Safety boots are a must-have for those who work in a job that’s physically demanding or engage in hobbies which are potentially dangerous. In such cases, you shouldn’t have to worry about the safety of your feet and the best way to do that is to get yourself the best safety boots available. Just because your work demands a lot, that doesn’t mean you have to suffer while doing it, right?
The main purpose of safety boots is to protect your feet, especially your toes, against compression, falling objects or even things on the ground which may harm your feet. Such boots provide this protection through the various safety features they come with. In this article, we’ll go through these features as well as some products which you may consider for your work.
Features to consider in Good Safety Boots for working
Durability
This is an important feature that most safety boots have. The durability will largely depend on the quality of the materials used to make the boots. Of course, footwear made of cheap materials won’t be as sturdy as those made with high-quality materials. It’s better to spend a few more dollars on a pair of boots which will last for a longer time than those which have a short lifespan.
Waterproofing
The best safety shoes have a waterproof feature. This is essential especially for those who travel to different places and walk on different terrains. Whether or not you think you need this feature, it’s still worth having just in case. So that if the need arises, you won’t have to worry about your boots getting ruined just because they aren’t waterproof.
Puncture-proof
It goes without saying that safety boots should be puncture-proof. Since they’re meant to protect your feet, they should be able to do just that. Imagine a pair of boots which gets punctured easily. Such type of boots won’t be able to provide you with the protection you need to stay safe while working or traveling.
Slip-resistance
Then there’s the slip-resistance feature. Again, if your work involves a lot of traveling on different terrains and surfaces, slip-resistance will be highly beneficial. Safety boots should have good traction and should be able to grip the ground well to prevent you from slipping or sliding as you climb, run or walk.
Fit
Of course, the boots should also have a good fit. Boots which are too big or too small won’t be very comfortable. You may already know the size of your feet but keep in mind that some products have varying sizes. Some shoe sizing may run small while others run big so try to find this out before making a choice.
Top 10 Best Safety Boots for Working 2023
1. Timberland PRO
Editor’s Rating:
Tough
This pair of boots has everything you want in safety boots. They’re tough, safe to use, and very comfortable. It has a steel toe construction which offers a more spacious toe box than other boots. This means that the sturdy boots won’t make your feet painful even when you use them for hard work. No matter what you need safety boots for, this is one of the most important features you’ll enjoy.
Value for money
When you need a pair of safety boots, you’d like to be able to use it for a long time. Given the high-quality materials and construction of these boots, you’re getting great value for your money. It’s not as pricey as the other products on the market, but it still provides superior protection and comfort. In fact, a lot of customers report that they’ve used this pair of boots for years and years!
Comfortable
The manufacturers considered the comfort of their users when they designed these boots. Aside from the roomy toe box, the shoes also have additional midsole support and a sock liner that’s removable. They’re so comfortable that you won’t even have to break these boots in.
Pros
- Has top hooks made of cast metal for improved durability.
- Also, has a midsole made of polyurethane for sturdy comfort.
- Top collars have padding while the uppers are of rugged leather.
- Comes with an odor control feature because of the Cambrelle linings on the fabric.
Cons
- There are some complaints about the heel area of the shoes.
2. Thorogood Non-Safety Toe Boot
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
The manufacturer of these boots constructed them with soles that are fully resistant even to electric shocks. They also have heels capable of enduring up to 18,000 volts for a whole minute. Talk about superior construction! As a matter of fact, just looking at these boots will make you feel safe about using them.
Durable
Just like the people who need the best safety boots, these are always up to the task and also built to last. You can even use them while you’re off the clock without worrying about wear and tear. The stylish boots are not only iconic, but they’re comfortable and breathable too. With these boots, you’ll enjoy using them for a long time.
Design
This American-made pair of boots will work extra hard with its superb design and full-grain leather material. The boots have dual-density insoles which absorb shock, and the fiberglass shanks provide excellent support. Also, these shoes will stand the test of time with the help of the Vibram outsole and the Storm-welt construction. All these features in one great design, what’s not to love?
Pros
- The footbed provides shock absorption while the insole provides comfort.
- Has a fiberglass shank and an outsole that's slip-resistant.
- The vamp lining is cotton-drilled with a storm welt construction.
