Tough working environments call for tough gear and footwear. You see, if you are working in a construction site or in an industry where you encounter hazardous materials, you can’t overlook the importance of work boots. These pairs are designed to offer you the much-needed comfort at your work place, decrease chances of injuring your feet, and of course, help you be more productive.
Whatever your reasons may be to get work boots, one thing is certain – your working space will never be the same again! Want to know why? This review takes you through some of the reasons you would need to wear work boots, how to choose the right ones, and the ultimate choices that have made the cut following thorough research.
Let’s dive in to it:
Top Work Boots Comparison Chart
Product | Material | Type of Toe | Price | Where to Buy? |
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Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss 6” Steel Toe | Leather | Steel | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe | Leather & Mesh | Steel | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boot | Leather | $$ | Check Price On Amazon | |
Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic steel Toe Waterproof Boot | Leather | Steel | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe | Leather | Moc | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Red Wing Heritage Men’s Classic Moc 6″ Boot | Leather | Moc | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot | Leather | Composite | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot | Leather | Steel | $$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Danner Men’s Bull Run 6” Work Boot | Leather | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon | |
KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot | Nubuck Leather | Steel | $$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe EH Logger Boot | Leather | Steel | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Classic Plain Toe, Safety Toe Boot | Leather | Plain | $$$$ | Check Price On Amazon |
How to choose the best work boots: The Ultimate Buying Guide
Unlike sport shoes, whereby you can just pick any pair designed for your favorite sport and do well, work boots come in different design for different uses. You can’t just pick any pair and adorn it to your work place. If it’s made for strength and not necessarily protect you from corrosive materials, yet you pick the wrong one, you’ll regret your choices.
But don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered. Before we begin with some of the things you should keep in mind as you embark on your shopping, let’s take a look at reasons these pairs (in general) are a great fit.
Benefits of Work Boot
Work boots are built for one obvious thing….well, to help you get through your daily job without worrying about foot injuries. And while this is the key reason you’d go for these shoes, there are other benefits that come with work boots. Let’s take a look at some:
Comfort
When you are choosing a work boot to wear all day long, there are certain qualities you need to consider, one of them being comfort. You see, wearing a shoe that is uncomfortable is not exciting at all. For you to get a comfortable shoe, you need to check out its support and ensure it has the right posture. But hey! Lucky you, manufacturers know this, and that’s why they make quality pairs with materials designed to offer you comfort.
Ease Stress
Your feet are very important because when you walk or stand they hold the weight of the whole body. You could easily get stress and fatigue because of wearing shoes that lack great support. But with work boots, you don’t have to worry about this. Most pairs guarantee impeccable support, making the job easier for you. Better yet, if you go for a lightweight shoe with orthotics properties, you won’t worry about any related feet problems.
Productivity
Having comfortable shoes is really important because it helps you become productive at your work place due to healthy feet. When you keep your body healthy your feet also stay happy even after working all day long.
Sufficient foot support
Foot support is what helps you keep balance. The right posture of your feet allows your whole body balance. When you wear a shoe that doesn’t have great balance your entire body can easily fall off-balance, and this causes pain in your joints. Foot and body health is assured by a quality pair of boots.
Decrease the Danger of Injury
If you plan on wearing your any kind of footwear all day long, we can’t be wrong to assume that you are worried about sustaining injuries such as blisters. Work boots have been made to prevent this. Choose a high quality shoe and it will not disappoint you because it will spread shock forces evenly and reduce the impact on your hips, feet, lower back and knees. This cuts the risk of injury on your lower body.
Types of safety toes/certification
The safety of your feet is paramount when you are at your work site. Accidents are bound to happen and they are unforeseen. And if the saying “to be forewarned is to be forearmed” is anything to go by then you need a shoe that will keep your toes, as well as your feet safe. This feature in work boots is very important, as it has helped many people escape many injuries which could have maimed them. The three main safety toes in the market are composite, aluminum and steel.
Steel toes
Apparently steel is one of the strongest metals in the world. The good thing about the steel toes is that they cover the whole toe area. It has been the best choice for work boot manufacturers for a long time owing to their strong nature. This feature helps you avoid injuries, for instance, when a heavy or sharp object happens to fall and land on your feet or when you accidentally kick hard surfaces. The steel toe will always come in handy! Some companies actually demand that all workers wear these kinds of boots in their work stations. Most of these boots are shock and electric proof.
