Whether we like it or not, winter is on it’s way! Which – on a more positive note - means the Red Wing Fall/Winter ’16 collection is coming our way too. We have added some exciting new styles and color combinations, so all the more reason to spoil yourself with a new pair of Red Wing Shoes. The first release we want to share with you, is the all new Red Wing Shoes Merchant model. As you might have noticed most of our Red Wing Shoes have, what you might call, a bulky look. Besides of the obvious sturdy design, the much featured toe-box is another feature that emphasizes the Red Wing look. However, during the 1920’s Red Wing started making shoes without toe reinforcement, which led to a more comfortable fit without any pressure points. Based on these traditional ‘no-toe-box’ work boots from the 1920’s, Red Wing designed the new Merchant style. Because of its softer nose and less bulkier design, the Merchant has a slimmer and more contemporary look compared to all the other models in the Red Wing Shoes collection. The Merchant is manufactured with a Chemi Gum sole. Red Wing Shoes has been using the Chemi Gum sole for their Work Collection since 1964 and has now introduced it into the Heritage collection. The Chemi Gum is very similar to the Nitrile Cork sole featured on the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith boots. The biggest difference between both is the lower cork content of the Chemi Gum sole, which creates a much cleaner and lighter boot. The Red Wing Shoes Merchant comes in two different styles; the 8061 in Ebony Harness and the 8062 in Olive Mohave. Both are now available in our online store. Keep an eye out on our blog and social media to see the other new Fall Winter 2016 shoe releases!