When it comes to stylish and quality boots, two brands often come to mind – Nisolo And Thursday Boots. Both brands offer a wide selection of boots in different styles, materials and colors.
But which one is better? Here is an in-depth comparison of Nisolo vs Thursday Boots.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | Nisolo | Thursday Boots |
| Price Range | $175 – $350 | $149 – $199 |
| Leather Quality | Full-grain from tanneries in Mexico and South America | Horween leather from Chicago |
| Manufacturing | Handmade in Mexico, Peru, Kenya | Handmade in Mexico |
| Sizing Options | Whole sizes only | Half sizes available |
| Widths | Narrow/standard width only | Some wide sizes available |
| Styles | More fashion/dressy variety | Classic/rugged focus |
| Break-In Period | Can take 1-2 weeks | Minimal break-in time |
| Weatherproofing | Some water-resistant styles | Many weatherproof styles |
| Sustainability | Strong focus on ethical production | Moderate sustainability practices |
Overview Of Nisolo And Thursday Boots
Nisolo
Founded in 2011 and based in Nashville, Tennessee, Nisolo emphasizes ethical and sustainable manufacturing for its handmade leather shoes and accessories. Nisolo sources its materials from producers in Mexico, Kenya, and Peru that practice fair labor policies and environmental stewardship.
Nisolo’s boot styles range from fashionable leather boots and booties to rugged chukka boots. They are designed for causal and business wear with many being water-resistant. Nisolo boots retail from $175 to $350.
Thursday Boots
Based in New York City, Thursday Boot Company was founded in 2014 with the goal of offering high-quality boots without the usual high price tag. Thursday Boots are designed in New York and crafted in factories in Mexico using premium materials like Horween leather from Chicago and Vibram rubber soles made in Italy.
The boot styles from Thursday are versatile ranging from weatherproof hiking boots to dress boots suitable for both work and play. Their boots are priced between $149 to $199.
Comparison Between Nisolo And Thursday Boots
Boot Construction Quality
The construction quality of both boot brands is excellent given their emphasis on premium materials and handcrafted manufacturing.
Nisolo uses full-grain leathers sourced from environmentally friendly tanneries. The leather is durable and develops a worn-in look over time. The boot linings are made of pigskin leather for softness and goat suede in some styles. The outsoles use either leather or natural rubber with a leather welt construction.
Thursday Boots also utilizes high-quality leathers like Horween that are rich in color and supple. The boots feature a leather or Vibram rubber outsole. A Goodyear storm welt construction makes the soles easily replaceable if needed. The insoles are removable should you want to insert your own orthopedic insoles.
In terms of durability, both brands have sturdy stitching in the uppers and weather-resistant materials to handle everyday wear. With proper care and maintenance, the boots should last for years.
Fit and Sizing
When it comes to finding the right size, both Nisolo and Thursday run fairly true to size if you order your normal shoe size.
Nisolo offers whole sizes from 5 to 13 for women and 7 to 14 for men. The brand notes their boots fit narrow or “standard width” feet best. There are select wide calf styles available for women.
Thursday Boots come in half sizes which helps achieve a more precise fit. Women’s sizing runs from 5 to 11 while men’s is 7 to 14. Some styles like Captain or Legend are available in wide sizes also.
Many customers comment that Thursday boots fit comfortably snug out of the box but stretch and conform to your feet over time. Nisolo’s boots have a slim silhouette for a more tailored look. Those with wide feet may need to size up or try a wide width if available.
Both brands allow exchanges if the size ordered does not fit well. Thursday Boots has a 30-day return policy while Nisolo allows returns within 60 days.
Watch the review video about Nisolo!
Style and Design
Nisolo Boots
Nisolo’s collections include a range of sleek leather boots from minimalist silhouettes to bolder patterns like embroidered flowers or colorful textile uppers. There are casual everyday styles along with sophisticated boots suitable for business or dress attire. Some common models are:
- Huarache: Chukka-style boot with woven leather detail, available in neutral tones or vibrant shades like mustard yellow.
- Rebecca: Ankle bootie with a stacked heel and triangular elastic gore insets for easy slip-on wear.
- Lucia: Tall lace-up boot made of pebbled leather with a chunky lug sole.
- Olga: Western-inspired Chelsea boot with elastic side panels and pull tabs at the top and back.
Thursday Boots
Thursday Boot Company focuses on timeless and versatile designs for everyday wear. The boots have a clean, minimalist look combining classic silhouettes with modern details like textured outsoles or distressed leather finishes. Some popular styles include:
- Captain: Rugged Goodyear-welted 6-inch lace-up boot available in matte, waxed or oiled leathers. It comes in regular, wide and weatherproof options.
- Explorer: Chukka boot with stitched detailing, ideal for business or casual wear. It has a low heel and comes in neutral shades.
- Legend: Chelsea boot with elastic sides, pull tab and low heel. Offered in distressed leathers and bold colors like rust orange.
- Scout: Simple slip-on Chelsea style in matte leather with elastic gore panels and pull tabs in complementary leather colors.
- Diplomat: Refined cap toe lace-up dress boot with classic brogueing details, leather sole and stacked leather heel.
In summary, Nisolo has more variety in styles from dressy western boots to boho embroidered ankle booties. Thursday sticks to classic and rugged leather lace-up, Chelsea and chukka boots meant for everyday wear. Those wanting a dressier ankle boot may prefer Nisolo’s selection.
