Herman Survivor Boots Big Timber 2

From Construction Sites to Mountain Trails: Why These Boots Have Earned a Permanent Spot in My Gear Collection

After spending the better part of a year putting the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots through their paces across countless job sites, wilderness treks, and everyday wear, I’ve developed what some might call an unhealthy attachment to these workhorses. Let me share with you everything I’ve learned about what might just be the most reliable work boots under $100 you’ll ever own.

Let’s be honest—most of us working folks don’t have the luxury of dropping $300+ on fancy boutique work boots that’ll be covered in concrete dust by day’s end. That’s exactly why I decided to give the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2s a shot, and why I’m now on my second pair.

What Exactly Are Herman Survivor Boots Big Timber 2?

I remember standing in Walmart’s shoe section, staring skeptically at the Herman Survivor display. The Big Timber 2 caught my eye immediately—rugged leather uppers, chunky outsoles, and a price tag that didn’t make my wallet weep. But what are they really?

Simply put, Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are Walmart’s in-house work boot line designed to compete with higher-end brands while maintaining accessibility for the everyday working person. They’re built for those of us who need serious protection and durability without the serious price tag.

The boots feature a classic work boot design with a 6-inch height that provides solid ankle support without feeling restrictive. The first time I laced them up, I was struck by how substantial they felt—not clunky, but definitely present. That heft translates to protection, something I’ve come to appreciate after accidentally dropping a 2×4 on my foot (more on that adventure later).

The Waterproof Question: Will Your Feet Stay Dry?

Let me cut straight to it: Yes, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are genuinely waterproof, not just “water-resistant” or “water-repellent.” This isn’t marketing hyperbole—I’ve tested them extensively in conditions that would leave lesser boots (and socks) soaking wet.

During a particularly wet spring working on a foundation repair, I spent hours trudging through standing water and mud. While my coworkers were complaining about squelchy socks by lunchtime, my feet remained remarkably dry. The secret is in the boot’s construction: they use a waterproof membrane lining that prevents water from seeping in while still allowing your feet to breathe.

That said, nothing is perfect. After about nine months of hard daily wear, I did notice the waterproofing beginning to fail near the flex points. This isn’t unusual for any waterproof footwear under constant stress. A fresh application of waterproofing treatment restored much of the protection, but it’s worth noting that even these durable boots have their limits.

The real test came during an impromptu fishing trip when I accidentally stepped into a stream deeper than expected. Water came over the top of the boot—which no waterproofing can prevent—but the interior dried surprisingly quickly compared to other work boots I’ve owned.

Steel Toes: Protection When You Need It Most

I mentioned dropping that 2×4 earlier, and here’s where that story becomes relevant. Yes, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots do come with proper steel toe protection, and I’m personally grateful for it.

During a home renovation project, fatigue got the better of me, and I fumbled a hefty piece of lumber directly onto my right foot. Instead of a trip to the emergency room, I experienced nothing more than a moment of panic followed by relief. The steel toe cap did exactly what it was designed to do—distribute the impact force and protect the vulnerable bones in my foot.

The steel toe protection meets ASTM F2413-11 standards for impact and compression, which means these boots aren’t just playing dress-up as work boots—they’re the real deal. The toe cap extends far enough to protect your entire toe area without creating uncomfortable pressure points, which has been an issue with other steel-toe boots I’ve worn in the past.

One thing to note: if you’re working in extreme cold, be aware that steel toes conduct temperature more readily than composite materials. During winter work, I found pairing these boots with quality thermal socks essential for comfort.

Materials and Construction: What Are They Made Of?

The materials used in the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots strike a balance between durability and affordability. The uppers are constructed from genuine leather, though it’s not the premium full-grain leather you’d find in boots twice the price. It’s what I’d call workmanlike leather—thick enough to provide protection and hold up to abuse, but not so refined that you’d feel bad about getting them filthy.

The outsoles are made from a dense rubber compound with deep lugs for traction. After a year of wear, I’ve noticed minimal compression in the outsole material, which speaks to its quality. The midsole features cushioning that, while not as advanced as premium work boots, provides adequate shock absorption for concrete floors and uneven terrain.

Inside, the boots feature a moisture-wicking lining that helps manage sweat during hot days. The insole is removable, which I consider essential for any work boot—I eventually swapped mine for aftermarket insoles to better suit my arch needs.

