10 Most Durable Work Boots Reviewed – Plus Buying Guide (2020)
In the world of industries, farm, construction sites, yard tasks and manual labor, one has to choose to either remain safe and effective or compromise and put their lives on the line. Generally, experts are in agreement that you need to invest in the best work boots to get the job done. But don’t you just hate it when you have to spend an entire day scouting for the right boot only to end up with a not-so-good pair? So, should you go by the price or brand in order to maximize your value for money? Well, the objective of this review is to provide you with an idea of some of the most durable work boots which present you with value worth mulling over.
28
Models Considered
15
Hours of Research
1
Experts Interviewed
97
Reviews Analyzed
Timberland PRO 6 Inch Steel Toe Men’s Boot
Designed to be both comfortable and trendy, the Timberland Pro boot series is ideal for busy work stations. The boot comes with a steel toe meaning that it is ANSI safety standard compliant. One unique thing about its toe box is that it’s quite spacious and, therefore, comfortable to fit in. Apart from its reputed steel toe, this boot comes with an abrasion-resistant and oil-resistant outsole which is safeguarded against electrical hazards. So, even if you’re an electrician working on exposed circuits or an HVAC technician who has to keep up with a demanding schedule, this boot is just safe enough for you. Loaded with a 24/7 comfort suspension, this high-end boot is designed to reduce foot fatigue without compromising on durability. On top of that, it comes with padded collar guards and removable sock liners which effectively protect you against blistering. Indeed, this pair comes with shock diffusion plates which are entirely meant to disperse pressure impact and support your foot.
Timberland PRO Men's 6" Pit Boss Steel Toe
Features:
Conclusion Clearly, Timberland made these work boots with durability in mind. You can’t help but notice the fact that this shoe is made using pure Nubian leather which is bound in place by Goodyear welt construction. On top of that, there are handy metal hooks in place allowing you to adorn these well-made lace-up boots with additional confidence.
- Made from pure and durable leather
- Contains rubber sole that offers enhanced grip
- Polyurethane midsole for enhanced comfort
- Padded top collars for additional comfort
- Each boot weighs 1.58 pounds
PROS:
- Optimized for hard labor environments
- Designed to disperse pressure from the impact
- Has a strong arch that supports the foot
- Breathable, antimicrobial liner
CONS:
- Metal rings may pinch if one doesn’t wear tall socks
- The boots aren’t waterproof
Caterpillar Men’s Work Boot with Steel Toe Box
Categorized as one of Caterpillar’s most sought-after work boots, this pair stands out for being comfortable, stylish and most importantly affordable. And even though this boot falls under the heavy duty boot category, it’s light enough for everyday wear. Designed to be both slip and oil resistant, these particular work boots for men provide strong footing, especially on slippery surfaces. As if that’s not enough, the boots feature a steel toe for added protection and are reported to be electric hazard resistant. As such, they would be an excellent choice for steelworkers, oil refinery engineers or auto mechanics needing adequate protection on the job. Featuring a removable PU sock-liner for all-day comfort, these are probably the most comfortable work boots available. The sock-liner regulates the temperature inside the boot thereby ensuring your feet stay cool and warm. The boots are equipped with a mesh lining made from leather-nylon material to ensure optimal breathability and comfort. In addition to this, they come with a plush collar that provides extra cushioning around the ankle area.
Caterpillar Men's Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
Features:
Conclusion The solid construction of these cheap work boots make them ideal for whatever tough situation will be thrown at them. However, you can also wear them every day thanks to their stylish design. Needless to say, they offer great traction both on the slip and non-slip surfaces.
- Steel shank for optimal stability and support
- Made of rugged leather for long-lasting performance
- Slip-resistant rubber outsoles
- Single boot weighs around 2 pounds
- Speed and secure lacing with hex-shape grommets
PROS:
- Breathable insole keeps your feet cool and dry
- Tough outsole offers incredible grip
- Spacious toe box to ensure a comfortable fit
- High-quality and durable construction
CONS:
- Have a break in period
- Not waterproof out of the box
Pro Tip
Have the size of your feet measured prior to ordering your boots or refer to your current for size details.