- The shoes have rubber midsoles and come in different colors.
Cons
- Some customers claim that the break-in period for the shoes is quite painful.
3. Caterpillar Men's Second Shift
Editor’s Rating:
Rugged
These boots have a classic, rugged look to them. They’re built for safety and are highly durable too. The boots come from a brand well-known all around the world and is a common staple in different industries and on different job sites too. The rubber outsoles are slip-resistant, and the full-grain uppers are also rugged in appearance. Finally, the boots also come with welt construction which makes them durable.
Heavy-duty
These safety boots don’t just look great. They’re built for heavy-duty work too. They ooze seriousness which means that you can use them wherever you need to go and come back unscathed and undamaged. The exterior provides leathery toughness while the interior provides comfort and coolness. Since the boots are of a sturdy leather material, they’re guaranteed to stay intact while you use them each and every day.
Value for money
When choosing a pair of safety boots, value for money is another feature people appreciate. These boots will provide you with the traction you need to walk on different kinds of terrain. This is why the boots have rubber soles that resist slippage. Even though it has some excellent features, it still comes at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Made of rugged leather with a plush tongue and collar.
- Comes with hex-shaped grommets and a shaft with speed lacing.
- The traction outsole is completely oil-resistant.
- The shank is of steel for added stability and support.
Cons
- The rubber may separate from the sole after some use.
4. EVER BOOTS
Editor’s Rating:
Dependable
The dependability of these safety boots comes from its design. It’s made of Nubuck leather which provides superior comfort and durability. The boots have a built-in mesh lining that’s insulated to keep your feet relaxed and warm even during those long working days. They’re also designed with tough construction to give you an affordable and reliable all-around pair of boots.
Comfortable
Since these boots are of Nubuck leather, this takes all the pain away from breaking-in the boots even when they’re still new. You can easily put these boots on and take them off because of the speed hooks which are highly convenient. They also have a classic design which makes them perfect for different occasions.
Durable
Finally, another superior feature these boots can boast is their durability. One quality which enhances the sturdiness of these boots is its oil-resistance. This feature prevents the boots from deteriorating because of contact with oils. Also, the boots have rubber soles which provide you with long-lasting support. All these features not only make the boots tough but they will also allow you to keep going each and every day.
Pros
- The boots' construction offers both safety and durability.
- The insoles have comfort cushions while the outsoles are slip-resistant.
- Easy to wear because of the speedy back loops and hooks.
- Comes with a manufacturer's warranty good for 3 months.
Cons
- Some customers don't feel that the insoles are too comfortable.
5. The Original MuckBoots
Editor’s Rating:
Versatile
Aside from being very stylish, these safety boots are very comfortable too. They’re completely waterproof and flexible as they will follow the contours and the movements of the feet. The boots also have rugged outsoles which will allow you to remain sure-footed even while walking on icy terrain. The interior of the boots have warm fleece, and you can even roll the sides down to reveal the faux fur when using it with leggings or skinny jeans.
Reliable
Working can be a lot easier with these super reliable boots. They provide heavy-duty protection in a lightweight packaging. The boots also have tall shafts, breathable lining, and a gathered collar which keeps water, gravel, and mud at bay. The rubber outsoles, on the other hand, will provide you with slip-resistance, shock absorption, and superior traction.
Stable
Another great feature of these boots is its stability. This is mainly because of its wide heel and the reinforced areas. All these will allow you to stay balanced while you work and take care of your business. Aside from this, the tall shaft and the breathable lining will protect your lower legs and feet from the elements.
Pros
- Suitable for both men and women.
- Waterproof safety boots which have a mesh lining that's breathable.
- The Achilles, heel, and toe areas of the boots have reinforcement.
- Comfortable to use in hot and cold conditions.
Cons
- The boots may start leaking after some time.
6. KEEN Utility
Editor’s Rating:
Design
These boots have asymmetrical toe protection features which are specifically designed to fit your right and left foot while protecting all your toes from the biggest to the smallest. The boots also have bigger toe boxes which allow the toes to spread out and breathe rather than remain constricted inside tight footwear.
The design of the boots also allows your feet to flex and move while preventing any pinching. The internal mechanism not only provides support but it’s also anatomically engineered to provide superior arch support and cradle your feet’s natural contours.
