Shown here are Wolverine I-90 DuraShock CarbonMax 6″ Wedge workboots. I’m currently working on testing an Elite soft-toe version of these boots, and that got me wondering about which brands and styles you guys prefer. (Both pairs were provided by Wolverine.)
Coincidentally, I have also been losing favor for my current (previous?) favorite brand of everyday shoes and boots. My shoes hurt my feet by the end of the day, my boots have started feeling narrow and tight, and for the slip-on shoes I use for quick errands and light workshop activities, the sizing can be completely different depending on the color. For the slip-ons, the soles wear pretty fast, and so I have been buying new pairs every couple of months, and the sizing has been very inconsistent.
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I’m on more of a winter shoe and everyday footwear research mission this week, but I’m also interested in finding the *perfect* work boot to last me the next couple of years. I have yet to find work boots that I LOVE, although there are a couple of styles on my wishlist to try (such as Red Wing #604 off the top of my head).
What I want to know is about YOUR preferences. What’s the best work boot for YOU?
Soft toe vs. safety toe (and what kind)?
Shoes vs. boots?
Which brand(s)?
What features do you like? What bugs you the most?
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The frustrating part, in my opinion, is in determining whether new boots need to be broken in, or if a design just won’t work for me.
Another difficult part is determining when it’s time to replace boots.
The leather hiking-style boots that I’m looking to replace are nearly 4-1/2 years old, and when I put them on these days they feel narrow and tight. They were quite comfortable the first couple of seasons. The rubber toe cap is falling off the right boot, but that’s just cosmetic – I think – as the boot still seems to be fully waterproof. Maybe I can re-stretch them out a bit with more wear, but I have uneven wear in the soles and am inclined to relegate them as an “everything else is wet” backup.
I bought the shoe version of those boots, and they were too tight, so I went with a wider size. It seemed fine, and I still wear them, but if I’m on my feet in these shoes for an entire day, I feel sore and punished for it after. Those shoes are 2-1/2 years old now. I wore them to the Milwaukee media event last June, and I couldn’t walk the day after my flight home – the bones in the ball of my foot were inflamed. This has never happened to me before with any shoes or boots.
Still, while maybe my fit has changed over time, those boots and shoes fit well initially and were fairly painless to break in. So why do leather work boots hurt so much for so long?
I tried my new waterproof hiking shoes that came in today, and they seem to fit well. There’s a work boot based on the design, and I’m pretty optimistic that those would feel just as comfortable.
So why struggle through getting other work boots to break in comfortably?
Maybe you started with a particular brand of work boots and stuck with them over time. But I’m guessing that at least some of you got fed up with your work boots, tried a different brand or style, and have had positive experiences since then. Please tell us all about it! That’s the type of insights I’m looking for here.
Are there any leather work boots that break in and feel like they’re everyday boots? I had a great pair of Timberland 6″ boots in college, and then a field boot, and several other shorter-height leather boots that I wore until they completely broke down. I can’t seem to find work boots like that. Maybe my expectations are too high.
Sometimes you have to try a bunch of different things, and I hope I’m right in guessing that many of you have gone through this.
So, which are the best work boots for you? Are they your favorites compared to other boots you’ve worn in the past?
Tom D
I have a Red Wing steel toe – don’t remember the number.
But if you DO find a pair you love; buy two or three pairs and alternate them. They last longer and smell better (and you don’t have to deal with both being able to get them when the first wears out).
William Adams
Agreed.
Letting them dry out, and taking the time to polish them will dramatically increase their longevity. Also, buying good quality shoes which can be resoled will extend longevity as well.
Will
Redwings for me, they are extremely comfortable and this last pair is 5 years old with a few more left in them. I do take care to clean and condition them often,because at $250 they are an investment for me and my feet.
I do have a pair with 600 grams of thinsulate for winter but rarely wear them since they are tight and leather is a bad idea in the snow and mud. So I went with muck boots for the winter and love how easy they are to take care of and how light and form fitting they are,though the -20f claim is utter bs. Even with merino wool socks my feet get cold in 20f weather. So if anyone gets mucks for winter get the -60 artic model and the extra money will be well worth it.
Stephen
Mostly I wear Merrell Moab hiking shoes. They tend to be long lasting, and dont hurt my feet. Probably will pick up some Moab 2 8″ tactical for when I need to wear actual boots.
Mr. Hankey
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe Wedge sole
Have Both steel toe and non
3 years in
I do construction/carpentry and wear boots until finish floors are in then it’s a pair of athletic shoes
Marco
Beat me to it. Soft toe version. Worn them everyday for 2 years on same page. Time to get the resoled. I have tried all the others, wolverine, Carolina, Georgia, timberland, chippewa’s… They all are falling apart after 6 months. Thorogoods are very well made and comfortable.
Jsimp
Same here with the Thorogood mock toe wedge sole. I’m on my 3rd pair. In my experience there is a very short break in time. I seriously oil them right out of box and wear them around the house for a few days and they are ready to go. I tried a pair of Keens San Jose just to see if the grass was greener but I returned them. Nowhere near the quality leather of thorogood
Ryan
Thorogood American Heritage 8” moc toe with the heel and in steel toe because my employer requires it.
Kenneth Stephens
Love those boots. Father in law has a tree service and I worked for him for a few years. Wore out 2 pairs of boots (ariat and ad-tec) in a few months before splurging on my Thorogoods. 2 years climbing, cutting, and stomping trees and I still wear them all the time as my do all work boots. 8 inch steel toe wedge sole
Rick
I wear Thorogood as well; non steel toe.
Kevin
Amen brother.
Same boot in steel tow. Love them.
Break in isn’t terrible and they are well made in the usa too boot. Pun intended
Insole wears quickly though
Ric
Quick question. Do the wedge type soles work as well in the woods as the aggressive type vibrant lug soles?
Stuart
That’s the brand and style that has been giving me some problems. Same size in the boot resulted in very narrow shoes so I returned them and bought the same size in wide. The boots served me well, but I suppose not wearing them for a bit shrunk the fit a bit. Tried them for this winter, but they just feel *off*. And it’s the Merrell Jungle Moc I wear every day but have grown tired of replacing and tired of playing “size deviation” with. I keep forgetting which colors run large and which run narrower.
Merrell has (recently?) introduced new work boots and shoes based on the Moab, but the sum of my experiences in the past year has pushed back into Keen’s arms, or at least I’m giving them another chance. I went from a long history with Timberland to a pair of Keen or two, and then several years of mostly-great experiences with Merrell.
Greg
Merrell is owned by timberland and a few others i believe
Stuart
Apparently Merrell is owned by Wolverine, as are quite a few other brands.
Timberland is owned by Vanity Fair Corp, same as North Face and others.
Mike (the other one)
Wolverine owns Merrell, along with Caterpillar, Bates, Harley-Davidson, Hush Puppies, Keds, and an few others.
wil`...
Wolverine used to make a 6″round soft toe such as these new ones..
They were super light and felt broke in already! I worked on a concrete loading dock and these boots were very comfortable ..
When the soles wore out, they could be re- soled easily enough..
Switched to Georgia Boots in the same style since.. a bit heavier, but also feel good from the beginning and hold up for years.. tho’ that depends on what conditions they are used..
