Top 10 Best Work Boots Picks and Reviews 2017

No need to raid through your shoes looking for your favorite pair of work boots. Replace them with the Wolverine W02421 Raider Boots and never look back. Wolverine is an iconic American brand established in Rockford, Michigan in 1883. They combine premium materials with timeless craftsmanship. Wolverine boots are built to withstand the toughest environments, with a focus on providing your feet all day comfort. Today, Wolverine leads the industry with a relentless commitment to innovation.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 1lb. 10 oz.
• Heel Height: 1 ¼ in.
• Shaft: 6 in.
• Platform Height: ¾ in.

Sexiness

These Wolverine Raiders come in a stunning, reddish brown color and rugged design. We love the contrast stitched details and the careful attention they’ve put into the appearance of these boots.

Performance & Durability

Whether you work in construction, hazardous environments, or the outdoors, the Wolverine Raiders will keep your feet protected all day and night. The Wolverine Raiders feature Multishox technology – with multiple compressed pads on the outsole in the heel and forefoot, it absorbs the jarring shock of each step and returns energy where you need it most. The Multishox outsole is slip, oil, abrasion, chemical, and heat resistant, all while maintaining ASTM standards for electrical hazards. The tongue is gusseted and does a wonderful job preventing debris, pebbles, and sand getting inside your boots. The interior has a moisture managing mesh-lining to keep your nasty sweat away. These are undoubtedly the best lightweight work boots and are truly built to last.

Comfort & Fit

These shoes come in wide and extra wide widths. The boots run standard. But if you have narrow feet, you may find these boots to run a little large. They’re extremely comfortable to walk around in once broken in (it takes about a week of regular wear). For your convenience, the insoles are fully cushioned and removable. The padded collar and tongue ensure a snug fit for ultimate comfort. Each step feels flexible due to the classic Wolverine Contour Welt construction on the bottom (kind of like athletic shoes). The lightweight polyurethane midsole provides you extra support and stability, making these incredibly breathable work boots too. The traditional lacing system has two-speed hooks at the top to give you a more secure fit.

Price

For a little over $100, these give you outstanding value for a mid-priced work boot. Depending on your shoe size, prices can range from absolute bargain to more than reasonable.

Bottom Line

Be an alpha male or female with the Wolverine Raiders. We highly recommend these high-quality work shoes for those who spend long hours on their feet. These are incredible boots for work, and even for casual wear. Exceptional and comfortable steel toe work boots that are light, and shock absorbent. Once broken-in, it’s like walking on thin air! You will not be disappointed.

In the late 1880’s, from the back of his father’s Milwaukee cobbler shop, a young Albert Weinbrenner set out to design specialized safety boots for the new trade of telephone lineman working around the state of Wisconsin installing private and public exchanges. He was successful.

Today, over 120 years later, Albert’s company, The Weinbrenner Shoe Company, is still the leading manufacturer and pioneering force in the occupational footwear industry. The Thorogood brand was first introduced in 1918. And it has grown into the company’s premiere collection, delivering comfort, fit, safety and performance.

Design

• Material: Tobacco Oil-Tanned Leather
• Weight: 1lb. 11.2 oz.
• Shaft: 6 ½ in.

Sexiness

Traditional look for the modern worker. The Thorogood American Heritage Moc Boots are incredibly stylish. Soft toe design, made with rich brown oil-tanned leather.

Performance & Durability

One of the best steel toe work boots that are ideal for long hours on the job! The Thorogood American Heritage has a removable dual-density ultimate shock-absorption insert to ease the impact. And you can’t beat the durability either – Goodyear welt construction means that these guys are stitched rather than glued to the sole, so they’re fully repairable for years of wear. These boots come with a heavy-duty outer sole which is designed to give you the needed grip when you encounter a slippery surface. On top of that, you won’t have to resole these boots for several years after constant wear.

Oil and slip resistant – the Thorogoods meet ASTM standards. They’re also tested for and meets CAN/CSA-Z195 18,000 volts electrical shock resistance standards. This pair is almost perfect, but there is one caveat: They aren’t waterproof. If your work requires you to walk through water that comes up above your ankle or if your shoes are constantly getting soaked, you may want to look for another option.

