Some things still stir passionate debate in today’s world, where tradition and modern life often collide.

It might seem like a simple question of style or comfort, but dig a little deeper and find it’s about value, identity, and how much we’re willing to invest in the things we wear.

As one long-standing Aussie favourite continues to climb in price, many wonder if it has become a symbol of pride or just a luxury out of reach.


There’s no denying it: $649 is a lot to fork out for a pair of boots. Even with the occasional sale (one shopper recently spotted a pair of Comfort Craftsmen marked down to $520), the cost is enough to make many wallets wince.

Some Aussies have called the price 'just not purchasable,' while others have gone so far as to label it 'unAustralian.'


But RM Williams CEO Paul Grosmann stands firm on the value, arguing that the boots are an investment, not just a purchase.

'Fast fashion may be cheaper upfront, but it’s built to be disposable,' he said.

'Our boots are made the old-fashioned way: handcrafted and built to last a lifetime. Ultimately, that’s better for the planet and your wallet.'


It’s a fair point. While you can pick up a pair of shoes or sneakers for $150 or less from fast fashion giants like Shein or Temu, you’ll likely be replacing them in a year or two.

Australian shoe repairer Troy Inkster has seen it all: 'You buy an average shoe or sneaker for $150 plus, get one to two years out of them. Or buy something that will last 10 years plus. The problem is not many invest in their feet and are happy to invest in a false economy.'


Many RM Williams devotees back this up with their own stories.

'Had mine for 20 years. Just gave them a polish as I do regularly. Wear them every day to work. Had three new soles and still going strong. Worth every cent,' one fan shared.

Another pointed out, 'When you break it down over how many years and how many times you’ll wear them, it’s worth it. It’s just the upfront cost that is a huge turn off.'


The rise of online juggernauts like Shein and Temu has shaken up the Australian retail landscape.

These platforms offer rock-bottom prices and a dizzying array of styles, but often at the expense of quality and durability.

In fact, a 2023 Good On You sustainability report found Shein’s clothing ranked among the least durable of any major fashion retailer tested.

The impact is being felt across the country, with several big-name Aussie retailers struggling to compete.

Research from Roy Morgan shows Temu now holds almost one-fifth of the Aussie retail sector, with 3.8 million people making at least one purchase in a year.

The aggressive discounting and marketing tactics of these companies are tough for local brands to match.

Despite the allure of cheap imports, there’s still a strong appetite for supporting local.

According to Roy Morgan, 73 per cent of Aussies are willing to buy more locally-made goods to reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, and nearly as many say they’d pay more for Australian-made products.

Ben Lazzaro, CEO of Australian Made, says it’s about more than just patriotism. 'Australian-made products are not only made to some of the world’s highest manufacturing and safety standards, they also have significant social, environmental, and ethical benefits, making them the preferred choice for many Australians.'

So, what are you actually paying for with a pair of RMs? According to Grosmann, it’s all about craftsmanship and sustainability. Each pair is handcrafted in Adelaide using premium materials, with a focus on longevity.

'We make every RM Williams boot so it can be remade. We stitch our soles by hand, allowing replacement in 10, 20, or even 30 years, extending the life of the boot by decades,' he explains.


The company even resolves up to 30,000 boots annually, cutting down on waste and proving that a well-made boot can be a lifelong companion.

Of course, none of this changes the reality that many Aussies are feeling the pinch. With the cost of living on the rise, it’s understandable that some are turning to cheaper options, even if they don’t last as long.

For some, the upfront cost of RM Williams boots is simply out of reach, no matter how good the long-term value might be.
Have you owned a pair of RM Williams boots? Do you think they’re worth the price, or have they become too expensive for the average Aussie? Have you tried cheaper alternatives, and how did they stack up? Share your stories, tips, and opinions in the comments below.

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