Timberland Premium vs Basic- this debate arises when someone is going to buy a pair of Timberland. This debate gets stronger when you’re purchasing a pair of Timb for the first time.
People get so confused about which one is better, and which one is perfect for their feet.
If you’re one of them, you don’t need to worry anymore. Today I’ll try my best to put an end to this debate.
The main differences that you’ll find between Timberland Basic and Premium are their appearance (a minimal difference), sole, comfort, waterproofing, and durability. But it’s just the tip of the iceberg, there’s a lot more out there.
So, without any further delay, let’s jump into the main section. Shall we?
Timberland Premium vs Basic: A Quick Comparison
Here we’ll explore a quick comparison and overview of both Timberland Basic and Premium.
This section will help you to navigate the differences between these 2 boots at a glance. However, you’ll find some common features as well.
So, if you’re in a hurry, just go through the following table to get a quick idea. Later, I’ll break down all the features in detail.
| Comparing Topics | Timberland Basic | Timberland Premium |
| Upper | Premium nubuck leather | Same as Timb Basic |
| Sole | Low-density foam without midsole (non-removable) | High-density anti-fatigue insole with midsole for extra comfort (removable) |
| Outsole | Rubber lug (Single piece) | Rubber lug (Two-toned) |
| Height | 6.5 inches | 7.25 inches |
| Waterproofing | Impregnated leather, seam-sealed waterproof membrane (offers adequate waterproofing) | Impregnated leather, seam-sealed waterproof membrane (offers top-notch waterproofing) |
| Insulation | 400 grams of PrimaLoft® insulation | 400 grams of PrimaLoft® insulation |
| Collar | Standard collar | Padded collar |
| Weight | 1lb, 5oz | 1lb, 13oz |
| Anti-fatigue technology | Not available | Available |
| Colors Available | 5 | 30 |
| Warranty | 60 days return | Same |
| Price | Less expensive than Premium | Costs more than Timberland Basic |
Timberland Basic Overview
Timberland Basic is made up of premium nubuck leather which is also used in the Premium version. This boot costs $30 less than the Premium. However, that $30 is worth it.
The cushion and support aren’t as good as Premium. Besides, the insole is made from low-density thin foam that you can’t remove.
Moreover, you’ll find a single-piece rubber lug in the outsole. The stitching is the same as the color of the leather. Thus, the contrast doesn’t look eye-catching compared to the Premium.
Related: Timberland Boots vs. Motorcycle Riding: A Compatibility Check
Most importantly, this boot is equipped with Primaloft insulation that keeps your feet warm. Also, this boot offers adequate waterproofing and shock absorption.
So, if you’re planning to get a pair of boots both for work and other purposes you can pick this one. Besides, it’ll cost you $30 less.
Anyway, here is the list of pros and cons that you’ll get from this boot:
| Pros | Cons |
| More budget-friendly than the Premium one | Looks like a photocopy of Timberland Premium |
| The lugs on the sole can remove the excess water on their own | Low-density foam inserts in the insole and outsole can’t provide much shock absorption |
| Adequate waterproofing ability | No padded collar, instead, you’ll find a standard collar made of PU leather which is easy to get cracked and doesn’t look appealing |
| An all-round boot both for work and other purposes | Not true to size |
| Primaloft insulation provides a warm and cozy feeling | |
| Has internal shank for support |
Related: Are Timberlands Vegan? Exploring the Animal-Friendly Side of this Iconic Brand
Timberland Premium Overview
Timberland Premium has a similar leather quality to the Basic one. The boot is made with silver-rated leather which indicates that the tanning process is environmentally friendly.
This boot costs $30 extra but the comfort, support, and durability that you’ll get are insane.
The design of this boot looks more appealing and better than the Basic. The stitching and contrast make this pair stand out.
Most importantly, the waterproofing ability and shock absorption are so satisfying in this boot. Moreover, you’ll find a padded collar in this boot which ensures better comfort in your ankles and lower calves area.
This boot is also equipped with Primaloft technology to keep your feet warm. Moreover, this boot isn’t an ideal pair for the working environment because of its heavy weight.