Comfort & Fit

Comfort and fit are where the Thorogood American Heritage Boots excel. These are one of the most comfortable composite toe shoe right out of the box – you don’t have to worry about breaking them in. The fit is crucial when you purchase footwear. When you’re wearing these for an extended period of time, you need them to be perfect, whether you’re an electrician, construction site surveyor, or cook. Luckily, these boots are available in normal, wide, and narrow feet sizes. Thanks to this, you don’t have to compromise on one of the most important aspects when it comes to comfort.

There’s plenty of cushion for your feet which is what makes these the comfiest work boots around. The footbed is removable – the Poron 4000 cushion provides support all day long. Furthermore, the rubber midsole provides added comfort. The engineered composite shank offers you excellent support and stability. There are traditional lace-ups with metal eyelets and hooks for a sturdy, comfortable fit. And lastly, the cotton drill vamp lining provides your feet superior breathability.

Price

Expensive work boots, but of the highest quality. Worth every dollar.

Bottom Line

Add a little style to your step with the Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe shoes. One of the most fashionable looking and most comfortable safety shoes out on the market. Don’t be surprised if people start asking you where you got them. These will keep you safe everywhere you go during your long, working hours. Excellent quality and American made!

Slipping on something is bad. And it hurts. Slipping into something is good. And comfortable. Especially when it’s the Dr. Marten Icon Industrial Strength Steel Toe Boots.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 2.13 lbs.

Sexiness

A sleek and grunge-style pair of work shoes for those who have personality.

Performance & Durability

This industrial slip on work boot has a steel toe cap and has additional insulation that will help protect you against accidental contact with dangerous materials. The rich, water-resistant tumbled leather uppers on a welted construction footbed offer exceptional stability and durability.

The smooth, soft leather, with an oily coating, gives the pair a waxy feel. It is also an S2 EN certified leather, meaning it is water-resistant and has passed the permeability test (a measure of water vapor transmission showing the leather will breathe and keep the foot comfortable). Keep in mind, however, that these are not waterproof work boots. Just water-resistant.

Slip and oil resistant lug outsoles provide grip traction on various terrains. They’re also rated electrical hazard-resistant for protection against shock. Speaking of protection, this pair also boasts ANSI-approved steel toes to guard against impacts, falling objects, and other potential foot hazards you man encounter while on the job.

Comfort & Fit

Inside these shoes, you’ll find Dr. Martens signature Air Wave midsoles and soft, cushioned insoles which deliver outstanding, easy-wearing support for long-lasting comfort. Fitted with an EVA footbed and padded ankle support, these ensure total comfort and a supreme fit. Say goodbye to laces and hello to protective slip on comfort with these boots. The lace-free design boasts two pull-tabs for easy on and off and reinforced stitching for strength. These are definitely the most comfortable slip on work boots on the market.

Price

The price varies depending on the size, but the average is an affordable mid-range.

Bottom Line

Dr. Marten’s Icon Industrial Strength Steel Toe Boots are a phenomenal choice for workers in hazardous environments that have higher risks for slips and falls. These heavy-duty, durable slip on, steel toe boots from Dr. Martens is made for rugged reliability. This pair of industrial, lightweight steel toe work boots is durable, requires minimal maintenance, and can last you many years!

Timberland is best known for the original yellow boot introduced in 1973. Today, Timberland outfits consumers from head-to-toe, with versatile collections that reflect the brand’s rich heritage of craftsmanship, function and style. This, of course, includes safety shoes as well.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 1.58 lbs.
• Heel Height: 1 ½ in.
• Shaft: 5 ½ in.

Sexiness

These classic work shoes have a timeless look and proudly displays the Timberland logo on the tongue.

Performance & Durability

The Goodyear welt construction gives this footwear rugged durability. The rubber outsole is abrasion, slip, and oil resistant and ensures unsurpassed traction for working on wet or slippery surfaces.

The steel toe construction meets ANSI safety standards. Additionally, the steel toe meets I/75 and C/75 impact and compression ASTM F2412-11 and F2413-11 safety standards. Meets ASTM F2412-11, ASTM F2413-11 and ASTM F2892-11 electrical hazard standards to provide secondary underfoot protection against the hazards of stepping on live electrical circuits, electrically-energized conductors, parts, or apparatus.