Jon
Maelstrom 8 Inch Military Work Boot Landship with Zipper
Best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, security personnel, hikers, logistic workers and light industrial jobs, these tactical boots boast rugged design for superior durability. In addition to this, the LANDSHIP boot is designed to be lightweight and does not need any break-in time. Like most work boots for men, this pair features a non-slip rubber outsole with deep threads to protect you from falls and slips on soggy, slippery or rough surfaces. What’s more? It is equipped with a shock-absorbing midsole that provides additional protection during high-impact activity. These lightweight work boots employ a breathable lining designed to wick away moisture and keep your feet dry for all-day comfort. Similarly, the LANDSHIP boot incorporates a highly breathable mesh upper like on your Nike shoes and removable shock-absorbent insert that delivers superior cushioning and unmatched comfort. As if that’s not enough, it comes with a padded tongue and collar that ensures maximum comfort throughout the day.
Maelstrom Men's LANDSHIP 8 Inch Military Tactical Duty Work Boot With Zipper
Features:
Conclusion Overall, this pair of work boots for hiking or even hunting is a great value for law enforcement officers and anyone who needs a durable and comfortable shoe. They are highly breathable, lightweight and offer the kind of protection you need in any tough situation.
- Backed by one-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Cemented construction that makes them light in weight
- YKK heavy-duty zipper with a fast closure system
- Composite shank for superior stability
- Both boots weigh approximately 5 pounds
PROS:
- Midsole offers great shock absorption
- Comes ready to wear right-out-of-the-box
- Made of durable polish-able leather upper
- Easy to put on and off
CONS:
- Runs a size smaller
- May wear out quickly with heavy and everyday use
EVER BOOTS Tank Work Boots
If you are looking for most durable work boots at a budget-friendly price, this pair of Tank work boots is an excellent choice. The boot’s craftsmanship involves a rubber outsole alongside nubuck leather upper for enhanced durability. And you know what? Each boot is equipped with speedy hooks and back loop for convenient and easy wearing. First off, the footwear boasts Goodyear welt construction that provides you with proper protection in industrial environments. Its outsole, on the other hand, is made of slip-resistant rubber. As such, walking on slippery surfaces and smooth concrete is a breeze. But you know what else? The boots are also oil-resistant so you don’t have to worry about skidding on greasy surfaces. The boots come with a cushioned insole that not only provides you with customizable comfort but also optimal support, especially during long working periods. Each boot is also equipped with an insulated mesh lining to keep your feet warm and comfortable all day long. Besides, the work boots for concrete are light in weight and run a half size larger to ensure a comfortable fit.
EVER BOOTS Tank Men's Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Insulated Work...
Features:
Conclusion Whatever the job, these cheap work boots will keep you on your feet thanks to their great safety and performance features. The shoes also score highly in terms of design and style so you can actually wear them to both formal and informal occasions.
- Upper is made of 2.0mm premium Nubuck leather
- Backed by 3-months manufacturer warranty
- Weighs only 4 pounds
- Arch is supported by a durable steel shank
- Rubber outsole offers dependable traction
PROS:
- Removable insoles
- Back loop for fast and easy wearing
- Tough and high-quality construction
- Offers long-lasting support and performance
CONS:
- Only few color choices available to choose from
- Insole lacks enough cushioning
Pro Tip
In case you receive an ill-fitting shoe, be sure to return it immediately so the manufacturer can send you the correct one.