When might these new ones be available?
Stuart
The ones shown above are out now. Those have safety toes, but there are soft toes too.
Ric
Timberlands pro series are tough and like pillows to walk on. Got a winter pair but am looking for an unlined summer version.
Will
I love my merrells, sadly the styles aren’t nearly what they used to be imo. Well at least the models at my local stores.
clf28264
Red wing, find a pair you like and buy multiples
Stuart
Apparently there’s a store about 20-25 minutes from here, I’ll check them out this week! I had been hesitating buying any online as I heard the fit could vary from usual sizing.
Shane
Definitely try red wings on at the store. Every style I tried has a different “fit”. My faves are the 606s. Plus, you’ll appreciate the attention and expertise of the staff. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with red wing. I know they are pricey but I was always willing to pay a little extra for the customer service. Free laces for the life of your boots and they spiff them up when you bring them in.
clf28264
Yes in store is a must! Once you find a last that fits well usually you can keep finding the same pair. Additionally they can resolve and rebuild them once they become worn. Granted I’m a Pecos boot fan and had the same pair for three soles now from when I worked in the oil field.
Will
The redwing customer service is amazing,they make sure you get the right fit when you walk out the door. You also have 30 days to return a pair for any reason, though only the once. They’ll clean and condition,resole if possible oh and free shoe laces for the life of the boot lol!
Will
Sadly I couldn’t find my first pair of redwings I bought, they did have a size on clearance but not my size. What a comfortable boot,but the soles got chewed up from shovel work.
The thing that was great was the cloth lining which helped with comfort and fit. I even went a season with a hole in the boot and my socks were always clean,I wish I would’ve patched them before the liner tore.
Will
The redwing customer service is amazing,they make sure you get the right fit when you walk out the door. You also have 30 days to return a pair for any reason, though only the once. They’ll clean and condition,resole if possible oh and free shoe laces for the life of the boot lol!
Stephen
My father in law is a mechanic for the last 50 years and he swears by Redwings.
Wayne R.
Well, they can be repaired – they’re good at that, right? And while I agree on the Red Wings, they’re also not cheap. The pair I have was near $400, if I recall.
But they’re full safety, soles & toes. After a couple of Hurricane deployments and getting nails through the sole (with no real “meat” hits), I wasn’t going to fool around with luck anymore, and spent what was needed.
Ray
I have been buying Timberland for about 40 years now. They make more kinds of work boots than ever. I usually go to their outlet stores with my emails for price and comfort fitting. While the leather uppers are usually of good quality, the amount of padding can vary greatly depending on price.
35 years ago I bought a below the ankle style hiking shoe with knobby sole and used it to hike just below the rock line in the Swiss alps above Murren.
Stuart
I was a huge Timberland fan (for everyday boots/shoes), but every now and then I check their styles and they don’t have anything like the shoes, light boots, or heavier boots that I used to wear.
I’ve found other brands I like better than their field boot style, and am waiting for a blue 6″ boot like the ones I had in college. Their work boots are quite comfy though, but I never quite *loved* them as much as other non-safety footwear.
Mattman
https://www.cabelas.com/product/DANNER-SHOE-PRONGHORN-UNINS/3339801.uts danner vortex hunting boots usually composite toe last me almost 2 years. Commonly go on doorbuster at black friday for 99 bucks cant go wrong. One thing I noticed over most work boots is the wear resistance over pullon wolverine shovels spaces cant cut them without major effort. That’s my 2 cents buy once cry once
clf28264
Interesting to hear you’ve had good luck with danner. Wore out a couple pairs Pheasant hunting over the years and switched to Asolo boots for hiking and hunting. Maybe I should try Danner again.
Will
I’ve had nothing but poor luck with danger hunting boots as well,but walking through that heavy brush is a lot harder on them then work does at least in my experience. I work in the dirt,mud and snow doing underground utility work so My jobs rough on boots.
Gregg
I have worn many brands of work boots over the last 30 years. About 15 years ago I entered a contest online somewhere and one a pair of thoroughgood brand work boot. Hands-down this is the best food I have ever owned. The men’s American heritage 6 inch classic plain toe safety toe boot.
Mac
Whatever decent brand I can get on sale. Big fan of Sierra trading Post. Hubberd’s shoe grease, Peet boot driers, gel insoles and leather spacers because I have long narrow feet and nobody makes narrow boots any more. I like safety toes… required for the volunteer trail work…logging I do…and at work. Thorlo socks. Most boots last me a year or two at most. Oregon rain and mud and hard work and many many miles wear boots down fast. I have DeWalt, John Deer, Carhartt and Dickies branded boots. The Dickies are cheap trash.
Ray
Further, go buy socks with the highest content of Merrino wool you can find. They don’t itch, don’t hold odors, good for 7 months use, wick away moisture better than cotton socks.
You will appreciate the extra padding . I buy medium weight and heavy weight depending on the weather and whether I am standing in the snow for a while. I have thin ones for April and October.
Do not dryer dry them as they will shrink
Mike P.
I’ve been wearing Red Wing 8692 for about 2 years, and I’m not happy with them. By the end of the week, my feet ache like never before. Also, my feet have developed calluses on the inside of my heels, and the inside of the ball of each foot. Never experienced that with any other shoes.
I purchased a pair of Moab Vertex just before Christmas, so I can’t really give an evaluation yet, but my feet are already feeling better.
Monty
Terra Wildsiders…either oxford on the hiking style. Best shoe I’ve ever owned, foot bed stands up to 15+ miles per day on concrete floors. Change the insoles every 2 to 3 months, usually get 3 years out of them. Most others I get a year if im lucky.
Fred
The best work boots I ever owned were Timberland PRO Mudsill Steel Toe Oxfords. Comfortable from the start, good traction, and not too heavy. The downside is that the uppers started to come apart after a few years, but I consider that to be pretty good life. I replaced them with Red Wing WORX #5501 Cobalt 5-inch steel toe hikers, which are also pretty good, and are more durable. But, they didn’t fit quite as well as the Timberlands and seem much heavier.
Hans
I sported $280 for some Danner Quarrys. They killed my feet until I swapped out the garbage insoles for a pair of really cushy $40 keen insoles. Now, I don’t want to take them off. Nor should I—$320 boots! They have held up awesome over six months of remodeling work. I used some black goop “kg’s boot gaurd” i ordered from amazon to protect the toe. Seems to be working nicely. I covered the stitching that bonds the boot to the sole with wax before I applied it—after the black gunk cured I was able to wipe off the wax and the boots should still be recraftable. For leather conditioning I’m all about White’s leather preservative. It’s beeswax based and a pleasure to apply—makes your hands smell good.
Kenneth Nesselrodt
Redwings 2412 for the winter months mid-Atlantic region (temps less than 40 deg F inland VA >700ft above sea level) and 2414 (for above 40 deg F) for @ work boots. You could probably get by with either with thick or thin enough socks. I get one every other year @ work with a discount. I’d pick the 2414 if I could only have one with a pretty deep selection of sock type and toasty toes. I’m an extremely active production engineer who regularly has cold feet as a result of a car accident/low body fat.
The Redwing boots are absolutely horrible the first week or so wearing until they’re broken in, but are great after that.
