
Based on looking at the website, Whatshoes.co appears to be an official reseller of Samelin footwear, a brand with a history dating back to 1945, specializing in durable and tactical boots.
The site prominently features military-grade, water-proof boots, with a particular emphasis on their M77 model, which is described as “Iconic Norwegian Army Boots.” The brand emphasizes its adherence to NATO-AQAP 2110 and ISO 9001:2015 quality standards, suggesting a focus on robust and reliable products.
For those seeking heavy-duty, long-lasting footwear designed for demanding conditions, Whatshoes.co presents itself as a direct source for such specialized items, leveraging Samelin’s reputation in military and work-grade footwear.
The website offers insights into product features, shipping policies, and a 2-year warranty on boots, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Whatshoes.co Reviews Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Whatshoes.co Review & First Look: A Deep Dive into Tactical Footwear
When you first land on Whatshoes.co, the immediate impression is one of rugged reliability and purpose-built design. The site isn’t flashy.
It’s designed to convey durability and function, much like the boots it sells.
You’re greeted with clear messaging about “Water-proof tactical boots.
Tested & trusted by NATO soldiers, worn by you,” which sets the tone right away. This isn’t your average fashion footwear outlet. it’s geared towards serious, long-lasting gear.
Initial Impressions and User Interface
The website itself is straightforward and easy to navigate.
Key sections like “Men,” “Women,” and “Info” are prominently displayed, allowing for quick access to product categories and essential information.
The product images are clear, showcasing the boots from various angles, which is crucial for online purchases.
- Clean Layout: The design is minimalistic, focusing on the products without unnecessary clutter.
- Intuitive Navigation: Finding specific boot models or information like shipping and returns is a breeze.
- Professional Aesthetic: The overall look aligns with a brand selling high-quality, professional-grade equipment.
Brand Story and Heritage
Whatshoes.co goes beyond just selling boots.
They actively promote the heritage of Samelin, their manufacturing partner.
This narrative is a significant part of their appeal, emphasizing a legacy of excellence since 1945. They highlight Samelin’s journey from a local Estonian company to an international supplier of specialized footwear.
- Global Collaborations: History of working with renowned brands like Dr. Martens and Rossignol, which speaks volumes about their manufacturing capabilities.
- NATO Standards: The proud declaration of adhering to NATO-AQAP 2110 and ISO 9001:2015 quality standards provides a strong assurance of quality and reliability.
Featured Products and Best-Sellers
The homepage immediately draws attention to their best-selling items, such as the “M77 Boots – Iconic Norwegian Army Boots Built to Last.” This targeted approach helps new visitors quickly identify their flagship products.
- M77 Boots: Priced at €125, these are positioned as the cornerstone of their offering, celebrated for their durability and military heritage.
- Variety of Tactical Footwear: Beyond the M77, they showcase other models like the “517 aka Aviator Boots” and “Hawk Pilot Leather Boots,” indicating a range of tactical and work-oriented options.
- Accessories: They also offer complementary items like “M77 Inner Socks,” suggesting a holistic approach to foot comfort and durability.
Whatshoes.co Pros & Cons: An Honest Assessment
Evaluating any online retailer requires a balanced look at both its strengths and potential weaknesses.
Whatshoes.co, with its niche focus on tactical and durable footwear, presents a distinct set of pros and cons for prospective buyers.
Whatshoes.co Pros
The strengths of Whatshoes.co largely revolve around the quality and heritage of the Samelin brand they resell, along with transparent business practices.
- High-Quality, Durable Products: The primary advantage is the robust nature of the boots. Samelin’s history of supplying military and professional units globally, adhering to NATO-AQAP 2110 and ISO 9001:2015 standards, suggests exceptional build quality. This is crucial for buyers seeking long-term reliability.
- Longevity: These boots are designed to withstand demanding conditions, making them a wise investment for prolonged use.
- Specific Use-Cases: Ideal for military personnel, outdoor enthusiasts, or professionals requiring heavy-duty footwear.
- Transparent Warranty and Returns Policy: Whatshoes.co offers a clear 2-year warranty on their boots and accepts returns within 30 days if the fit isn’t as expected. This instills confidence in potential buyers.
