What is the main difference between RM Williams' leather and rubber soles?

The main difference between leather and rubber soles is in function and look. Leather soles are the traditional style and bring a classic look, which is ideal for formal settings. Leather soles are also breathable and conform well to the contours of the foot. Rubber soles provide superior grip and water resistance to leather soles, making them more practical for daily wear or unsure terrain.

Which sole is better for wet weather, leather or rubber?

Rubber soles are generally the better choice for wet conditions, as they are more water-resistant than leather soles. Rubber soles have better grip on slippery surfaces and repel moisture effectively. Leather soles are more porous and can absorb water with prolonged exposure, which may lead to quicker wear or damage over time.

Are rubber soles as durable and long-lasting as the traditional leather soles?

Rubber soles are usually more durable than leather soles, particularly when worn on hard terrain or wet weather. Rubber is more resistant to moisture, damage and rough surfaces, making it a good choice for everyday wear or work. Leather soles are also a durable option, particularly in dry conditions, though they can be damaged by rough terrain.

How should I care for my leather vs. rubber soles?

Leather soles generally need more attention than rubber soles. With leather soles, they should be given time to rest between wears, kept dry as much as possible and occasionally conditioned to keep the leather from drying out. Rubber soles are a lower-maintenance option, and can be more hard-wearing. The best way to look after them is to keep them clear of dirt, pebbles and other debris.

Is a leather sole considered more formal or traditional than a rubber sole?

Leather soles are traditionally seen as the more formal option of the two. Leather soles offer a slim profile and polished look that complements tailored clothing and workwear. Rubber soles are a more practical option, providing comfort and support for travel, outdoor wear and work.

Men's Craftsman boots | R.M.Williams® Australia

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Craftsman boot – chestnut yearling leather

$699.00

3 sole options

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Craftsman boot – black yearling leather

$699.00

3 sole options

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Craftsman boot – caramel pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

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Craftsman boot – mid brown pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Bestseller

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Craftsman boot – dark tan yearling leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Featured product

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Craftsman boot – midnight suede leather

$699.00

1 sole option

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Craftsman boot – bordeaux burnished leather

$849.00

1 sole option

Bestseller

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – dark tan burnished leather

$849.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – mid brown/saddle pull-up leather

$749.00

Craftsman boot, Mid Brown Saddle, swatch

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – walnut pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – dark cedar suede leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – bark oiled nubuck leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – chocolate suede leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – black suede leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – wood ash suede leather

$699.00

1 sole option

Kangaroo leather

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – black kangaroo leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Kangaroo leather

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – chestnut kangaroo leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Kangaroo leather

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – tanbark kangaroo leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Signature Craftsman boot – black veal calf leather

$1,199.00

Signature Craftsman boot, Dark Tan, swatch

Signature Craftsman boot, Chestnut, swatch

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Signature Craftsman boot – chestnut veal calf leather

$1,199.00

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Signature Craftsman boot – dark tan veal calf leather

$1,199.00

1 sole option

New style

Made in Australia

Craftsman Zip boot – dark tan waxy pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

New style

Made in Australia

Craftsman Zip boot – nero waxy pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

New style

Made in Australia

Craftsman Lace boot – nero waxy pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

New style

Made in Australia

Craftsman Lace boot – dark tan waxy pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – ebony pull-up leather

$749.00

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – black crocodile leather

$5,499.00

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – chestnut crocodile leather

$5,499.00

1 sole option

Premium edition

Made in Australia

Craftsman boot – black ostrich leather

$3,699.00

1 sole option

Explore men's boots

R.M.Williams, founded in 1932, represents artisanal craftsmanship and a contemporary Australian sensibility. Our legacy stems from wanting to craft durable pieces for tough environments, inspired by Reginald Murray 'RM' Williams' experience with riding boots and saddlery that fell short.

Constructed with a Goodyear welt, our boots are made with a leather welt that is sewn to the insole to firmly attach the sole. Every pair is crafted from a single piece of carefully selected leather, and you can trust that we offer the same quality for the rest of our products, whether you're exploring 'best leather wallet for men', 'ladies leather wallets' or 'genuine leather handbags'.

With a network of more than 50 stores in Australia, our store locator lets you find the closest one to you. If you have questions related to 'genuine leather handbags', 'best leather wallet for men' or 'Australian leather bags', you can also reach us by live chat or phone, so explore our collection today.

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Learn more about Craftsman boots

Men’s Craftsman FAQs

What is the main difference between RM Williams' leather and rubber soles?

Which sole is better for wet weather, leather or rubber?

Are rubber soles as durable and long-lasting as the traditional leather soles?

How should I care for my leather vs. rubber soles?

Is a leather sole considered more formal or traditional than a rubber sole?

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