Jon
Irish Setter 6” Men’s Work Boot
Looking for a solid and versatile pair of work boots that can face any abuse your workday brings? These Irish Setter boots might just be what you need. The boots utilize full-grain leather uppers with triple stitching to ensure long-lasting performance. On top of that, the boots feature Goodyear welt construction for added durability. These are soft toe boots with an electrical hazard protective outsole that meets the ASTM F2413-11 safety requirements. As such, the shoes are safe to wear in areas where the possibility of shock or electric elements exists. What’s more, the outsole is heat resistant to melting at only a minimum of 475 degrees Fahrenheit for added safety and protection. This pair of boots requires no break-in and is comfortable to wear out of the box. In addition to that, the boot is equipped with EVA midsole and a removable PU footbed for superior support and all-day comfort. To top it off, it features a padded collar and tongue that provides extra comfort around the ankles.
Irish Setter Men's 6" 83605 Work Boot
Features:
Conclusion With a full grain leather construction, these work boots provide superior protection from different types of work hazards. Besides, it features non-woven nylon lining for extra breathability and comfort. Therefore, your feet will remain dry throughout the day.
- Rubber-EVA outsole for optimal grip and traction
- Soft toe meets safety standards
- Each boot weighs 1 lb 9oz
- Utilizes traditional lacing system and solid metal eyelets
- Pull loop at the rear for easier on and off
PROS:
- Midsole offers amazing cushioning
- Padded collar for additional comfort
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable eyelets
CONS:
- Boots have soft toe instead of safety toe
- Not completely waterproof
Irish Setter 6” Men’s Work Boot
Yotube Video Review: Irish Setter 6” Men’s Work Boot
Wolverine Moc-Toe Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot
This pair of work boots from Wolverine brand does more than just protecting your feet from various elements. Featuring a breathable lining and lightweight design, the boots deliver great comfort and outstanding performance in almost all working environments. To start with, these lightweight work boots are equipped with a nylon shank that absorbs shock while at the same time providing superior stability. Similarly, the shoes utilize a well-treaded crepe outsole that is treated to resist abrasion, oil, and water. As such, you can wear them on a variety of surfaces without worrying about falls or slips. What’s even better? These work boots for men incorporate a removable full-cushion footbed and a springy rubber midsole designed to ensure maximum comfort and cushioning. Therefore, you will never experience sore feet. The footwear also boasts a breathable lining that allows great air flow and keeps your feet dry.
Wolverine Men's Moc-Toe 6" Work Boot
Features:
Conclusion Tough, reliable and comfortable, these work boots are perfect for the loading dock, construction and other types of manual work. Furthermore, the boots feature a well-treaded sole that ensures maximum grip on smooth and rugged terrains.
- Goodyear welt construction makes the boots flexible
- Fatigue-fighting reinforcement
- Weighs just 5 pounds
- Lace-up vamp to ensure easy lacing
- Crafted from original full-grain leather
PROS:
- Requires no break-in period
- Contrast stitching makes them stylish and durable
- Extremely breathable
- Comes with a padded collar
CONS:
- Runs big in size
- The eyelets wear out fast
WOLVERINE MOC-TOE 6
Yotube Video Review: WOLVERINE MOC-TOE 6
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KEEN Utility Milwaukee Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot
Like most KEEN Utility footwear, the primary selling point of this particular work boot is its quality construction. Each boot utilizes metallic lacing eyelets for durability and stylish look. Besides, the boots boast GoodWelt stitches that make them capable of taking whatever your workday might bring. The boot comes with solid left and right asymmetrical steel toes that provide maximum toe protection from injuries. Beyond that, it is equipped with a non-marking rubber sole that is oil and slip resistant to ensure a secure grip on a variety of surfaces. The sole also offers protection from an electric hazard. Featuring a dual-density footbed, these boots provide a great blend of safety and comfort. The boots also require absolutely no break-in period thereby ensuring a comfortable fit right out of the box.
KEEN Utility Men's Milwaukee 6" Steel Toe Work Boot
Features:
Conclusion These work boots are the perfect combination of protection, support, flexibility, and comfort. Thanks to their leather construction, the footwear ensures great performance all year round and on any surface.