Comfort & Fit

These are decently comfortable, right out of the box. The toe box is roomier than its competitors. This means no foot pain even after long hours of hard work. Padded tongue and collar for added comfort. PRO 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology is a unique comfort system that meets the most rigorous worksite demands. It helps reduce foot fatigue by supporting your foot arch and cushions every step. You can remove the open-cell polyurethane footbed with antimicrobial treatment for comfort and odor control. The traditional lace-up design with metal eyelets and cast metal top hooks ensure you a secure fit.

I wouldn’t recommend these shoes for casual use (like the Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Boots), but it’s great for workwear.

Price

An affordable choice, without sacrificing quality.

Bottom Line

The Timberland PRO Pit Boss Steel Toe Boot is everything a work boot should be: safe, durable, and comfortable. While it does an excellent job protecting your feet, it’s not as comfortable as the more popular work boots in its category. But go ahead, just try to wear them out. These are tough guys.

Compared to its competitors, Keen is a young brand. In 2003, the first Keen shoes were invented to answer the question, “Can a sandal protect your toes?”— and they featured a signature thick black toe bumper. Keen found a ready market for sailing and other outdoor and water activities. Named 2003’s “Launch of the Year” by the shoe industry’s leading trade publication, Footwear News, they now protect your feet with the Keen Utility Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 1 lb. 7 oz.

Sexiness

If you love shoes with an athletic and sporty design, these are for you. A low cut, casual style, with all the benefits of a steel toe work shoe.

Performance & Durability

Keen Utility Flint Boots feature asymmetrical toe protection specifically made to fit your left and right foot, protecting from the big toe to the little toe. Molded reinforcement on the toe box safeguards against abrasion and mild impact. Combining functional design and innovative shape, these shoes keep your toes safe from the unexpected. The contoured heel lock increase lockdown. These shoes feature a waterproof nubuck leather upper.

The outsole is a non-marking, oil and slip resistant rubber material. The Keen Utility Flints meet ASTM F2412-11 and F2413-11 I/75 C/75 standards.

Comfort & Fit

The larger toe box lets your toes breath and spread out, the way they were meant to, and it allows room to move and flex, preventing pinching when the foot is hyper-flexed. For this very reason, it’s one of the best breathable boots you can get. The internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support and cradle the natural contours of your foot. The breathable mesh enhances airflow. The tongue and heel pull loops make it easier to take these shoes off and put them on. For added comfort, there is a plush tongue and collar.

Price

The Keens are set at a mid-price point.

Bottom Line

The Keen Utility Flint Low Boots are great carpenter work boots, but they are also good construction boots for contractors traveling from job to job, or individuals working at warehouses. This steel toe performer is a durable, protective work boot with the comfort of an outdoor shoe. Great quality and fit!

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 2 lbs. 1 oz.
• Shaft: 5 ½ in.

Sexiness

These Keens will appeal to individuals who like hiking shoes with an outdoorsy appearance.

Performance & Durability

The Keen Pittsburgh Safety Boots are very robust and have a willingness to tackle a hard day’s job. What describes the city of Pittsburgh is also fitting for these safety shoes of the same name. Working on dirt surfaces and concrete, they hold up rather well. Proven performance powers you through your shifting toes one shoe at a time.

Weatherproof, with torsional support, steel toes and an outsole that holds firm all make these worthy of the town it was named after, famous for getting tough jobs done. Getting these boots wet is not a problem. Constructed with a waterproof nubuck leather lining and a waterproof breathable membrane, these shoes prevent water from creeping in and getting your feet wet. These are one of the most comfortable waterproof work boots, so walking through puddles is not an issue, as your feet will remain dry.

Comfort & Fit

Like the Keen Utility Flint Lows, they feature left and right asymmetrical steel toes for a more comfortable, roomier fit. The interior is lined with hydrophobic and hydrophilic 2-zone comfort technology. The locking metal hook and lacing eyelets provide you a secure fit. Also, inside is a removable metatomical dual-density EVA footbed.

The outsole is non-marking, oil and slip-resistant. Regarding safety, the steel toe meets or exceeds ASTM F2412-11 and F2413-11 I/75 C/75 EH standards.

These safety shoes are heavier than some of our other top picks. So, if you’re looking for lightweight waterproof work boots, the Keen Pittsburghs may not be the best choice for your next purchase.