The construction method appears to be a combination of cement and direct-attach techniques, which explains both the affordable price point and the decent durability. These aren’t hand-crafted heritage boots, but they’re well-built for their price range.

Durability: How Long Will They Last?

Let’s talk longevity, because that’s where budget boots often fall short. After approximately 14 months of near-daily wear (before I bought my second pair), here’s how the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots held up:

The leather uppers developed a patina and showed expected creasing but no catastrophic failures. The most significant wear occurred at the flex points where the foot bends, which is normal for any boot. A regular application of leather conditioner helped mitigate excessive drying and cracking.

The outsoles showed wear patterns consistent with my gait, with the outer heel and ball of foot areas displaying the most abrasion. After more than a year, they retained about 70% of their original tread depth, which I consider impressive given the punishment they endured.

The most vulnerable points proved to be the stitching where the upper meets the sole and the eyelets for the laces. By the 12-month mark, I had one eyelet that had pulled loose and some separation beginning at the toe of the right boot. Neither issue dramatically affected functionality, but they signaled the beginning of the end for that first pair.

For a sub-$100 work boot subjected to construction work, yard labor, and hiking, I consider 12-15 months of reliable service to be excellent value. Premium work boots might last twice as long, but they also cost three to four times as much.

Heavy-Duty Performance: Can They Handle Serious Work?

If you’re wondering whether these boots can handle serious work environments, the answer is a qualified yes. During my testing period, I used the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots across multiple work scenarios:

• Residential construction (framing and concrete work)
• Landscaping and tree removal
• Warehouse inventory and shipping/receiving
• Light mechanical work
• Hiking on established trails

In all these scenarios, the boots provided adequate protection and comfort. The steel toe proved its worth multiple times, and the thick sole protected against punctures from nails and sharp stones. The ankle support prevented several potential sprains when navigating uneven construction sites.

Where these boots excel is in general construction and outdoor labor. The combination of waterproofing, toe protection, and traction makes them ideal for the jack-of-all-trades worker who needs versatile protection without specialization.

Where they show limitations is in extreme environments. For instance, they lack the specialized heat resistance needed for welding or foundry work, and they don’t have the extreme cold insulation required for extended winter outdoor work in northern climates. They’re also not ideal for electrical work, as the steel toe can conduct electricity.

Where to Buy and What They’ll Cost You

Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are primarily sold through Walmart, both in physical stores and online. This exclusivity simplifies the purchasing process but limits your options for shopping around.

Price-wise, these boots typically retail between $70-$90, depending on sales and specific models. During seasonal promotions, I’ve seen them discounted to around $60, which represents exceptional value. Even at full retail, they offer impressive bang-for-buck compared to boots in the $150-250 range.

One benefit of the Walmart distribution is widespread availability. Almost any town with a Walmart will have these boots in stock, which is convenient if you need replacement work boots quickly. The downside is limited opportunity to try different sizes or widths, as most locations carry only standard width options.

When purchasing, I recommend trying them on in-store if possible. Work boots often fit differently than casual footwear, and the steel toe can affect sizing. I found them to run true to size, but your experience may vary based on foot shape and whether you plan to wear thick work socks.

Winter Performance: Insulation for Cold Weather Work

The standard Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots offer moderate insulation that’s adequate for cool weather but not specialized for extreme cold. They feature 200g of insulation, which provides comfort in temperatures down to about 30°F (depending on activity level and personal cold tolerance).

During late fall construction work, I found them perfectly comfortable for all-day wear. However, when working outdoors during a January cold snap with temperatures in the teens, my feet eventually got cold despite wearing wool socks. This isn’t a criticism—these aren’t marketed as arctic work boots—but rather an observation about their intended use range.

For those working in consistently cold environments, Herman Survivor does offer more heavily insulated versions in the same family, with 400g and 600g insulation options. These provide substantially more warmth but come with added bulk and reduced breathability in warmer conditions.

One insulation benefit I noticed was during hot weather. The moisture-wicking liner and breathable membrane did a surprisingly good job keeping my feet from overheating during summer work. They’re not as cool as uninsulated work boots, but they’re more comfortable than I expected in 85°F+ temperatures.