Aluminum toes
They are lightweight compared to their steel counterparts but they are equally strong and durable. They are constructed using an alloy of titanium and aluminum. The boot will give your feet a good protection from harm. It’s fitted with a thin silhouette, which is good for folks with broader feet. They are also good conductors of temperature making the unfit for extremely cold or hot environments.
Composite toes
These are unique compared to steel and aluminum toes as they are lighter. They are constructed using carbon fiber, plastic and Kevlar and carbon fiber. They give a good protection from bump and impact. Moreover, they are fit for any kind of environment, hot or cold.
Brands
Work boots have not entered the market just recently; there are known pairs that were made over a century ago, allowing workers to complete their tasks in different weather conditions without worrying about injuring their feet. Today, though, most companies have invested a lot of time and resources to come up with innovative designs to ensure you get a pair that suits your needs best.
As you begin your search for that great work boot, think of these brands:
Timberland
This is one of the best brands in the market and has been around for a long time, meaning it has the needed experience to guarantee superb quality. One example of a boot that has been in the market for quite some time is the Timberland men’s 27068.
Caterpillar
this brand has also been a major mover in the market. When comes to quality they also deliver without fail. Caterpillar has a poor break in though. However when it comes to the break in period, you will enjoy the comfort of the foot. This boot comes with a good standard.
Keen
Keen can also be counted as a top brand when it comes to work boots. It comes with products that offer anti-abrasiveness, comfort, style and durability. Its work boots feature safety toes that are lightweight compared to other work boots in the market. Additionally, they have good visual qualities, and they are amazingly pocket friendly. If you are working in tough and rugged work situations then keen is here to make your work condition smooth.
Red Wing
With over 7 decades of manufacturing, Red Wing has produced some of the best stylish boots in the market at the moment. However its products are viewed as a bit expensive.
Thorogood
With over a decade of production, Thorogood has been one of the best brands in the market producing high quality work boots. Its boots are tough and durable, conforming to any work environment. The company mostly uses tough leather and rough rubber soles to ensure that their pairs withstand any work situation, and they are recommended for tough and difficult work place.
Wolverine
With over a century in the market, Wolverine delivers high quality boots that have high durability. Employing new technology, the company has been able to come with Edge LX Nano Toe that ensures your feet are safe from unforeseen accidents at work. Its work boots are also water proof and are built to withstand tough and rough working conditions.
Durability
Durability is very important when choosing a work boot. A work boot should basically last for 8 to 12 months with relative use. You should ensure that you thoroughly check the quality of the shoes, because there are a few instances where you find some pairs that are sub-standardly made: no glue, bad stitching among other errors.
Toughness and durability is a necessity when you are assessing work boots. This is because you will be using them in tough and treacherous environments. You will also be wearing these shoes frequently and regularly at work.
For durability purposes, the materials you should be looking for in a work boot include rubber, treated leather and polyurethane.
Resistance of Abrasion
Another key factor while choosing a pair of work boots is resistance to abrasion and wear. Even though this is a shoe that will be worn in extreme work situations, you don’t have to worry about it looking ugly after sometime. The material of the outer sole of the shoe and the construction of the upper part determines what the boot will look like after using for a couple of days or months, hence they should be abrasion resistant and also tough. The outer sole should extend beyond the toe box section. This will prevent scarring and abrasion of the upper shoe should you hit something hard.
Comfort
Who would want to buy work boots that offer minimum comfort, yet they intend to use them in touch conditions? You see, there are a number of features you should consider when choosing a work boot to ensure you get unmatched comfort and a cozy feel. We are talking of features like Padded collar and tongue combined with synthetic upper. If you are in a job that has long working hours, definitely you will need as much comfort in your feet as possible.
There is a new technology that in cooperates the anti-fatigue feature, whereby the arch and cushion gives you an incredible support in every step you take in the rigorous work you will be engaged in. This is a great feature to look for if you are worried so much about comfort. You will also find that some work boots incorporates anti-microbial feature and a mesh lining which provides folks experiencing smelly feet with a “no smelly feet” guarantee!