Price

These are pretty expensive safety shoes.

Bottom Line

Steel, tough, and ready to tackle a hard day’s work. More than just footwear, this is a tool to get the job done right. The Keen Utility Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots are ideal for outdoor workers where you might be in contact with weather fluctuations. They aren’t the cheapest, but they’re one of the best shoes for construction workers, farmers, electricians, machinery operators, and many other occupations that would benefit from high-quality, dependable safety shoes. With a long list of technology and features, this boot fends off fatigue and preserves your energy so you’ve got something left in the tank even after your shift is over.

Dr. Martens are usually known for being fashion forward with edgy designs for rockers and celebrities. But the Ironbridge Safety Toe Boots are a badass pair of work shoes you’ll love wearing around everywhere.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: 2 ½ pounds
• Shaft: 7 in.
• Platform Height: 1 in.

Sexiness

The Dr. Martens Ironbridge rocks a rustic appearance. Make a fashion statement at work with these on your feet.

Performance & Durability

Get your work done with these Ironbridge boots from Dr. Martens. A tough leather upper, durable rubber outsole and iconic yellow stitching are all familiar features. Dr. Martens’ Ironbridge Boots are ready to devour your work floor with superior strength and stabilizing traction. Overall, the shock absorption levels perform well. The uppers are also nicely designed. They probably have the most padding out of all its competitors. And because it’s made from ballistic mesh, it keeps your ankles and upper foot cushioned without blocking air circulation.

The slip- and oil-resistant PVC outsole is heat sealed and welted on for added durability. This tread design can take on the toughest terrain without flinching. The water-resistant leather keeps water out of your boots and provides sturdy protection against the any element you may encounter outside. You’ll have a safe walk in the most extreme work environments thanks to the ASTM-approved steel toe.

Comfort & Fit

The padded footbed delivers soft support toe to heel while the moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet dry. Since they come with a decent insole (not amazing but decent) they are comfortable for 10+ hour shifts standing and walking around. The heavy-duty metal eyelets and lace carriers work in conjunction with the industrial strength cord lacing to keep your feet snug and fit.

Note that these men’s work boots are on the heavier and chunkier side compared to some of our top choices. The benefit of thicker boots, however, is that they give your feet additional protection (which you may need when you’re out at work).

Price

Depending on the size, the price can range from mid to a higher price range.

Bottom Line

If you want a stylish and cool looking pair of safety shoes that provide your feet protection, these Dr. Martens are for you. The only downside is that the insole could be a little more comfortable, considering the higher price point of these shoes. But these are heavy-duty shoes for a hard worker like you.

Ladies, we haven’t forgotten about you. Most pairs cater towards men. It’s frustrating when you can’t find shoes in your size. That’s why we’ve included Skechers Workshire Peril Steel Toe Boots for Women.

Celebrity product endorsees for Skechers’ lifestyle collections include multi-platinum recording artists Camila Cabello and Meghan Trainor, actor Rob Lowe, model and actress Kelly Brook, TV personality Brooke Burke-Charvet, and athletic legends like David Ortiz, Joe Montana, Sugar Ray Leonard and Howie Long. While they may not be a boss working woman like you, Skechers has created the perfect pair of safety shoes with you in mind!

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: N/A
• Heel Height: 1 ½ in.
• Shaft: 5 ¼ in.

Sexiness

These women’s work boots feature a minimalistic design in black, dark brown, and wheat colors. Features stitching accents, reinforced stitched seam detail, and an embossed logo on the side.

Performance & Durability

Buffalo crazy horse leather upper for protection with a padded tongue and collar. The Skechers Workshire Perils are innovative footwear designed with a durable, ultra-lightweight toe, and made with high-grade materials for superior strength, protection and comfort. Shock-absorbing midsole provides comfortable support. Side and heel leather overlays for added stability.

Meets ASTM F2413-2011. I/75 C/75 standards for impact and compression. The slip resistant outsoles are tested following the ASTM F11677-2005 Mark II testing standards on clean Red Quarry tile – they meet or exceed a result of 0.40 under wet and oily conditions.

Unfortunately, this style is not waterproof. If you need work boots that have this feature, you will want to consider an alternative option.