For leisure/light work in the garage I wear twisted x driving mocs with Ariat footbeds.
For muddy or farm work I wear either Muck Boot Arctic ST boots when its below freezing and I’m doing mostly sedentary work, or Muck Boot Chore Cool STs when I’m on the move frequently. Honeywell 75109/9 boots are also good as a cheap alternativr for Chore Cool ST type of work in my experience.
I know a lot of people that wear Keen boots in my industry, and have been considering trying a pair for my next purchase, but find the Redwings so comfortable after the break in period I haven’t gone that route, yet. I’m skeptical of their longevity for my level of abuse in my line of work.
Admittedly, I haven’t nailed down the best type of work boots for me yet, but I’d recommend anything I’ve mentioned in this post and they’re all pretty good if not great options.
Marc
Looks like old man shoes to me. Do you see athletes wearing high top leather. Performance shoes are where it’s at not bonker clown shoes. Being fast and productive out ways having body armor feet. Lame
Stuart
So you’re saying you prefer sneakers?
Mr Weedley
Had to read your comment a couple of times, the “ways” kept throwing me. Its still early… Too your comment about body armor feet, that is a requirement for many companies and governmental agencies.
Mr Weedley
29 CFR 1910.136(a)
Nathan
I know a guy that lost 3 toes and the end of his performance athetilc shoes while he was working on his house and the garage door opener came down off the bracket – on his foot – hanging off the end of the ladder step. that thin sheet metal can be sharp.
so yes I’ll wear mah clown shoes while I’m working on things that might hurt me. Just like I wear my clown mask for the dust in the air, the clown face shield when metal chips are flying about and I always where my clown ear protection when I’m near loud things, be they guns, jet engines, exhaust pipeless car engines, or table saws.
and yes I assume the post is a joke.
Bscat
Says the 16 year old fry cook.
Mosh
I use these pretty happy except had trouble with the waterproofing part…..
red wing 8690
keith griffith
Buying multiples of one boot? What works for some I guess, but seems odd. You should have a few pairs of work footwear for sure – but change up brands. You gotta let them dogs flex and move – and hemming them into multiples of the same boot seems like you’d just end up hating that particular boot – and dammit, you’ve got multiples!
Worked in wood/metal shop and running around a hard floored institution for a long long time – never wore steel or composite toe. Or water proof for that matter. If your WP boots are soaked with sweat at the end of the day – your just swimming in your own sweat. Get your breathe on!
Danner Crafter slip on shoe. Amazing insole and nice and wide toe box.
Blundstone 510. Good to go everywhere boot. Work and play.
Diadora running shoes – cheap and cushie.
NoBull trainers. The most durable fabric shoe I’ve ever seen. Amazing.
I also set up an auto delivery of Proform 2oz miracle insoles (the blue ones) – If they last two months – I’ve got my money’s worth. The Danner are the only ones I don’t change. Insoles make the shoe.
With my sneakers as suggestions – the boot idea, I believe you don’t have to look the part (make sure if you’re painting or gluing you wipe it on your pants so everyone knows you work for a living!).
Get outta the box! We like it when tool makers think and make outta the box tools, right? Why do we have to suffer our dogs in ‘work boots’?
Cheers!
Jamie
I’ve been wearing two different styles of Timberlands work boats for the last 1.5 years. The stock insoles killed my feet, but I replaced them with insoles from Sof Sole and It made a night and day difference.
Here’s a link to the insoles:
https://www.rei.com/product/884081/sof-sole-plantar-fasciitis-insoles-mens
If you’re looking for ultra high quality work boots you might consider brands such as: Nicks, Wesco or White’s. They’re all expensive ($500+) but they’re all made in the USA and they can be customized to your specifications. If you were to equate these brands to tool brands they’re the equivalent PB Swiss or Festool of work boots.
Avi
I like my Keen Pittsburghs. Although I don’t wear them everyday. I also can’t really compare them to much, however they’re miles above a full 8″ leather boot I had, and above whatever $50 boot was on sale.
Joatman
Love my Keen Pittsburghs. I have the soft toes (orange trim). I don’t wear them everyday, but every chance I get. Super comfortable
Bruce Miller
Red Wing 875. I’ve been wearing mine since 2012. I just get them factory resoled every two years, and I expect them to last forever.
Cris
I swear by my keens – I have a high arch and wide foot and their toe boxes are simply awesome.
I have 3 different pairs for the work I’m doing [restoration carpenter, so its everything from framing to finish] low, sneaker style, hiker and 8in all steel toed and at the end of the day my feet feel fine. Never had a problem with any of them and I’d recommend them to anyone who has to wear any sort of safety toed boot/shoe.
I agree with the other posters about a good quality wool sock [I wear wool year round just for the comfort]
Of course steel toes are heavier, but the difference in weight on my feet and legs between the different heights is negligible and as far as break in, there wasn’t really any – they felt like a comfortable pair of runners.
But like anything else, you have to go and try them on, what works for me might be like walking on legos barefoot for you. YMMV
Benjamen
I have to agree on the Keen toe boxes. I don’t know why the fronts of boots are so rounded. does anybody actually have rounded feet like that?
I started wearing Targhee II’s for everything, my toes thank me for it. Every other brand I get blisters because the toe box forces my toes together.
fred
In our metal/pipe fabrication shop we required (to be OSHA compliant) steel toed shoes and sometimes instep protection.
Seeing how many are rounded it may be that “round” is an easier shape for the shoemakers to produce. Or it may be that a circular profile tends to be stronger (more crush resistant) than other profiles.
In any event – most of these did not fit my feet very well – so when I needed to walk around that part of the business – I donned some slip-on foot guards that we had for visitors. My take was that they were a potential hazard in themselves – and you had to get used to walking with them.
Here is a link I could find:
http://www.westernsafety.com/products/ellwoodsafety/ellwoodsafetypg1.html
Mahalo
I’ve been wanting to try Keens but have read many bad reviews regarding their durability. I was most happy with a pair of Timberland pros that were amazingly comfortable. Have some Red Wings that are durable but not nearly as comfortable.
Joatman
Belated Mele Kalikimaka
Benjamen
I’m not really sure about the durability. I wear through a pair of Targhee IIs in about 9 months.
What goes for me is the soles, they start wearing through on the heel for me, the balls also have significant wear. But I don’t know if I’m using my boots more than other people. I wear them just about all day and then I walk the dog 3 miles on asphalt every night, that’s like 750 miles on the soles, not even counting the wear from the rest of the day.
Sometimes around the 7th month, I need to replace the insoles, they just get flattened. Otherwise the rest of the boot is just fine and seems like it could go for years.
Koko The Talking Ape
Keens use a few different sole compounds. One is very soft and sticky, and yes, it wears out quickly. Those soles have large broad lugs.
The soles with smaller, “sharper” lugs use a harder compound. That probably lasts longer, but I can’t tell yet.
The other Hans
I prefere steel capped Redwing engineer’s boots. They have few equals. I buy them in one size over my normal shoe size to give room for thick socks winter time.
I smear them with Leather Balsam, a mix of coco-nut oil and bee’s wax, at least twice a week. That keeps them soft and comfortable.
To alernate between two pairs of boots as commented above is a very good idea.
