Yes they are a tad bit more expensive than other shoes out there, but Red Wing manufactured work boots are the best IMO! Why, well, I still have an old, old pair from about 4 years ago, which I retired to only dirty, gurngy work last year, when I got a new pair from work. They are steel toed and have electric isolation properties as well. My replacement boots are from Red Wing shoes as well. The store that sells them, a Red Wing (franchise?) includes with the purchase a lifetime offer...