Comfort and Break-In Period
The break-in period for new leather boots ultimately comes down to the quality and construction. Softer, flexible leathers will mold to your feet faster than super stiff ones.
Most Thursday Boots require very minimal break-in thanks to the supple Horween leather and flexible Vibram outsoles. The brand uses moisture-wicking leather linings and shock-absorbing cork beds for added comfort. However, some models like the Captain or President can take 1-2 weeks of regular wear to fully stretch and break-in.
Nisolo uses high quality leathers but some styles may need more wear to soften up if the leather is extra thick or rigid. Their slim silhouette can feel snug for the first few wears. After a week or so of wear, the boots should conform nicely. Those with wider feet may want to opt for a roomier fit at first.
For the easiest break-in for either brand, wear the boots for short periods around the house to mold them faster. Using a boot stretcher can also help soften stiff leather and widen tight spots.
Also Read: Differences Between Calzuro And Birkenstock.
Weatherproofing
If you want a waterproof boot that can handle rain, snow and icy conditions, both brands have good options.
Many of Thursday’s boots boast weatherproof construction, with the rugged Captain being the most water-resistant. It features moisture-wicking lining, sealed seams and wax-coated leather to repel water.
Nisolo does not claim their boots are fully waterproof, but several styles should hold up fine in wet conditions. For the best water resistance, look for boots made with natural rubber outsoles like the Halle, Vista or Lucia styles. Applying a waterproofing spray treatment will boost weather protection too.
For deep snow or heavy storms, full waterproof styles from brands like Sorel or dedicated snow boots would be better bets. But Thursday and Nisolo’s weather-friendly boots work great in light precipitation.
Cost and Value
Both brands deliver excellent quality and craftsmanship for the prices they charge. Thursday Boots range from $149-$199 while Nisolo boots are $175-$350.
At the lower end, Thursday has a slight edge for value with their Horween leather and Blake stitched construction under $200. Nisolo’s cheaper styles around $175-$225 are still reasonably priced for the quality.
In the mid-upper price range, the brands are comparable. Nisolo has more intricate details like embroidery and unique textures that justify the higher cost for certain boots. But Thursday also offers premium leathers, replaceable soles and studier construction around $199-$250 that add value.
Overall the prices relative to quality are aligned between the two brands. Those wanting the lowest cost may lean toward Thursday, while people wanting exotic details may pay a little more for select Nisolo styles.
Social Responsibility
Nisolo has a strong focus on ethical manufacturing and transparency in its supply chain. The company sources sustainable materials and partners with producers that practice fair labor policies. They also invest in community development programs for its artisans.
While Thursday Boots does not promote sustainability and social welfare as overtly, they do manufacture in Mexico which allows closer oversight of the factory work conditions. Their leather is sourced from the renowned Horween tannery in Chicago.
So in summary, Nisolo has stronger social and environmental commitments. But Thursday’s supply chain still utilizes quality materials and localized production.
Also Read: Comparison Between Oofos And Cloud Slides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Thursday Captain and Titan models are both rugged 6-inch lace-up boots. The main differences are:
Leather: Captain uses chrome-tanned leather while Titan uses vegetable-tanned leather for more natural patina over time.
Style: Captain has a plain toe while Titan has a cap toe design.
Lug sole: Titan features a Vibram lug sole with more traction vs. the Captain’s studded rubber sole.
Weatherproofing: Both are water resistant boots but the Titan may be slightly more weatherproof.
Overall the Titan has a dressier, refined look thanks to the cap toe and richer leather. But the Captain is more casual and understated in styling.
Yes, Thursday Boots are designed to fit snugly at first for a sleek silhouette. But the leather should stretch and mold to your feet after a few wears. Sizing up is not recommended as the boots will likely become too loose after breaking in.
Their boots are not uncomfortably tight but you will feel them hug your feet until the leather softens up. If any areas feel too narrow or tight, try using a boot stretcher.
Most Thursday boots should hold up reasonably well in rainy conditions thanks to their weatherproof construction – especially models like the Captain, Legend or Explorer.
Their leather materials and Goodyear storm welt are designed to resist water so you can wear Thursday boots in light rain. For heavy downpours or deep puddles, fully waterproof rubber boots would be better.
Treating the leather regularly with a waterproofing spray will help repel water even more. Allow the boots to fully dry out between wears to prevent interior moisture buildup.
Yes, you can put orthotics or custom insoles in Thursday boots as they have removable foam insoles. There should be enough room to accommodate orthopedic insoles as long as they are not overly thick.
The brand recommends trying your orthotics with the boots on in the store for the best fit if possible. You may need to remove the insert that comes with the boots to make space for your orthotic. A boot without a shank may also fit orthotics easier.
Also Read: Comparison Between Thursday Boots And Frye.
The Verdict
Overall both Nisolo and Thursday offer excellent quality boots with premium construction and materials.
For affordable everyday styles under $200, Thursday edges out Nisolo with quality leathers and weatherproof designs at lower prices. Their sizing in half sizes is also a plus for dialing in the perfect fit.
Nisolo shines for those wanting upscale leather boots with unique embellishments and detailing. The brand also leads in sustainability practices and ethical production methods.
It mainly comes down to preferences in style, budget and values when choosing between these two recommended boot brands. You really cannot go wrong with quality footwear from either company.
Hopefully this comparison gives you a better sense of how Nisolo stacks up against Thursday Boots. Let your desired style, ideal fit and budget guide you in deciding which brand is the better choice for your needs. Both offer stylish boots built to last.