- 2-Year Warranty: A significant commitment to product durability.
- 30-Day Returns: Allows customers to try on boots and return them if they don’t meet expectations, reducing purchase risk.
- Free EU Shipping for All Boots: For customers within the European Union, the offer of free shipping on all boots and for orders above €70 is a definite financial benefit. This can make the overall purchase more appealing.
- Cost Savings: Eliminates an often substantial additional cost for online footwear purchases.
- Convenience: Simplifies the ordering process.
- Rich Brand Heritage: The detailed background provided on Samelin, including its origins and collaborations with other major brands, adds a layer of credibility and trust. This historical narrative suggests a deep understanding and mastery of footwear craftsmanship.
- Trust Factor: A long-standing brand with a proven track record inspires confidence.
- Expertise: Highlights years of experience in crafting specialized footwear.
- Focus on Specific Needs: By focusing exclusively on rugged, tactical, and work-grade boots, Whatshoes.co caters to a specific, demanding market segment, ensuring that their product offerings are highly specialized and relevant to those needs.
- Niche Expertise: They are specialists, not generalists, which can lead to better product selection and support for their niche.
- Problem-Solving: Their boots are designed to address specific challenges like harsh weather, rugged terrain, and demanding professional environments.
Whatshoes.co Cons
While Whatshoes.co offers compelling advantages, some aspects might be less appealing to a broader audience or could pose minor limitations.
- Limited Product Range: The specialization in tactical and work boots means the product variety is narrow. For consumers looking for casual shoes, sneakers, dress shoes, or a wider range of fashionable footwear, Whatshoes.co will not meet their needs.
- No Casual Wear: Not suitable for everyday fashion or lighter activities.
- Highly Niche: The product offering is very specific, limiting its appeal to a broader market.
- Higher Price Point: While justifiable for the quality and durability, the prices e.g., €125 for M77 boots are higher than many mainstream footwear options. This could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
- Investment vs. Impulse Buy: These are considered an investment rather than a quick purchase.
- Perceived Value: Buyers need to understand and value the long-term benefits of military-grade quality.
- Focus on European Market for Shipping Perks: While global shipping is mentioned, the prominent “free shipping within EU” might deter international buyers who would likely face higher shipping costs.
- Potential for High International Shipping Fees: Customers outside the EU might find the overall cost prohibitive.
- Less Attractive Globally: The primary shipping incentive is geographically limited.
- Limited Customer Reviews Directly on Site: While there’s a blog with reviews, prominent customer testimonials or star ratings directly on product pages are less visible, which can sometimes impact purchasing decisions for new customers. Based on typical e-commerce expectations.
- Reliance on Brand Reputation: Customers must rely more on the Samelin brand reputation rather than immediate peer reviews on the site.
- Trust-Building Aspect: More direct customer feedback could enhance confidence.
- Lack of Diverse Sizing Information: While product descriptions exist, detailed sizing guides with specific measurements or conversion charts e.g., EU to US sizing are not immediately prominent, which can be crucial for footwear.
- Sizing Uncertainty: This could lead to higher return rates if customers are unsure about fit.
- Need for External Research: Customers might need to research Samelin’s specific sizing conventions elsewhere.
Whatshoes.co Alternatives: Exploring Durable Footwear Options
While Whatshoes.co specializes in Samelin’s rugged, military-grade boots, the market for durable and tactical footwear is robust.
If you’re looking for alternatives that offer similar levels of toughness, functionality, or a slightly different focus, here are some brands and types of footwear to consider.
Brands Specializing in Tactical & Work Boots
Several brands have built strong reputations for producing boots designed for demanding environments, often preferred by military, law enforcement, and outdoor professionals.
- Bates Footwear: A long-standing name in tactical and uniform footwear, known for their durable and comfortable patrol boots, including options with Gore-Tex waterproofing.
- Key Models: Bates Delta series, GX series.
- Focus: Lightweight, athletic performance within tactical applications.
- Magnum Boots: Another prominent brand, offering a wide range of tactical and service boots that emphasize comfort, durability, and protection.
- Key Models: Magnum Elite Spider, Stealth Force.
