Fatigue after work.. Swollen feet. The nagging feeling you should take your work boots off. It doesn’t have to be that way. If you can find the the most suitable pair for yourself, these issues will no longer bother you.
When you are choosing it is crucial that you have an idea of what kind of features you expect them to have, and to make sure that they will serve the purpose which you are buying them for.
How to find the most comfortable safety boots?
Apart from the obvious features workers should also look for these features: protection, sturdiness, durability, warmth, protection and safety, they need to fit you perfectly and provide all the comfort possible. Of course, the actual style, materials and color of the work boot play a role when choosing a new pair, but it is important that in the end you get the work boots which fit you the best and provide the coziness to your feet and your body as a whole.
For convenience we have broke them down to several categories. First, according to the safety toes type: soft toe, steel toe, alloy toe, composite toe, and second according to the gender of the worker: we have separated the top rated models of the most comfortable pair of work boots for men and women in this neat table:
For MEN
For WOMEN
Our top choices for comfort reviewed
So, overall, the choice of the best pair is a complex issue, and is the combination of personal preferences and the shoe maker’s craftsmanship. Since comfort is a leading factor when making such a choice, we would like to offer you our personal assessment of the wide variety of safety boots which we have reviewed and which has led us to pick the 10 of most comfortable work boots for standing all day and currently available on the market
Soft toe work boot
If your work doesn’t require that you wear boots with steel, composite or alloy toe cap protection, and you want lighter and more comfortable ones instead, here is our top choice for the soft toe work boots that are comfortable right out of the box or require very little break in:
Timberland PRO men’s soft toe boot
The Timberland PRO men’s soft toe work boot is definitely among our favorite five. They resemble the original 6-inch Timberland’s but have some added features which allow them to surpass the classic model. They are made of waterproof leather and are fitted with Timberland PRO rubber soles for better traction in order to keep you safe from slipping on spills and slippery surfaces.
On the inside, these Timberland PRO work boots are well insulated allowing you to stay warm and dry even on low temperatures during the cold winter. The inner lining and footbed are antimicrobially treated which prevents the unpleasant foot odor, commonly occurring after spending long and strenuous hours wearing them.
What makes this pair truly comfortable is the special Timberland PRO 24/7 Comfort Suspension system providing excellent support for the foot arches and cushions the feet in a way which minimizes foot fatiguesoreness.
They have oil resistant outsoles and are comfortable enough both for work and for everyday wearing.
Thorogood men’s 814-4200 American Heritage 6” Moc Toe Boot
The other pair we chose as one of our top models are the Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe. The best thing about them is that they are both comfortable also are guaranteed to last you for years and years.
The high quality tobacco oil tanned leather design with crepe soles is complemented with a soft and comfortable cotton drill vamp lining. The Thorogood work boot has an advanced removable dual density footbed for ultimate shock absorption on its comfort cushion insoles. These features make this pair one of the most comfy ones you will ever try on.
Along with the added comfort and the fatigue prevention features, the American heritage boot has rubber midsoles, vibram rubber wedges and fiberglass shanks. The high quality make and the Goodyear welt design are a guarantee for sturdiness and durability, so if you choose to buy this pair, you are in for a very rewarding and long-term investment.
Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boot
Our third choice in the extremely comfortable boot category is the Wolverine men’s raider 6 contour welt work boot. Made of high-quality nubuck and the single stitched welt and a tough rubber soul, the Raider boot by Wolverine is made to last but at the same time to provide the comfort which everyone needs when working all day long.
These Wolverine Raiders have special shock absorbing compression pads which are molded to the outsole to reduce the stress on the feet and to minimize fatigue. The multishox contour welt construction plus the full cushion footbed add to that comfort and nice fit adds to the safe and comfy feeling when wearing them.
While keeping the feet warm, these six inch lace-up boots have moisture managing mesh linings to keep the water and sweat away and ensure that the feet are healthy and dry throughout the day.
So, if you want a durable, safe and yet extremely comfortable pair of safety boots, the Raider could be the ones for you!
