Best Work Boots and Shoes

Every workplace has its own set of potential hazards, so safety is easily one of the most important features in a work boot or work shoe. Work boots should be fitted with appropriate toe protection and should be ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) rated. The most common types of toe protection are:

1. Steel toe – these are heavy, compact, and offer a high amount of impact protections. They’re also the most traditional form of protective toe caps. Keep in mind, though, that steel conducts temperature, so your feet are more likely to get cold during the winter.
2. Composite toe – these are made of plastic, carbon fiber, or Kevlar. They’re a great choice for those who work outdoors and won’t trigger metal detectors like a steel toe would.
3. Aluminum toe – these are great for workers who want a lightweight toe cap without losing protection. They’re thicker than steel toes, but they don’t conduct temperatures and won’t leave your toes cold in the winter.

If you spend your work days always on your feet, you need comfortable boots or shoes. Making sure you have properly fitting shoes is the first way to ensure they’ll be comfortable — feel for any pinching, squeezing, or rubbing that could cause issues down the road.

Most shoes and boots come with generic insoles that generally won’t provide much relief for those long work days. If you have high arches, look for insoles that will provide enough arch support for your feet. Flat-footed people, on the other hand, should find shoes or insoles with a deep heel cup to keep the back of your foot secure.

Wearing the right kind of socks can also help keep your feet comfortable throughout the day. Look for socks that are thicker in the heels and toes — thickness will also reduce the chances of your socks ripping. Ribbing and compression along the instep are also great for added comfort and support.

An ideal pair of work boots should come with a solid grip to help prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace. There are a variety of midsole and outsole options available that offer different levels of traction.

1. Rubber outsoles use the rubber’s natural grip to provide stability to the bottom of your boot. These are durable and resistant to slipping, making them a great choice for anyone in wet or potentially slick environments.
2. TPU outsoles are made from thermoplastic polyurethane — which has elasticity and transparency properties. TPU soles are durable and long-lasting and are heat resistant (up to 266° F), along with being resistant to slips and tears. They’re an ideal option for slippery workplaces or anyone who may be exposed to high temps.
3. EVA midsoles are made from a foam-like material called ethylene vinyl acetate that gives a work shoe a lot of cushioning. It’s lightweight and promotes proper weight distribution, along with flexibility and stability for added support — this is great for anyone who will be walking or standing for long periods of time throughout the work day.

Nobody wants to walk around with a pair of waterlogged boots, especially during a long work day. Water resistance is a must for anyone who works in wet conditions. You can find work boots that are designed with treated leather to prevent water seepage , while some boots are made with breathable, moisture-wicking materials — these tend to feel hotter than regular fabric or leather, though.

Having frozen toes is equally as irritating as water getting in your shoes when you’re trying to work. Most work boots nowadays come with insulation already built-in, mostly just for the face that it gives the boot an extra layer of protection and comfort.