Ankle Support: Protection for Uneven Terrain

Ankle stability is crucial for preventing injuries on challenging work sites, and the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots deliver solid support in this department. The 6-inch height hits right at the ankle bone, providing reinforcement without restricting movement.

The lacing system allows for customized tightness, which I found particularly useful when transitioning between flat concrete surfaces and uneven outdoor terrain. By adjusting the laces, I could increase support for rough ground and loosen slightly for comfort during long periods of standing.

The boot’s collar is padded with just enough cushioning to prevent rubbing without feeling bulky. I appreciated this when kneeling and crouching for extended periods, positions that often cause cheaper boots to dig uncomfortably into the ankle.

During a weekend hike that involved significant rock scrambling, the ankle support proved invaluable. After accidentally stepping into a hidden hole, the boot’s structure prevented what would likely have been a sprained ankle in less supportive footwear.

For those with existing ankle issues, these boots offer good foundational support, though they may not replace specialized medical boots for serious injuries. I found them particularly beneficial after a minor ankle sprain, providing enough stability to return to light work sooner than expected.

Weight Considerations: Are They Too Heavy?

Let’s address the elephant in the room—work boots with steel toes are never going to feel like running shoes. The Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots weigh approximately 2.2 pounds per boot (for a men’s size 10), placing them in the mid-range for work boot weight.

After the initial break-in period, I rarely noticed the weight during normal work activities. The weight distribution is well-balanced, avoiding the front-heavy feeling that plagues some steel-toe designs. This balance helps reduce fatigue during long workdays.

Where you will notice the weight is when transitioning from casual footwear or during extended periods of walking. During a ten-mile day of concrete floor warehouse work, the weight difference compared to athletic shoes was definitely noticeable by day’s end.

The trade-off is worth considering: what you gain in protection, you pay for in additional weight. For most work applications requiring safety footwear, this is a reasonable compromise. If your work involves miles of walking on flat surfaces with minimal hazards, lighter options might be worth considering.

All-Day Comfort: How Do They Feel Hour After Hour?

Comfort is subjective, but work boot comfort should be judged differently than casual footwear. These boots aren’t designed to feel like slippers—they’re built to protect your feet in hazardous environments while remaining comfortable enough for extended wear.

The break-in period for the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots took approximately 3-5 full workdays. During this period, the leather softened and began conforming to my feet, particularly around the ankle collar and across the vamp (top of the foot).

Once broken in, I found them comfortable for 8-10 hour workdays on varied surfaces. The included insole provides basic cushioning but lacks advanced arch support. As mentioned earlier, I eventually replaced mine with aftermarket insoles, which significantly improved all-day comfort.

The boot’s flex point at the ball of the foot breaks in nicely over time, allowing natural movement without sacrificing support. The toe box offers adequate room without feeling sloppy, accommodating foot swelling during long, hot workdays.

One comfort factor worth highlighting is the boots’ ability to manage internal moisture. The wicking lining effectively moves sweat away from the foot, preventing the soggy sock syndrome that plagues poorly designed waterproof boots. On particularly hot days, my feet would still be warm—these are insulated work boots after all—but rarely uncomfortably sweaty.

Slip Resistance: Will They Keep You Upright?

Safety statistics consistently show that slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace accidents. The Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots address this risk with an aggressive tread pattern designed for multi-surface traction.

The rubber outsole features deep, multidirectional lugs that provide excellent grip on loose surfaces like gravel, dirt, and mulch. I found them particularly effective during landscaping work after rain, when many surfaces become treacherously slick.

On smooth concrete, especially when contaminated with water or light oil, the traction remains good but not exceptional. During a stint helping a friend with auto repair work, I noticed some slippage on garage floor areas with light oil films. This isn’t unusual for work boots not specifically designed for oil resistance.

The most impressive traction performance came on mixed terrain—partly wet wooden scaffolding, muddy construction sites, and uneven natural surfaces. The varied lug pattern seems optimized for these challenging conditions, providing confidence with each step.

Over time, as the outsole wore down, I noticed a gradual reduction in slip resistance, particularly on wet smooth surfaces. This degradation accelerated after about 10 months of heavy use, suggesting that traction renewal (through replacement) should be considered as part of regular safety equipment maintenance.

