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Testimonials
"Well, I finally put a pair of your boots to what I consider "the test" ! Although it has appeared to me over my Russell years that Ralph personally makes all our family's boots, Suzie actually re- measured and helped me at the SCI show in Reno. I wanted something like the "bowhunter" boot because I am, a bowhunter! Suzie took as much time as we needed to dial in her best recommendation for my 1st ever elk hunt in the San Luis range of northern New Mexico. As with everything Russell, thinking outside the pages or box, is apparently - NO PROBLEM. After a quick consult with Ralph, we had the order written and I walked away KNOWING that all would be well.....I returned from my most physically demanding hunt ever last week, after negotiating terrain from around 9,000 to 11,000', in fine shape. My old and tired body did its best to run hard day in and day out with a cowboy that was half my age. I never even thought about my feet - it was THAT GOOD. RM sold me on wearing a liner sock under their brown wool sock and I traversed 10+miles a day - at altitude; with my "big day" being a 16 miler. All in all, we walked/stalked well over 50 miles in addition to the 80+ on the horse! I am proud to tell you that through 17F - 54F, from sun to rain and wet snow, from sidehill to uphill; my Russell boots were all about being custom made for me. Thank you! These boots are little heavier than my loved PH's, but they needed to be. Elk run in tough country! What a pleasure to deal with an American Icon and quality people. We appreciate what you do for all of that take to the field in a serious way. Keep up the good work." Ken Holland - Pennsylvania A couple of months ago I had you resole an old pair of Zephyr's using the Newporter sole. You asked me to tell you how they worked. I used them for the first time this morning. Temperature about 20F. Three inches of snow over a dusting of sleet. I needed to carry a bucket of bird seed down behind the house, a 30 degree slope. Usually I carry a hiking staff, but today I said no, I'll just walk down on my own. It worked just like summertime. The skid-resisting Newporters gave me that touch of confidence that I needed to walk where I wanted to walk without looking down all the time. The Newporter is now my sole of choice. Special thanks to Sue for bringing them to my attention." Ken Yeager
Wyman Meinzer - Texas "I received my pair of custom made Mountain Climber hunting boots last week. They were exactly what I was looking for. The fit was a little loose at first but after wearing them for a bit they "molded" to my feet. Though the possibility of me wearing these boots out is highly unlikely, you have a customer for life. Made in the USA means a lot to me. It may cost more than what is produced overseas but the quality, form and fit are well worth it. Keep up the good work. Once again thanks to all of the employees of Russell Mocassin for a great pair of boots!" Vincent Brown - NC "I received my new boots the day before yesterday and they are great! I wore them yesterday and my GPS says I walked 4.7 miles and my feet stayed comfortable even though the boots are not broken in. They are just going to get better and better!" John Schleich - Florida "Somewhere in your card file there must be one for me, David Dix, Waukesha WI. I own several pair of Russell shoes, from Oneida mocs to an ostrich hide pair of boots, which I call my Ringmaster boots. My father introduced me to Russell Moccasin many years ago. He was then a member of a DC hiking club along the B & O Canal in VA. His friend Supreme Court Justice Wm. Douglas wore Russells and recommended them to all members, thus Dad found ou about the little factory in Berlin WI. He took me to Berlin on one of his visits "from the east". Best wishes for continued success with rare and ever rarifying hand-stitchery in your shop on the mighty Fox! I am due for another trip to Berlin myself!" David dix Sr. - Wisconsin "I'm sending you this pair of boots to be resoled and refurbished. As close as I can tell I've waled approximately 5,000 miles in these boots over the last three years. The reason I know this is because I wear a pedometer daily and have wore these boots on my walks. I've worn just about every make of boot out there and none can compare with Russell's." Bob Salvador - Georgia
"I just got the VSOP's you made for me and want to let you know how pleased I am with them. They fit perfectly and are beautifully made. I bought my first pair of Russell Moccasin hunting boots in 1975 and have bought numerous other pairs of boots and shoes from you over the years, several of which I still have and still wear frequently. But I do believe that this latest pair may be the best yet. It is remarkable that you continue to make such a high quality product after all these years. Thank you for continuing to do so."
