The Comfort Craftsman is the strongest all-round R.M. Williams pick in the 2024 roundup: it pairs a single-piece leather upper with a cushioned insole and rubber sole, making it the most versatile starting point for buyers weighing comfort, everyday wear and long-term repairability. “Australia’s favourite” is an editorial framing, not a claim backed by a representative national survey.
Which R.M. Williams boot is the best all-round choice?
Comfort Craftsman: the versatile default
For a boot that can move between casual outfits, workwear and smarter occasions, start with the Comfort Craftsman. R.M. Williams describes its current Australian model as handcrafted in Adelaide from one piece of premium yearling leather, with a chisel toe, comfort insole, Goodyear welt and rubber sole. The company says the style has been its best-selling boot since 1966; that is the manufacturer’s sales claim, not an independently audited measure of Australian preference. See the current Comfort Craftsman product page and confirm the colour, sole, width and size available before buying.
The single-piece upper has a practical origin. In R.M. Williams’ Craftsman design story, Head of Footwear Development David Cook says it was intended to avoid rubbing against a riding stirrup and to help keep water and dust out in the bush. That historical purpose does not mean the boots are certified waterproof.
Other styles in the 2024 roundup
PerthNow’s article, published 17 July 2024, also highlighted the Dynamic Flex Craftsman, Macquarie and Yearling. Its descriptions positioned the four styles across casual, office and dressier settings; they were editorial suggestions rather than results of hands-on testing. The 2024 article listed the Comfort Craftsman at $649, but that is a historical price, not a current quote. Read PerthNow’s 2024 roundup.
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#1 Best Overall
- Pull-on Chelsea boot style
- Crazy Horse is heavyweight leather with a tough, worn-in appearance giving a pre-loved finish without the hard work.
- Built with core Dr. Martens DNA: grooved edges, an AirWair heel loop and visible stitching
The manufacturer’s current Australian bestsellers page labels several Craftsman variants—including chestnut and black yearling finishes—and the Tambo as bestsellers. These current labels are useful for exploring the range, but they should not be read as the ranking from 2024. Browse R.M. Williams’ current Australian bestsellers.
How should you compare the soles?
The sole changes the boot’s feel and construction. R.M. Williams’ product information describes the following options; these are manufacturer descriptions, not independent comparative tests.
Rank #2
- Pull-on Chelsea boot style
- Wyoming is a rich leather with a subtle grain and oily surface.
- Built with core Dr. Martens DNA: grooved edges, an AirWair heel loop and visible stitching
- Model Number: 26002001
| Sole option | What the manufacturer describes | Useful comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort rubber | Rubber paired with a padded insole for shock absorption and grip. | A comfort-oriented option for regular everyday wear. |
| Dynamic rubber | A supportive heel cradle and contoured arch support. | Compare its added support features with the standard rubber option. |
| Classic leather | Cowhide sole, full leather insole and light padding. | A more traditional leather construction rather than a rubber-grip setup. |
Check the exact model’s current product listing: not every style, colour or size necessarily comes with every sole choice.
How do you choose the right size and width?
The current Australian Comfort Craftsman page specifies AU/UK sizing for men’s boots and fittings F (narrow), G (regular), H (wide) and X (extra wide). Within the same size, R.M. Williams says each fitting differs by about 0.64 cm (¼ inch) in foot width. Use the model’s current size guide or get fitted, particularly if choosing between widths; a general “true to size” rule cannot account for every foot or style.
Rank #3
- COMFORT AND FIT: These Chelsea boots have a padded insole for added comfort and elastic gussets for easy entry
- MATERIAL: Amazon Essentials shoes are made from high-quality alternative leather materials. This style has a faux calfskin upper and is lined in faux leather
- STYLE: These boots have an elongated almond toe, a clean and modern upper design, and piping around the upper
- DETAILS: 1 inch heel with a flexible non-slip sole. Shaft height measures 4.75 inches from where your heel sits to the top of the shaft
- DESIGN: These versatile boots take you from office to weekend, and can be paired with your favorite Amazon Essentials outfit
Are R.M. Williams boots waterproof?
Do not assume so. PerthNow’s 2024 FAQ described the boots as water-resistant, not fully waterproof, but the available manufacturer information does not establish a model-wide waterproof rating. Treat ordinary weather exposure and certified waterproofing as different claims, and check guidance for the exact boot before relying on it in wet conditions.
How should you care for finished-leather boots?
For finished leather, R.M. Williams recommends removing dirt with a damp cloth, using leather cleaner for heavier marks, and conditioning regularly to help prevent drying or cracking. Its guidance suggests conditioner every 2–3 months and cautions against over-conditioning. Polish can help maintain colour and address scuffs. These instructions are for finished leather; do not apply them indiscriminately to suede.
Rank #4
- Round toe construction
- Pull tabs for easy on and off
- Classic Chelsea silhouette
- Low-block heels
- Imported
Can the Comfort Craftsman be repaired or resoled?
The Comfort Craftsman is Goodyear welted, and R.M. Williams says this construction makes it fully repairable. Its Craftsman design story lists replacement of soles, heel stacks, rubber, elastics and tugs through the company’s repair offering. Confirm the current repair scope and turnaround with R.M. Williams before arranging service, as availability and details can change.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the Comfort Craftsman worth the investment?
It is a more considered purchase than a disposable fashion boot if you value the Adelaide-made construction, a choice of sole and the prospect of repair. Whether that is worth the cost depends on your fit, how often you will wear it, and the current price and repair costs; the 2024 roundup’s $649 figure is not a reliable current price. Fit and care matter too: a repairable boot still needs to suit your foot and receive appropriate maintenance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Soft PU Upper: These men’s Chelsea boots feature a smooth upper that is crease-resistant, making it effortless to maintain for a fresh look every time.
- Lasting Comfort: Lined with a resilient PU-covered sponge insole that absorbs shock, these boots ensure every step is supported and cushioned.
- Lightweight & Flexible: A lightweight EVA midsole keeps you walking with ease and greater flexibility without feeling weighed down.
- Durable Outsole: Set on a textured TPR outsole with a 0.98-inch heel, these Chelsea boots offer durability and secure footing.
- Smart Casual Boots: These refined Chelsea boots are an essential for work, social gatherings, daily strolls, dates and beyond.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