Comfort & Fit

Runs true to size. Great fit – not too bulky (which is great news for women with smaller feet). These lightweight safety shoes feature the Relaxed Fit design for a roomier, more comfortable fit. The removable gel-infused footbed has a memory foam cushioning for all-day comfort – it makes a long shift easier on your feet. The leather is a little stiff at first. But once broken-in, they feel amazing! Comes with a traditional lace-up design with sturdy metal eyelets for a secure fit.

Price

They run from cheap to a mid-price range depending on your size and the color of the boots you choose.

Bottom Line

Highly recommended for working women who are on their feet all day and require strong, lightweight steel toe work boots. Challenging work environments will never slow you down with these tough Skechers Women’s Work Workshire Boots.

EVER BOOTS was created based on the philosophy of providing boots that are held accountable for their quality, durability, and affordability. Tank, the first design, was launched in October of 2015 and the company has grown to house various styles of boots. This pair is  suited to be worn casually, as well as tough enough for you to work efficiently with.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: N/A
• Shaft: 7 in.

Sexiness

Classic fashion can meet durability thanks to EVER BOOTS “Tank” Work Boots.

Performance & Durability

For the price, these are solid work shoes. Unfortunately, the EVER BOOTS scuff very easily. They will get a lot of marks and scratches once you start wearing them out, but they get the job done. Premium leather felt, allowing easy wearing with back Loop and speed hooks. They feature Goodyear Welt Construction. Moreover, they can be resoled repeatedly.

This pair does not have steel toes. If your workplace requires you to wear footwear that fulfills ASTM standards, these do not qualify.

Comfort & Fit

You will want to order a size up from your usual shoe size. These run approximately half a size bigger than Timberlands and Caterpillar work shoes. Slightly uncomfortable for the first day or two of breaking them in, but it was by no means unbearable. Once broken in, they’re not too bad.

Price

Good cheap work boots! In fact, they’re the least expensive out of our top rated work shoes for 2017!

Bottom Line

The EVER BOOTS are entry-level, basic safety shoes. We recommend it for environments that don’t require you to wear safety standard shoes. It’s safer than regular sneakers, but not as protective as the rest of our top picks. If you’re doing some gardening or light outdoor work, these are a good choice.

As the world’s foremost manufacturer of heavy equipment, Cat earthmovers are known around the world as a symbol of honest work, strength and integrity. Caterpillar Footwear makes boots and shoes based on these same principles.

Design

• Material: Leather
• Weight: N/A
• Heel Height: 1 ½ in.
• Shaft: 6 ½ in.
• Platform Height: ¾ in.

Sexiness

The Caterpillar Second Shifts are handsome and vintage looking that come in dark brown and honey.

Performance & Durability

When you’re pulling a grueling shift, the last thing you need is a pair of fragile work boots. You need strong support under your feet to keep yourself going for hours. The Caterpillar Second Shifts guard your feet against injuries caused by rolling or falling objects. They’re also rated for electrical hazard protection – this means you’re guarded when you’re around open circuits and your electronic equipment is protected when you’re working in highly-charged environments. The T3 rubber outsoles create tight traction and provide you slip-resistant safety. Rubber midsoles absorb the impact from your work floor. Goodyear Welt construction connect each element of these light steel toe boots together with supreme durability, stitching the uppers to the outsoles. This construction system offers repairable soles and a contoured fit. The steel toe meets ASTM F2413-11 I/75 C/75, EH standards.

Comfort & Fit

These safety shoes come in medium and wide widths. Although the boots are made from quality materials and seem very durable, it’s not very comfortable. It’s a bummer that the insoles aren’t as comfortable as some of its competitors. This can be fixed by wearing an additional layer of socks or swapping out the insoles.

Hot, achy feet making the overtime miserable? These Boots hit the mark with a Climasphere lining that helps regulate the temperature inside the boots to keep your feet cool and dry. Additionally, the Climasphere wicks moisture to help prevent blisters.

Price

Super cheap steel toe boots.

Bottom Line

For entry level shoes, these are impressively stylish, all while protecting your feet. These shoes provide excellent steel toe coverage and solid grip on the bottom. The only downfall is they could use better cushioning for foot comfortability. But for the cheaper price, you get a lot for what you pay.