Jim P.
Red wing 6″ King Toe composite safety toe. I make sure to get the water proof version. Forgot the number but they work well. Wear them everywhere. The downside compared to other Red Wing boots is they’re not resoleable as the soles are glued on and not stitched. I usually get a year of heavy use out of a pair
rhyino
What I want to know is about YOUR preferences. What’s the best work boot for YOU?
I prefer soft toe mid height boots, but use Redwings and Timberland Pro safety toe boots when required.
About ten years ago, I used to have multiple pairs of Merrell Moab mid hiking boots in the Ventilator and Waterproof styles. This was my go to shoe for work or play. Then for some reason the sizing changed, I tried on the same model/different colors in my normal size and the fit for both of them was not what I was used to. I also found the build quality for the next two pairs I bought had decreased.
In 2012 I tried out a pair of Lowa Renegade GTX mid boots and have been very happy with them . I bought my last pair in 2015 and I noticed that I finally wore out the heel section of the sole just the other week.
I really like the merino wool heavy weight boot socks from Darn Tough. I haven’t worn out a set yet.
Keen is another pair that I have tried in the soft toe Detroit mid version. Comfortable for me and the Keen models usually have a wider toe box.
I would suggest trying on boots towards the end of the day rather than earlier in the day as you feet tend to swell a bit as you walk around. Bring the boot socks that you normally wear and bring your boots too. If you find a good sales person, you can show them where you are having problems with that specific pair and they can offer a solution. I’ve found if a boot isn’t comfortable as soon as you try them on, it usually won’t stretch out or get better; I just try on a different size or model. Some footwear is just not made to fit you.
Good luck Stuey, let us know what you find!
rhyino
For safety toe boots, I prefer my Timberland Pro over my Redwings for comfort. At at the end of a work day, my feet feel much better when I wear the Timberland Pros.
I try to rotate between the two pairs, use a brush to remove excess dirt at the end of the day and use a conditioner/polish to extend the lifespan of my boots.
Gary Ratajczak
Recently moved from a desk job to an on my feet position. Spending more time on concrete floor. Had Wolverines, but started bothering me pretty quick. I did a search on Amazon, and stumbled on a brand called “Rock Rooster.” They made a synthetic toe boot with wide size, toe guard and side zipper. Priced just over $100. Thought I would give a try – sole is hands down best I have every owned. VERY comfortable all day – no issues in back or hips. Only disappointment is that I have a high instep, and need a big shoe horn to get on the boots using only the side zipper. Zipper has not slid down once. I would buy these again. Leather is very soft, and boots are lighweight. (I received NO compensation – just passing along my $0.02)
Mike (the other one)
They have a pair that looke very similar to the now discontinued Wolverine Guardians. Might give them a try. I’m pretty sure it’s a Chinese company, but most boots in that price range are made in China, whatever the brand.
Adam
Been a longtime Red Winger, but last pair has not been near as comfortable. Tried some Keens and fell in love. On third pair of Keens, still have those Red Wings in the closet.
Matthew
Does anyone have recommendations for work boots (safety or regular) in a 15? Like Adam said above, the Red Wing quality hasn’t been as high the last pair I got.
Doug B.
I use to swear by Red Wing 8″ Kingtoe 2244s. I’d buy two paisr at a time and lived in them. They were instantly comfortable. A few years ago, it seemed as though the quality went down hill and they weren’t as durable. I’ve since switched to Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 8″ Moc Toe, safety toe and love them. They require a little breaking in but they are much more durable. They last longer, are extremely comfortable, more styles to choose from, and all around the best boot I’ve owned.
Matthew
Lace up Red Wings generally last me 2.5-4 years including a sole change. I’m actually sure for one now.
However, I have to get the Red Wing inserts for my boots. They are just about the only ones I’ve found in a 15, they are very comfortable and they have different styles like the Dr. Shoals.
Mopar
I have duck feet. I need extremely wide (4E , 5E is better) so that limits me. I also need them to be waterproof.
About the only work boot I’ve found that fits me are the Carolina broad toe 5020s. I wear them at least 50hrs a week, and replace them every year or so. I treat them with good old fashioned Sno-Seal right out of the box for better waterproofing, and replace the inner sole with a gel after the first few months.
Really need a safety toe boot, but have yet to find one that fits.
Paul
Take a look at Cactus brand workboots. They are well made and my moc toe type boots were comfortable from the start. They have a bunch of styles and colors and are priced right compared to the big name brands.
RusstyB
Just got myself a pair of Keen Milwaukee steel toe for the holidays.
I’ve only worn them a few times – so no lont-term testing as of yet – but they are very comfortable and well-planted.
Paired them with Carhartt Men’s Big and Tall Arctic Wool Heavy Boot Socks.
Perfection (so far).
Adrian
I would strongly consider looking at aftermarket insoles. Superfeet (the green ones) are a well regarded brand that have worked well for me personally. They don’t make the boots feel plush and comfy like slippers, but they can dramatically change how comfortable your feet are at the end of a day of walking/standing.
As for boots themselves, I like redwings and keen, but finding a last that fits your particular foot is a lot more important than buying the ‘right’ brand.
Another option are the semi-custom boots (such as White’s boots). I’ve never tried one of these, but I’d love to!
JR
Keen is what I’ve been buying. Definitely a comfortable work boot.
Corey Moore
What works for an individual is very subjective. Often, the most beneficial thing one can do is to actually learn about boots, their fit, ect. The infantry teaches you more about your feet and boots than you’d think was possible, including expediting breaking in and maintaining. Personally, I’m an ariat guy for my safety toe and my metas. One thing I will say is universal advisable is that composite toe is infinitely preferable to the older steel toes: way lighter, and not having freezing pieces of metal strapped to your feet in the winter is reason enough for me.
Mike K
ABEO Boyd!!! Red Wings boots were always my go to. However, I have found the most comfortable boot for my needs. It is not steel toed, but nonetheless a boot! I wear these everyday, and they are even more comfortable than tennis shoes. Abeo Boyd can be purchased thru the Walking Company. I recommend you go into the store, because they fit your boots with a unique insert for your boot for free. There are three inserts to choose from. Now that I have purchased 2 pairs, I can order over the phone. They do have occasional sales, where you can purchase these boots for between $109 – $145 depending on the time of year.
Mike (the other one)
I feel like Wolverines in general have decreased in quality in the last several years. Plus they keep discontinuing boots that I like, which is really annoying.
Not work boots, but I used to swear by Skechers utility oxfords. They looked great and were pretty durable. With a good pair of insoles, they were my go-to brand for work shoes (not safety boots), since they looked good in the office or out in making my runs. However, their quality has taken a severe nose dive in the last few years.
As for dedicated work boots, I’ve had a hard time finding pairs that properly fit. I have wide feet, and if a brand has a wide size, it’s usually too narrow. It can be frustrating. One thing I really like is a composite safety toe. I am not required to have steel toe boots, but composite toes offer protection without the weight, so it’s nice to have. However my wide feet make comfortable safety toes very hard to find.
