Buyer’s Guide to American Made Boots

If you are looking for top quality materials and craftsmanship, it is hard to beat American made boots. Unfortunately, the battle to lower prices has resulted in production being shipped overseas. However, lower prices do not necessarily mean lower costs.

In fact, outsourced products carry large costs in other areas. Poor stitching, inadequate waterproofing, inferior leather and uncomfortable shaping may drive the price tag down – but the stress on your feet and the shorter lifespan of the footwear are not worth the savings in price.

Below you will find American made brands that have earned a reputation for producing quality boots.

Since the mid 1950’s, Double-H has created some of the best western footwear in the business. Well known for their two-tone designs and beautiful stitching, this Pennsylvania boot maker combines a traditional look with top-quality leather and patented outsole construction.

Thorogood footwear has been on the job almost as long as the American workforce has. The Wisconsin company introduced the country’s first safety work boots in 1892 and has stayed true to its heritage ever since, crafting the most durable work boots on the market.

While still a newcomer when compared to the other brands, Matterhorn has earned its place among American boot makers. In addition to supplying standard-surpassing footwear to EMS responders, law enforcement agencies, the armed forces and Homeland Security, Matterhorn is the name in mining boots. They offer insulated, comfortable boots built to perform in the most extreme conditions imaginable.

By purchasing products made in America, you invest in a longer-lasting product and in our domestic economy. Shop at Bridgeport Equipment & Tool today for American made boots!

Know Your Hunting Boot Needs Before You Buy

Huntsmen choose boots for compatibility with the season and hunting grounds they encounter, but that is only the beginning. There are significant differences in boot materials, construction and design.

Luckily, there are plenty of high-quality insulated hunting boots on the market, and choosing the right one is largely a matter of finding the best options out of a set of great options.

Full-grain leathers and nylon are materials that provide maximum durability, and Gore-Tex offers the convenience of waterproofing and breathability. Comfort and insulation are a huge priority, but quality hunting boots should also offer hunters tough, durable soles for a secure grip in wet or icy hunting locations.

Bridgeport Equipment has compiled a list of some of our favorites to help make your decision easier.


The Rocky Lynx offers a unique range of quality design, materials and construction. Huntsmen love the aggressive Lynx outsole and all-terrain features. Gore-Tex provides waterproofing and breathability along with an additional mesh lining. Terra Suspension PU cushion in the footbed construction makes for extra walking comfort. For added warmth, rely on the 800 grams of Thinsulate Ultra Insulation and a thick and comfortable EVA midsole.

Rocky MudSox are another favorite of huntsmen for several reasons. A self-cleaning tread pattern and popular Realtree Camo design on the boot shaft is much appreciated by hunters. 800 grams of Thinsulate Ultra Insulation keep feet warm. Other features include the Rocky SIQ Atomic and full, waterproof neoprene sock. Best of all, it's priced to fit any huntsman's budget.

The Irish Setter Gunflint affords a rugged look and an equally rugged design. Note the camo inserts on the boot shafts, nylon uppers and steel shank. In addition, there are 1,000 grams of insulation for those cold winter game hunts. When warmth is important, those added grams of insulation are sure to please.

For waterproof protection, Gore-Tex is the number one choice. The Rocky BearClaw features 1,000 grams of insulation, full-grain leather and exclusive Rocky 3D welt construction. Among other features, a cushioned air-port footbed is included.

These boots have been one of the top choices of hunting boots by generations of sportsmen. Featuring hand sewn FlexLock construction, no huntsman should be without a pair of Irish Setter Havocs. These boots have side-to-side stability, MOBU Infinity brown leather, cork midsole and Ultraflex sole.

Bridgeport Equipment stocks a large selection of high quality hunting boots for every hunter's need. Nationwide shipping is free on boot orders exceeding $100. Bridgeport's wide range of styles give huntsmen their choice of top quality design, materials and construction.

Brand Spotlight: Hillbilly Proud

A multi-media company based in the mountains of beautiful West Virginia, Hillbilly Proud is a family of coal miners and steel workers who are very proud of their heritage.  They first began shooting their family-friendly videos of off-road motor sports and then branched out to making videos that also focus on the scenery, heritage, and culture of their beautiful state.  Whenever possible, their footage is accompanied by some of the best local musicians ranging from rock to bluegrass. 

For nearly 10 years, Hillbilly Proud has also offered an awesome line of merchandise that represents the hillbilly culture that surrounds them! Their ever-growing line of clothing began with a single shirt and has grown into a line of several shirts for men, women, and children as well as sweatshirts, tank tops, hats, and stickers and decals.  All of their merchandise features their popular trademarked name and logo with all screen-printing done in Morgantown, WV.

The thing that makes this company so unique is that they utilize a bartering system to get the most out of the events that they are asked to film. When they are asked to film an event, they do not charge promoters a single cent to do so; instead they request a vending booth.  Simply by selling their own merchandise they are able to maintain a self-sufficient small business.

Hillbilly Proud also hosts the West Virginia Day Festival at the Holly Gray Park in Sutton, WV.  This event celebrates West Virginia with music, motor sports, and of course… mountains! This fun filled weekend has something for every “hillbilly,” from great local music to a car show and mud bog! Of course, there are also many games, activities, and giveaways.  Admission is affordable for the family with discounted weekend passes and free for kids under 12 years of age.  

Bridgeport Equipment & Tool is happy to support this small town West Virginia Company by carrying some of their awesome products! We carry their merchandise in our Bridgeport and Marietta, OH as well as New Martinsville, WV locations. Want to purchase Hillbilly Proud products online? Click the images below to order from Bridgeport Equipment & Tool!