Work boots with quality rubber sole will also go a long way, helping you reduce shock and reflect energy to the crucial parts of your feet. This minimizes fatigue on your feet, allowing you to work for a long time in a single work day.
Construction type
Leather and synthetic welt are the most common construction types used in making work boots. When you observe a work boot, you will realize that, between the upper and lower sole, there is a strip of material in between; this is the welt, which attaches them together. The rugged design of the boot makes it durable and tough.
Some shoes are constructed using the direct attach method. This involves a process where the upper part of the boot is attached to a mold which is then filled with molten rubber, which in turn hardens and eventually becomes the outer sole. Work boots made using this method gives you comfort, are lightweight and ideal for shock absorption.
Another construction skill is the cement method. This uses flexible and highly strong adhesive which bonds the rest of the boot to the bond. This method is the easiest and the cheapest choice of all the methods. Boots constructed using this technique is popular for their comfort levels.
Waterproofing and insulation
In spite the fact that waterproof shoes are a requirement in most work environments, it’s not always easy to get the different materials that will guarantee this. It will be best if you have such kind of boots in areas where you experience a lot of snow. Your feet will stay dry as no water or snow will enter the shoe making it wet and soak to cause discomfort.
In cold winters it’s recommended that you wear work boots that are insulated and are fit to be worn in temperatures that are as low as 30F. However, ensure that the boots don’t come with too much insulation materials, especially if you are planning to use them during summer months.
Additional support
If your work involves lifting heavy objects then you will have to consider buying work boots that have metatarsal metal guards. They look like safety toes but cover a wider part of your feet. Folks who work as loggers and railroad workers, usually purchase boots that have calf and ankle support. Usually, boots that are 9 inches or more have this feature.
Weight
Composite material has been suggested to replace steel materials in work boots. Although the material is lightweight, it should guarantee you the same protection steel provides to your feet. Some sound arguments to this is that, despite fact that steel gives protection, you cannot wear work boots fitted with steel in places where you work around electricity and water.
Rubber soles can also come with considerable weight, along with the material used to make the entire shoe. If you are planning to use the boots in muddy paths, especially for long distances, it may take you longer and more difficult to maneuver.
Electrical surge protection
When it comes to work boots, you will realize that most of them are fit for use in work places that use electricity intensely. However, your needs determine your choice. Work boots can be determined if they are fit for static dissipation or electrical harm. Basically, these boots are bad conductors of electricity.
The static dissipation pair however, has a special insole that protects you from accumulated static electricity. They are ideal if you are working in companies that manufacture sensitive electronics.
Resistant heel and toe
No matter where you work, one thing that you should put into consideration is stability. Slippery surfaces are everywhere and you need shoes that have a good traction. Puncture resistant plates in work boots are good in protecting you from sharp objects. Acid is one corrosive substance you will need to avoid as well and you will need soles that are acid resistant.
If your job involves climbing, you should give special attention to the heel. It should be at least three quarters of an inch high and a 45 degrees bevel.
Break in period
If you are looking for work boots that you want to put into use immediately, watch out for the break in period. Durability and toughness makes boots meet their purpose. However, some boots can take a couple of weeks for you to feel comfortable. Hence, you need to check on the break in period.
Effectiveness
Working in industries that deal with projects such as roofing, flooring and concrete, you require work boots that can reduce damage to the work being done. Work boots with wedges are the ideal shoes to work with in such environments because they are easy to clean. They should also be tight fitting and comfortable, with proper lacing.
Weather resistance
It’s no rocket science that work boots are crucial when working in bad weather conditions. Keeping parts of your body warm is always a priority. Weather conditions can impact your health in a very negative way if you don’t have the right gear.
When it comes to comes to cold weather you don’t need steel boots! You need properly insulated work boots. If you are in an area that experienced too much snow, you will need to get a pair that’s tough and rough to give you a good traction.
Breathability
It’s paramount to have work boots that fit comfortably around your feet, but not too tight. Too tight shoes end up making your feet uncomfortable. Moreover, bad angles in the shoes may cause unwanted injuries. If you will be engaging in toe reaching, then you will need a boot that is a bit high to give you an extra inch. These high reaching boots should bend freely to avoid injuring your feet in the process.