Red Wing Heritage Blacksmith Vibram Moc Toe Work Boot
These work boots from Red Wing are our absolute favorites for best soft toe boots for the year. They are amazingly good looking and elegant, so you will look great no matter whether you choose to wear them as safety boots or as everyday casual wear.
They are made in the US using the highest quality thick yet soft leather. The sturdy but superbly comfortable uppers are triple stitched to the soles with a durable Goodyear welted construction. Plus, the high quality leather is water, stain and perspiration resistant, so with regular cleaning and proper conditioning it will look as good as new for years to come.
Although they don’t have toe cap protection, these Heritage Blacksmiths feature the classic rounded toe Red Wing boot design. The toe box provides sufficient space to freely wriggle your toes and never feel the feeling of your feet and toes be cramped together in a tight space.
They are ankle boots with a height of six inches which makes them great and perfectly versatile for snowy weather as well as for the warmer seasons.
The durable mini-lug Vibram 430 sole is flexible and provides excellent support to your feet at all times. The cork midsole will gradually mold to the unique shape of your feet as you continue wearing this excellent pair of boots, and the leather will become even more comfortable in time, so these work boots will keep you comfortable and will fit you perfectly even after years of wearing them. Opt for ½ a size larger if you want to add your own orthotics or inserts in them. Otherwise, the Heritage soft toe work boot should be ordered at ½ smaller than your regular boot size for a perfect fit.
This is a classic, all-purpose, elegant and sublimely comfortable pair of boots which can be worn for nearly any occasion.
steel toe and alloy toe working boots:
If you work in conditions where there is imminent danger of heavy tools or items falling or rolling on your feet, then wearing a pair of safety boots with steel or alloy toe protection is a must. Still, the fact that the work boots have metal caps shouldn’t make them too heavy or uncomfortable to wear if you want to be able to be as efficient at your job as possible and at the same time feel good during the long hours of work. Here are our picks of the most convenient steel toe work boots for 2018:
Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance waterproof 6” work boot
Another model which made it into our top five is the Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance waterproof 6” work boot. There is no need for an introduction to the classic Timberland brand, but we have picked this particular model because it has various extra features, allowing it to be among the ultimate durable and cozy safety footwear currently available.
They are designed to provide maximum safety for the person wearing them – in any kind of harsh and hazardous conditions. The steel toe, plus the special anti-slip, oil and abrasion rubber outsole will keep your feet and yourself safe from slipping, and from hurting your toes while working. An additional safety feature is the Steel-Flex puncture resistant plates which they have to keep you safe from accidental injuries. The Endurance work boot is waterproof, so no more freezing cold feet!
They are fitted with anti-fatigue and shock absorption features to help revitalize the feet after a long day at the job. In fact, these Timberland boots feel so good on the feet, that you will dread taking them off at the end of the day.
The combination of safety and comfort which this model provides make the Timberland PRO Endurance the perfect choice for men people who spend long hours working and standing up all day. The Timberland Endurance boot’s excellent make and durability will ensure that you have it for a long time too.
Timberland Pro Men’s 26078 Titan 6″ Waterproof Work Boot
These waterproof, TiTAN alloy safety cap Titans provide superb protection for your toes and feet even in workplaces where the hazards of heavy items and tools rolling, falling or otherwise injuring your feet are serious. Your feet will remain dry even in the wettest conditions, and you will remain safely standing up even if you work and walk on very slippery surfaces with these work boots from Timberland.
The uppers are made of full grain, high quality leather and feature a lace-up vamp plus and quick and easy to use speed-lace additional feature.
The best part about the Timberland Titan, apart from the fact that it will keep your toes and feet safe and dry at all times, is that it is definitely one of the most comfortable and reliable work boot for 2018.
The PowerFit trademark cushioning system and the PU midsole guarantee ultimate comfort and excellent lightweight cushioning for the feet which will keep the feet free from fatigue and soreness even after 12 hour shifts.
The Titan work boot is fitted with a special breathable mesh lining which offers efficient moisture channeling and has anti-microbial treatment, so that the feet remain dry, fresh and odor free at all times.
