Most people who are in the market shopping for a new pair of boots will most likely consider a pair of Timberlands for their next purchase. However, this brand offers so many models that can make your head spin. One common question is if there’s actually a difference between Timberland’s Premium line of boots and the Timberland Pro.
While both lines share similarities, they have different features that you might want to know. In this article, we’ll be resolving the Timberland vs Timberland Pro debate and give a bold verdict so you can get the best boot depending on your situation. We’ve broken how each boot compares in various categories including built quality and safety features.
Timberland vs Timberland Pro: What’s The Difference?
Although they were initially developed to be work boots, Timberland Premium boots have become popular casual footwear. Since their first outset, Timberlands has shifted its focus to delivering boots for everyday use and light-duty application.
On the other hand, the Timberland Pro line of boots is designed to deliver the much-needed comfort and protection needed on the worksite. This footwear line offers work-specific features that are not found in the Basic or Premium Timberland lines. Some of these features include reinforced uppers, safety toes, and electrical hazard protection.
Timberland vs Timberland Pro: Built Quality and Construction
All Timberlands boots are imported and manufactured abroad. Thus, both Timberland vs Timberland Pro boots are very comparable in terms of quality. The construction employed in the making of both boots is waterproof seam-flee built quality. The outer seams of the boots are sealed with latex to create a barrier against water. When combined with waterproof leather or nubuck, the seam-sealed gives the boot a watertight seal.
The upper paneling also features some of the most visually notable differences. While they’re designed for heavy-duty work, Timberland Pro Direct Attach features reinforced paneling above the heel for added safety. But apart from this difference, much of the uppers are similar with robust triple-stitching throughout.
You will also realize some differences between these two pieces when it comes to the outsole. The Timberland Premium 6-Inch boot, for instance, comes with a classic commando lug outsole. Meanwhile, the Timberland Pro Direct Attach is somewhat thicker and it has been derived from non-marking rubber, which is oil resistant and offers protection against electrical hazards.
Timberland vs Timberland Pro: Fit & Sizing
Both Timberland Premium and Timberland Pro are built on the same last and have the same basic construction, meaning they fit the same. All Timberland boots are said to run true to run a full size too large. The company website suggests that you buy a half-size smaller than your normal sneaker size, but we found reports that the boots still fit a little larger. We, therefore, recommend that if you’re someone with a size 11 foot, for instance, opt for a size 10.
Many people seem to love Timberlands probably because they provide up to size 17- something not common among boot brands. Others, especially those with huge feet opt for Timberlands simply because they’re the only boot readily available.
Comfort
Although all Timberland boots are generally comfortable, the Timberland Pro line of boots is considered the better option, especially for all-day standing. Both models have slightly different technologies for foot support. With Timberland Premium, you’ll get a leather-covered footbed alongside light cushioning, whereas, the Timberland Pro Direct Attach features a cushioned polyurethane footbed that also helps with odor control.
The anti-Fatigue Technology featured by Timberland Premium is integrated into the midsole. The technology involves geometric cones to deliver support when standing and to absorb shock during performances.
Timberland Pro, on the other hand, employs a slightly different technology called 24/7 Comfort Suspension- better suited for extended sessions on the feet. The technology focuses more on arch support of the foot, though it provides cushioning to minimize foot fatigue.
Insulation
Coming down to insulation, the Timberland Pro line of boots wins the battle. It boasts Thermolite insulation. This design allows for excellent warmth retention short of thickness, typically found in other insulation. So the final result is a lightweight boot that’s perfectly usable in cold weather.
With the Timberland Premium, you’ll find Primaloft ECO insulation which, although it does a great job at breathability and warmth retention, is not as light as the stated Thermolite featured by Timberland Pro. Therefore, Timberland Premium 6-inch boots are a couple of ounces heavier compared to Timberland Pro Direct Attach.
The weight difference may be just trivial for people who wear these boots casually, but if you’re planning to use these for full workdays, the extra ounces could make all the difference.
Timberland vs Timberland Pro: Which is the Better buy?
The Timberland Premium looks a lot like the Timberland Pro, but there are several key differences. Both the Premium and the Pro use the same leather from tanneries in the Dominican Republic. There isn’t much to say about the leather in either case, but the quality is on par with what anyone would expect from any sub-$200 boot.
They’re designed with full waterproofing and based on reviews, there are no differences there. The premium works just as well as the Premium in wet winter conditions. Timberland Premium boots are an excellent choice for those who want to wear them casually. They are ideal for light-duty work and serve just well as cold-weather boots. The Primaloft insulation and the anti-fatigue make these boots warm, breathable, and comfortable for all-day wear.
However, if you’re planning on using or maybe abusing your boots on a worksite, then you will be wise to consider the Timberland Pro. Most worksites are linked to specific footwear safety requirements that Timberland Premium falls short on.
Features like safety toes, slip-resistant, and electric hazard protection are important features to check out for if you’re in construction, manufacturing, or warehousing. The overall comfort level on Timberland is also something worth considering as these boots have been developed for all-day activewear. That means they will deliver all the support and comfort you need during long shifts.