If you're shopping for Chelsea-style safety boots, you're probably familiar with Blundstone, a well-known name with decades of heritage and a strong following across Canada. On the other hand, MooseLog 5666 is a newer entry built with modern tradespeople in mind, focusing on comfort, durability, and value. Both boots share that signature laceless silhouette and meet jobsite safety standards, but under the surface, they take very different approaches in materials, construction, and long-shift comfort.
Let’s break it down.
1. Certifications
- MooseLog 5666: CSA Z195 & ASTM F2413 certified.
- Blundstone 168: CSA Z195 & ASTM F2413 certified.
Both boots meet the required safety standards for Canada and the U.S., covering toe protection, ESR, and puncture resistance. From a compliance standpoint, you’re good to go either way.
Learn more about CSA safety footwear markings here →
2. Toe Protection
MooseLog 5666: Composite toe (lightweight, non-metallic, and non-conductive)
Blundstone 168: Composite toe (designed to reduce weight and meet impact standards)
Each boot offers reliable impact and compression protection without the drawbacks of traditional steel toes. MooseLog adds a bit more width in the toe box for easier movement, which could matter if you're on your feet all day.
Why go Composite? Here is why all the big companies are switching over →
3. Outsole Construction & Performance
MooseLog 5666: SafeTread® rubber outsole built with direct-injected PU. Certified slip, oil, and puncture resistance. Heat-resistant to 300°C.
Blundstone 168: Durable rubber outsole with slip and oil resistance. Cemented construction.
Here’s where the two boots start to diverge. MooseLog’s direct-injected outsole is molded directly to the upper for a stronger bond, less chance of sole separation, and more give underfoot. Blundstone uses cemented construction. Perfectly reliable, but potentially less flexible and heat-resistant in extreme conditions.
Check out this detailed blog for a full breakdown on direct-injected vs cemented outsoles →
4. Comfort & Support
MooseLog 5666: Comes with Single-density PU footbed insoles that offer serious rebound and cushioning. The fit is designed for people who move with extra toe room and ankle mobility.
Blundstone 168: Includes a shock-absorbing XRD® footbed. Comfort is solid, but runs narrower and more fitted through the toe.
MooseLog aims for an athletic feel, being light, forgiving, and less break-in time. Blundstone leans more traditional, with a firmer step and structured fit. It comes down to how much space and softness you want inside your boot.
5. Materials & Durability
MooseLog 5666: Full-grain, premium leather upper 100% leather with sealed seams and a reinforced toe guard for added abrasion protection.
Blundstone 168: Premium leather upper with waterproofing treatment and rubber toe bumper.
Both use strong leathers, but MooseLog is clearly geared toward harsher environments. The added reinforcement and stitching protection extend lifespan especially when boots take daily abuse from tools, ladders, or worksite terrain.
For a full leather breakdown, and why full-grain leather is the best, check out this article →
6. Price Comparison
MooseLog 5666: $149.99 CAD
Blundstone 168: $249.95 CAD
Blundstone brings global name recognition and a legacy in the boot world, and that branding carries a premium. MooseLog, on the other hand, focuses on practical upgrades and delivering real value where it counts, without tacking on extra cost for the logo.
Final Thoughts
If you’re comparing Blundstone 168 to MooseLog 5666, both get the job done when it comes to Chelsea-style safety. They’re certified, durable, and look great on and off the site. But if you want more room, better outsole performance, and serious comfort in long shifts at a lower price, MooseLog makes a strong case.
It’s a modern boot for the modern tradesperson: certified, tough, and built to move for $100 less.
Looking for more one-to-one comparisons? We're updating this series with deeper dives across top Chelsea safety boots. In the meantime, check out this roundup blog for a full breakdown of leading styles.
