Thorogood Crosstrex: Where the Trail Meets the Job Site (My Honest Review)
ReviewAlright, let’s talk shoes. Specifically, the Thorogood Crosstrex Waterproof Athletic Safety Toe Work Shoes. I’ve been kicking around in these things for a few weeks now, and I’m finally ready to spill the beans. See, I’m that guy – the one who spends weekends hiking but also tackles home improvement projects that inevitably spiral into something resembling a construction zone. I needed a shoe that could keep up. Could the Crosstrex be the answer? Let’s find out.
My first thought when I unboxed these? They actually look pretty sharp. The combo of leather and mesh gives them a modern, almost sporty vibe. Definitely not your grandpa’s work boots, which is a plus in my book. And the weight? Seriously light for a safety-toe – a huge win when you’re logging long hours on your feet.
Now, comfort. That’s where the rubber meets the road, right? The Crosstrex mostly nails it. The insole’s got decent cushioning, and I could feel the support where I needed it most. But fair warning: these guys needed a little breaking in. A bit of rubbing around the ankle at first, but nothing major, and it disappeared after a few wears.
Pro Tip: Seriously consider bumping up a half size. Trust me on this. Especially if you’re planning on rocking thicker socks. I’m usually a 10, but the 10.5 fit like a glove. Also, wide feet? Go for the wide option. You’ll thank me later.
So, I put ’em to the test. A decent hike in the state park was first on the list. And honestly? They killed it. The Crosstrex 360 outsole gripped everything – loose dirt, rocks, even some seriously slick mud. I felt planted, confident, even when the trail got a little hairy. And when I accidentally dunked my foot in a creek? The waterproof membrane did its thing. Dry as a bone.
Back at the homestead, I’ve been sporting these while wrestling with a new fence. (Don’t ask. It’s a saga.) The composite safety toe? Already saved me from a couple of rogue 2x4s. Always a good day when you don’t crush your toes. Plus, the EH rating? Gives me a little extra peace of mind when I’m messing with power tools.
Okay, real talk. Nothing’s perfect, right? The Crosstrex has a couple of quirks. The tongue? A little on the chunky side, and it likes to wander. Not a deal-breaker, but a bit annoying. And while that waterproof membrane is a lifesaver in the wet, it can get a little toasty in there on warmer days. Breathability’s decent, but not amazing.
Bottom line? The Thorogood Crosstrex are a solid bet if you need a shoe that can pull double duty – work and play. They’re comfy, they’re tough, and they’ve got your back when it comes to safety. Yeah, there are a couple of minor annoyances, but the good definitely outweighs the bad. If you’re after a hybrid boot that can handle the job site and the trail without skipping a beat, these are worth a look.
Who’s Gonna Love These:
- Weekend warriors and DIY fanatics
- Folks who work construction
- Hikers who want a little toe protection
- Anyone after a comfy, do-it-all work shoe
Maybe Not For You If:
- Breathability is your number one priority
- You need a super heavy-duty boot for seriously extreme conditions