Having the right pair of work boots that fit you perfectly will make an enormous difference in your performance and safety while you are on the job. If you aren’t tied to a desk, then you are probably working on all types of terrain and a good pair can literally save you from electric shocks, ankle sprains, cold temperatures and other hazards that are often found on a jobsite.

Work shoes can do more than just save your toes from unexpected accidents, and a good pair goes a long way. However, choosing which is right for you can get tricky. It often depends on your daily working conditions, along with the terrain. Keep reading to find out how to choose the right footwear for your job.

How Work Shoes Should Fit

The fit is incredibly important. When you have finished a long day, your feet should not feel like they are being squeezed, rubbed raw or have painful blisters appear. When your boots are too small or tight it usually results in foot problems that can be uncomfortable, and even make walking and standing almost unbearable. Ingrown toenails, corns and blister will be common, and other more serious problems can also develop.

With the wide variety of sizes available there really is no excuse for anyone to wear the wrong size men’s or women’s work boots. The right size can almost assure you of a full day’s comfort, while the wrong one will simply leave you feeling miserable. Taking the time to measure your feet and trying the boots on if possible will go a long way to ensuring the comfort of your feet.

Types of Work Boots

There are several types of top rated work shoes, and each comes with its own unique characteristics that make it ideal for wear in specific environments. To make the best possible choice, it is important that you are familiar with the various types. Not only will this make finding the right pair a little easier, it will also ensure that you have the right type and amount of protection to stay safe while you are working.

Steel Toe Work Boots

Steel toe boots are the most common and popular, generally because of the protection the plates can provide. The steel caps are in the front of the boots, and are designed to protect your toes from falling and protruding objects. Thanks to innovations in design and technology steel capped work boots are no longer uncomfortably heavy. They are contoured to ensure comfort, and this also helps to reduce the weight without sacrificing your safety.

Steel toe safety boots are ideal for wear at construction sites, machine shops, factories, and other industrial settings. One thing you will want to look for is to ensure that they are ASTM rated for safety and protection. It should also be noted that these boots are not designed to be worn around electrical hazards since the metal is conductive. This also means that they may not be ideal for wear in cold temperatures.

Aluminum Toe Work Boots

If weight is an issue, but you still want to meet ASTM safety standards you might want to consider a pair of aluminum toe boots. While aluminum is still capable of providing adequate protection, it is a thinner metal and this should be considered based on your working conditions. Aluminum is also a conductive metal, which means you do not want to wear them around electrical hazards. Cold temperatures might also be uncomfortable thanks to the metal toe plate.

Composite Toe Work Boots

Even though composite toe work boots are not able to provide you with the same level of protection as steel, they still have several advantages. There are many lightweight composite toe boots that are comfortable and best of all the material is not conductive. This means that you can safely wear them around electrical hazards. The material also won’t get uncomfortably hot or cold depending on the weather.

If you want to make sure that your pair of safety shoes are ASTM certified you will want the caps to be constructed from plastic, carbon fiber or even Kevlar. While plastic and carbon fiber won’t be able to provide you with the same level of protection as steel, Kevlar can though it does come at a slightly higher price.

When you are choosing a pair of composite toe shoes it is important to take a minute to consider the conditions you are usually working in.

Waterproof Work Boots

Some waterproof boots are also insulated for additional protection against the cold, and if you are frequently trudging through snow this might be the perfect choice for you. Waterproof work shoes are almost always constructed from leather, and come with sealed seams that will effectively keep your feet dry.

The weight of these will vary on the materials used in construction, and this will depend on the amount of protection you need.

Insulated Work Boots

If you frequently find yourself working in frigid weather a pair of insulated boots might be the best choice for you. These safety shoes come with an extra layer of protection against the cold and moisture. Specially engineered to be lightweight, comfortable and capable of keeping your feet warm, most also come with exceptional tracking so you can even keep your balance on slick surfaces.

Electrical Hazard Work Boots

Working around high voltage machinery and equipment, electricity, wiring or circuits is dangerous and requires the right footwear. These types are constructed with a rubber sole that will effectively prevent or reduce your risk of receiving an electrical shock. While there are pairs designed specifically for working around electrical hazards, as long as they are not constructed from conductive materials, it is safe to wear most types in these conditions.

Though, it is important that you closely follow any company regulations when it comes to the gear you wear at work.