Comfortable
The boots come from a brand which is well-known in terms of bringing superior fit and comfort in every pair of shoes, and these boots are no exception. The boots have a snug, natural fit in the heel area along with an intuitive and spacious toe box creating a one-of-a-kind shoe. They also have a breathable and waterproof membrane which lets out vapor without allowing water to penetrate.
Durable
The leather uppers of these boots have a unique design which makes them built to last. Even if you wear these every day, you won’t have to worry about them falling apart. The boots provide additional safety too because of the reflective webbing. All the features give the boots toughness and a willingness to deal with a hard day’s work.
Pros
- Medium-duty safety boots with contoured heel locks.
- The EVA footbed is both metatomical and removable.
- Has a unique Dry-Lex lining for the footwear.
- The rubber outsoles are non-marking and slip and oil-resistant.
Cons
- The soles may deteriorate when used on different types of terrain.
7. Wolverine W02421
Editor’s Rating:
Tough
These safety boots are tough, flexible, and have an athletic feel. They will also provide you with both confidence and comfort as you work hard on various terrains and job sites. The boots will flex and bend with you. They also have a cushioned feel while providing you with support so you can preserve your energy while working. The dual Multishox and ContourWelt construction along with the rubber outsoles give a superior grip even on slick and wet surfaces.
Comfortable
These boots come from a well-known, iconic brand in America which, time and time again, combines timeless craftsmanship with superior, high-quality materials. These boots are comfortable and built to endure even the toughest conditions.
Flexible
The manufacturers of these boots placed extra care into adding the cushions inside. This makes the boots super flexible and comfy, perfect for daily wear. Your toes and feet won’t feel crowded, and you won’t even have to go through the common “break-in” period which can get quite painful. While you wear these boots, you can travel from one place to another with ease. Aside from this, they’re also very stylish so you can walk with them in confidence.
Pros
- Has a special full-cushion insole that's removable for all-day support and comfort.
- The rubber outsole is resistant to oil, slippage, and abrasions.
- Also, the outsole will provide the shoes with a reliable grip.
- Has a mesh lining that's breathable and flexible.
Cons
- After some time, some customers claim that the shoes start squeaking.
8. Red Wing Heritage Classic Moc
Editor’s Rating:
Durable
The foundation of these boots is a crepe wedge which makes them durable and handsome at the same time. The Moc-toe boots are sturdy and resistant to perspiration and stains. If you live a casual lifestyle, but you need a good pair of boots to take you to different places, then this is the one for you. They have a rugged look with a thick and treaded outsole. They also have waterproof leather uppers and welt construction for added strength.
Construction
Just by looking at these boots, you know that they’re an American classic. They have a Moc-toe which is very appealing and uppers which are completely resistant to stains, sweat, and even water. The Traction Tread outsoles are of rubber, and they provide both protection and comfort. The boots are also stitched, not glued making them a lot tougher.
Value for money
Aside from the classic, stylish design, these boots also come at a reasonable price. You can choose from different shades and colors to suit your own style and preferences. Although there are cheaper models, you’re getting good value for your money with these boots because of the design, construction, and more.
Pros
- Has Traction Tred outsoles made from rubber.
- Insoles are of leather and also has nickel eyelets.
- Made of high-quality materials to ensure the durability of the safety boots.
- Constructed with Goodyear welt and high-quality triple stitching.
Cons
- The soles may wear out after some time.
9. Danner Quarry
Editor’s Rating:
High-quality
This is one of the most popular safety boots. The boots come with superior outsoles, insoles, and midsoles made of the finest materials to ensure longevity. They also have updated collar liners for added comfort and a re-engineered triple stitching which helps reduce the wear and tear of the boots over time. These detailed boots are stylish too so you can wear them confidently.
Durable
These boots are built to last with the Iron Vibram insoles which are already integrated and the rugged outsoles which are highly durable. The safety boots even have Ortholite footbeds along with fiberglass shanks which make them tough and resistant. They also have heels and soles which resist electric shocks plus protection in the form of alloy toes.
Value for money
Finally, these boots would also serve as a good investment. You’re getting what you pay for as you will enjoy all the excellent features of the safety boots. The affordable boots offer excellent comfort and protection so that you can do your job the best way possible. Since they’re made of high-quality materials, you’ll enjoy using them for a long time.