However, this boot became a fashion statement back in the 90s when hip-hop stars started to wear them. Hence, I’d suggest you don’t pick this one to use as a work boot.
Here are some of the pros and cons of this boot:
| Pros | Cons |
| Offers 100% waterproofing | Slightly heavier than Timberland Basic |
| 400g of Primaloft insulation to keep your feet warm in winter | The cemented sole can create long-term durability issues |
| Gripstick heavy rubber sole offers better grip on wet or icy surfaces | May run about full size and too large |
| Comes with a high-density insole that can be removed | Costs $30 extra than the basic boot |
| Equipped with anti-fatigue technology | No steel toe cap |
| Has a padded collar for better comfort | |
| Ideal for a casual outfit | |
| Highly durable |
Timberland Premium vs Basic: What Are The Differences?
By now, hopefully, you got a basic idea about what differentiates the Timberland Basic and Premium.
In this section, I’ll dig deeper and try to show a comprehensive difference between these 2 boots. So, stay with me.
Leather Quality
As I said earlier, both Timberland Basic and Premium are made from premium nubuck leather.
The leather is sourced from tanneries in the Dominican Republic and the truth is the leather quality isn’t top-notch but it’s pretty good. I mean you’ll get what you expect from below $200 boots.
Most importantly, silver-rated leather is used in these boots which indicates that the tanning process is environment-friendly. If you’re an environmentally-conscious person, this fact will delight you.
Moreover, the leather used in these 2 boots is wheat-colored nubuck which is actually the outer layer of cowhide. Eventually, the leather is sanded to provide a suede-like texture and appearance.
However, the nubuck leather that’s found in Timberland Basic and Premium is rugged. But the problem is, it gets stained easily which means you need to spare some time to take care of them.
Here’s a guide that you can follow on how to clean your Timberland boots.
The Winner
This time, it’s a tie. I can’t announce the winner because both of the boots have similar leather quality.
Style
Timberland Premium and Basic are iconic boots from the 90s. They have become style icons since then because of their iconic aesthetics and shape.
You’ll find the Timberland logo on the side, double stitches, a rugged sole with a high heel, and 7 eyelets on a curved shank in both of the boots.
The truth is when you see them for the first time you won’t notice major differences between them. However, there are a few differences that exist between them.
Timberland Premium features white stitching whereas the stitches in the Basic match the color of the leather. In my opinion, the white stitching on the Premium is more eye-catching and provides better contrast than the Basic.
On top of that, you’ll find the biggest difference in their soles and collar. Basic Timb comes with a single-piece sole that features a new-age tread pattern and has a standard collar.
On the other hand, Premium Timb has two-tone soles made from polyurethane that look more like a classic Timb. Besides, this boot features a padded collar that looks good and ensures better comfort.
The Winner
For me, Timberland Premium is the winner because of its stitches, contrast, and two-toned soles. Besides, they feature a more classic Timb style than the Basic one.
However, if the contrast and color of the stitch don’t bother you, you can go for the Basic.
Related: Work Boot Showdown: Keen vs Timberland – Unveiling the Differences
Comfort
Both Timberland Basic and Premium feel snug and comfortable on your feet. However, Timberland Premium offers better comfort than the Basic.
After all, Premium is the updated version of Basic, so you can expect a little bit more comfort. Timberland added up a few things to enhance the comfort.
To begin with the top, you’ll find a padded collar in the Premium whereas the Basic comes up with a standard collar. If your Achilles rubs against the wall of your boots, you’ll find the padded collar incredibly useful.
When it comes to soles, Premium has an additional midsole for more comfort and support whereas the Basic lacks it.
Also, ankle support is better in the Premium. If you wear the Premium Timb on the terrain or rough surfaces, you may save yourself from an unwanted ankle injury. Don’t ruin your outing, go for the Premium.
Moreover, the Premium Timbs features anti-fatigue technology that can absorb shock while you’re walking and running and keeps your feet unstressed all the time.
Unfortunately, both of the boots are quite heavy, more than 1lbs. If you don’t like heavy shoes, it might be an issue for you. After all, the weight of the boots can affect comfort.