Metatarsal Work Boots

Metatarsal work shoesare similar to pairs with steel safety toes, except they also protect the upper part of your foot. These are also referred to as “drop hazards” since they are designed to protect your feet internally and externally. If you commonly work on construction sites or jobs where there is a lot of heavy machines and equipment, you might want to consider purchasing a pair of comfortable metatarsal work boots.

Heat Resistant Work Boots

Even though these are often considered “specialty” safety boots, we still thought that there were enough industries to warrant them being included. These safety shoes are often required in professions where you are exposure to high amounts of heat on a regular basis. This can include everything from machine shops and factories to certain areas on construction or industrial sites.

The soles of the boots are constructed from heat resistant rubber that is designed to be resistant to cracking, and even charring. The best heat resistant work boots will be able to protect your feet from temperatures reaching 500 degrees Fahrenheit and higher.

Slip Resistant Work Boots

Slip resistant work shoes should never be confused with insulated or waterproof pairs. This only refers to the outsoles on the boots which are designed to provide exceptional traction on slick or uneven terrain. The added traction is usually supplied by aggressive tread patterns and a soft, grippy outer sole.

Puncture Resistant

Construction sites are dangerous enough without having to worry about where you are walking. If you are always trying to avoid stepping on nails or even shards of glass a pair of puncture resistant work shoes may be just what you need to stay safe on the job. In some industries as pair of ASTM certified puncture resistant safety boots might be required by OSHA or company policy. These typically come with interior plates that will effectively protect your feet from punctures.

Now that you are familiar with the various types of work boots, you will find that it is a little easier to choose the right pair for your job.

What to Look for in a Pair of Work Boots

There are a lot of factors that you should consider when choosing the right pair, though not all come with every benefit under the sun. However, it is important to know what features are important so you can choose the best pair of shoes that offers exactly what you need to stay safe and comfortable.

Upper Construction

The upper part of a work boot can be constructed from leather, nylon, rubber or a combination of these materials. Each has its own advantages, and depending on the conditions you are working in one material is not necessarily better than the others.

• Leather is the most common and popular choice since it is durable and capable of producing some of the most comfortable work boots, as long as it is cared for properly. It they are constructed from full grain leather they are durable and water resistant, though the thickness of the material can make them heavy and uncomfortable. Leather will form to the contours of your feet over time, and this alone is one of the reasons for its popularity.

• Nylon is not as durable as leather, but this material is lightweight and breathable. If you are looking for the comfiest work boots, you might want to consider a pair constructed from nylon.

• Rubber safety boots are waterproof and relatively easy to clean. If you can’t wipe them clean, you can easily spray the mud and grime off. While rubber or PVC boots are lightweight, they cannot bend or be adjusted for fit so not everyone finds them comfortable to wear.

• Some of the most popular and affordable safety boots are constructed from a combination of materials, typically nylon and rubber. This gives you some of the advantages of both types of materials, without significantly increasing the price. Often the upper is constructed from leather, with nylon panels inserted for breathability.

Sole Construction

It is just as important to pay attention to the soles as the upper. The sole protects the bottoms of your feet, along with providing necessary support and traction. The materials used to construct the soles of the work boots will vary, but it is important to pay attention to if you want to stay safely on your feet in almost any terrain.

• Rubber is the most common materials used to construct soles since it is resistant to oil, abrasions and slippery surfaces. If the work shoes don’t come with a rubber sole, chances are it is still included as partial simply to add to its safety or performance capabilities.

• Soles constructed from TPU or thermos-polyurethane are resistant to oil, abrasions and even some harsh chemicals. Since this synthetic material is resistant to cracking and splitting it is extremely durable, and it is also lighter in weight than rubber.

• If you are looking for the best comfortable boots you might want to consider a pair that comes with an EVA midsole. It is softer than the outer sole, and can provide additional stability and support. It is also extremely lightweight and flexible. If you need added comfort or support due to low or high arches, the addition of an EVA midsole can provide the support and soft comfort you need.

Toe Protection

Work boots can come with toe protection or none at all. It is important to check the requirements for your job before you start shopping for a pair of boots for work. If your job does require you to have toe protection, then you will want to make sure that they are ASTM certified. This will ensure that the toe cap meets or exceeds all required safety standards. Toe caps can be constructed from steel, aluminum or a composite material, and each one comes with its own advantages.

