I wore 2408s for over 20 years. I never had any quality issues. I always got 12 to 18 months out of a pair. When I started in construction, about 70% of the boots on jobs were Redwing, 15% Thorogood and 15% garbage. At least 60% are Thorogoods now.
The local Redwing store got to be a real pain, always trying to up sell stuff. 2 years ago I stopped In to order a new pair of 8 1/2 EE 2408s.
The salesman tells me, "we'll have them in about a week."
I say, "I'd like them shipped directly to me."
Salesman, "can't do that."
Me, "why?"
Salesman, "you have to try them on."
Me, "I've been buying them this way for 20 years. "
This went back and forth for a while before I walked out.
Between that interaction, the loss of the $20 discount (use to be 20%), the boots pushing $300, and nearly everything in the store is made in China (including the American Flags) I switched to Thorogoods.
I'm very happy with the 4364
Thorogoods. They size is the same as the Redwings. Break-in is better too.
Strong on the outside, shock-absorbing on the inside. This Made in the USA boot is a job-fitted favorite.
thorogoodusa.com