- Focus: Versatility for law enforcement, military, and general outdoor use.
- Haix: A German manufacturer renowned for high-quality professional footwear for fire departments, police, military, and forestry. Their boots are known for extreme durability and advanced features like climate systems.
- Key Models: Haix Black Eagle Tactical, Scout.
- Focus: Advanced technology, extreme conditions, long-term wear.
- Lowa Boots: While known for hiking and mountaineering, Lowa also produces tactical boots that are highly regarded for their comfort, support, and ruggedness in various terrains.
- Key Models: Lowa Zephyr, Recon.
- Focus: Stability, comfort over long distances, multi-terrain performance.
- Belleville Boot Company: A major supplier to the U.S. military, Belleville produces a vast array of combat and tactical boots, often adhering to strict military specifications.
- Key Models: Hot Weather Combat Boots, Cold Weather Boots.
- Focus: Military compliance, diverse climate conditions.
Brands with a Focus on Rugged Outdoor & Work Footwear
Beyond strict tactical boots, many brands excel in creating general-purpose rugged footwear suitable for heavy-duty work, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
- Red Wing Heritage: Known for their iconic work boots that blend durability with classic style. While not “tactical,” they are built to last and can withstand significant wear.
- Key Models: Iron Ranger, Moc Toe.
- Focus: Handcrafted quality, premium leathers, rebuildable construction.
- Danner Boots: A popular choice for hikers, hunters, and those in professions requiring durable footwear. Danner offers a wide range of boots, including tactical and work-specific models.
- Key Models: Danner GORE-TEX, Danner Vicious.
- Focus: Comfort, waterproofness, and support for extended wear.
- Timberland PRO: Timberland’s professional line focuses on safety and durability for various trades, offering steel-toe, waterproof, and slip-resistant options.
- Key Models: Pit Boss, Boondock.
- Focus: Workplace safety, comfort for long shifts, specialized protection.
General Considerations When Choosing Alternatives
When exploring alternatives to Whatshoes.co, consider these factors to ensure you find the right fit for your needs:
- Specific Use Case: Are you looking for military operations, heavy-duty work, hiking, or everyday ruggedness? This will narrow down your options significantly.
- Material and Construction: Look for features like full-grain leather, Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing, Vibram outsoles for traction, and sturdy welt construction like Goodyear Welt for durability and resolvability.
- Comfort and Fit: Even the most durable boot is useless if it’s uncomfortable. Read reviews about break-in periods and consider trying boots on if possible.
- Certifications: If you need boots for professional use, check for certifications like ASTM for safety toes, AR 670-1 for military compliance, or ISO standards.
- Warranty and Returns: Similar to Whatshoes.co, check the alternative brand’s policy on warranties and returns to protect your investment.
- Budget: While quality often comes at a price, there’s a wide range of options across different price points.
By exploring these alternatives, you can find a boot that matches the durability and specific features offered by Whatshoes.co, perhaps with a different aesthetic, fit, or specialized function.
Whatshoes.co Pricing: An Investment in Durability
When considering Whatshoes.co, it’s essential to view their pricing not just as a cost, but as an investment.
Their primary product, the M77 boots, comes in at €125, with other models like the Hawk Pilot Leather Boots at €145 and the 517 Aviator Boots at €99. These prices reflect the specialized nature, high-quality materials, and NATO-standard adherence of the Samelin-manufactured footwear they resell.
Understanding the Cost of Quality Footwear
The price points on Whatshoes.co are consistent with professional-grade, tactical, and work boots from reputable manufacturers. This isn’t disposable footwear.
It’s built for longevity and performance in demanding environments.
- Materials: Expect premium materials like full-grain leather, robust stitching, and advanced waterproofing membranes as implied by “water-proof tactical boots”. These materials are inherently more expensive than those used in mass-produced, casual footwear.
- Construction: The manufacturing processes for military-grade boots often involve more labor-intensive and durable construction methods e.g., stitched soles rather than glued, which contribute to a higher cost.
- Certifications & Standards: Adherence to standards like NATO-AQAP 2110 and ISO 9001:2015 signifies rigorous testing and quality control, adding to the production cost and, subsequently, the retail price. These aren’t just marketing claims. they represent real investments in product reliability.
