I normally got a good year out of Red Wings, but then in the past I also tried 2 cheap pairs of China knockoffs called "Smith's" from an Army Navy store for $70. They looked identical to Chippewa/Red Wing, but they completely fell apart in less than 4 months. They were ill-fitting, the leather on the toes quickly dryrotted and split, the leather laces snapped in 2 weeks and all stitching frayed. I take a size 12 ww, but the first pair I bought was an 11, (the 12 being huge) and the second was a size 12, being snug. So much for quality and consistency.
The 9" high made-in-USA Chippewa loggers with Vibram sole is all I wear for the past 8 years. I been wearing loggers for 18 years (job requirement) and they are the best built boots I have found. Better fitting and longer lasting than Red Wing in my experience.
I am very, very hard on footwear at work. If I can't reach it with a bucket, I'm climbing. If I'm not climbing, I'm in wet, dirty cable vaults, confined spaces, trenches and underground manholes. The combination of moisture and climbing seem to tear most of my boots up. Chippewas break in very well, they last me a solid 2 years, and are consistent in size and quality. I've never owned another brand of boots that have lasted me that long.
The older I get, the less brand-loyal I am. Now that I think of it, I'd say that wisdom dictates being more quality-loyal.
It took many years for me to find these boots, and I'm brand-loyal to them until something changes. I don't care how much they cost in comparison to the China knockoffs.
Enjoy 'em!