- Made of abrasion resistant leather
- Single boot weighs just 2 pounds
- Padded collar for unmatched comfort
- Thick rubber soles offer superior traction
- Durable metallic eyelets
PROS:
- Comfortable enough to wear for long periods
- Has a roomy toe box
- Highly slip resistant on wet and greased surfaces
- Keeps your feet dry at all times
CONS:
- Laces are not durable enough
- Can be a little too firm for lots of walking
Keen Milwaukee Work Boot
Yotube Video Review: Keen Milwaukee Work Boot
Golden Fox Men’s Soft Toe Moc Work Boots
For less than $100, you can get these quality Golden Fox work boots that are water repellent. Most importantly, the boots employ a pig-skin collar that is designed to keep your feet warm during winter and provide a soft feel. The boots feature a soft toe for safeguarding the toes. This makes them ideal for industrial construction workers. But wait there’s more. They are also equipped with oil-resistant soles for extra protection especially in environments exposed to oil. Featuring oil full-grain leather upper, the boots provide a soft and flexible feel after breaking in. On top of that, they come with a super breathable mesh lining that wicks away moisture in order to keep your feet dry and free of odor. Moreover, the shoes incorporate a removable cushion insole for extra comfort.
Golden Fox Men's Premium Leather Soft Toe Light Weight Industrial Construction Moc...
Features:
Conclusion According to the manufacturer, these work boots for men run a half size bigger than shoes from manufacturers like Irish Setter and Redwing. So, make sure to order a half size smaller for a comfortable fit.
- Good-year welt construction
- Uppers are made of oil-treated leather
- Insulated lining to keep your feet warm in cold conditions
- Weighs approximately 5 pounds in total
- Includes a padded collar
PROS:
- Available in several stylish color options
- Boasts great waterproofing and insulation properties
- Removable insole with incredible cushioning
- Lightweight for all-day comfort
CONS:
- Does not offer adequate traction
- Sized big so make sure to order a size smaller
Golden Fox 6
Yotube Video Review: Golden Fox 6
Ariat Groundbreaker Pull Work Boot
Tired of work boots with a lace-up system and looking for a hassle-free slide in and out model? Well, you should definitely consider these Ariat Pull-on boots. The footwear has a 15-inch opening for ease of wearing. It also features two-row stitch design for ultimate durability and performance. It is equipped with a heavy-duty Duratread outsole that is both slip and oil resistant. As such, the boot holds extremely well in different work conditions including slippery and concrete surfaces. They will perform perfectly whether you are working with a chainsaw outside or circular saw in your garage. Like most comfortable work boots, this pair too is integrated with a breathable mesh lining that keeps away moisture and the foot free of odor. Most importantly, it incorporates a four-layer footbed to ensure ultimate cushioning. On top of that, the footwear boasts an insole with higher rebound feature to maintain all-day comfort.
Features:
Conclusion This pair of boots is considered a good buy because it’s designed to take on nearly all the difficulties posed by various workplace conditions. It is also equipped with a roomy and round toe design that provides a comfortable fit. Furthermore, it is crafted from high-quality leather to ensure long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight shank for superior stability and support
- Easy pull-on design
- Crafted from high-grade leather and rubber sole
- Oil and slip-resistant sole for added safety and protection
- Weighs around six pounds in total
PROS:
- Designed with durability and comfort in mind
- Mesh lining keeps sweat and moisture away
- Offers everyday comfort
- Reliable rubber outsoles with great traction
CONS:
- Run pretty small in size
- Not waterproof
Ariat Groundbreaker Pull-On
Yotube Video Review: Ariat Groundbreaker Pull-On
Pro Tip
Always insist on getting high-quality boots as poor quality ones tend to wear prematurely and may leave you susceptible to injuries.
Jon
Carhartt CMF6366 Men’s 6” Boot
Whether you just need comfort for your feet or extreme protection for your toes, these rugged work boots are designed to keep your feet safe without compromising on support and flexibility. In addition to that, the boots utilize a waterproof and breathable membrane to protect your feet from outside moisture. Designed to be chemical, oil and slip resistant, you can count on these boots to keep your feet protected no matter the job. The Carhartt shoes feature a rubber sole that provides you with great traction and shock absorbing abilities where you need it most. Each boot employs a padded tongue and collar as well as an Ortholite insole that provides you with several layers of cushioning while reducing foot fatigue. On top of that, it comes with a lightweight EVA midsole and breathable membrane to promote proper airflow and ensure all-day comfort.