Industry Suitability: Who Are These Boots For?

Based on my experience wearing these boots across various work environments, I can confidently say the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are well-suited for:

• General construction
• Landscaping and groundskeeping
• Warehouse work
• Logging and forestry (non-chainsaw work)
• DIY home projects
• Light manufacturing
• Delivery and shipping roles

They’re less ideal for specialized industries requiring specific certifications or protections, such as:

• Electrical work (no proper electrical hazard rating)
• Welding and foundry work (insufficient heat protection)
• Chemical processing (limited chemical resistance)
• Arctic/extreme cold environments (standard model lacks sufficient insulation)
• Chainsaw operation (no cut protection rating)

The versatility of these boots makes them excellent all-around work footwear for those whose jobs span multiple environments or who need reliable protection for varied tasks. They’re particularly well-suited for small contractors, handymen, and property maintenance workers who encounter different conditions daily.

Comparative Analysis: How Do They Stack Up?

Having worn various work boots over the years, from budget options to premium brands, I can offer some perspective on how the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots compare to the broader market.

Against direct price competitors (boots in the $60-100 range), the Herman Survivors stand out for their comprehensive feature set. Many boots in this price range offer either waterproofing or steel toe protection, but rarely both. The quality of materials also seems a step above typical budget offerings.

Compared to mid-tier work boots ($100-200), the performance gap narrows considerably. What you typically gain in the mid-tier is refinement rather than fundamental capability—slightly better leather, more sophisticated cushioning systems, and improved longevity. Whether these improvements justify double the price depends on your specific needs and budget constraints.

Against premium work boots ($200+), the differences become more apparent in longevity, comfort customization, and specialized performance features. Premium boots might last 2-3 years of daily wear compared to the 12-15 months I got from the Herman Survivors. However, you could purchase 3-4 pairs of Herman Survivors for the price of one premium pair, potentially making them more economical over time.

One specific comparison worth noting: I previously wore Timberland PRO boots that cost around $180. While they lasted about 7 months longer than the Herman Survivors and offered slightly better arch support, I couldn’t justify the price difference for my needs. Your calculation may differ based on work requirements and personal preferences.

Oil and Chemical Resistance: Protection from Workplace Hazards

The Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots offer moderate resistance to common workplace chemicals and petroleum products. The leather uppers have been treated with a water-repellent finish that also provides some protection against light oil contact and common workplace chemicals.

During my testing, I found they handled incidental exposure to motor oil, gasoline, and paint quite well. Brief contact was easily wiped clean without penetration or damage to the leather. More prolonged exposure did eventually lead to some staining and potential degradation of the waterproof membrane.

The rubber outsoles demonstrated good resistance to petroleum products, showing minimal swelling or degradation after contact with gasoline and motor oil. This is important for maintaining traction and structural integrity in environments where these substances are present.

It’s worth noting that these boots aren’t specifically rated for comprehensive chemical resistance. For work environments with regular exposure to harsh chemicals, specialized footwear with documented chemical resistance ratings would be more appropriate.

For most construction, mechanical, and general labor applications involving occasional contact with common chemicals, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots provide adequate protection without compromise to other performance aspects.

Traction Performance: Grip When You Need It

I’ve touched on slip resistance earlier, but traction deserves a deeper look, as it’s one of the most important safety features in any work boot. The Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots feature a dual-density rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs averaging 4-5mm in depth.

This tread design excels on loose and mixed surfaces. During a day helping a friend clear his wooded property, I navigated mud, loose leaves, and moss-covered rocks without a single slip. The wide spacing between lugs prevents mud buildup, allowing the boots to maintain grip even in sloppy conditions.

The outsole rubber compound balances softness (for grip) with hardness (for durability) effectively. It’s soft enough to create friction on smooth surfaces but not so soft that it wears down prematurely or feels unstable underfoot.

One traction challenge worth noting is on ice. Like most work boots not specifically designed for winter conditions, the Herman Survivors struggle with ice traction. During winter work, I occasionally used aftermarket traction aids (slip-on cleats) for particularly icy conditions.

The tread pattern also performs admirably on ladder rungs—an important consideration for construction and maintenance work. The heel breast (the area between heel and midfoot) has a distinct edge that provides secure footing on ladder steps.