Airflow into the feet is a good thing because it keeps your feet dry and prevents sweating which would otherwise cause your feet to stink. A work boot should thus have holes around it and cushions which helps to take up the sweat caused by high temperatures.
There is also the heat resistance factor. Work boots should be able to withstand high temperatures to make work in hot worksites tolerable. If the work boot has low breathability, you might want to consider changing shoes regularly to get healthy feet that are free from common feet diseases caused by moisture.
Best Work Boots Reviews
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Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss 6” Steel Toe
When it comes to quality, Timberland will guarantee you the best. Since 1973, the company has been designing some of the best work boots you can find in the market. Currently among the top amazon bestsellers, The Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss 6” Steel Toe Waterproof Shoe is made of nubuck leather with a midsole made of polyurethane, which prevents water from entering the boot. It has a nylon diffusion plate which acts as a shock absorber making it ideal for you when working in hard and rough surfaces.
Speaking of safety, this shoe is made to keep you protected from hazards such heat and electric shocks. The pair is lined with rubber and Cambrelle fabric which are heat resistant, and also electric shock proof which makes it suitable for electricians. It’s also fitted with a steel toe for the safety of the feet in case of an accident. This conforms to ANSI standards of safety.
And if you have smelly feet, don’t work yourself out; this boot has been treated with anti-microbial to solve that problem! So if you were looking for a shoe that’s safe, comfortable and long-lasting then this pair is the best choice for you.
Pros
- Comfortable and durable
- Interior lining has been designed and treated for breathability and odor prevention
- Steel toe cap for safety
- Comfortable suspension design to help prevent fatigue
- Conforms with ANSI standards of safety
- Electric shock and heat proof
Cons
- Might be stressful if you work in wet places because water can enter the boot
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KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe
The Keen Utility is a line of work boots with a number of pairs to suit different needs. The Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe is unique because it has a low arch design, with the heel measuring about 1.25 inches. Better yet, the pair is meticulously designed to suit the hot weather season, as it comes with plenty of breathable upper parts to keep your feet cool at all times.
When it comes to quality, Keen assures us that they didn’t cut any corners when making this short. It features asymmetrical steel toe and a slip resistant sole, keeping your toes safe at all times. The shoes also feature a removable dual density foot bed and a dual density EVA mid sole, both of which are made to offer you serious comfort.
Pros
- Slip resistant rubber sole
- Breathable mesh lining
- Steel toe for extra safety
- Cool design
Cons
- Zero arch support
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Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boot
Founded in 1883, Wolverine has been a favorite brand for many Americans for well over 130years. The Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boot comes with two great features (among others) that you will absolutely love; quality and experience. The quality of the shoe is superb owing to the excellent craftsmanship. This boot is made up of high quality leather and mesh linings, which will give you a good protection from the elements of nature, as well as substances such as oil and other chemicals. It’s also resistant to abrasion.
The rubber sole and the 2.5kgs weight of the shoe enable you to work on rugged terrains and harsh environments, and guarantee you durability, withstanding wear and tear. This versatile boot can be used in every season also for indoor and outdoor activities. The padded soft collars provide comfort that enables you to wear the boot the whole day without getting fatigued.
Pros
- Comfortable with easy lacing
- Comes with pad for shock absorption lessening fatigue
- Original tough leather making it durable
- Water and oil resistant
- Mesh lining for breathability
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy
- Lace hooks might wear off after sometime
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Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic steel Toe Waterproof Boot
Being one of the biggest work boot manufacturer, we thought, why not include another Caterpillar pair in our review? The Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Steel Toe Waterproof deserves this spot, and for a good reason. The boot provides comfort and unmatched safety, not to mention high insulation material used it decreases high impact on tough surfaces trails and keep you warm
The sole of this boot is made in a way that suits all kind of terrains, making it easier for you to walk on rough or steeply terrain. The sole also has an extra grip for safety. You don’t need to worry about durability because there is an assurance of wearing the shoes for years without the sole coming out.
You may wonder; can you wear the Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic the boot during the cold season? Well, yes. Not only does it have an insulation of 200 grams; it also comes with firm foam that is insulated in the waterproof leather cover.