The PRO rubber outsole is oil and slip resistant, so that you avoid slippage and falling even when working in seriously slippery and oily conditions.
The trademark Timberland PRO TiTaN safety toe system meets and exceeds the ASTM standards, which makes these work boots suitable for hard working service professionals.
Despite the serious toe cap protection, the Timberland work boots are lightweight so you will not feel exhausted or sore even after spending hours standing and walking.
Given all these features, these 6” Titans are an impeccable pair of boots for those of you who want to ensure that all safety precautions are taken against toe injuries, falling and other hazards, and yet feel well and happy when wearing them for long hours!
Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ GripMax Alloy Toe Work Boot
The strong Stockdale alloy safety toes of these tough 6” boots from Timberland comply and exceed the impact and compression standards, as well as the electrical safety standards which means that those of you looking for tough work boots with both toe protection and electrical hazard protection will receive exactly that. Combined with the reliable safety features provided by this excellent pair of boots is the ultimate comfort they provide.
The uppers are ankle high and have a classic lace-up closure which ensures that you get a snug and stable fit. This is further supplemented by the comfy padded collars of the uppers and the nylon tongue which is air textured for added comfort.
They are made of durable, full-grain leather and are attached to the outsole with a PU flex-welted cast bond construction ensuring that they stay whole and endure even the toughest of working conditions.
The outsoles are made of durable GripMax rubber which provides superb traction and will keep you safe from slipping in wet and other slippery conditions.
If you are worried that the thick upper and the extra snug fit of these work boots will be a bit too much and that your feet will be drenched in your own perspiration by the end of the day – then fear not. They feature a breathable lining made of mesh which will help keep your feet dry and relaxed during the long work hours. PU cast-bond construction makes this Timberland GripMax work boot durable and flexible.
They require little or no break-in time, and do run a bit larger than your standard size, so you should either order half a size down, or add your own inserts or orthotics for added cushioning and arch support. The wide toe boxes make them an excellent option for men who have wider feet.
Without doubt the Gripmax work boot is one of the top choices for alloy toe footwear of the year.
- composite toes
if you find that steel toes and alloy toe work boots are to heavy and uncomfortable for you, or if your workplace requires that you pass through a metal detector, you may want to opt for a work boot with a sufficient toe protection and yet contain no metal. In this case, this type of boots is an excellent option. Here is our take on which are the comfiest composite toe boots for 2018
Keen Utility Men’s Tacoma Composite Toe
The composite toe protection provided by Keen Utility Tacoma is as strong as that of work boots with steel toe and alloy toe caps, but without the added weight. These boots from Keen are heavy duty due to the strong Goodyear welt construction and high quality materials used. The asymmetrical toes are tested and found to meet and exceed the ASTM standards for impact and compression. Furthermore, they are in accordance to electrical hazard standards I/75 and C/75, plus ASTM non-slip standards. They are waterproof which makes them an outstanding option for people working outdoors and in wet conditions.
All these safety features make the Tacoma a perfect choice for most work related hazards. What makes them even more suitable for hard working men in hazardous conditions is the fact that they are designed and made to provide ultimate comfort as well.
The Tacoma are lighter than most alloy and steel toe safety boots, which helps reduce the strain and fatigue of the feet and legs after hours of standing and working.
Your feet will remain dry and fresh at all times thanks to the Keen dry and waterproof membrane to keep vapor out and keep water from coming in, as well as due to the trademark Cleansport NXT system for breathability and natural odor control of the work boot.
The TPU stability shank adds further comfort and stability to the foot. The footbed has a special metatomical design for added arch support and for creating a cradle like fit for the foot. It is removable so you can easily wash it or replace it with your own orthotics or inserts if you prefer.
The roomy toe boxes will allow enough space for your toes at all times.
These work boots will serve you well for years if you take proper and regular care of cleaning and maintaining them.
