I went in to the store with one shoe in mind and left with another. That's because the owner took his time to find out what it was I needed and not what I wanted. And with his knowledge of his product and the local job requirements, etc., he got me exactly the boot I needed. Sure these boots are expensive. These are high quality, made in the USA (there are some made in China, but they are less expensive), built to last and backed by Red Wing. Try taking a pair of boots back to Wal-Mart to be oiled or for new laces (both services are free at Red Wing), They'll look at you cross-eyed. Or try getting a pair of (insert chinese made brand here) boots re-soled, good luck.
All in all I was extremely pleased with the experience at the store and with the boots I was sold. That's right, I was sold a pair of boots by a knowledgeable salesman who took the time to fit me correctly and educate me about his product. I didn't walk in to a big box store and get no service from underpaid, inexperienced and untrained attendants (if you can find one) and buy a pair of boots at a bargain price. Only to have to go back in a few months to buy another pair.
The boots I bought should last approximately 2 years or more. Multiply the number of bargain boots I'd go through in that time frame and the cost is the same if not cheaper AND I've got a better boot with better foot and ankle support (translate that to less or no foot pain after a long day on my feet).
If your looking for a quality boot this is the place to go. But be prepared to get what you paid for!