Bob Zellner - Illinois "Dear Russell Moccasin, Those desert boots you knocked out for me in 14D a while back and sent to England are now in service in Baghdad and I currently have the most comfortable feet in the US Embassy. They are ideal for loafing around marble halls where you need something light and flexible and don't need to be kitted out with uncomfortable, heavy, hard-core combat boots. Yet they're good too for travelling around town where you can find yourself gliding from offices to bomb sites from one minute to the next. The big bonus is that they let my feet breathe really well. No significant problems to report. Overall, they seem to be standing up to the heat which is the biggest killer of footwear around here. You may think summer's hot where you are - believe me, it gets worse! 113F yesterday. David .D BURNS "Dear Folks at Russell: Just a note to thank you for all of the great boots and shoes I have purchased and worn over the years. The most recent is a Thula Thula Huron, (came the other day), which fits my bare foot like a glove and will be agreat around the house/yard moccasin. Just thinking off hand, I own quite a few Russells that I wear most of the time. 3 pairs of Art Carter Chukka in various leathers In particular, the Art Carters I bought in/around 1995/6 have been everywhere from Yellowstone hikes to fishing trips in France to DoD and National Science Foundation meetings--and even have seen a few classrooms. Ditto many of the other shoes, but the Art Carters in their various incartions are my favorit Russells. As a note, my first pair, which I completely wore out, (and I mean nothing-left-wore-out!), and no longer have, was a pair of Laramie Oneidas that my mother brought me for Christmas when I was in high school. That was about 1982. Who would have thought what she started with a simple gift." Kevin Lyons - North Carolina State University "I'm Don Hollingsworth from Mississippi and I have owned a pair of Russell boots 27 years. I own four different pair today and I have never had antyhing that wears or feels as good on my feet. I'm 53 years old, an engineer and a turkey hunter so I'm outside a lot. But when in the office, Russell's look just as good or better than a pair of shoes. There is not a better pair of boots in the world than the "PH". I do believe St. Peter has a pair because they feel as if you could walk on a cloud." Jeff Greenway - Georgia Don Hollingsworth -- Mississippi "Dear Russell Moccasin, Susan Gregory -- Nebraska “I would like to order a pair of Premier Walking Moccasins in brown veal. Please use the same measurements as my last pair. They fit like a glove. And thanks as always for your wonderful products. I wear my Russell boots for hunting or around town and my Russell shoes for work and church. I am definitely a Russell fan!!” Dennis Uhlig -New Jersey “I am a forester and wear your boots every day. Russell boots are the best footwear that I have ever used. I have ordered four pair of boots from you over the past 10 years. Enclosed you will find a new set of measurements for my feet. Please use them instead of my old measurements as my feet have changed. I like the way you build and fit boots. Thank you again for your outstanding boots.” David Jennette -- North Carolina “As a user of your product since 1955 I find your boots and shoes to be of the highest quality. The first pair of boots lasted until early 1991 and were good except that the composition rubber soles began to flake off. Please furnish me with a new catalog and price list as I feel a new pair coming on.” Wilfred Rogers, Gunsmith -- Georgia “From rugged outdoor use afield to everyday casual wear, your custom made Russell Moccasin boots are the finest footwear I have ever owned. They make my feet feel young. I can’t believe how comfortable they are. All I wear now are Russell's.” Don Dvoroznak -- Montana "Thank you for the beautifully made boots I just received--the craftsmanship and materials are both excellent and of the highest quality. The is perfect as well. Thank yoiu for a job well done." “Enclosed is an order for a pair of your penny loafers. I have a pair just like these on the order but want a spare. I would like to take this opportunity to tell you what a fine job you do with your products. From the turkey boots to the Zephyr to the loafers, I have not found a better boot or shoe on the market. The fit is superb. The quality is top shelf. I look forward to another pair!” “Greetings from Baghdad!! I am a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marines over here for my third tour. I wish you folks would make a pair of Russell Combat Moccasin boots for me! I got my first pair of Russell's, the Chukka Hiker, about two months ago. When I am in civvies, you can bet I am in Russell's! Everything everybody else says about the fit is absolutely true, PERFECT right out of the box! I keep putting exclamation points after every sentence because your product is that good! I do not want to disrespect another company, but I must tell you that I recently bought a pair of service endorsed boots for a price similar to your