Carhartt Men's CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot
Features:
Conclusion If you’re looking for a good all-around work boot, this model is well worth considering. It performs well in almost any work conditions thanks to its many safety and comfort features. Moreover, it comes with strong and sturdy string-tie laces to keep it intact while ensuring secure footing.
- Made of full-grain leather that is water resistant
- Utilizes rugged Flex technology for added flexibility
- Each boot weighs just 2 pounds
- Rubber outsole with cement construction for enhanced durability
- Extra wide composite toe for extra comfort
PROS:
- Includes a steel shank for stability
- Offers electrical hazard protection
- Has abrasion-resistant outsole with deep gripping lugs
- Durable and waterproof
CONS:
- Not insulated
- Lacks adequate ankle support
| Product Name | Image | Weight (1 boot) | Overall Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timberland PRO 6 Inch Steel Toe Men’s Boot |
|
1.58 lbs. | 10 | Check price |
| Caterpillar Men’s Work Boot with Steel Toe Box |
|
2 lbs. | 9.5 | Check price |
| Maelstrom 8 Inch Military Work Boot Landship with Zipper |
|
2.2 lbs. | 8.5 | Check price |
| EVER BOOTS Tank Work Boots |
|
1.7 lbs. | 9.5 | Check price |
| Irish Setter 6” Men’s Work Boot |
|
1 lb. | 9 | Check price |
| Wolverine Moc-Toe Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot |
|
2.3 lbs. | 8 | Check price |
| KEEN Utility Milwaukee Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot |
|
1 lb. | 8.5 | Check price |
| Golden Fox Men’s Soft Toe Moc Work Boots |
|
2.3 lbs. | 8 | Check price |
| Ariat Groundbreaker Pull Work Boot |
|
2.9 lbs. | 9.5 | Check price |
| Carhartt CMF6366 Men’s 6” Boot |
|
1 lb. | 9 | Check price |
How To Choose Work Boots – Buyer’s Guide
Laying the foundation for a successful project starts with securing the worker. Security should always start from the ground up and that’s why choosing the right kind of work boots is extremely important. Ultimately, comfortable work boots are the best investment, any day. As far as comfort goes, we’d like to talk about the difference between flat and wide feet.
If the arches of your feet are flat, you want to go for a shoe with a quality sole support. On top of that, you should ensure that the boot is designed to absorb impact in order to keep your feet from unnecessary pain or pressure.
If your feet are wider than usual, go for shoes with wide fit features. You’ll most probably come across size “D” or “E”, always go for size “E” as it is the one designed with wide feet wearers in mind.
Construction of Your Work Boots Pair
Work boots are generally made from high-quality cowhide (leather) which undergoes tanning, sanding, and waterproofing treatment. The process of converting cowhide into boot leather begins with putting the leather inside a shaver which opens up its pores and evens the surface up. Afterward, the leather is trimmed, effectively dividing it into smaller portions that may be required for designing shoes. Immediately after that, the material is taken through the dying process which is one that gives it a unique color. Besides that, dying is key in keeping the leather soft and supple thereby providing it with long-term stability and storage. What then follows is the drying process and this is done using vacuum suction and special steel plate. The objective is to remove the water before conditioning the leather using suspended conveyor belts under moderate temperature. At this point, the leather is pretty much ready for use but in order to make sure the boot is comfortable enough for long-term use, the leather has to be softened using a staking machine which operates through a mechanical beating action. Next in line is the buffing process through which surface abrasion is removed (sanding) using a special paper for nubuck splits. The finishing process involves “fulling” which is a mechanical buffeting process that’s done under controlled humidity conditions. Before being ironed and trimmed, the hide is treated with special chemicals to give it the desired color, appearance, and shine. Typically, it takes 0.4 square meters of leather to make a single boot (0.8 square meters for a pair of work boots).
