Mongrel Boots is the 100% Australian born and bred boot brand
Looking for a tough pair of boots uniquely suited for working in Australia? You don’t need to look any farther than Mongrel boots, a brand that prides itself on being 100% Aussie born and bred. Victor Footwear, the company that created and manufactures the popular boot brand, is family-owned and has been making quality footwear for Australian workers since 1930. That’s five generations of bootmakers that’ve been crafting a range of boots specifically designed for Aussie conditions!
Where it all began
The Mongrel boots story began in a small shoe repair shop in Surry Hills, Sydney. Opened by bootmaker Stanley Cloros, the shop soon evolved into a full-scale factory called the Victor Boot Company and during World War II it produced high-quality military boots for Aussie soldiers.
Fast forward to the sixties, and the company starts focussing on work and casual footwear, before launching the Mongrel brand in 2000. An instant success, Mongrel soon became well-known as THE Australian work boot. And while other boot companies were quick to move their production lines out of Australia, Mongrel has always made a commitment to remain 100% Australian. They like to say that only an Australian craftsman can make a Mongrel.
Mongrel Boot technology
Already known for incomparable comfort, Mongrel nonetheless continues to evolve its boot designs in new ways to maximise comfort, safety and quality. With a deeper, wider tread, Mongrels’ Toughsider soles act like a 4WD tyre, enhancing performance, grip and stability. Additionally, the brand’s Roller Sole technology increases comfort and safety – while decreasing fatigue – by making the action of walking smoother. You’ll also find increased comfort thanks to the brand’s Airzone Comfort System, that traps air in a heel cavity to create cushion-enhanced shock absorption.
And although the Mongrel line of boots originally launched with only one style – the Zipsider – it has since grown to include an ever-increasing range of boots and styles to meet every worker’s needs. Here are a few of Mongrel’s popular boot styles – available everywhere in Australia!
Mongrel 561 high leg Zipsider boot w/ scuff cap
The one and only original Mongrel was the Zipsider, and it completely changed how people put on and take off their work boots. It quickly grew to encompass an entire line, and the 561 is the toughest of the bunch. It’s got a full leather upper, steel toe cap, is oil and acid resistant, and was designed with a higher cut for increased coverage. Equipped with the Vibram sole and OrthoTec Poron footbed, it’s a comfortable, shock absorbing boot that can handle temps of up to 300°C. If you’re a miner, road worker, boilermaker or someone looking to protect their feet from extreme heat – these are your go-to boots!
Mongrel 260 lace up boot
If you want something that’s more like the classic work boot – laces and all – the 260 lace up boot is one of Mongrel’s best sellers. Made of premium leather, it sports the Airzone Comfort System, steel toe cap, and the Toughsider Sole, plus its slip and electrical hazard resistant, fully lined and is equipped with the Othotec Air Footbed. This timeless boot is ideal for tradies working in construction, agriculture, the warehouse or general work.
Mongrel 240 premium elastic sided boot
Not into zippers OR laces? No worries. Mongrel’s 240 premium elastic-sided boot may be the practical, high-quality boot you’ve been waiting for! It’s got everything you want: Toughsider Sole, steel toe cap, Airzone Comfort System and Orthotec Air Footbed. It’s also oil, fat and slip resistant! Constructed of premium leather stitched with NylBond in a Chelsea cut, this elastic boot‘s bending and squatting comfort and support makes it ideal for farmers, builders and plumbers.
Mongrel 390 hiker shoe
If the shoe fits… it’s probably a Mongrel! Not everyone wants to (or needs to) work in boot-style footwear. Sometimes your job has you driving around doing errands, wandering a warehouse, or just doing general work. But you still need protection, right? The 390 hiker shoe was designed for the worker who’s always on the move and needs a light shoe that’s still safe for tradies. Steel toe cap? Check! Slip and electrical hazard resistant? Check! Fully lined with a padded tongue and collar, the 390 is a jogger-style safety shoe that you can wear all week long!
Mongrel 805 premium riding boot
All work and no play would make anyone dull, and not everyone works in a warehouse environment! That’s why another of Mongrel’s most popular boot styles is the non-safety 805 premium riding boot. Available in black or brown, it features a rigid instep shank for increased boot strength and integrity that makes it a favourite choice for riders, although its classic style also makes it ideal for the office or out on the town.
Caring for Mongrel boots
Mongrel boots are tough and high-quality boots, but you still need to care for them properly if you want them to last! Mongrel offers a range of products – from leather wax to suede and nubuck protector – so you can always keep them looking like new!
Boot care tips
· Remove any dirt and grime from your boots first, then leave them to dry at room temperature.
· Once dry, apply the leather wax or suede/nubuck protector according to the product’s instructions.
· Buff your leather boots afterwards and let dry or for suede/nubuck just let the protector soak in and dry.
Remember to always store your Mongrel boots in a dry, ventilated area away from direct sunlight. And don’t dry your wet boots artificially or with high heat, as it could dry out or shrink the leather.
Want to learn more about Mongrel boots and the brand’s wide range of 100% Australian-made footwear? Go to mongrelboots.com.au.
