Rooted in tradition, looking to the future

Red Wing Shoe Company has been building purpose-built boots for work since 1905 and hunting since 1929. The Irish Setter brand was born out of this legacy.
1950's - 1960's

Finest in
the Field

In 1950, the first of many boots known simply as “Irish Setter” were designed specifically for hunting, and featured the distinctive Oro-Russet leather, the same color as an Irish Setter hunting dog. Originally a sportsman’s boot, it was quickly adopted by American workers in the 1960’s.

1970's - 1980's

Helping Build America

By the 1970’s, workers are wearing Irish Setter boots every day on the job as well as out in the field. New materials are introduced including highly waterproof kangaroo hide with a Vibram® sole and double-layered leather. The cutting-edge construction was the first of it’s kind.

1990's - 2000's

Expansion and Celebration

In the 1990’s, the Irish Setter hunting boot line was expanded to 14 styles. In 2000, Irish Setter celebrated its 50th anniversary with a unique logo. Style #882 became a flagship big game hunting boot for tough backcountry terrain. In 2004, a new logo was developed adding the Red Wing Shoes endorsement and the dog became leaner and more athletic.

2010's - Present

Today and Looking Forward

Today, Irish Setter boots continue to deliver on this heritage of excellent, confidently leading hunters and workers into any terrain – in all weather conditions and back out again.