Xtratuf Wheelhouse Waterproof Reinforced Resistant – Is It Worth Buying?
ReviewOkay, folks, let’s talk about the XTRATUF Men’s Wheelhouse 6 Inch Ankle Deck Boot. I’ve always been on the lookout for reliable footwear that can handle both city puddles and the occasional jaunt on a boat. When I heard about these boots, with the XTRATUF name behind them, I was genuinely excited to give them a whirl and see if they lived up to their reputation.
My first impression? These boots feel like they mean business. The rubber is thick and sturdy, and those reinforced areas at the toe and heel? They give you a real sense of confidence that these things are built to last. Slipping them on, I immediately noticed that “commercial grade wide fit.” Now, if you’re someone who deals with wider feet or swelling after a long day, this is a huge plus. For me, with my feet being a bit on the narrow side, they felt a little roomy, even with thicker socks.
So, how did they perform? I’ve been wearing these around town on those classic rainy days, and I can confidently say my feet have stayed bone dry. No complaints there! And that slip-resistant outsole? Seriously impressive. I felt super secure walking on slick pavement. I even wore them on my buddy’s boat, and they gripped the deck like nobody’s business. The insole is reasonably comfy, though I wouldn’t go so far as to say it’s like walking on clouds. After a few hours, I started wishing for a bit more arch support. If you’re planning on being on your feet for 12+ hours a day, you might want to consider adding an insert.
Let’s break down the good stuff:
- Waterproof? Absolutely. No leaks, no soggy socks. Just what you want in a rain boot.
- Traction is top-notch. That SRC-rated outsole gives you confidence on any slick surface.
- They seem durable. At first glance, they appear well-built, and those reinforced areas are a nice touch. (But keep reading…)
- Wide feet rejoice! This fit is a godsend if you need the extra room.
Now for the not-so-good:
- Sizing can be a gamble. I’d seriously recommend trying these on in person if you can. That wide fit isn’t for everyone, and some folks have reported sizing being all over the place.
- Long-term durability is a question mark. This is where my excitement cools off a bit. While they feel tough initially, some reviews mention cracking and falling apart after a while. I haven’t seen that myself yet, but I’ll be keeping a close eye on it.
- Breathability isn’t their strong suit. They claim to have breathable mesh, but my feet did get a tad warm after wearing them for a while. Not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind.
So, the verdict? The XTRATUF Men’s Wheelhouse 6 Inch Ankle Deck Boot is a solid choice if you’re after a waterproof, slip-resistant boot, especially if you’ve got wider feet. But those potential issues with how long they last and the whole sizing thing give me pause. For the price, you want something that’s going to go the distance. I’d say tread carefully, read those reviews, and maybe buy from a place with a good return policy. I’ll definitely update this review as I put more miles on these boots and see how they hold up over time.