Available Sizes and Fit Considerations

The Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are available in men’s sizes ranging from 7 to 13, including half sizes for most of this range. They come primarily in regular (D) width, with limited availability in wide (EE) width in some locations and online.

Finding the right fit is crucial for both comfort and safety. I found these boots to run true to size compared to most casual footwear, though some users might prefer going up a half-size if they plan to wear thick work socks or have a high instep.

The toe box offers moderate width—enough room to prevent pinching but not so loose as to cause slippage. The steel toe cap creates a non-flexible area at the front of the boot, making proper sizing particularly important.

For those between sizes or widths, I recommend sizing up rather than down. Work boots that are slightly too large can be adjusted with insoles or thicker socks, while boots that are too small will never be comfortable and may cause long-term foot problems.

Women looking at these boots should typically convert their size by subtracting 2 from their normal women’s size (e.g., women’s 9 = men’s 7). However, women with wider feet might find the standard men’s width more comfortable than typical women’s work boots.

Care and Maintenance: Extending Boot Life

Proper care significantly impacts the lifespan of any work boot, and the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots respond well to basic maintenance. Based on my experience, here’s an effective care regimen:

1. Regular cleaning: Remove mud and debris after each use using a stiff brush. For tougher dirt, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but avoid soaking the boots.
2. Drying: When wet, stuff with newspaper and dry at room temperature. Never use direct heat (heaters, campfires), as this can crack the leather and damage adhesives.
3. Leather conditioning: Apply a quality leather conditioner every 1-2 months or whenever the leather appears dry. This prevents cracking at flex points and extends waterproofing.
4. Waterproofing renewal: Reapply a waterproofing treatment every 2-3 months for boots used in wet conditions. I found silicone-based products worked well without darkening the leather significantly.
5. Insole management: Remove insoles periodically to dry thoroughly, preventing odor and bacterial growth. Consider replacing insoles every 6 months for optimal comfort.
6. Lace maintenance: Keep an extra pair of laces on hand. Waxed laces last longer and stay tied better in work conditions.
7. Storage: Store boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use for extended periods.

With this maintenance routine, I was able to extend the useful life of my first pair by approximately 2-3 months beyond what would have been expected with neglect.

Warranty and Customer Support

Herman Survivor boots come with a basic 90-day warranty against manufacturing defects. This is notably shorter than premium work boot brands, which often offer 6-12 month warranties.

My experience with the warranty process was straightforward, if somewhat limited in scope. When I noticed a stitching defect within the first month of ownership, I returned to Walmart with the receipt and original packaging. The exchange process was simple and completed without hassle.

It’s important to understand what the warranty covers—manufacturing defects only, not wear and tear or damage from improper use. Issues like sole separation due to adhesive failure would be covered, while worn-out tread from normal use would not.

Customer support is primarily handled through Walmart rather than Herman Survivor directly. This means in-person returns and exchanges are the primary support mechanism, which can be either convenient or limiting depending on your proximity to a store.

For a boot in this price range, the warranty terms are reasonable but not exceptional. The convenience of local exchange at Walmart stores partly offsets the limited warranty duration.

Final Thoughts: Are They Worth Your Money?

After more than a year of putting these boots through demanding conditions, my conclusion is straightforward: for the working person on a budget, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots deliver exceptional value.

They strike a careful balance between affordability and functionality, offering essential safety features without the premium price tag. The combination of waterproofing, steel toe protection, and durable construction meets the core needs of most general work environments.

Are they perfect? Certainly not. The leather quality, while serviceable, doesn’t match premium offerings. The insoles are basic and likely need replacement for optimal comfort. And they won’t last as long as boots costing three times as much.

But perfection isn’t the goal here—practical protection at an accessible price point is. By that measure, these boots succeed admirably. For workers who need reliable protection without breaking the bank, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots represent one of the best values in work footwear today.

Whether you’re a professional tradesperson watching expenses, a weekend warrior tackling home projects, or someone just entering the workforce, these boots deserve serious consideration. They’ve earned their place in my gear rotation, and I suspect they’ll earn a place in yours too.

Remember, the best work boot isn’t necessarily the most expensive—it’s the one that protects your feet while letting you focus on the job at hand. By that definition, the Herman Survivor Big Timber 2 boots are serious contenders indeed.