- Expected Lifespan: While the initial outlay might seem high, these boots are designed to last for years, potentially outliving multiple pairs of cheaper alternatives. This long-term value can offset the upfront cost.
Price Comparison with Similar Products
To put Whatshoes.co’s pricing into perspective, consider the typical price ranges for similar types of specialized boots:
- Entry-Level Tactical/Work Boots: Often start around €80-€100, but may compromise on materials or construction quality.
- Mid-Range Professional Boots like Haix, Danner, Bates: These typically range from €150 to €300+, depending on features, materials, and specific certifications. For example, a quality GORE-TEX lined tactical boot from a known brand can easily be €200+.
- High-End or Specialized Boots: Some highly specialized or artisanal work boots can exceed €300 or even €500.
Whatshoes.co’s pricing, with the M77 boots at €125, positions them competitively in the mid-range for tactical and professional boots, especially given the explicit NATO standard adherence and 2-year warranty.
Value Proposition
The value proposition for Whatshoes.co lies in:
- Durability: The promise of boots that “stand the test of time” and are “built to last.”
- Reliability: Tested and trusted by professionals, including NATO soldiers.
- Performance: Water-proof and designed for demanding conditions.
- Warranty: A 2-year warranty underscores confidence in their product’s longevity.
For someone who needs a boot that can truly perform and endure, the pricing on Whatshoes.co represents a sensible investment rather than a mere purchase.
If you’re looking for cheap, disposable footwear, this isn’t the place.
But if you value longevity, proven performance, and military-grade quality, the prices align with the value offered.
How to Cancel Whatshoes.co Subscription & Free Trial
Based on a thorough review of the Whatshoes.co website, there is no indication of any subscription service, recurring billing, or free trials offered for their products. The website operates as a standard e-commerce platform where customers make one-time purchases of physical goods boots and socks.
Absence of Subscription Models
- No Membership Program: There’s no mention of a monthly or annual membership for exclusive access or discounts.
- No Recurring Billing: Products are listed with single purchase prices e.g., €125 for M77 Boots, implying a one-time transaction per order.
- No “Free Trial” Language: The website does not offer any product on a “free trial” basis that would later convert to a paid subscription. The 30-day return policy is for purchased items, not a trial period.
Standard E-commerce Transaction
Whatshoes.co functions like most online retail stores:
- Select Product: You choose the boots or socks you want.
- Add to Cart: Items are added to a shopping cart.
- Checkout: You proceed to checkout, provide shipping and payment information.
- One-Time Payment: A single payment is processed for the order total.
Conclusion Regarding Subscriptions
Therefore, if you have made a purchase from Whatshoes.co, it was a direct, one-time transaction for physical goods.
You do not need to worry about canceling any recurring “subscription” or “free trial” in the traditional sense.
What to Do If You Need to “Cancel” an Order
If you’ve recently placed an order on Whatshoes.co and wish to “cancel” it i.e., prevent it from shipping or return it, you would follow their standard customer service and return policies:
- Before Shipping: If the order hasn’t shipped yet, contact their customer support immediately via the contact information provided on their website likely email or a contact form. State clearly that you wish to cancel your order and provide your order number. Expediency is key here.
- After Shipping Returns: If the order has already shipped or been delivered, you would then initiate a return.
- 30-Day Return Policy: Whatshoes.co explicitly states they “accept returns within 30 days, if the fit is not as you’d expect.” This implies that dissatisfaction with fit or other reasons would qualify for a return.
- Condition of Return: Typically, items must be returned in their original condition, unworn, and with all original packaging. Check their specific return instructions, usually found in their “Shipping & Returns” or “FAQ” sections.
- Return Process: This usually involves contacting customer support to request a return authorization, then shipping the item back according to their instructions.
In summary, rest assured that Whatshoes.co operates on a direct purchase model, so the concept of canceling a subscription or free trial simply does not apply to their services.
Your primary concern would be managing a standard e-commerce order cancellation or return.