However, when it comes to wearing a rugged boot, you can’t avoid the extra weight.
The Winner
For comfort, definitely Timberland Premium is the winner. This boot is ahead of the Basic Timb because of its padded collar, anti-fatigue technology, better comfort, and ankle support.
Soles
I’ve already talked a little bit about the soles of these 2 boots. Timberland Premium and Basic both have rubber soles. The soles used in these boots are durable and well-made.
As I said earlier, the Basic has a single-piece sole whereas the Premium has a double-toned sole. That’s the visual difference between them. Also, you’ll notice a difference in the tread pattern or lugs.
The Basic boot has a chunky tread pattern than the Premium and it looks a little bit more futuristic design. However, I prefer the classic tread pattern of the Timberland Premium.
Moving next to the insole, Premium Timb features a high-density insole made up of foam that can be removed whenever you want. I found this insole quite comfortable.
Again, this removable insole comes in handy when you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis and need to insert a custom insole.
Also, the midsole with anti-fatigue technology is there to ensure more comfort, cushion, and support. Aside from that, the midsole is capable of providing geometric cone support. For excellent shock absorption and energy return, I’ll keep the Premium ahead.
On the other hand, Timberland Basic comes with a low-density foam insole. It doesn’t provide as much support or shock absorption as the Premium. Besides, the midsole is also made from low-density foams that fail to provide superior cushion and support to your feet.
The Winner
From the above discussion, I hope you’ve already guessed the winner. Yes, it’s the Timberland Premium. Its superior outsole, insole, and midsole ensure better comfort, cushion, support, and longevity and beat the Timberland Basic.
Durability
Timberland Basic and Premium both are rugged boots and they’re well-known for their durability.
Since the Premium Timb is the updated version of the Basic, it offers much more durability. The construction and materials used in the Premium is better than the Basic.
Most importantly, the rubber lug outsole of Premium Timb is more durable and offers great traction. If you want to pass through the toughest terrain mile after mile, the Premium Timberland is there. Also, the hardware of this boot is completely rustproof.
However, the Basic Timberland isn’t that bad. I mean they’re good enough to serve the purpose but not the best. In fact, they’re ahead of many rugged boots available in the market.
The Winner
Again, the winner is Timberland Premium for its sturdiness and longevity which is better than the Basic. Timberland Basic hasn’t been defeated by a gigantic margin.
Waterproofing Ability
Both Timberland Basic and Premium are well-known for their waterproofing ability.
The upper of both boots is made from rugged full-grain leather with seam-sealed construction. Aside from that, the boots are made from waterproof leather material.
Most importantly, the waterproof properties are impregnated into the leather during the tanning process for enhancing the waterproofing ability.
Also, the breathable and waterproof membrane is present there to provide extra protection against watery conditions.
Both of the boots are superior in waterproofing because of the nubuck leather outer surface. This leather is suede-type, less porous, and smooth.
The best part is you’ll find Primaloft insulation in both boots that keep your feet warm and cozy.
However, the padded collar in the Premium Timb is a bonus here. It protects your feet from chaffing and ensures a minimum amount of moisture seeps inside the boots.
The Winner
Timberland Basic and Premium both are waterproof. In my opinion, I found the Premium Timb offers excellent and better waterproofing whereas the Basic offers decent waterproofing.
So, I’ll keep Timberland Premium ahead of the Basic.
Fits and Sizing
Timberland Basic and Premium both offer the same fit. But the problem is both of the boots run one size larger.
According to Timberland, you should buy a half size down from your usual size. However, I found that going one size small offers the best fitting.
So, the safest option is to go to a physical store and try them out before you purchase them.
Final Verdict
Throughout this post, I’ve tried to show you a comprehensive difference between Timberland Premium and Basic. I hope you already know which boot is better for you.
For me, I’d definitely go for Timberland Premium. They offer better comfort, durability, and support. I think the extra $30 you’re going to spend is worth it.
However, if budget is an issue for you, go for Timberland Basic. Maybe you won’t get superior comfort, support, and durability but trust me, they’re good enough to serve the purpose for a longer period.
