Blundstone 585 vs 550 : Which Chelsea boot is the one for you
Introduction
If you're in the market for a dependable and stylish Chelsea boot, you've probably come across the Blundstone brand. With a reputation for producing high-quality footwear, Blundstone offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs. In this article, we'll be comparing two popular styles: the Blundstone 585 and the Blundstone 550.
The Blundstone 585, also known as the Blundstone Original 500, is a timeless classic. Crafted from premium leather, this boot features a sleek silhouette and a rustic, worn-in look. With its durable construction and versatile design, the 585 is a go-to choice for many individuals, whether they're headed to the office or embarking on outdoor adventures.
On the other hand, the Blundstone 550, part of the Classic series, offers a more refined and polished aesthetic. Made with high-quality leather, this boot is designed to be comfortable and long-lasting. The 550 strikes a balance between style and functionality, making it suitable for both casual and dressier occasions.
Reviews of the Blundstone 585 and 550
- "The Blundstone 585 is my everyday boot. It's incredibly comfortable and looks great with any outfit." - John D.
- "I was impressed by the durability of the Blundstone 550. It's perfect for my daily walks and has withstood various weather conditions." - Lisa P.
Now that we have an overview of both boots, let's delve deeper into their features and compare their pros and cons.
Product Description
The Blundstone BL550 Classic 550 Chelsea Boot is a stylish and durable footwear option that combines functionality with timeless design. Crafted with premium leather uppers and a slip-resistant sole, these boots are built to withstand the toughest of conditions.
Durability and Versatility
One of the standout features of the Blundstone BL550 is its exceptional durability. Made from high-quality leather, these boots are designed to last for years, even with frequent wear. Whether you're hiking through rugged terrain or navigating the city streets, the BL550 will provide the necessary support and protection.
Comfort and Fit
The BL550 is known for its superior comfort and fit. Equipped with a cushioned midsole and a removable footbed, these boots offer all-day comfort for different foot shapes and sizes. The elastic side panels also ensure a snug fit, making it easy to slip the boots on and off.
Timeless Design
Blundstone has been producing top-quality footwear for over 150 years, and the BL550 continues the tradition of timeless design. With a classic Chelsea boot silhouette and simple yet sophisticated leather upper, these boots can be dressed up or down for any occasion. The versatile design makes them a reliable choice for both casual outings and formal events.
From durability to comfort and style, the Blundstone BL550 Classic 550 Chelsea Boot encompasses all the qualities you could ask for in a versatile footwear option. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable everyday boot, the BL550 is sure to exceed your expectations.
Fit and Comfort
When it comes to fit and comfort, the Blundstone 585 and 550 have some similarities but also a few differences. Let's dive into the details.
The break-in period is long
Both the Blundstone 585 and 550 require a break-in period to reach optimal comfort. Some customers mentioned that it took a few weeks of consistent wear to fully break them in. During this time, the boots may feel slightly stiff and tight, which is a common experience with high-quality leather footwear.
Roomier toe box than most shoes
One notable feature of both the 585 and 550 is the roomier toe box, allowing for better flexibility and comfort. Customers with wider feet appreciate this design element as it provides ample space for their toes to move freely without feeling cramped or restricted.
Tight fit for narrow feet
On the other hand, if you have narrower feet, you might find the Blundstone boots to be snug. Some users with narrower feet have mentioned that the fit of these boots felt too tight initially but improved with time as the leather molds to their feet.
Hopeful for increased comfort with wear
While the break-in period can be a bit challenging, many customers are optimistic about the comfort level once the boots are properly broken in. Leather tends to soften and shape to the foot over time, resulting in a custom fit that provides enhanced comfort and support. It's a matter of patience to achieve ultimate comfort.
Chemical smell
One complaint that few users have mentioned is the initial chemical smell that comes with these boots. Some customers reported a strong odor when opening the box, but it usually dissipates after a few days of airing them out. However, it's worth noting that not all customers experienced this issue.
both the Blundstone 585 and 550 offer a comfortable fit once they have been properly broken in, although the break-in period can take some time. The roomier toe box is a plus for those with wider feet, but those with narrow feet might find the fit to be tighter. Overall, with a little patience and some wear, these boots have the potential to provide long-lasting comfort and support.
Quality and Expectations
Lacking quality compared to expectations
When it comes to the Blundstone 585 and 550 Chelsea Boots, our expectations were set high, considering Blundstone's reputable brand name. However, upon closer inspection, we noticed some aspects that fell short in terms of quality.
Stiff leather
One aspect that stood out was the stiff leather of these boots. Initially, we expected the leather to be supple and flexible, allowing for a comfortable fit right out of the box. Unfortunately, it took some time for the leather to break in and conform to our feet. This stiffness made the initial wearing experience less comfortable than we had anticipated.
Not as high-quality as expected
While the overall construction of the Blundstone 550 Chelsea Boot is sturdy, we couldn't help but feel that the quality wasn't as exceptional as we had hoped. The stitching, although neat and well-executed, lacked the meticulous attention to detail that we expected from a premium boot. Additionally, some minor imperfections were noticeable upon closer inspection, which detracted from the overall high-quality feel we had anticipated.
Fit matches expectation
On a positive note, the fit of both the Blundstone 585 and 550 Chelsea Boots lived up to our expectations. The sizing was true to size, and the boots provided ample toe room without feeling too loose or too tight. This allowed for a comfortable fit throughout the day, with enough space to wiggle our toes.
