Timberland Premium vs Basic 6 inch: Two Classic Boots Head to Head

If you are ever out at the store shopping for boots you will always come across a pair (or two) of Timberlands. They are the absolute classic ankle boots, that’s for sure. And for good reason. Timberland makes great products (even having expanded into clothes, watches, and more).

Starting with the Basic, which is the one we all know and love, Timberland has gotten it right for decades. But now you also have the Premium model if you want to spend a little extra and get all the extra features and upgrades.

The big question is: Is it worth it?

In this review, I will show you exactly what the differences are and whether they matter.

Let’s start with a quick comparison table to show how they compare head to head…

The Difference Between The Premium & Basic

Style

Aside from some color differences (each model has different colors to choose from, so ignore that for now) these boots look pretty darn similar when put side by side.

But when you analyze them in detail you will start to notice a few small differences in style like the two-part sole, the padded collar, and slight tread differences in the Premium model.

Comfort Is The Big One

Timberland has taken the Basic and upped the ante with the Premium by adding a few things to improve the comfort of the boot.

Starting at the top, there is the padded collar. Now, if you have ever had a boot rubbing on your Achilles all day long, you will know what a lifesaver this can be. No more raw skin. Of course, not everyone has this problem, and it depends on how the Basic sits on your foot. But it’s a great addition.

Further down the boot in the sole, they have also added an additional mid-sole for extra comfort and support.

The sole is also made from 10% plant-based materials, should this kind of thing matter to you :>

Weight

Just a small addition to the comfort section, because when you are wearing a boot all day, weight does matter.

These boots are not sneakers, so they do weigh a bit – about 1lb and a bit each.

The Premium weighs a few ounces more, but you get the better collar and anti-fatigue footbed (more on that below) too. So, I think it’s worth it.

Anti-Fatigue Helps Too

This is another big difference along with the padded collar.

Timberland has added some well-earned anti-fatigue technology to the bottom of the Premium boot.

What is that exactly?

It uses a geometric cone support system to provide help reduce that foot fatigue we all love (NOT) when standing. Another great benefit is that it has shock absorption built-in which means it returns some of your energy back to you when you step, allowing you to walk further and longer.

Check out this video from Timberland to learn more about it >

Sole & Tread

The soles on both these boots are very well made.

Featuring rubber that will keep you going all day, they also have nice and chunky lugs to give you that grip you need.

They do differ a little in how the soles look, with the premium having a nicer-looking sole (if that really matters) both from the bottom and from the side.

It would look nicer as a casual shoe if you had to wear it out than the Basic would.

What They Both Have In Common

After discussing all the differences, it is time we had a look at what great features they share. Because they are worth mentioning!

• Primaloft (400g) insulation to keep you warm (50% + of recycled PET)
• Quality Nubuck or similar leathers on the upper (Silver-rated production of leather (at least 50% – using environmental processes)
• Fully waterproof (waterproofing in the leather + a waterproof and seam-sealed membrane)
• Quality rubber sole

These features alone make either boot a worthy purchase for a warm, grippy and durable boot that will last you for years.

Your choice is just whether you want those juicy Premium features, or to go with the classic Basic?