- slip on and lace up
Some people prefer the comfort of slip on boot as compared to those which need to be laced up every time. There are many types and models of pull-on work boots available on the market, but our top pick for the most dependable and comfortable ones for 2018 is:
Ariat Men’s Workhog Pull-on H2O Work Boot
With an added western flare, the Ariat Workhogs have impressive and durable leather uppers with embossed logos at the counters. The round toes allow for sufficient room space for the toes, which makes these slip on boots very cozy especially for men with wide feet as well as those with high arches who need added support.
They have added dual pulls for easier slip on. Their special ATS Max platforms provide superb torsional stability to keep the feet and body alignment and for reduction of foot soreness and fatigue after spending hours on your feet.
The strong construction is a single stitch Goodyear welt one and there is a hidden flexible gore panel featured in the trademark U-Turn entry system which ensures that the foot enters and fits the work boot easily and comfortably despite its shape type.
The oil and slip resistant and highly abrasive resistant outsoles provide reliable traction in slippery conditions and will endure through a lot of difficult conditions and years of wearing. The Ariat sole is combined with a lightweight cushioned EVA midsole for added comfort and cushioning.
The WaterproofPro trademark system will help protect your feet in rain, snow and other wet conditions. At the same time, the Workhog breathability feature will keep your feet fresh and dry from the sweat inside as well.
Although Ariat is specialized in making riding boots, this pair is an excellent option for people who are looking for a pull on work boot or everyday slip on boot which provide stability, protection and feel good on your feet.
The unique western style of these beautiful, high quality work boots will add to your stylish look and will definitely attract the attention of others while you are at work or out enjoying your free time.
Chippewa Men’s 6” Rugged Handcrafted Lace-Up boot
Last but not least in our list are the Chippewa Men’s 6” Rugged Handcrafted Lace-Up work boots. Theis chocolate Apache colored pair has a unique design featuring the American flag lace pin on the 6-inch D-ring lacing and a contrast midsole and vibram sole.
These handcrafted Chippewa lace up boots are not only stylish and extremely durable, but are also designed to provide total comfort for the feet of the worker wearing them. Once you break them in, you will not want to wear any other type of shoe!
They are fitted with removable cushion inserts, and have drill vamp lining. This rugged but high quality pair could last for a decade, and will provide the person wearing them with constant comfort, warmth and safety at work or when enjoying some free time.
Brands you should consider
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Timberland
This notorious brand was founded just a year short of a century ago (in 1919) in Boston, Massachusetts by Nathan Swartz. Ever since then, the company has been focusing on producing and continuously improving footwear for the outdoors, as well as safety shoes and boots for workers. It created its first guaranteed waterproof boots back in 1973. As the years kept rolling, Timberland began developing and patenting numerous features, systems and materials to make its shoes tougher, safer, and better. Today, the company’s focus is to reach its goals to reach a 100% green and sustainable production.
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Thorogood
The Thorogood work boot and shoe brand was first introduced by the US Weinbrenner manufacturing company in 1918 in Milwaukee. The shoe maker dates back to 120 years ago, and ever since then is among the most highly respected producers of specialized work footwear especially for linesmen in the US and globally. Today, the brand includes numerous types and models of safety and non-safety shoes and boots, all designed and made to provide the ultimate comfort, safety and best performance which people expect when they invest in a good quality pair of boots for work.
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KEEN
Keen is a relatively new footwear manufacturer, which began producing shoes and boots for outdoors, adventures and work back in 2003, but has since then found his place among the leaders in the industry. The wide variety of different shoes and boots offered is all of the highest quality, providing outstanding comfort, as well as with safety features to keep the feet and the person safe. The company is well known for its charity involvement as well as its policy for working at the highest environmental and social standards. Its shoes are preferred by people who need reliable and yet safe and comfortable boots and footwear for work and other outdoor activities.
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Red Wing Heritage
This classic American boot and shoe maker was established in 1905 and became known among the workers for its top notch quality leather work and other boots. In 1986 the company acquired the SB Foot leather tanning company, so today it uses only its own, highest quality tanned leather for the making of it boots and other footwear. Classic boot models made by this company include: the Oil King, Gloria, Marion, the Irish setter, Heritage and others. Today, the boots are still hand made with puritan sewing machines form the 1920s and the design is based on the patented Goodyear welt construction.