Nathan
I could make a very long post so I might do 2 smaller ones. First up work, now for me my office is an office but it’s also a hangar floor, and the inside of an aircraft, or the production room floor of backshops. Thus I wear Red Wing oxfords – but they aren’t the postman or other oxfords that are polished fine leather etc. These are basically the mid workboot with the mid part removed. SO same water proof oil proof leather uppers, deep sole wells, etc of their other work boots. Mine are the composite safety toe with composite shank system and supposedly they aren’t made anymore. I can tell you I do walk though security in some places with them on without issue which is why I bought them.
However I’ve also walked on the wing of a plane with them too. Gripy in wet or even some grip under a dripy engine. Point is they are comfortable and I love them. I’ve had Ecco’s and I’ve had Merrils but nothing has topped the Red WIng – and the price is aobut the same, and they are made in america. I liked the other for comfort but as of this year I’ve had the red wings the longest of any work shoe I’ve tried. 5 years on one and 4 years on the other pair.
Oflannabhra
I have a pair of cheap-o Brahma boots from Walmart that I use as beater boots (a friend calls them “sh*t kickers”).
I’ve become a huge fan of Blundstone boots. I’ve got a pair of their 500s, and they handle water and mud incredibly well. Unlike other brands like Thoroughgood or Redwing, they are far less bulky and really lightweight.
https://www.blundstone.com/shop/stout-brown-premium-leather-v-cut-boots-mens-style-500
HandyDan
I started out wearing Red Wings, which are good boots. My problem with then is every time I go ro buy a new pair, they have changed the models. I wore Keens for a while, but while they break in quickly, they also die quickly.
My current favorites are Steel Blue 961. They were comfortable from the beginning, and are still pretty comfortable 6 months in. When it is time to buy new boots, I will go with the same ones.
DC
Alternate between Keen steel toed work shoes or Danner Vicious.
Michael Eibling
I have a pair of Carolina Sarge 1309 6″ steel toes that I love to death. They even come in a 3E!
Tim
This is the first mention of Carolina boots yet. They are the most comfortable boot I have ever put on my feet . I highly recommend them
Charles Stopczynski
I wore ZCoil shoes on concrete, 9-14 hours a day for many years. The ONLY shoe/boot I know of that gives you 30 days to try out and return for a 100% refund, no questions asked if you are not completely happy.
Their Prime work boot, with or without safety toe available. http://www.zcoil.com
There is a dealer locator or you can purchase direct.
By the end of 5-6 hours I was nearly in tears until I tried Zcoils and have never looked back. I own and wear 3 different pairs.
Wayne R.
Oh, man, those are some freaky looking shoes.
Mr Weedley
I haven’t seen those in 14 years. worked with a guy who wore those, he swore by them too.
Grady
Red Wing pull on boots #1155.! I’ve had this same boot in soft and steel toe. Many years of use while building oil field drilling equipment. And yes, l have toes because they were steel toe. I can personally testify to steel toe boots safety benefits. And another decade + as a machinist in the aerospace industry. I wore the soft toes when i transferred to engineering splitting my time between the office and the shop.
My wife was not happy with me when we dressed up nice to go out and i wore my work boots. I had other nice cowboy boots but choose my work boots because of their comfort.
Come to think of it, I need a new pair.
Shawn Chambers
Timberland PRO Boondock 6″ Comp Toe Work Boots.
I loved these so much that I bought a second pair that are sitting in my closet for when these wear out…. just in case I can’t find them again.
Brent Smith
I’m a finish carpenter and I wear vans sk8 hi! Lol
Joshua
I’m a big fan of the Danner Quarry’s and have had a pair for about three years. I work in the woods 5 days a week so I oil them every two months at the least. I use Obenauf’s leather preservative and then rotate to their oil the next time. I can’t say enough about boot maintenance for longevity and comfort and think Obenaufs is a great product to accomplish it but I’m sure there are others that work as well. From my wildland fighting days I still have two pairs of White’s and although they are comfortable they are too heavy and expensive for everyday use unless your work requires a boot like that. Back then we oiled our boots every couple of weeks and it always loosened them up from the heat, ash and water and made them feel comparable to a slipper in the realm of boots.
Shoes, I like the Merrell’s with Gortex for a winter time shoe that’s pretty well water proof, they are great in a few inches of snow and mud and have good traction.
Of course everyone’s foot is different and what works for me might not for others.
Good luck finding something that works for you and then oil it and pair it with some of your wool socks and you should be good to go!
Jon
I have worn Danner, Red Wings, Whites (when they actually measured all you foot), Chippewa, so on. The best with 2 pairs in and 10 years running (5 years each) is a custom pair made by a local boot maker (Ryan’s Boot Repair). Nothing comes close.
He measures from your toes to your ankles and everything in between. The only cushion you have is leather on top of the wood. After being on a ladder all day and walking on average 6-10miles a day, my feet are always happy and comfortable.
Frank D
So, the soles are actually made out of wood?
RE: “The only cushion you have is leather on top of the wood”
That would take some serious getting used to, and I did not like dutch / wooden clogs when I tried them way back when.
Wayne R.
My feet prefer a stiff footbed, but that might be too much.
James
I don’t often need steel or safety toe protection anymore and have found myself using either Asolo brand hiking boots, or more recently, Scarpa Zen shoes. Both are super comfortable and durable with grippy soles.
Koko The Talking Ape
I wear Keen shoes and boots almost exclusively. They don’t last very long, and they aren’t always well made, but they have the wide, square toe and narrow instep I need. They don’t need breaking in.
I do have to add aftermarket insoles to get enough arch support. So far I’ve used SOLE insoles, but I might try Currex (Superfeet don’t work for me.) The SOLE insoles cost $40, but they can outlast the boots.
But I just got a pair of DeWalt workboots for about half off from HD. They look and fit pretty well, though the toebox is barely wide enough and borderline too long (by a good inch.)
I don’t need steel toe boots, and I hope I never do. I’ve heard they are sweaty, cold, heavy, uncomfortable, etc.
RCWARD
Work? What’s that ?
Richard G.
As an industrial mechanic I tried them all )) ok, most of them in 15 years span. For the last 6-7 years I stuck with Keens. Hiking boots is, in my opinion, the best option for long walks during the shift.
Mike
I like my Chippewas they have the Vibran soles that last forever also like timberland pros very comfortable boots
HectorP
Have had a pair of Timberland American Craft Moc-Toe boots for ~ year. Very comfortable, made by the Belleville Boot Co. I believe most of Belleville’s business is making boots for the US military. It is a typical work boot – crepe wedge sole w/ a goodyear welt (can be resoled). Uppers are Horween leather! Just fits my foot well, and consequently is very comfortable.
For shoes – Meindl Comfort Fit Walker. Cabela’s used to carry them (German shoe maker – manufactures in Italy, various eastern european countries), but are now only available via their USA website. Proper insoles and excellent overall construction.
Bruce Pierce
I wear Haix. The best work boots I have ever owned. Pain in the butt to break in but wear like iron. I let them so much that I have three pairs of new Red Wings that I have not even worn.