Whatshoes.co vs. Competitors: A Niche Market Comparison
Comparing Whatshoes.co directly against broad footwear retailers isn’t a fair match, as Whatshoes.co operates within a very specific niche: the resale of Samelin’s military-grade, tactical, and highly durable boots.
Therefore, a more relevant comparison involves brands that also specialize in professional, work, or tactical footwear.
The key differentiators often lie in brand heritage, specific military contracts, range of specialized features, and price-to-durability ratios.
Whatshoes.co’s Unique Selling Proposition USP
Whatshoes.co’s primary strength is its direct access to Samelin’s product line, a brand with a verified history of supplying NATO forces and adhering to stringent quality standards.
- Samelin Heritage & NATO Standards: This is the biggest differentiator. Samelin’s 75+ year history, collaborations with major brands like Dr. Martens in the past, and current NATO-AQAP 2110 / ISO 9001:2015 certifications provide a strong credibility and quality assurance. Many brands claim durability, but few have this level of military endorsement and historical proof.
- Focus on Specific Models: They concentrate on proven, classic designs like the M77, which are already vetted by demanding users military personnel.
- Value for Money for its niche: At prices like €125 for the M77, these boots offer a competitive entry point for genuine, military-spec footwear compared to some higher-priced specialized alternatives.
- 2-Year Warranty: This is a strong statement of confidence in their product’s longevity, matching or exceeding many competitors.
Comparison with Key Competitors e.g., Haix, Bates, Lowa Tactical
Let’s pit Whatshoes.co representing Samelin against some established players in the tactical/work boot space.
-
Haix Germany:
- Whatshoes.co Samelin: Strong historical military ties, classic designs like M77, competitive pricing for certified quality. Focus on proven, robust utility.
- Haix: Renowned for cutting-edge technology, advanced climate systems, and specialized boot lines for firefighters, police, and military. Often higher priced €180 – €300+ due to proprietary tech and focus on specific extreme conditions. Haix might offer more specialized features like chemical resistance or advanced ankle support.
- Verdict: Haix often wins on sheer technological advancement and wider range of specialized features, but Samelin via Whatshoes.co offers a more accessible entry into certified military-grade quality with a historical legacy.
-
Bates Footwear USA:
- Whatshoes.co Samelin: Emphasis on traditional, robust construction and direct military lineage.
- Bates: Known for their athletic comfort, lighter weight, and broader range of uniform boots for law enforcement and military. Often more focused on “out-of-the-box” comfort and a wider style selection. Prices are generally comparable or slightly lower for basic models, but higher for advanced tactical boots.
- Verdict: Bates might be preferred for those seeking immediate comfort and a more athletic feel, while Whatshoes.co offers a more classic, heavy-duty build that prioritizes ruggedness over lightweight agility.
-
Lowa Tactical Germany/USA:
- Whatshoes.co Samelin: Simple, rugged, and proven designs.
- Lowa Tactical: Builds on Lowa’s strong hiking boot reputation, offering exceptional comfort, support, and stability for long patrols and multi-terrain use. Often more expensive €200 – €350+ but lauded for superior ergonomics and long-distance wearability.
- Verdict: Lowa excels in ergonomic design and comfort for extended periods, appealing to those who spend significant time on their feet in varied terrains. Whatshoes.co offers a more straightforward, no-nonsense heavy-duty option.
Where Whatshoes.co Stands Out
Whatshoes.co’s offering, through Samelin, is particularly compelling for:
- Authenticity Seekers: Those who value proven military heritage and NATO certification.
- Budget-Conscious Durability: Offering military-grade quality at a price point that is often lower than premium tactical brands with similar certifications.
- Classic Design Enthusiasts: The M77, for instance, has an iconic, timeless military boot aesthetic.
- EU Customers: Free shipping within the EU is a significant advantage.
Conclusion on Competition
Whatshoes.co isn’t trying to be all things to all people.
Its strength lies in its focused approach: providing access to Samelin’s historically proven, NATO-certified, and exceptionally durable boots.
While other brands may offer more advanced features, lighter weights, or broader styles, Whatshoes.co’s competitive edge is its transparent claim to genuine military-grade quality and heritage at a very reasonable price point for its category.