- Cutting
- Thinning
The material is then put inside a paring machine which thins the edges in preparation for the sewing process. During the cutting process, different pieces of leather are identified and set aside for different uses.
- Assembly Process
- Attaching Foot Mount
Eventually, the foot mount is attached to a form with tiny nails called tacks (work boots for electricians use non-metallic tacks). This is then placed within the boot to facilitate the assembly process of the front part. At this stage, a cutting machine is used to remove any unevenness at the level of the lining prior to proceeding to the next step.
- Installing a Toe Cap
- Installing the Sole
The sole is installed beginning with the heel core which is firmly secured into place. This then gives way to a welding process which begins from the heel onwards to the toe area of the boot in a process known as vulcanization. This is done at a temperature of 165 degrees until the sole is solidly in place (the sole is also firmly stitched in place for extra strength). The sole is placed through a special cutting machine which gets rid of any vulcanization residue on the sides of the sole. A sealant is then applied and an insole placed inside the boot. The finish touches entail installing the laces and labeling the boot. Afterward, the boots are taken to the packaging area. In total, building a safety boot requires more than 100 fabrication steps and these may vary from one manufacturer to the next. 
Main Features to Consider
Considering the hefty price tag that’s involved in the purchase of new boots, wouldn’t it be important for you to know exactly what to bank on prior to spending your hard-earned cash? Well, the problem is that while attempting to keep the shoes safe, it’s possible to compromise on size, weight, and design. A poorly designed pair of boots can cause premature fatigue thereby affecting your productivity in addition to leaving you susceptible to all manner of infections. So, the next time you’re out there shopping, here are some handy features to always take into account. Worth noting, however, is that footwear preferences tend to vary from one individual to the next and in that regard, you need to be open-minded when making your purchase.
- Weight
- Compliance with Electrical Safety
If you’re an electrician or individual seeking to work in a place with a high risk of electrocution, it would be important for you to make sure your boots are designed with this need in mind. Remember, there’s always a chance of exposure to live current. Therefore, experts generally recommend going for work boots for electricians that meet CSA 2011 standards to provide protection from electrical current of up to 18,000 volts. This can help prevent electrocution and leave you to focus on doing what matters the most to your career – working.
- Resistant Sole & Heel
- Durability
There are different factors that affect durability and these include: the type of construction, material and quality of workmanship. Interestingly, one would expect that the brand name to indicate the quality of the boot but that’s not always the case. The ideal way to shop for boots is by reading through multiple reviews and getting a feel of what others think about the boot.
In particular, you want to take close note of the upper boot and sole connection. While some manufacturers use vulcanization to fix the two together, quality-conscious manufacturers tend to take a step further to stitch the two together for a durable construction.
Boot Types
There are different types of boots designed to suit different work situations. It’s, therefore, ideal to be keen on identifying the boots that work best for you so you can make the necessary arrangements in advance.
- Waterproof Work Boots
While waterproofing isn’t a mandatory safety requirement, it’s an ideal addition for some work environments. For instance, if you work in construction sites or in places prone to electrical or chemical shock, these boots can play a huge role in helping you avoid foot-related injuries.
- Slip on or Pull-on Boots
Pull on or slip on work boots are designed without laces. All you need to do is slip your feet into them and are good to go. The leading advantage of these boots is convenience. You don’t need to waste time doing your shoelaces. That not only saves time but also ensures you’re comfortable and ready to work safely even in the midst of heavy machinery. Unlike lace-up shoes, pull on shoes come with zero risk of having the laces undone. On top of that, these kinds of boots are designed to be durable and typically come with high ankles made from 100{%} pure leather.
