be happy to honor the manufacturer's warranty.

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About Red Wing​​​​

When you get a pair of Red Wing boots, you’re buying a heritage for quality work boots. This heritage goes back well over 100 years.

History

Red Wing was founded in Red Wing, Minnesota, way back in 1905. It was a preferred vendor for combat boots for the U.S. military. This was most apparent during both World War One and World War Two.

Red Wing built its reputation on traditional heavy work boots.  In addition, the company also makes different styles including:

  • logger boots
  • athletic-style work shoes
  • service oxfords
  • chukkas
  • and much more

Specialized Boots

Red Wing also produces steel-toed work boots and specialized boots. These include boots for electricians and linemen with enhanced electrical resistance. They also have metatarsal-guard boots for the mining industry. They also offer chemical-safe boots, tactical boots, and many other variations. Along with their Minnesota plant, Red Wing also operates a plant in Potosi, Missouri.

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