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Caterpillar
CAT is one of the best known brands for reliable, safe, and log-lasting work boots in the world. Today they are sold in more than 150 countries in the world. Launched in 1988 by the renowned Caterpillar tractor and heavy machinery manufacturer it soon became the premier work boot brand in the US. The famous Colorado work boot first introduced in 1991 quickly became a leading trend not only in industrial footwear but in streetwear grunge fashion as well. After the brand was purchased by Wolverine Worldwide it was reaffirmed as one of the preferred and reliable work boot brands in the world.
To avoid this nightmarish blisters and soreness, there are a few tips you should keep in mind when picking the work boot which has the most comfortable fit. First of all, when you start shopping for this type of footwear, you will surely be amazed by the numerous manufacturers in the US and from around the world. Remember to keep in mind that some of them specialize in the design and the production of work and heavy duty shoes and apparel, and a number of these manufacturers have more than a century of experience in producing such boots, so one rule of the thumb is to stick to the reputable names or brands in the field.Of course, you must keep into consideration exactly what you need these boots for. After all, it does matter whether you are buying them to fit into the new lumbersexual fashion style, or if rather you need boots to wear during the long work hours at a car shop or a construction site.
Some work boots have extra safety features, such as electric hazard protection, oil, alkaline or petrol resistance, steel, aluminum or composite safety toe cap to keep the toes and the feet safe from falling instruments and heavy materials and objects. Most of them have soles with added traction to prevent slipping and falling, and many have an extra ankle protection grip feature as well.
Many models offer an extra anti-abrasion feature and are also safe from being punctured after stepping on nails or other sharp objects, for example.
Naturally if you spend a lot of time outdoors or work some sort of field work, you should look for work shoes which are 100% water-resistant.
But not only are the shoe manufacturers designing and making these boots to provide the ultimate protection and safety, they are also focusing on making their shoes as ergonomic as possible.
Everyone knows what it is like to have sore and tired feet after a long day of work. The best work boots today offer a number of features which help relieve the fatigue, soreness as well as the unpleasant sweating of the feet.
For extra comfort, some shoe makers add special antimicrobially-treated insoles, in order to fight off the harmful bacteria which cause that nasty foot odor.
Most work shoes also have advanced mesh fitting systems which help keep the moisture away from the feet thus keeping them dry and healthy.
Of course, if you want these shoes as every day streetwear, you may go for the models which are lighter or do not have such advanced protection systems.
Nevertheless, make sure that when you are shopping, you strive toward these which will keep you, the worker, comfortable.
Features that contribute to comfort
Obviously, when searching for the most suitable work boots for yourself, you need to have a clear idea about the kind of characteristics and features you are looking for exactly.
For example, if you work in a factory or garage where petrol and other oily or slippery spillages are common, then you probably should be looking at a pair which is slip-resistant, and is oil, petroleum and alkaline resistant.
If you work in a warehouse or construction site, where there is a big risk of dropping a heavy instrument, material or object on your foot, then we recommend looking for safety work shoes with steel, aluminum or composite toe caps. There are work shoes which offer extra safety protection for the feet from accidental puncturing of the sole.
If you spend a lot of time outside and want shoes which will keep your feet dry and warm during the day, then you should consider getting a pair which provides warmth and is waterproof, and yet has a “breathable” fitting to avoid sweating and foot odor. You can also look at the models which have extra comfort ankle pads, and added insoles and antibacterial features to keep the feet healthy and non-smelly. The leading work boot models have complex systems and designs which will allow for the reduction and minimization of fatigue in the feet, so this is another feature you probably should be looking for.
If you want to wear it as a fashion statement, then the features obviously will be the design, the material and the make of the model, which is entirely up to your personal taste.
When looking for work boots you should try to find a pair which will serve you well and for the longest time. You can be sure that the investment in a higher-end and yet more durable safety footwear will pay off in the long run.
The bottom line though is, that whichever model and brand you choose – make sure that they fit and that they are comfortable to wear and to walk in!