- Cowboy Work Boots
The life of a cowboy involves operating around ranches, living in camps, riding on horses and bog-riding to haul cows and so forth. For this reason, it’s recommended to find a pair of boots that are made from high-quality materials. Most importantly, you want to go for a boot that provides ample toe room. Last but not least, it’s important to make sure the arch of your foot and the boot shanks have matching curves. This ensures you’re comfortable, otherwise, the bot will feel sloppy and cause premature fatigue.
- Low Cut Work Boots
The main advantage of low cut boots is that they’re lightweight and easy to fit. Of course, the shoes also look trendy and so if you’re after good looks, this unique shoe design has the design that might just complement your sense of style. To top it all up, low cut shoes are easy to pack up and carry around.
- Lace Up Work Boots
Lace-up boots are the most common and popular kind of work footwear. 
This is because they come with a detailed lace-up system complete with a long tongue and metallic eyelets. All you need to do is tighten the laces up and you’ll be absolutely sure that the shoes will remain firmly in place. On top of that, the laced up design of these shoes means that the sides are raised high up thereby protecting your ankles and a significant part of your foot from shock.
This is because they come with a detailed lace-up system complete with a long tongue and metallic eyelets. All you need to do is tighten the laces up and you’ll be absolutely sure that the shoes will remain firmly in place. On top of that, the laced up design of these shoes means that the sides are raised high up thereby protecting your ankles and a significant part of your foot from shock.
- Work Boots with Zipper
Zipper work boots feature either a front or side zipper although some of them come with both. The greatest advantage to wearing these boots is that they are quick and easy to put on and remove. Of course, this is a fantastic choice especially when you have to change shoes rapidly in the course of your job.
On top of that, unlike lace-up boots where you need to worry about whether you have tied the shoe too tight or too loose, zippers offer you a standard fit.
The only issue with zipper boots is that in some cases, the zippers may be poorly made, thereby failing or breaking easily.
- Moc Toe
The moc toe boot design stands out owing to the fact that its seams run around the top of the shoe. But that’s not all, this unique design is recommended for a rugged work environment where long hours of work operation are involved. The typical moc toe box design provides a comfortable fit which enables you to operate for long hours without having to worry about fatigue or sweating especially if you wear them with socks. On the flipside, though, some moc toe shoes don’t come with a toe cap and may, therefore, not be ideal for dangerous work environments.
As for the hight, there are 2 typical standards: 8-inch and 6-inch.
As you’re likely to agree, there’s nothing more frustrating than feeling something craw into your boot and keeping you worried throughout your working day. Therefore, this kind of boot is ideal especially when working in waterlogged, bushy conditions.
The 6-inch boot is smaller than the 8-inch one. This unique design provides you with ankle and joint protection while allowing air to pass down and cool down your feet. On top of that, these boots tend to be lighter and, therefore, ideal for everyday use.
Looking for the best work boots for hot weather? This would be the best design to go for. Best of all, the long sides of these boots ensure your foot is adequately protected from any shock or damage that you might encounter.
Popular Boot Brands
Timberland, Wolverine, Keen, Carhartt, Danner, Nike, Red Wing, Dickies, Caterpillar, Chippewa, John Deere, Justin, Dewalt, Ariat.
Toe Type
The toe box or cap is an important part of footwear safety. This wonderful invention protects your toes and the front part of your foot from any heavy objects that may fall on it. That said, there are different types of caps with the three most common ones being the steel, aluminum and composite toe boxes.
- Steel Toes
As the name suggests, steel aluminum toe caps are made from steel. Steel is a tough metal that’s capable of withstanding a great deal of pressure. Unfortunately, though, steel is quite heavy and, therefore, can make the boots a little cumbersome and uncomfortable to wear for long hours.
Aluminum Toes
Aluminum toe boxes have also gained widespread popularity in recent days because of their lightweight design. Research shows that aluminum is as strong as steel especially if reinforced with tough alloys. This makes it a perfect bet for anyone who might be looking for light work boots made in USA. One thing worth noting is that aluminum toes tend to be larger than steel toes and, therefore, are recommended for individuals looking for additional comfort. Small qualms with aluminum is that it’s slightly more expensive than steel and it may not be as compression-resistant as steel.