SaturnFire
Redwings…I did not buy 2 pairs…at the same time. I got the EH non-Metallic steel Toe hikers….looks like they stopped making them 🙁 But I don’t wear them every day. First pair lasted ~11 years. I am on my second pair (~3 years)…looks like new. Red Wings are more expensive, but fit and feel are the best. I tried wolverines…and they hurt my feet…had to return them
789talon
I use the Rocky 6114 steel toe boot, I like that they are water proof, have a wide toe area, have an electrical certification and the heel area is very cushioned. I usually have to purchase a new pair every 2 years, probably been wearing these style for 15 to 20 years. Work in a Foundry on my feet 10 to 12 hours a day. I have put them through some tuff situations at times and been very happy with them.
Mopar4wd
Have timberlands right now ok not great. Favorite were dahnner boots but too pricey for me lately. Had several redwings lasted forever but not very comfortable. I wear sketchers or Clark’s to the office every day. Don’t last long but pretty comfy. I noticed lots of my friend that need steel toe boots every day have switched over to keens.
Tony
Merrell Waterproof boots have been my favorite, although I admit that I haven’t tried a lot of competitors’ boots. I was lucky enough to find something that worked for me early on and I just decided to stick with it. They’re great for snow and have been rock solid. I haven’t had any problems with how they fit. They feel incredibly comfortable. But since they’re quite rugged they also tend to feel “heavy” after wearing them for a while and I prefer to switch to lighter shoes as soon as I can get out of the snow/ice/water.
Adam
I have worn steel toe/safety toe boots for work going on 15 years. The best boot I have worn which is the current one I’m using are Red Wings 2218. I have had these boots for 2.5 years wearing them almost every work day. The break in period for these boots are tough but once they are broken in, they almost fit like a glove. The sole is tough also since I usually walk on rocks and they haven’t been replaced yet. This is an expensive boot but if take care of, can last several years and longer if you resolve them. If you don’t need a steel toe, then the soft toe version of this boot (Red Wing 218) would probably fit more comfortable.
Paul
I work in industrial environments and by this often I mean outdoors, mining, wood plants, etc. So rough terrain. So automatically boots and recommend 8″ or higher to protect your ankles from rolling.
Second in terms of soft vs steel vs composite toes the only soft toes I own are for around the house or “driving shoes” for long drives. I don’t see any point in using steel toes. For one thing I work around electrical jobs and those are conductive which can be good or bad but generally bad. Second issue is weight. Composite is much lighter. Plus they do NOT conduct heat or cold. Try working in a glass plant and you will quickly appreciate the thermal effect just as much as working in steel toes in winter. Finally there is I guess fiberglass and newer boots are coming out with carbon composite. The carbon is even lighter than composite which is much lighter than steel toes. Once we get past this issue I could probably use soft toes on some sites but it’s too much trouble to keep track of which ones I can and can’t, and I wouldn’t recommend any boot which is so cheap that the hard toe bites into your toes.
Also a couple other “armor” options are metatarsal guards and kevlar or steel midsoles to make it puncture resistant. The midsole stuff works very well but it is not a common feature in most boots. Metatarsal guards come in two versions, external and internal. If you want to beat up your toes and get the hard toe to eat into your foot I know no better way than external metatarsals. These are required in some mining and steel industry jobs but almost nowhere else. They are also nice for welding because slag just rolls off your foot. The latest thing though is called “D3O” which is a foam that instantly gets hard when you hit it but stays soft otherwise. D3O metatarsal boots are like wearing a normal boot with a slightly thicker tongue. Makes the boot just as comfortable as standard non-metatarsal boots. Very nice but it’s hard to find. On the pair of metatarsal boots I have for sites that require it, this is the only type of metatarsal I’d recommend.
Then we come to a bunch of features. As far as rebuildable stitch down construction vs. molded/glued construction, I’m very much in the glued/molded camp. Molded/glued construction is definitely cheaper no question. But it moves better and is shaped better and has fewer limitations with the shape of the boot, and it’s considerably lighter. Stitched down construction does eliminate a lot of cheaply made boots but molded construction is not necessarily poorly made. As to the whole “which lasts longer”, this is pretty easy. I destroy the inside of the boot almost as fast as the outside and due to the rough environment I shred the leather too. If I only walked around I could see where I could eventually wear out the soles to the point where resoling makes sense. But since by then the uppers are destroyed too, I have never had a boot last to the point where resoling it made sense.
Heels or no heels? A heel makes it much easier to climb ladders without as much risk of slipping off and helps dig into the dirt to prevent slipping again. Not sure if there’s really any downside.
Then there is 3/4 or full shank. This is a lineman and ditch digger thing. With a full shank you are basically standing on a piece of steel that goes to roughly the balls of your toes. With it you can comfortably stand on an extension ladder (rungs) all day without pain. You can also put your weigh on a shovel to get through a rock without bruising your foot. The downside is that the boot doesn’t flex AT ALL so it is usually much less comfortable. But there are exceptions. Ariat powerline wellingtons are very, very comfortable despite full shank.
Finally boots vs. shoes isn’t really an argument as I said above. The big question is pull ons vs. lacers. I wore “cowboy boots” when I was a kid on the farm. They were cool looking but hands down not very comfortable except hooked in the stirrups of a good saddle. But about 10 years ago I thought I’d just try a pair again. It was a pair of Ariats. All I can say i wow. I was instantly won over. The only downside was sweating in the summer but now they have the “VentTek” panels that breath and fix that problem even in coastal Southern heat.
The think with pull ons is you HAVE to try them on. Don’t just assume that your lacer size is the same. And the ankle/shin fit is different too so what works for my legs won’t work for everybody. So you need to try on several pairs. Second issue is that on a brand new pair, plan on wearing boot-length socks and wear a cheap pair for the first few days because all pull ons are going to wear on the sock badly until they break in and will chafe the back of your leg badly if you don’t wear long socks while breaking in. Third the feel is very different from a lacer. When you take a step and lift up your foot, the boot will slip down a little off of your heel. This is normal and helps the boot “breath” among other things. It will slip like 1/2″ or less. More than that and it’s too loose and will blister your heel. Remember back to point one…get some that fit. They will fit like a glove if everything i right.
So…my recommendations…
If you must go lacers, the Wolverine Buckeye EAA is a great boot. Very comfortable and lasts a long time. Plan on changing out the liners though because the ones it comes with aren’t very great. Carolina also makes some excellent broad toe “logger” type boots which meet all the above criteria and are very comfortable. If you need metatarsals, Carolina is so-so. Hands down Matterhorns are the best but very expensive and kind of hard to find. Also hands down the longest lasting boot I’ve ever had, and the heaviest.
Switching to pull ones in summer I like the Ariat Intrepids. Extremely comfortable and has the side vents so they aren’t so hot. The new carbon toe intrepids and Workhogs are even better. In winter Ariat Powerline insulated boots or non-insulated are very comfortable and last quite a while too but high priced.
Tried Danners…start out feeling decent but just not all that comfortable. Justins…junk. Even if they didn’t fall apart, they pick up odors really badly. Wolverine pull ons…decent and popular around here but not as comfortable as Ariats…also not as expensive. Timberland Pro’s…fell apart way too quickly on me. Red Wings…weigh about 200% more than they should and like I said, I work, not walk around. So resoling and all that doesn’t work when I destroy a boot in about 24 months. And the shaft is just way too narrow on my legs. Lacrosse…great for rubber boots (still not a 100% Muck fan) but their regular boots are lousy.
