Best Work Boots: Keep Your Feet Protected on the Job | Autance

Rugged enough for most jobs, these outdoor ankle boots from Timberland will look just as at home on the trail as they will in the workshop. We really liked the versatility of the White Ledge, as well as their solid good looks, and for the mid-price you get a high-quality work boot. Made from waterproof leather with a rubber grip outsole and decent ankle coverage, they are also seam-sealed to keep out the wet and the lace eyelets are waterproof. There is no steel toe cap, but the forefront is stiff and solid, meaning these are great waterproof work boots for outdoor sites where you are also up against the elements

The Second Shift is a classic work boot that’s a familiar sight on the feet of many construction workers, contractors, and mechanics. And it’s not hard to see why. First up, they look good, and the solid shape says they mean business. Made from either full-grain or nubuck leather, you get decent waterproof protection and the padded collar/high ankle design keeps your feet secure. Inside you get a steel shank, nylon mesh lining and a Climasphere sockliner for cool, fresh and protected feet, all day long.

These are stiff work boots out of the box, so take a bit of time to break them in – the effort will be repaid with a pair of hardworking boots that can take pretty much anything you can throw at them.

As full-on steel toe cap boots, the Floorhand from Wolverine gives you a quality shoe for the price. The style is pretty standard but then this is a safety boot that simply but effectively does what it says on the tin.

Quality leather, full ankle support with padding, non-slip outsole and a cushioned footbed – all the essentials for waterproof work boots are there plus you get the Wolverine craftsmanship that make these steel-toe work boots tough and reliable dudes. They are missing a bit of the insulation you’d need on a freezing winter site and a change of insole could boost the cushioned comfort factor, but overall, these are safety boots that can stay the distance.

The hardcore looks of the Boondock make you think they can deal with anything—and to be honest, when you go through the spec list, they pretty much can! These are ‘don’t mess with me’ men’s work boots with foot protection at the heart of its game. They have been reinforced with impressive-looking rubber toe protectors and the TPU lugged outsole is oil/slip/abrasion resistant to keep you on your feet. The ankle shaft is tall—6.5 inches—giving your ankles plenty of support and the whole upper of the work boot is made from waterproof ‘Ever-Guard’ leather. Be warned, these safety boots are big and quite heavy, but they do the job. And what we really like about the Boondock is Timberland’s use of anti-fatigue technology to provide long-lasting comfort and support.

The Cabela’s Kiltie 2.0 Waterproof Work Boots get a lot of love and loyalty for being a well-priced, sturdy, and all-purpose work boot. The Kiltie has the heart of a logging boot, with a fully waterproof full-grain leather upper. It’s also fully breathable and moisture-wicking to help prevent a build-up of perspiration in any temperature. The Goodyear welt securely anchors the durable upper to the acid-, oil-, and slip-resistant outsoles so that you can have sure and confident footing in a variety of harsh environments.

These boots also feature removable cushioned polyurethane insoles for added comfort. While they’re not as uber comfy as some other models, they do allow you to work comfortably for long periods. There is some concern about long-term durability of the outsoles, but most wearers seem very pleased overall.

For a reliable safety boot that can take you from construction site to workshop and everything in-between, check out the ruggedly stylish Second Shift from work boot aficionados Caterpillar. The strong internal steel toe cap on the Second Shift will keep those toes protected while the high shaft with padded collar gives superior ankle support. Underfoot you get an effective oil-resistant traction outsole, to keep your feet securely on the ground. And despite its work-horse credentials, there’s something plush about these steel toe work boots, thanks to the quality nubuck leather in a choice of three colors, making them a cool boot for non-work use too.

If you want a great combination of highly-rated protection, comfort, and style, consider the KEEN Utility Cincinnati 6” Waterproof Work Boots. They’re actually a soft-toe work boot that features Keen’s dual-density, air-infused PU Luftcell midsole, making them one of the most flexible and comfortable work boots on the market. Goodyear welt construction secures the high-performance non-marking, oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles. The outsoles meet ASTM F1677-96 MARK II and ASTM F2913-17 SATRA non-slip rating standards.

The uppers are constructed from waterproof, barnyard-resistant leather construction that’s designed to hold up against sodium chloride, ammonium hydroxide, urea, and oleic acid, making these boots ideal for farm and forest work. However, because these boots are soft-toed, you’re going to need to find another option for heavy-duty industrial or construction work.

You get the quality 100 percent leather you’d expect from Timberland, as well as a host of hardcore work features. First up, they offer effective electric hazard protection and an awesome surface grip under foot. The internal steel toe cap is also industry-standard when it comes to protection. But all this tough spec doesn’t mean the Pit Boss work boot compromises on comfort or support. Padding where you need it plus comfort suspension technology work to reduce foot fatigue meaning you can keep on the go until it’s time to clock off.

Functional and durable, Carhartt’s composite toe work boot is a great go-to for everyday work and play. Made from 100 percent leather and with a contoured rubber sole, this solid-looking safety boot flexes with your foot, giving you superior comfort and support whatever pace you work at. Step it up and the Carhartt steps it up with you, with shock-absorbing traction to keep you on your feet. Inside you get an EVA midsole and OrthoLite insole for all foot cushioning and long-lasting comfort. While underfoot the cement-constructed outsole keeps a grip, with its oil, slip and chemical-resistant protection. An impressive and comfortable work boot at a good price.

With the Ever Boots Tank you know exactly what you’re going to get, which is why as a soft-toe work boot, they have proved so popular. And its reliable quality at less than $60 looks set to keep it that way.

The design is a familiar style that looks as good with jeans in the bar for an afterwork beer as it does with your work gear. Made from nubuck leather with a rubber, slip-resistant sole, these are shoes that run large, so check your sizing to ensure you get the right comfort fit. The outer is nicely stiff and robust, offering a decent level of protection in low to mid-weight working environments. You also get a cushioned insole to comfort your hardworking feet. The rubber outsole could be a little more robust, but it can always be resoled when it starts to wear thin. But for a reliable pair of soft-toe work shoes at a not so soft bargain price, we’re happy to make the Tank our Best Value buy.

The Carhartt Ground Force 8” Insulated Waterproof Work Boots are another super rugged, long-lasting option that are great for non-industrial use. They feature a generous 8-inch oil-tanned leather upper that keeps your feet and ankles safe and dry from workplace hazards. They feature Storm Defender 100 percent waterproof and breathable membranes and FastDry moisture-wicking linings. The 600-gram 3M Thinsulate insulation makes them a great choice for outdoor work in cold and harsh climates.

These boots have a greater arch support than a lot of others on the market. Couple that with high-rebound EVA midsoles and supportive, but flexible nylon shanks, and you’ll be able to work longer with less fatigue at the end of the day. The slip-resistant Ground Force rubber outsoles are ASTM-rated to protect against electrical hazards. Pretty much the only feature lacking on these comprehensive work boots is a steel toe. They’re not suitable for construction work.