- Composite Toe
Composite toe box is made from a blend of high-strength materials. Unlike steel and aluminum caps, these ones are not made from metal and cannot conduct electricity. This makes them safe enough for individuals looking for an additional layer of safety especially when faced with the threat of electrocution. Some examples of composite materials include carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. Generally, composite toes are designed to meet a 200-joule protective capacity which is just enough for working in airports, courts, plants, and in security operations.
Thinsulate Gram Rating
Materials
Different boots feature different designs and, therefore, necessitate the use of different materials. So which material is the best? Well as it turns out, each material has its own list of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a deep dive in this regard.
- Leather Work Boots
Leather is best suited for heavy-duty job sites. Some manufacturers make their boots using full-grain leather which is water-resistant. On the flipside, though, such leather tends to be thick and, therefore, not breathable – meaning it might be uncomfortable to wear it for long hours. That said, some forms of leather are light in design and come with pores to enhance air circulation.
- Work boots With Gore Tex
Gore-tex is a special kind of fabric that makes boots waterproof yet breathable. Unlike other materials that either allow the material to percolate in and out, this one has the potential to allow air to escape through its membrane and prevent water from penetrating in. This keeps your feet dry and comfortable even when working for long hours. The only problem with GTX boots is that the membrane may puncture easily should a stone get into the boot.
- Nubuck
Nubuck is a form of leather which is created differently from the suede material. This particular type of leather is usually sanded on the outer surface in order to create a sort-of velvet feel. Naturally, the outer surface of the leather is tough, therefore, sanding it makes it long-lasting than suede material.
- Faux or Vegan Leather
Faux leather is also known as artificial leather and is commonly substituted for real animal leather. Boots made from this kind of leather tend to be cheaper. Also, the fact that this material is not obtained from animals makes it ideal for vegans.
Season
Winter is an extremely cold time of the year and, therefore, it’s recommended to go for winter work boots optimized to keep your feet warm. Most importantly, always go for high traction outsoles. These can keep you safe from slipping on slippery surfaces.
Summer is known for its high temperatures and, as such, it’d be a good idea to go for a breathable pair of summer work boots. These will keep you safe and at the same time ensure that your feet are protected from the sweltering sun. Ideally, you should go for low Thinsulate gram ratings.
What Else May You Add?
With tough conditions to work in, it’s recommended to always invest in tough and durable laces. Ideal boot laces are ones with features such as double nylon cord, polyester blend, and wax coating.
You want to find socks that are breathable and absorbent. On top of that, experts recommend going for socks with anti-odor properties. Let’s also forget that you need to clean socks and, therefore, it would be in your best interest to go for machine washable ones.
There are two factors that matter when it comes to selecting insoles. First of all, it’s your comfort. Always go for supportive, comfortable and breathable insoles. On top of that, you may want to mull over the need to keep yourself safe from nails that might penetrate through the sole. Experts recommend going for tough insoles that can prevent this from happening.
Care and Maintenance
- Always clean your boots with a water-based agent alongside a nylon brush (brush the seams as well)
- Don’t forget to apply a waterproofing agent (water-based) in order to keep your boots water resistant
- Avoid placing your leather work boots near a source of heat as this might cause them to stretch and affect the fit
- Apply a leather conditioner regularly to keep your older leather boots looking dapper
Warranty
FAQ
What exactly is a safe work boot?
A safe boot is one that meets safety requirements such as the ones recommended by OSHA. For instance, the boot should be puncture-resistant, safe from the threat of electrocution, and most importantly resistant to pressure or impact.
Where should you wear a safety boot?
These boots are designed for dangerous working conditions. In addition, you can wear them for camping, hiking, automotive repair, carpentry and DIY projects.
Is my work boot puncture proof (puncture resistant)?
To determine if your boot is built to withstand punctures, be on the lookout for Puncture Resistant (PR) certification. PR-certified shoes usually have a tough, plated insole and are recommended for walking on sharp objects.