What we like
- Steel toe
- Comfortable
- Rubber sole for great traction
- Quality leather material
- Insulation materials to keep you warm
- Rubber over the steel toe protecting it from scratches
What we don’t like
- For a comfortable fit you need to size down
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Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe
Founded over a century ago, Thorogood first entered the market in 1964, and it has not disappointed its customers. When it comes to work boots, one of its most popular pairs is the Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe. Whether you work in the industrial sector or you are a fan of hiking, this work boot will suit your needs. The dull brown colored tough leather with different stitching techniques makes it ideal for tough working environments. The steel toe cap is good for protection in case of an accident.
The sole is tough giving you a good traction while working on slippery surfaces and it’s electric resistant as well. This makes you safe and stable while at work. The lacing is ideal for all your feet’s needs and the extra ankle support that is adaptable to all environments. The pair is also equipped with removable inserts and velvet soft insides to make them comfortable to wear for longer hours.
Pros
- Versatile; can be used for different tasks
- Comfortable and durable.
- Can be worn for long hours without getting fatigued.
- Electric resistant
- Can support extra weight
Cons
- Smaller in size than the standard shoe.
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Red Wing Heritage Men’s Classic Moc 6″ Boot
When it comes to tough boots, Red Wing takes the credit for producing some of the toughest boots in the market. The Heritage Men’s Classic Moc 6″ Boots were manufactured for combat in first and Second World War. The pair comes with a thick sole perfectly lined to give good support from the toes to the heel. This makes them suitable for you when working on hard ground, rugged terrains and concrete floors.
This pair features a welt and triple stitch seam which makes it durable. The boots are lightweight and stylish, making them ideal for both official and manual work. Although some people might find them uncomfortable the first few days, you will appreciate the pair after some time as they are made to fit into any kind of feet.
Pros
- They are lightweight
- good traction
- Original tough leather
- Durable due to the triple stitch and welt design
- Versatile
Cons
- Might be uncomfortable for a few days
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Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot
Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot is a great example of what Carhartt is all about, For starters it has good padding along the ankle and the arch giving your feet perfect stability and support. The boot’s tongue is also designed with a padding that gives a soft feeling providing extra comfort. The pair is 100% leather making it durable and tough. The tough leather makes it resistant to oil and chemicals that you may come in contact with as you perform any kind of jobs that deal with these substances.
The thick sole has been designed to give a good traction ideal for all sorts of environments: muddy, icy, snowy and rainy among others. It comes with shock absorption features, which keeps your feet safe. The laces are strong and long lasting, tying them makes the shoe fit you perfectly.
Pros
- Durable and tough
- Comfortable and soft
- Can be worn in different kinds of environment
- Resistant to oil and other chemicals
- Has a good traction
- Waterproof
Cons
- Some might find it hard to put on for the first time
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Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
Talking of shoes that can endure anything, Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot is no exception. The pair is made by a brand that has cemented its reputation among customers worldwide. The shoes incorporate rough, rugged and tough material making them perfect for use in any type of environment. If you have the smelly feet problem, then this boot is ideal for you. The internal mesh nylon linings remove moisture which makes the shoe smelly, making odor a thing of the past.
The rubber sole is tough making them slip resistant and gives a good traction enabling you work in rainy or even oily surfaces. It also comes with a plush soft collar and retractable sock liner making it comfortable to wear all day long. The steel toe covered by the tough leather keeps your feet safe in case of accidents. The shank is made of steel giving you a good stability and support.
Pros
- Versatile and durable
- Comfortable to wear
- Has a good traction
- Oil resistant and water proof
- Ideal for smelly feet problem
- Safe and stable thanks to the steel toe and shank
Cons
- The insulation can be wanting
- Some might find the pair a bit heavy
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Danner Men’s Bull Run 6” Work Boot
Apart from the great esthetic qualities that Danner Men’s Bull Run 6” Work Boot come with, this boot gives you great functionality at work. Although you might find the ankle of this work boot a bit short, it provides you with perfect support. The construction is comprised of full grain oiled tough leather which makes it durable and heavy duty. The 6 inch shaft from the arch to toe, together with Ortholite cushioning foot bed provides you with a great deal of support and comfort. The oil resistant sole is also slip resistant providing an excellent traction.