Pros
- The liner of the shoes is both breathable and waterproof to keep the feet comfortable and dry.
- Has a leather upper with a classic design that provides superior protection.
- The shoes have triple stitching for enhanced endurance.
- The outsoles are of Vibram quarry and are slip and oil-resistant.
Cons
- The shoes are quite small and narrow.
10. Stanley Dredge
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to wear
Since this footwear doesn’t have any laces, it’s easy to wear. All you have to do is slip the safety boots on and start working right away. They’re lightweight and made of high-quality materials such as leather and rubber. These materials also resist everything from oil to electricity to the common wear and tear of daily life. They also keep unwanted moisture at bay in order to keep your feet dry.
Comfortable
The moisture-wicking feature is an important feature especially for those whose feet perspire a lot. Aside from this, the boots also have other features which add to their comfort. These include the removable insoles and the extra cavity which allows you to put an additional insert. With these shoes, your feet will surely stay safe and comfy.
Made for all safety trades who appreciate good support, easy comfort and lightweight duty.
Value for money
These boots are perfect for those who want easy comfort, lightweight duty, and good support in their boots. They’re made of the finest materials which ensure strength and longevity. When you pay for these boots, you’re also paying for the protection they will provide against any events or elements which might impede your performance while working such as electric shocks and oil slicks.
Pros
- Safety boots which have elastic gores on the sides along with loops to pull-on at the opening.
- The heel counters and toe caps reinforce the durability and protection of the shoes.
- Shank is of steel while the lining is moisture-wicking.
- The rubber outsoles are completely oil and slip-resistant.
Cons
- Some issues with the shoe's sizing.
Guide to Buying the Best Safety Boots
There are a lot of jobs out there which don’t require special kinds of footwear such as safety boots. But if your work is physically demanding or hazardous, then you need a good pair of safety boots to protect you from injury. We’ve reviewed some of the best safety boots on the market now, and they all have different features.
If you want to be able to find the best one for yourself, there are some important factors which you need to consider. When you keep all these in mind while making your choice, you can find a good pair of boots which will serve you well and which you can use for years to come.
What important factors should you consider when buying safety boots?
Breathability
First of all, think about the boots’ breathability. Without this feature, you won’t feel too comfortable wearing the safety boots as your feet might overheat or they might feel too stuffy. This factor is especially important for those who work in hot, humid environments. In such cases, you need a breathable footwear to prevent perspiration, bad odors, and more.
Flexibility
You should be able to move comfortably in your safety boots if you want to keep on using them each and every day. This is where flexibility comes in. How the boots move will impact how your feet will feel at the end of each day. Search for a pair which will protect your feet but are also flexible enough that you’ll be able to move freely while wearing them.
How comfortable should the safety boots be?
Typically, people who need safety shoes have jobs which require them to stand or walk almost all day long. That’s why comfort is a huge factor to think about when choosing safety boots. All the parts of the boots should feel comfortable so that you don’t feel uncomfortable while wearing them.
Upper
Generally, the uppers of safety boots are of leather material. Some boots may have synthetic uppers and other materials mixed in. Although a pair of boots that’s completely made of leather is normally less flexible, it has improved durability. On the other hand, those with synthetic materials are more breathable and flexible, but they’re more prone to wear and tear.
Insole
When it comes to comfort, the insole is the most important part of the boots. There are different materials used for insoles, so you need to choose carefully. The most comfortable ones are the EVA foam insoles and varieties of them. Removable soles are also popular because they provide an option to the user.
Outsole
Finally, the outsoles of the boots are also made of different materials which absorb impact and distribute it evenly. Rubber outsoles are the most common ones, and they’re quite comfortable and flexible.
Conclusion
When you work in environments which require safety gear, you need to find the best safety boots available. Choosing the best pair of boots means more than just going for a pair that looks good. You also have to consider other factors which will allow you to perform at your best while you’re wearing the boots.
We’ve covered a lot of information about safety boots in this article. From a buying guide to a review of the best products on the market, there’s a lot to learn. Hopefully, all this information can help guide you as you select the perfect pair of boots. Now all you have to do is choose which one you think would be best for yourself. Good luck!