Mountain PH and I am extremely disappointed with the poor fit. The boots are uncomfortably stiff and get in the way when I “move out smartly”. Never had that problem with the Chukkas! Just get some tan rough out and that light color Vibram Sierra and whip me up some tall Mountain PH’s and I will be Good To Go! Bravo Zulu, Russell Moccasin, and thanks again!” “Dear Russell, “My boots cme yesterday and all I have to say is...OUTSTANDING! They fit perfect and look great. Very well worth th wait. This is my second pair of Russell Moccasin boots and I intend to have several more.” "This morning I pulled an old pair of boots out of my closet, that I've worn for hiking, boating, and most recently, working around the yard. I happened to note that they were made by the Russell Moccasin Company. I bought those boots in the summer of 1963, for the purpose of hiking to the top of Mt. Baden Powell in Southern California. Since then, they've traveled all over California, as well as to Saudi Arabia and back. "They presently live with me in Huntsville, Alabama. Since they look like they'll outlast me, (my 69th birthday is in 2 days), I'm looking to will them to my oldest grandson when I'm done with them. As I recall, they cost me $14 back then, which was a lot of money at the time. They've sure been worth it." "I just received my Russell Hikers last Friday. When I first put them on I laced them up loosely, thinking they would be stiff and uncomfortable if tightly laced. Well, they felt like my feet were swimming in them so I pulled them up tight and Wow! What a difference, they fit like a glove. "Wore them all day Saturday working in the yard and they felt great. Having worn boots since I was a kid, I have never had a pair that felt this good right out of the box. Great job on the workmanship. They look like they are built to last 50 years." "After becoming aware of the Russell Moccasin Company at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention, my fourth pair of Russell boots, Double Moccasin Bottom Zephyrs), arrived yesterday. As always, the fit, comfort and craftsmanship are second to none. "Having to choose my favorite pair from my Turtleskin SnakeArmor Turkey Hunters, South 40 Birdshooters, Mohican Stalkers and Zephyrs would be like having to choose my favorite child. It couldn't be done. All are outstanding boots and I thank you for your commitment to providing such a fine product. I look forward to owning several more pairs of Russell Boots in the near future." "Just wanted to say thanks for the great fitting moccasin shoes! They fit like old friends." "I was measured for my first pair of Russell Moccasin Boots 20 years ago and have used Russell's on every expedition since! Custom made Russell boots, some made with leather from game I've brought down, have carried me on my pursuits through the continents of North America, Africa, Asia, Europe and into the South Pacific. They quality and comfort have never failed me." "A personal note of thanks for fixing my recent pair of boots. The 'remake' pair fits well and I appreciate your efforts to do it right for me. This is my third pair of Russells and I'm sure it won't be the last. Your products are terrific, and having you go back to fix this last pair only confirms the fact that your serviced is the best." "I have just received my new pair of boots. They fit perfectly, as always. Since learning about your company in February, I have purchased nearly $1,500 dollars worth of your product. It was the best money I have spent. I own Russell boots and shoes for hunting, work, play, and dress. I have thrown or given away all my other shoes and boots. Russell Moccasin is the only shoe/boot that I will ever wear. You are a great company. It has been a pleasure doing business with you. I am looking forward to doing more business in the future". "More than 25 years ago I ordered a pair of Russell boots. I remember the looks we received...me standing there in my stocking feet as my secretary helped me trace each foot's outline and carefully measure the dimensions necessary to order my boots. Many years and hours of dependable, comfortable service later, that same pair of boots sits in my closet, veterans of the many hours I have spent afield. I've worn my boots elk hunting in the Rocky Mountains and on each of my many south Texas white tail hunts, at my rattlesnake-thick, prickly pear-dense lease outside of Freer in Webb County. With a modicum of care, my Russell boots have yet to fail me. Like old, tried and true friends, I expect they will be there to serve me equally well in the years ahead." "I was the second generation to wear a pair of Russell Ike Walton boots. They were passed down to me by my uncle. I wore them until they simply dissolved in a flood in our cellar while I was serving Uncle Sam. When I was going to school, as soon as the school bell rang, those boots would go on and I would head for a place called the 'water-works' to hunt ducks, squirrels, crow, etc. My two most prized possessions were my Russell's and a 16 gauge model 12 Winchester." "I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy all of my Russell Moccasins. I love looking at the detail and the care you have taken to make each pair a work of art. I always feel like a million bucks when I wear my Russells." Dear Ralph, Hi Ralph and Crew, Excerpt from a letter to Shooting Sportsman Magazine "Dear Friends: My Country Squire Boots arrived today, and I put them on immediately. All I can say is "WOW!" These boots exceeded my wildest expectations. I have never had my feet in a finer fit and feel. I recently had two surgical procedures on my spine, and I have an increased awareness of footwear. These boots could come with a prescription for people like me. Thanks for a great job on a great pair of boots. Incidentally, they look very nice too! This is the beginning of a long relationship." “It seems that too many of the true American companies making quality goods for outdoorsmen are disappearing, falling victim to high production and poor quality for the masses who are either unaware or do not care! Thanks to you and the dedicated employees of the W.C. Russell Moccasin Company for continuing to produce hand crafted first quality products of a time honored tradition. I truly believe that there are enough people who are aware and do care to ensure your company's next 100 years. I do know that as long as I have feet, you will have a place to sell a pair of boots.” “You have the finest boots in the world. Please don’t sell out or change the way you do things.” “All my Russell shoes and boots are awesome. I am constantly recommending them to admirers. The Safari boots are perfect for hot weather dove shooting.” “I wanted to take a moment and sincerely thank your entire staff for making a great boot. I hunted the entire past weekend and never wanted to take them off. They are by far the most comfortable hunting boot I have ever owned.” “Thank you for your letter and your concern regarding the adjusted walking shoe. They are working out just fine, thanks to you. I am very appreciative of your efforts to satisfy the customer. These days one does not find the attention to detail that you and your staff offers. Russell Moccasins are the only shoes in my wardrobe.” “My husband is crabby and hard to get along with because his feet hurt. He used to wear Russell boots but nobody in South Carolina sells them anymore. Please send me a catalog so that I might order some of those ‘dear ole boots’ and have a happy husband again.” “The boots I purchased from you in 1999 are lasting longer and feeling better than any boot I have ever owned. I need to order another pair as I don’t think I could go a day without a pair of Russells if my current ones ever need repair.” “My new boots came Monday and I hiked all day in them on Tuesday. They are very comfortable and very much appreciated. I think you went way beyond the expected service.” “If you want the best shoes and boots...buy Russells. If you just want something average you can go to any shoe store. But then you will have to go again and again because other shoes will wear out while your Russells will still be waiting for you in your closet or hunting room.” “I was born in Sewickley, PA. I was an urban boy, not a country boy or outdoors type. In 1968 when I was 15, my first ‘girlfriend’ lived on a farm in the country. Her dad was outdoorsy, taking hunting trips out west. This was all new to me. I wanted a pair of boots so I could hang out with her. Her dad told me to go to a sporting goods store in Wexford where I forked out about $100 for my new Russell boots. At the time it felt like a million. I wore these boots all through high school and college. Later when I was a fisheries biologist for the Virginia Game Commission, I wore these boots all the time. About a year ago I bought a Harley Davidson and needed a pair of boots. My old Russell’s soles were slick so I sent them in to be refurbished. They are now my favorite and only riding boots. Talk about long lasting boots! I went through 10 or 15 girlfriends before settling down with my wife Mary, but I’ve only had one pair of boots...my Russells!!" "Ralph... “My new boots just arrived and they are beautiful and so very comfortable. I'll be the envy of everyone in the oil patch. Thanks to all of the artisans that had a hand in making them.” |
Twelve Days in Traveling in Italy… Adventurous
"Wyman Meinzer in Texas here!! Thought all of you guys might get a kick out of seeing your work in a setting quite contrasting with where you would normally see Russell Moccasins!! I was honored a week ago at Texas Tech Univerisity as a Distinguished Alumni, along with two other people. We were chosen from the thousands of ex-students who have graduated from this University over the past 50 years or more. I mulled over getting a suit to wear but did not like the idea of buying one and hanging it up for years without wearing again. So I went with what I had and pulled my "dress" Russells from the closet!! This image was taken at the banquet on November 20th followed by being introduced out on the football field the next day before the Texas Tech/OU game in front of a packed stadium!! Oh yeah!!! They