And when it comes to stability and strength, this shoe is actually handcrafted and stitched down to making it tough and difficult to wear and tear. The boot has the ASTM F2892-11 EH electric hazard protection system making it safe to work in power intensive jobs.
Pros
- Tough full-grain leather makes it durable
- Oil resistant outer sole
- Electric shock resistant
- Comes with strength and stability owing to stitch down and handcrafted design
- Has a good traction and it’s slip resistant
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Some might find it a bit heavy
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KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot
Some of the most important factors that we all consider when buying a shoe is undoubtedly durability and comfort. The KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot comes with tough leather making it long lasting and also resistant to stains. And when it comes to quality and safety, Keen utility combines a number of features to make it one of the best work boots you can find in the market.
These shoes might look like sport shoes but they are actually versatile shoes that you can work with in all kinds of work. It’s designed with a steel toe cap that guarantees you safety just in case of an accident. The soles have a good traction that enables you work on slippery floors. The pair also comes with a membrane that lets air in providing breathability to keep your feet dry all the time. This pair has a footbed that is atomically designed to provide you with the much-needed comfort.
KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot is one boot that gives stability, safety and comfort, all wrapped in one.
Pros
- Provides good traction
- versatile and comfortable
- Breathability ensures your feet stay dry all day long
- Its water and stain resistant
Cons
- Sole might wear out after using for some time
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Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe EH Logger Boot
Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe EH Logger Boot comes with two great features that are very important when you are looking for a good work boot: quality and versatility! The brand behind it – Chippewa – has been around for over a century, meaning that it has what it takes to make quality footware
The EH Logger Boot is constructed with tough high quality leather and soles made of military-grade synthetic, making them very durable and efficient to work with. Thanks to the combination of Ruby Dri Lex 2000 Chip-A-Tex, which ensures your feet are dry, cool and comfortable in the harshest natural and industrial environments, and Ruby Dri Lex 2000 technology, which guarantees comfort, dryness and cool feet, you can wear this pair all day long without any complaints.
Pros
- Highly comfortable ensuring longer working hours
- Traction and stability makes them ideal for slippery surfaces
- Comes with sophisticated waterproof technology
- Electric shock proof
- Retractable insoles making them easy to clean
- Tough leather that guarantees durability
Cons
- Can be a bit expensive, but if you are after quality then it’s worth every nickel
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Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Classic Plain Toe, Safety Toe Boot
Apart from their great visual qualities, Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Classic Plain Toe, Safety Toe Boots are incredibly tough, comfortable and safe. These high work boots are made of brown, tough grain leather combined with cotton lining which makes them tough and durable, and at the same time breathable. The latter feature makes it ideal when you are working in hot and sunny environments.
The rubber sole of this pair incorporates a tough design, which provides you with a good traction when working on slippery surfaces. The waterproof welt construction makes it ideal for working in rainy seasons. The pair has removable inserts that made of Poron cushions that make them very comfortable to wear. The adjustable lacing makes it easy to put on, with virtually no break in period.
Pros
- Retractable soft inserts makes them comfortable to wear
- Shock absorbent sole makes the pair ideal fit for tough environments
- Tough full-grain leather makes it durable
- Rubber sole gives a good traction in slippery surfaces
- Welt construction makes it water proof
Cons
- some might find them a bit high
- might be somewhat heavy for some few people
Conclusion And Final Work Boots Recommendations
See? Finding the best work boots for your needs doesn’t have to be a difficult endeavor. With the right information, you can know what you need to keep in mind and some of the best choices you should consider. These picks have made it to our list for good reasons; besides the fact that they incorporate quality materials to last you for long, they are comfortable and ideal for different situations.
If you are looking for a great pair for the summer season – you know, when the weather is extremely hot – we suggest you go for the Keen Utility Atlanta Cool Work Boot. This pair does not only prioritize on comfort and protection, it also incorporates features to help your feet remain cool even in the hot conditions. With these shoes, you are not going to worry about melting your feet as you attend to your duties.
For those who want a pair that’s ideal for the winter season, when the temperatures are really low, the Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe EH Logger Boot would be a great choice. Although this boot is a bit heavy, it is made using quality leather and military-grade synthetic material, making it not only durable but also effective to work with. To keep your feet warm, comfortable and dry, the boots are made with a combination of two technologies: Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe EH Logger Boot and Ruby Dri Lex 2000.
