As a popular Australian boots brand, many like to compare the different Blundstone boots, including the 500 and 585. So what’s the difference between the Blundstone 500 and 585?
The Blundstone 585 is fully leather-lined with a cushioned midsole for additional comfort, whereas the Blundstone 500 is unlined for added breathability. Because of this, the Blundstone 585 has a tighter fit than the 500.
However, both boots are very identical and very hard to distinguish. In this post, let’s explore all of their differences and compare Blundstone 500 vs. 585.
Blundstone 500 vs. 585 Comparison
Blundstone 500 and 585 Similarities
Before we dive into the differences, let’s explore the similarities of both boots first.
Both the Blundstone 500 and 585 are crafted around a single piece of premium leather that is water-resistant. The leather is placed directly above the midsole.
An elastic and strong piece of Gore-tex material on the sides of the ankle secures your feet in place instead of laces. There are two pull tabs that help you get inside the boots.
Moreover, both Blundstone 500 and 585 have a steel shank that gives the boots better stability over uneven surfaces and built-in toe springs for forefoot comfort.
Blundstone 500 and 585 Differences
After taking a closer look at the Blundstone 500 and 585, I have found at least 4 differences between the two. Here are the differences explained in greater detail.
1. Blundstone 585 is leather-lined, while the Blundstone 500 is unlined.
The first, and arguably the most significant difference between the Blundstone 500 and 585 is the interior lining. Inside the Blundstone 585, the boots are fully lined with leather for additional comfort. The Blundstone 500, however, is unlined.
I personally think that this difference in design allows each model to serve different purposes. The Blundstone 500, which is unlined, provides better breathability and would be more suitable throughout the seasons, warm or cold.
On the other hand, the Blundstone 585, which is fully lined with leather, is designed to add more cushioning and foot comfort, but may not be suitable for the summer.
Personally, I prefer the leather lining of the Blundstone 585 because it is warmer and more pleasant for my feet since I typically wear boots only during fall and winter.
However, compared to the 585, the Blundstone 500 is more lightweight and comfortable throughout the seasons, whether you are walking in urban city cityscapes or in the wild.
2. Blundstone 585 has a wider fit than Blundstone 500.
The second difference, which many Blundstone wearers may not notice is the fit.
The Blundstone 585, which is part of the Classics series, has a wider fit compared to the Blundstone 500, which is part of the Originals series. Therefore, the Blundstone 585 is great for those who need a little extra room.
Looking at both boots closer, I’ve noticed that the nose of the Blundstone 500 is less rounded and the instep sits a little snugger. On the other hand, the Blundstone 585 has a more rounded nose with a more loose-fitting instep.
If you are planning to buy either one, please consider this aspect of both Blundstone boots according to your unique foot shape.
Personally, I like the rounded nose of the Blundstone 585 because it leaves more room for my toes to wiggle around, but it can be different for you.
3. Blundstone 585 has an extra line of stitching at the arch.
Another difference I have noticed between the Blundstone 585 and 500 is the extra line of stitching at the inside arch of the boot. On the Blundstone 585, there is a line of stitching that runs from the side of the ankle to the heel.
However, the Blundstone 500 has no line of stitching, which offers the boot a cleaner and simpler look than the 585. Maybe that is one of the reasons why the Blundstone 500 is an icon and is arguably one of the most popular pairs of Blundstone boots.
There are some who think that the extra line of stitching rubs against the skin which is unpleasant, however, this is not a problem if you wear thick socks.
In my opinion, the extra line of stitching of the Blundstone 585 should add strength to the overall structure of the boots. It’s not noticeable from afar either.
Another subtle difference is the stitching pattern.
While both Blundstone boots are neatly stitched, you will notice that the Blundstone 500 is single-stitched in the heel area, whereas the Blundstone 585 has double stitches.
I don’t think that the Blundstone 585 is more durable than the 500 because it has double stitches since Blundstone claims that both have reinforced stitching.
It is merely a different stitching pattern between the Blundstone 585 and 500.
4. Blundstone 585 has thicker footbeds than Blundstone 500.
Last but not least, the Blundstone 585 has thicker footbeds than the Blundstone 500. The 585’s footbed is thicker than the 500’s footbed. It is also covered in soft, velvety fabric.
On the other hand, the 500’s footbed is thinner, but it is covered in Cambrelle, a synthetic fabric that absorbs sweat and moisture, used as a lining material for hiking boots.
Not only is the Blundstone 585’s footbed thicker than the 500’s, but it also has a memory foam disc at the heel for added comfort and better shock absorption.
The difference in thickness shows that the Blundstone 585 may be more suitable for colder weather, whereas the 500 is better for all-season wear.
It’s important to note, however, that both the Blundstone 585 and 500 have identical sole thicknesses. Both look like twins from a few feet away.
You may also be interested in:
- How to Break in Blundstones Fast
- Blundstone 500 vs. 550
- Blundstone 550 vs. 585
- Blundstone Thermal vs. 550
Final verdict
WINNER: Blundstone 585
While they both look identical, the Blundstone 585 has a wider fit compared to 500 so the 585 is great for those who need a little extra room. The Blundstone 585 also has a leather lining for warmth and additional cushioning in the footbed for added softness.
And there you go, the Blundstone 500 vs. 585 comparisons. Because both Chelsea boots are very hard to differentiate, I hope this article has been helpful for you.
Reviewed by: Robert Martin