Work Boot Construction

You will also want to consider how the work boots are constructed and there are three types to choose from, stitch down, cement and molded. Each has its own advantages and the right one for you will depend on budget, working conditions and personal preference.

• Stitch down is one of the most common, and it also makes it easy to have the footwear resoled as needed. This can save you money in the long run when it comes to replacement pairs. The top work boots feature a Goodyear Welt stitch, which is one stitch that runs continuously around. This ensures maximum durability. A stitch down construction is also considered the strongest.

• Cement construction might be a little more affordable, but it is also not as durable as pairs that are stitched down. The upper part is still attached to the outsole, only it is glued instead of stitched. If you aren’t planning on subjecting your pair to constant rugged conditions this might be a more affordable option for you to consider.

• Direct or molded attach boots are not as common as other types of construction, but this method is stronger and more durable than cement. The outer sole is still attached to the upper, only now it is better able to withstand constant exposure to rugged conditions.

Common Work Boot Defects to Avoid

Even the best men’s work boots can come with an occasional defect, and it most often occurs in the stitching. This is never good news if you have just purchased the pair, but thankfully most come with a simple return policy.

So, you don’t accidentally buy a pair with stitching or other defects here are a few common examples to watch out for.

1.   The grain on top of the boots is loose instead of neat and tight.
2.   Prominent wrinkles in the outer layer of leather.
3.   Loose grain around the ankles of the boots.
4.   The leather on the tongue is wrinkled and cracked.
5.   Shallow cuts on or around the tongue.
6.   Cracking on the upper layer of leather.
7.   Gaps around the heel due to improperly folding of the material before stitching.
8.   Uneven, missing or high visible welt stitching.
9.   Puckering around the welt.

These defects can affect the shoe’s performance and durability, and this means their ability to provide adequate protection. There are a few other issues that you might also want to avoid since they affect the work boots visual appeal.

1.   Miss-matched leather panels.
2.   Forgotten or uneven finish.
3.   Non- matching half soles.
4.   Stretch marks on the leather.
5.   Visible veins on the leather.

Ultimately it is up to you to return the pair if it comes with one of these aesthetic issues. Chances are these problems won’t affect their overall performance, only the appearance. In some lines of work, it really doesn’t matter what the work boots look like as long as they are able to provide plenty of protection.

Best Work Boot Brands

It is almost impossible to list all the manufacturers as  there are simply too many. Some brands are priced out of most consumers’ budgets, while others only manufacturer a specific type of footwear for a very select industry. There are also several top-rated brands that can appeal to all consumers regardless of their budget, and they can usually be used in a variety of applications.

Some of the top selling brands of safety shoes that you might want to consider when you are shopping for your next pair can include,

•         Chippewa
•         Thorogood
•         Dayton
•         Red Wing
•         Truman Boot Company
•         Wolverine
•         Timberland
•         Keen
•         Caterpillar

These are some of the well-known and trusted brands of work boots. While not every company manufactures all types, chances are unless you are in a highly specialized field you will be able to find a pair that fits your needs.

Additional Buying Tips

Here are a few extra tips that will help you choose the best work boots to fit your feet and job.

• Research first. Find out if there are any safety requirements at work that might affect the type of shoes you purchase. This is also a good time to consider your personal needs.

• It is best to shop for boots or measure your feet in the late afternoon or evening. Your feet will swell during the day, and this is the best way to ensure that you select the right size. If you want to own the most comfortable safety shoes, it is imperative that they are the correct size.

• When shopping in a brick and mortar store it is always advisable to bring socks similar to the ones you will be wearing with the boots.

Comfort is the most important aspect to look for in a pair, after safety. Extra padding in the insoles and cushioning in the heels can make it a little easier to spend the day on your feet. If you have issues with low or high arches, you might want to consider spending a little more on the proper insert. Just because they are work shoes doesn’t mean that your feet can’t also be comfortable.

Don’t forget that almost all work boots will need some break in time before you get really comfortable with them. This really varies from boot-to-boot and I’d recommend reading reviews from other consumers to best judge this factor.

Now that you understand the differences between the various types of safety boots, and know what to look for, you can choose a pair that is right for your occupation.