If you are in search for a pair that’s completely waterproof, but lacks breathability, we suggest you go for the Timberland PRO Men’s Titan 6″ Waterproof Safety-Toe Work Boot. This pair is made of nubuck leather and features a polyurethane midsole, ensuring that it’s completely waterproof. To make it even more appealing, Timberland has included a nylon diffusion plate inside the shoes to allow it to absorb shock whenever you use them in hard surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Boots
Q: How can I know the Most Comfortable Work Boots?
A: There are qualities you need to check in order to conclude on the comfortability, that is; ankle-supporting shafts, shock absorption, composite metatarsal guards, waterproof, slip-resistant sole and are they well-sewn welt constructed. The shoes should also be made of a breathable material. Not to forget, they should be flexible and lightweight. Most people seem to be going for composite-toe work boots.
Q: What are Metatarsal Work Boots?
A: Simply put, these are Boots that protect the middle of your feet – that that is the long bones in your feet located between the rest of the toe (ossa tarsi) and the toe bones.
Q: Which is the Best Brand of Work Boots?
A: There are many manufacturers that specialize in making a wide range of boots, with their most common lines being tactical and work boots. Basically, any major company will be a good bet, but it looks like more people are more inclined to specific brands. At the moment votes are going for Timberland, Caterpillar and Thorogood, Wolverine, Skechers and Ariats.
Q: Why are the best Work Boots made of leather?
A: We know that leather is a durable material and has been used to make a variety of pairs, not just work boots. Considering you’ll be wearing work boots all day long, you’d be right to go for a pair made of pure leather. However, note that this material may not the best for a cold season/weather because it doesn’t have insulation capability.
Q: Which Work Boots should I wear for cold-weather?
A: Good question. Now that you know leather is awful for cold weather, you may just wonder, what other option do you have? When buying a work boot ensure it’s made of material that provides adequate insulation. You will find pairs with rating between 100 and 1000 thinsulate gram ratings. If you want your feet to remain warm and dry when doing hectic jobs, the rating should be 200 and above.
Q: How do I get to know which the Wedge Work Boots are?
A: Wedge boots are mostly recommended for flooring professionals. These boots tend to minimize the contact on the unfriendly surfaces such as the concrete. Wedge boots are made of rubber and have flat heel soles, so ensure you check these factors before you hit that ‘buy’ option.
Q: Why should I Choose Steel-Toe Boots?
A: Work boots are designed for touch environments, say a work site where you’ll need to keep on lifting stuff, which could drop from time to time. The tools or equipment you lift are usually heavy, so you should be wearing a pair that is capable of protecting your feet in case of anything. The best pair to guarantee you this kind of protection is one with a steel toe, often known as a steel-toe boot.
Q: Which Work Boots does USA make?
A: The boots made in the USA may be a bit more expensive than the others. These boots include; Reebok, Bates, Avenger, Justin, Danner, Hampton, Chippewa, Wolverine, Sheplers, Red Wing, Keen, Thorogood, Rockport and Florsheim. Some boots are made from other countries and then later imported to the U.S.A.
Q: How Do I Benefit from Comfortable Work Boots If I Have Medical Condition?
A: Yes. You see, there are work boots specifically designed for people with medical conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis, flat feet or wide feet. If you are suffering from any of these, you should be very precise on comfort and support when buying a shoe. If you are not comfortable, walking will be a problem let alone working.
Q: Should I Choose Work Boots According to the Work Environments?
A: You need the right shoes for every environment. Wearing high-quality shoes for the wrong environment won’t cut it. Boots that provide superior traction are for people working around oily, muddy or wet surfaces because they create good balance to avoid slipping. For hot conditions you should wear a shoe that has breathable lining, moisture-wicking technology and also antimicrobial feature that protects against odor and sweat. You will find plenty of options out there that provide this feature.
And depending on the terrain you will use the boots on, quality of the midsole and the thread used on the outsole also determines the performance provided on different surfaces. It would be hectic if you stood on concrete ground for long with a shoe that has no thick outsole, cushioned insole and is flexible enough.