Ric
What aboutleather lined vs. unlined vs mesh vs gore Tex vs rough out.
Seems unlined rough out might be the coolest most comfort summer boot possible.
Scotty.
I started a new job two months ago that has me walking on concrete all day. The first week was torture as I didn’t have proper footwear. Local workware store recommended Keen Braddock shoes for my situation. I’m very happy with the choice, feet feel good after an 8-10 hour day. I haven’t noticed much wear so hopefully they will last a long time.
Ian M
https://www.redbackboots.com/mens/redback-boots
I had a pair of their steel toe hiker style boots. I did look after them lasted nearly 4 years and the best boots i have ever owned. Every time I get a new set I regret not buying red backs again.
Tim
I’ve had maybe 6 pairs of thorogood wedge sole. I really liked lots of things about them. However if they get too wet or dryed out really fast, yes real leather changes shape/size. The sole also wears fast, about one year for me. That’s 5 or 6 days a week all day.
Redwings are all over the place. Had 4 different pairs. And I never wanted to make a repeat purchase. For the money I think thorogood ussually offer better quality and pricing.
Then I tried keen, and one model I really liked. But they don’t make it any more and nothing else they offer was as good.
I think I’m going to try allegiance boots next. I heard some good things.
http://www.afboots.com/
That has been my experience.
Bob
Is anyone wearing the Nicks builder pro or the wesco or Whites version as their everyday boot?
In my teens when in landscaping/dirt work/construction I had two pairs of identical redwings logger style like the Nicks I rotated. Worked great. Since then I have tried several brands/styles and not much luck with comfortability AND long term durability. I may look into thorogoods as quite a few seem to like them but the white vibram, though grippy wears too fast for me.
I do not like glued together sneaker style boots. Never last and no ankle support or foot protection. I have no use for gortex lined. Water proof, for a short time, but then you sweat like a rubber boot. An all leather boot properly maintained (greased) is “water proof” within reason and still breathable. Sometimes the task at hand requires a rubber boot and I have a pair for those few and far brtween instances.
With those prefrences I have been looking at a semi custom boot by Nicks boots. Whites/Wesco/franks all in the same category. The Nicks builder pro model seems to be a slightly lighter duty version of their smoke jumper/logger style boot. I have flat feet so the arch reinforcement appeals to me. Im ok with the price (well sort of lol) as long as the fit is perfect and the durability is there. I figure if i can resole for $150 thats cheaper than buying crappy new boots that don’t last. And in the long run is a good investment.
Several factors give me pause. No one stocks these in stores. Nicks does send a pair to try on after you place an order. I work in different environments. Sometimes a concrete shop floor, sometimes site work (mud), landscape work/tree work at my house etc. I also want to use it as a hunting boot. They seem very rugged but im concerned with the weight. I think alternating between two identical sets like I used to they could last a VERY long time. Like to here anyone’s experience with these good or bad.
Lamar Bailey
I agree redwings are very good but I also like Ariat and Georgia Boots.
All are great so find a pair that looks good to you.
https://www.georgiaboot.com/georgia-work-boots/
https://www.ariat.com/c/mens-work-footwear
eddie sky
I’ve had two pairs of Caterpillar wear boots (steel toe on first pair, composite toe on second). The laces lasted two years, then I got some IronLaces. The laces have outlasted the workboots. (soles worn, upper material shrunk so that from toe/sole has gap. Need to bronze these and put on pedestal. I think 8 years of home remodeling wear.
Second pair of Cat boots nothing like the first. Laces come off the top hooks all the time. Not a good design. Nor are they as narrow as last pair. Might move the IronLaces to these.
However, I have some Keen boots (ugly and make my feet look…like I a Space Clown). Yet, they have a new pair of Philadelphia 6″ boots that have carbon toe. Might try a pair but they are OUCH $225.. (even at Zappos or other discount online places).
Wear, toe protection are number one. Traction and waterproof is next. Support is tie with one and two.
The What?
Personally I hate wearing boots at work which is why I wear Nike or Adidas tennis shoes 99% of the time. Inserts are an absolute must. Even when I do demo I don’t wear boots unless I have to tear down a structure and work off the pile or if I have to work in the rain and mud or when digging footings or doing concrete work. Even if I have to wear them all day I still bring my tennis shoes for the drive to and from work. Let’s not kid ourselves here boots aren’t comfortable. Especially steel toe. I’ve tried them all. Wolverine Redwing etc. They all hurt my feet. So my opinion of the best work boot is no boots.
Nick
I’m just a homeowner DIY “pro” with a desk job during the day – my boots get HEAVY use for a homeowner, but nothing like you tradesmen. I currently have a pair of soft-toe Timberland Pro boots I got back in 2013 or so. They were on a ridiculous sale at a close-out Sears store. I think I paid $30 for them – I was skeptical, but they’ve been great. I added a pair of gel insoles because when I was building my deck a few years back, my feet were killing me from jumping up and down off the frame all day. Made a world of difference. They’re tough, waterproof, now have good shock absorption, and best of all they’re actually quite light weight for work boots.
If I could find them at that price again, I’d get another pair just to keep in the closet for when these eventually wear out.
fm2176
I lucked out in finding some DeWalt safety footwear on clearance that I actually like (it was a gamble as work boots and shoes are really hit or miss when it comes to wearer opinion). I had the foresight to pick up three pairs of Wrench composite toe shoes, which are my go-to footwear. My first pair started wearing a bit, so I started wearing the second pair for occasions that necessitate casual business attire. While still listed on DeWalt’s website, these shoes seem to be discontinued as they are no longer available for sale.
The Baltimore work boots don’t get anywhere near as much wear, though they are broken out in inclement weather. I found that the anomaly in my area (an open Sears in a closed mall) had a few pairs in their well-stocked DeWalt footwear section last year, so I may buy another pair and check out some other designs while I’m at it.
Twenty-some years ago I had a pair of 8″ or so Caterpillar steel toed boots. The leather wore off the toe and they took a beating when I was a forklift mechanic, but I still have them in the in-laws’ attic. Maybe they’ll clean up enough to wear again. 🙂
Jonathan
Personally having had 5 foot surgeries ( 2left, 3 right) finding a pair of any kind of shoe is a bit of a pain. I’ve gone the Redwings route and enjoyed the fit/feel. Durability wise, my experience was horrible. One pair was in need of repair less than 1yr in. By the time I made it in however, the year was over and they couldn’t help. Paid for a second pair – same style, only for it to bust 6 months in. At $230/pair – they shouldn’t be doing that. You have to look closely where it’s made, with what materials/process.
I’ve since switched to Timberland Pro’s Hyperion 6″ work boots. Just as comfortable, better constructed, $80 cheaper and they will allow you to do a true 30 day money back returns – including worn. Redwings does not offer anything close.
Jared
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe boots are amazing. After one day on the job they broke in. American made in Portland Or. Comfort, durability, long life. The essence of a good work boot.
Mr. X
It really does not matter what boots you wear. Everyone is different and has unique requirements for fit, function, and style. As long as your choice reflects professionalism and your choice of boot/footwear is appropriate for your profession, wear what you like!
As an electrician (mostly residential) and vocational instructor I prefer the Red Wing 875. The flat sole is comfortable on concrete floors and does not pick up and bring dirt into a customer’s home. The moc toe leather uppers are supportive, comfortable, and durable.