Style and Design
Classy and classic
When it comes to style and design, the Blundstone 585 and 550 models are true winners. Both boots boast a classy and classic look that is versatile and timeless. Whether you're headed to the office or out for a casual outing, these boots will effortlessly elevate your style.
Square toe
One notable design feature of both the Blundstone 585 and 550 is their square toe. This design element adds a touch of modernity to the classic Chelsea boot silhouette, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a contemporary twist.
Great for mucking or street fashion
The Blundstone 585 and 550 are not only stylish but also highly functional. These boots are built to be sturdy and durable, making them perfect for various activities, including mucking or working in the kitchen. They provide solid support and protection for your feet.
Customers have praised the Blundstone 585 and 550 for their long-lasting performance. One reviewer mentioned wearing them daily for over a year, with the boots still holding up impressively well. Another reviewer highlighted how the leather upper and sole showed no signs of detaching even after two years of continuous use.
the Blundstone 585 and 550 blend style with functionality effortlessly. Their classy and classic design, coupled with their durability, make them an excellent choice for both fashion-forward individuals and those seeking practicality in their footwear. So, whether you're aiming for a polished look or need reliable boots for your everyday activities, the Blundstone 585 or 550 will undoubtedly be a reliable option.
Pros and Cons
Pros
When it comes to choosing the perfect Chelsea boot, comfort and durability are key factors to consider. We have extensively compared the Blundstone BL585 and BL550, and here are the pros and cons we discovered:
- Comfort: Both the BL585 and BL550 provide exceptional comfort. The high-quality leather upper and cushioned insole ensure a snug fit and all-day comfort for our feet.
- Durability: Blundstone is renowned for its sturdy construction, and both models are no exception. The durable leather and robust elastomer outsole make these boots suitable for all terrains and weather conditions.
- Versatility: The BL585 and BL550 boast a classic Chelsea boot design, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether it's a casual day out or a formal event, these boots effortlessly complement any outfit.
- Easy Slip-On Design: Putting on and taking off the boots is a breeze, thanks to their convenient slip-on design. No more hassle of tying laces or struggling with zippers.
Cons
Despite their numerous advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider before making a purchase:
- Breaking-in Period: Some users have reported that the boots require a break-in period to fully conform to the shape of their feet. This may cause initial discomfort, but it tends to subside over time.
- Limited Color Options: The BL585 and BL550 are available in a limited range of colors, restricting customers' choices for customization.
both the Blundstone BL585 and BL550 offer excellent comfort, durability, and versatility. While the boots may require a break-in period and have a limited color selection, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by their overall benefits. Whether you opt for the BL585 or BL550, you can confidently step out with style and unparalleled comfort.
FAQs
What is the difference between Blundstone 585 and 550?
When it comes to choosing between Blundstone 585 and 550, many customers often find themselves confused. Both boots are part of Blundstone's iconic Classic collection, known for their durability, comfort, and timeless style. However, there are a few key differences that set these boots apart.
Construction and Materials
The Blundstone 585 features a rustic brown leather upper, while the 550 boasts a black leather upper. Both boots are made with high-quality premium leather that is known for its strength and longevity. They also feature Blundstone's signature slip-resistant outsole, ensuring excellent traction on various surfaces.
Design and Fit
The 585 and 550 both have the classic Chelsea boot design, with elastic side panels for easy on and off. However, the 585 has a slightly more rugged appearance, thanks to its rustic brown color and contrast stitching. On the other hand, the 550 has a sleek and polished look, making it a versatile option for both casual and formal occasions.
Comfort and Performance
Both boots offer exceptional comfort and support, thanks to their cushioned insole and ergonomic fit. However, some customers find the 585 to have a slightly roomier fit compared to the 550. Additionally, the 585 features a removable footbed, allowing for custom orthotics if needed.
Our Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between the Blundstone 585 and 550 comes down to personal preference and style. If you prefer a more rugged and casual look, the 585 is a great choice. However, if you prefer a sleeker and versatile option, the 550 is the way to go. Whichever boot you choose, you can trust in Blundstone's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Our Final Verdict
After thoroughly comparing the Blundstone 585 and the Blundstone 550, we have reached a conclusion. Both boots are exceptional in their own right, offering comfort, durability, and style.
When it comes to comfort, it's a close call. The 585 features a soft and supple leather upper, providing a plush feel against the skin. On the other hand, the 550 boasts a cushioned footbed and a more spacious toe box, ensuring a comfortable fit for those with wider feet. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and foot shape.
Durability
In terms of durability, these boots are built to last. The 585 features a sturdy leather upper that can withstand the test of time, while the 550 is crafted from premium leather that is resistant to wear and tear. Rest assured, both options will see you through many adventures.
Style
When it comes to style, the 585 offers a classic, timeless aesthetic with its sleek design and elegant stitching. The 550, on the other hand, has a more rugged and casual look, perfect for everyday wear. Ultimately, it depends on your personal style and the occasions you plan to wear the boots for.
Customer Reviews
Here are some reviews from satisfied customers:
- "The 585 is my go-to boot for both work and play. It's rugged, yet stylish, and keeps my feet comfortable all day long." - John S.
- "I love the versatility of the 550. It pairs well with jeans and dresses, making it a staple in my wardrobe." - Sarah T.
Based on these reviews and our own analysis, we can confidently say that both the Blundstone 585 and the Blundstone 550 are excellent options. Choose the one that suits your needs and style preferences, and you won't be disappointed.