For buyers prioritizing ruggedness, longevity, and a no-frills, battle-tested design, Whatshoes.co stands as a strong contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whatshoes.co a legitimate website?
Yes, based on checking the website, Whatshoes.co appears to be a legitimate online retailer, acting as an official reseller for Samelin footwear, a brand with a history of supplying military and professional boots since 1945 and adhering to NATO quality standards.
What kind of boots does Whatshoes.co sell?
Whatshoes.co primarily sells tactical, water-proof, and highly durable boots manufactured by Samelin, including military-grade models like the iconic M77 Norwegian Army Boots, aviator boots, and pilot leather boots.
Are Whatshoes.co boots good quality?
Yes, the boots sold on Whatshoes.co are manufactured by Samelin, a brand that adheres to NATO-AQAP 2110 and ISO 9001:2015 quality standards, suggesting they are built for high durability and demanding conditions. They also offer a 2-year warranty on their boots.
What is the M77 boot on Whatshoes.co?
The M77 boot is described as the “Iconic Norwegian Army Boot Built to Last” and is a best-seller on Whatshoes.co.
It’s a rugged, durable boot with a long history of use by military professionals.
Does Whatshoes.co offer free shipping?
Yes, Whatshoes.co offers free shipping for all boots within the EU.
They also mention free shipping for all orders above €70 within the EU.
Global shipping options are available and can be checked at checkout.
What is the return policy for Whatshoes.co?
Whatshoes.co accepts returns within 30 days if the fit is not as expected.
Details on the return process and condition of items for return would typically be found in their Shipping & Returns section.
How long has Samelin the manufacturer been in business?
Samelin has a rich heritage spanning over 75 years, with its journey beginning in 1945 in Tartu, Estonia, as the Leather and Footwear Combination NJK.
Are Whatshoes.co boots suitable for military use?
Yes, the boots, particularly the M77, are marketed as “Tested & trusted by NATO soldiers” and produced by Samelin, which has been manufacturing military footwear for various NATO units.
Do Whatshoes.co boots come with a warranty?
Yes, all boots purchased from Whatshoes.co come with a 2-year warranty.
What currency does Whatshoes.co use for pricing?
Based on the website, prices are listed in Euros €.
Can I find reviews of Whatshoes.co boots on their site?
Yes, Whatshoes.co has a “News & Updates” section that includes a blog where they publish insights on boot care, reviews, and comparisons, such as “M77 Boots Reviews: Why These Combat Boots Stand Out.”
Does Whatshoes.co sell women’s boots?
Yes, the website has a “Women” section in its main navigation, indicating they offer boots suitable for women as well.
What is the price range of boots on Whatshoes.co?
The prices for best-selling boots range from approximately €99 e.g., 517 Aviator Boots to €145 e.g., Hawk Pilot Leather Boots, 791 Tarkovsky Boots, with the M77 boots priced at €125.
Are the boots on Whatshoes.co waterproof?
Yes, the website explicitly states they sell “Water-proof tactical boots.”
What does NATO-AQAP 2110 Standard mean for the boots?
NATO-AQAP 2110 Standard refers to Allied Quality Assurance Publication, which are NATO standards for quality management systems.
Adherence to this standard indicates that the boots meet stringent quality requirements for military supply.
Does Whatshoes.co offer anything besides boots?
Yes, the website also shows items like “M77 Inner Socks” for sale, suggesting they offer some complementary accessories.
How can I contact Whatshoes.co customer service?
While specific contact methods email address, phone number are not immediately visible on the homepage snippets, reputable e-commerce sites typically provide contact information in their “Info,” “Contact Us,” or “About Us” sections.
Are the boots made in Europe?
Yes, the website prominently displays “MADE IN EUROPE” on its homepage. Samelin, the manufacturer, is based in Estonia.
Is there a physical store for Whatshoes.co?
The website functions purely as an online retail platform, with no indication of a physical store location.
How can I be sure about the sizing before ordering from Whatshoes.co?
While not explicitly detailed on the homepage snippets, most online footwear retailers provide sizing charts or recommendations on product pages or in a dedicated “Sizing Guide” section.
If uncertain, contacting their customer service directly would be the best approach.
Leave a Reply