Chris
JH
My cousins (a diesel mechanic and an elevator mechanic) both wear RedWing and swear by them. I have a pair waterproof, comp toe, insulated pair that I use for winter work, but they make me miss my Thorogoods every day. The RWs are good boots, but just stiff enough that my heel hurts at the end of the day.
Joe
I used to love Magnum Ultra Lights with composite toe ,but more than 5 yrs ago they changed everything about them & they were being made too small. I tried it 3 more times ,about 6 months apart. But had to mail them back , I even talked to them about it, they didn’t.t seem to care.
They were so good before. Zero break in time, so light that you can run with them as if you were wearing sneakers ! I walk on concrete & up and down metal/ concrete stairs all day long. The old Magnum Ultra Light were a pleasure to wear.
Factory320
Thorogoods 6″ Moc Toe w/ wedge sole. Light weight, crazy comfy, leather and stitching is really high quality.
Paired with Darn Tough wool socks, go all day with little to no sweat, dry overnight, no stink, can wear several days before washing.
I tried a pair of Keen, both soles started peeling off within 2 weeks. And they made my feet sink!
If you are spending $120, do yourself a favor and but USA made Thorogoods for a few more bucks. The quality is obvious.
Thebear Koss
Any soft suede low top sneaker but mostly new balance 574. Boots are a no go at my job, waaay too heavy as I am running around on hard concrete and porcelain tile all day. (I clock in on average 6 miles a day walking). When I do require boots I have have a couple of wolverine composite toe boots, a Georgia steel toe, but I love my red setter soft moc toe wedge heel. I tried red wing but sizing width was too inconsistent. Not sure if I lucked out but the red setters fit perfect. Outside of work I wear all black suede vans old skool mids that I have owned for over 20 years (skateboarding days)
Mike Ring
Red Wings by far. Pricy, but well worth it as they keep your feet healthy and last forever. I work both as a contractor and in the Aerospace industry; lots of dirt, oil, and various other hazardous sites. Original were $400.00 plus, but lasted 8 years.
http://www.redwingshoes.com/red-wing-shoe/2416-red-wing-shoes/2416-red-wing-mens-8-inch-boot-black
Andrew
The best boots I’ve ever bought were Timberland Pro’s, specifically the Titan’s. They’re light like sneakers, but super comfy and come with a composite toe. I bought them because my job had the potential of visiting and walking around wet mines, and a coworker said he made the mistake of just having regular work boots that were soaked by the end of the day.
I never ended going to a mine, but about a month after buying the boots I was in a flooded basement with 2-3 inches of water, and the water never got through. These are lace-ups, so they can’t be completely waterproof, but they’re as close as you can get. I did eventually work in an unfinished crawlspace of a house with wet clay to do sump pump trench work, and they once again were amazing and comfortable for work were in an area that I didn’t have more than 3-4 feet to stand up in for several hours in both the winter and hot and muggy 98 degree summer days (The trench work was done over more than one season).
They’re my favorite boots by far, and Timberland Pro’s (in boot or shoe form) in general seem to be the most comfortable for my flat feet.
Jeff MacIsaac
I have worn a few different pairs but always come back to timberlands. For me they are the best out there and very comfortable. I usually get 1 1/2-2 yrs outta a pair. Whereas other brands always less than one year.
Rick C
I really like my composite toe Rockport Works slip-ons. I bought them because I have a warehouse/office job and they look like a “casual” leather work shoe. The knobby soles have negligible wear after 40 hrs a week for several months on cement and vct floors. The insoles are hard so you’ll have to get used to that, but they’re comfortable to me.
Chris
Carolinas with a composite toe
Greg
It depends on the application for me. I’ve found keeping different boots around depending on what I’m doing has worked best.
I have Chippewa resoleable logger boots for outdoor work.
For my job one of the sites we work at is a heavy industrial site. Luckily they provide anyone that works there including contractors safety footwear off a truck. For the areas I have to work it’s Redwings with an internal metatarsal, steel toe, kevlar anti punction inner sole, etc. It’s the requirements so we have to follow to be compliant and again luckily my company nor I as an individual have to provide them.
I have a pair of tall steel toe non insulated muck boots for really crappy stuff that I’m at risk of destroying normal leather boots even if they are waterproof.
My go to boots for everyday wear are Keen composite toe 6″ height and they are made in the USA with global materials in Oregon. There’s no break in period whatsoever, comfortable from the first second, durable for what they are, not clunky, lightweight, and not cold in the winter due to the composite safety toe. I’ve worn them hiking many times with no adverse after effects.
I just wish Keen could make their boots (safety toe or soft) resoleable. I know their signature toe cap complicates the design which makes a Goodyear welt construction out of the question I’m sure. Even if they had a service for x amount where you send the boot in and they resole it I’d pay for this. I’ve never worn out the uppers or insides of the boots before the outer sole especially the heel / ball of my feet. I’ve tried all the compounds they use and it’s about the same, approximately a year of constant use before I need to buy another pair.
Three pairs into my journey with Keens I tried to resole a pair myself that was destined for the trash anyways. Removal of the old sole was tough. I luckily found a pair of Keen hiking boots at the local thrift shop that had destroyed uppers in my size with good outersole. It worked somewhat but I wasn’t able to get the correct glue that would have made the experiment a real success. As far as I can tell Keen doesn’t sell the outer soles anywhere either to individual consumers.
BP
Love the Keen’s, hate the Keens
+ Great comfort, no “break in required”
+ Very good traction, however;
– Rubber does not last long (makes sense, trade off with traction)
– Garbage customer service, (two pairs had defective rubber and they did not give a rats @$$, expect no warranty)
– Recent quality control issues have me concerned with the “investment”.
– The cost vs. longevity is a major issue as well.
Doug eddinger
Wolverine all the way. My dad wore wolverine’s for work when I was a kid (I’m 54 now) and he was on his feet all day. I’ve been wearing them for hunting and working around the shop. They have been the most comfortable boots from the start. 1 pair have been difficult to put on but once they’re on I don’t want to take them off and can walk all day in them . They’re that comfortable. I prefer the soft toe cause of the cold and I don’t need them for what I wear them for. They’ve lasted a long time. I recently retired a pair after 5 years cause the lining was starting to wear out. The newest pair has removable foot liners that I had to remove cause the top of my foot would hurt from not enough room but once I took them out it was comfort city.
Ric
For pull Ons go with leather lined, if you can find it. Once mandatory in premium boots, it’s harder to find now. Unlined is next best.
Boyd
I’m really late to this discussion, but I really need to talk about the Redwing Irish Setter boots. A lot of large companies have deals with Redwing to supply these boots as the company standard
These boots are terrible!! The steel in the sole seems to end just at the back of the ball of your foot.
I wore them for a week running up and down rung ladders on a drilling rig and ended up with plantar fasciitis. A severe inflammation in my foot which had me sat down for days.
I worked offshore rigs in the North Sea for years and I found that the absolute best for me were Sievi boots. They’re not well known in the states, but can’t recommend them enough.
My pair of composite toe, lace up/zip up boots lasted basically forever. If you can get them you should give them a go.