Blundstone 585 vs 500 vs 1306: Which Boot Should You Choose in NZ?
Blundstone 585, 500, and 1306 are three of the most popular styles in New Zealand, but they suit slightly different needs.
The 585 is best for comfort and everyday wear, the 500 is the original heritage style, and the 1306 is a more refined, dress-focused boot.
For most people, the decision comes down to whether you prioritise comfort (585), classic feel (500), or a more polished look (1306).
At Pat Menzies, we’ve been fitting Blundstone boots for decades, helping customers choose styles that work in real NZ conditions.
What’s the Difference Between Blundstone 585, 500 and 1306?
The main differences come down to comfort, fit, and overall look.
- 585 → softer, more cushioned, slightly roomier
- 500 → firmer, more structured, traditional feel
- 1306 → sleeker, more refined silhouette
All three share the same core Blundstone DNA:
- slip-on Chelsea design
- durable leather uppers
- built for everyday wear
If you’re unsure about sizing, see our Blundstone fit guide.
Blundstone 585: Comfort & Everyday Wear
Best for: all-day comfort, walking, everyday use
The 585 is part of Blundstone’s Classics range, designed with added comfort features for long wear.
What makes the 585 different
- softer leather feel
- more cushioned footbed
- slightly roomier fit
- comfortable from early wear
Compared to the 500, the 585 feels:
- softer underfoot
- more forgiving for long days
For many customers in NZ, the 585 is the most popular all-round Blundstone because it balances comfort, durability, and ease of wear.
Blundstone 500: The Original Classic
Best for: heritage style, simple everyday wear
The 500 is the original Blundstone Chelsea boot, with a more stripped-back construction.
What makes the 500 different
- firmer, more structured feel
- slightly slimmer fit
- minimal, traditional design
- less cushioning than the 585
This gives the 500 a:
- more classic look
- slightly more structured feel on foot
It’s ideal if you prefer a simpler, more traditional boot with a firmer feel.
Blundstone 1306: Refined & Dress-Ready
Best for: smarter outfits, work, dress-casual wear
The 1306 sits in Blundstone’s Dress series, designed with a more refined shape.
What makes the 1306 different
- sleeker silhouette
- more defined, slightly square toe shape
- more polished overall look
- suitable for smarter settings
Compared to the 585 and 500:
- it feels more structured
- it looks less rugged
This is the best option if you want a Blundstone that works across work, meetings, and more polished everyday outfits.
Blundstone 585 vs 500 vs 1306: Quick Comparison
| Feature | 585 | 500 | 1306 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, cushioned | Firm, structured | Structured |
| Fit | Slightly roomier | Slightly slimmer | More refined |
| Comfort | High (all-day wear) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Style | Casual everyday | Heritage | Smart casual |
| Best for | Daily wear | Classic styling | Dressier use |
For most people, the 585 is the easiest starting point if you’re unsure.
Which Blundstone Should You Choose?
Choose the 585 if you:
- want maximum comfort
- spend long days on your feet
- want a softer, more forgiving fit
- want one boot for everyday use
Choose the 500 if you:
- prefer a classic, minimal boot
- want a slightly firmer feel
- like the original Blundstone look
Choose the 1306 if you:
- want a smarter, more refined boot
- wear boots in work or dress-casual settings
- prefer a sleeker silhouette
Which Style Works Best for NZ Lifestyles?
In New Zealand, boots are often worn across:
- work
- weekends
- travel
- everyday walking
That’s why:
- the 585 is the most commonly chosen everyday option
- the 500 suits those who prefer a traditional feel
- the 1306 works better in more polished environments
Many customers choose based on how versatile they need the boot to be.
Where to Buy Blundstone Boots in NZ
Blundstones are widely available in New Zealand, but choosing the right style makes a big difference.
At Pat Menzies, we focus on:
- proven Blundstone styles
- everyday wearability
- expert fitting advice
With stores in Auckland, Wellington, and Tauranga, plus nationwide online shopping, we make it easy to find the right pair.
You can also compare brands in our Blundstone vs Timberland vs Dr. Martens guide.
Final Thoughts
All three styles are built on the same Blundstone foundation, the difference is how they feel and how you wear them.
- 585 → best for comfort
- 500 → best for classic feel
- 1306 → best for refined style
If the boot suits how you actually live day to day, it’s usually the right choice.
FAQ
Which Blundstone is most comfortable?
The 585 is generally the most comfortable due to its cushioned footbed and softer feel.
Is the Blundstone 500 or 585 better?
The 585 is better for comfort, while the 500 offers a more traditional, firmer feel.
Is the Blundstone 1306 more formal?
Yes. The 1306 has a more refined shape, making it better suited to dress-casual or work settings.
Do all Blundstones fit the same?
Sizing is generally consistent, but the feel can vary slightly depending on the model and materials.
Are Blundstones worth it?
We've broken down the details, so check out our Blundstone value guide to see if they're the right boot for you. For a full boot breakdown, have a look at our ultimate NZ boot guide.