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You won't realize you need them ... until you need them. Leather Safety Footwears
FOR SERIOUS work outdoors—or for any home project, whether for maintenance or even pure aesthetics—a good pair of rugged men's work boots is the most essential tool in your footwear arsenal. Luckily, there are plenty of options to make any task that much easier. But, with so many available, where do you start? When shopping for a pair of the best work boots, you'll want to first consider what kind of work you'll be doing in them.
Are you planning on taking them to job sites and wearing them for hard manual labor on a regular basis? Or are you going to only use your work boots occasionally for yard work and impromptu at-home projects? From there, you'll want to determine whether you need to prioritize heavy-duty features like steel toes and strong upper materials, or if you can pick a reasonably durable, light- to medium-duty work boot that balances safety features with comfort and perhaps even a dash of style.
With many of the best work boots running north of $300, it can seem overwhelming to start. We don't recommend grabbing the first pair of $50 steel-toe work shoes you find, but you don't need to spend a fortune either. To help you save precious time, consider one of these 14 best work boots for men below. We've curated this list to include everything from the best lightweight work boots to work boots that'll give you the best value for your dollar. There are even a few comfort-focused work boots on this list because, hey, sometimes a nasty blister can be the worst minor injury of them all.
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This budget men's work boot is an industrial construction site go-to, and one of our all around favorite boots of 2023. Its key features include Goodyear Welt construction for maximum durability and soft nubuck leather that’s easy to break in. With more than 15,000 overwhelmingly positive Amazon ratings—including 10,000 5-star ratings—this is a well-trusted boot. With a loyal following that big, and a price that low, we can't help but recommend these as a solid bang-for-your-buck option.
We found them surprisingly comfortable for a work boot, and particularly for a work boot this cheap. They're priced at half or even a quarter of some of the best work boots we tested. Our in-house tests found that they do wear out quicker than more premium models, though, and needed replacing about 30% faster.
At this price (under $75), it's hard to find much to complain about, though. The most notable downside is the lack of a steel toe insert, meaning these aren't an option for the most heavy-duty industrial workers. Some reviewers agreed with us, noting that these work boots wear out a little too quickly if worn on the job site every day. But, if you're looking for a decent daily driver for your feet that's budget conscious to boot (get it?), you'd be hard-pressed to find a better alternative.
What do buyers say? Out of more than 14,500 Amazon reviews, 85% recommend the Ever Boots Tank Soft Toe Leather Work Boots with at least a 4-star rating.
For legit steel toe work boots that provide both safety and comfort, look no further than this lightweight option from Thorogood. The legacy brand has been crafting high-quality boots here in the USA for American workers for over 100 years. We love how the moc toe design helps ensure your foot doesn't feel squeezed inside the steel insert when laced up (a common complaint with steel toes). The boots also feature a slip-resistant outsole and a removable shock absorption footbed atop a cushioned insole. Translation: Heavy traction coupled with an ultra-comfortable fit that feels broken-in and ready to work right out of the box.
Our testers found that promise of a "broken-in feel" to be spot-on. Our test pairs required almost no break-in period, and felt well-worn and comfy on day one. They're surprisingly comfortable for steel toe work boots—more so than almost any other pair we tested this year. The self-described "footwear snob" on staff here at Men's Health said these were his "favorite work boots—steel toe or otherwise—of this year by far!"
Our only real complaint is the price. At nearly $250, they’re some of the more expensive boots on the market. But, you do often get what you pay for, especially when it comes to work boots. No matter what sort of jobs you’re looking to tackle, if you’re shopping for a well-made pair from a well-trusted company, these are your man.
What do buyers say? “This is my second pair of Thorogoods, not because the first pair wore out, but because I needed steel-toe boots. Both these and the non-safety boots are incredibly comfortable (I prefer them over sneakers!) and well made,” said one Amazon reviewer.
Though you might be used to turning to Under Armour to support your performance at the gym, you might not realize that the athleticwear company also has your worksite footwear game covered too. Although it's not technically a "work boot" in the traditional sense, the Micro G Valsetz Tactical Boot is a work-ready men’s boot that’s perfect for light- to medium-duty tasks. The lightweight construction comes thanks to a plastic toe cap that offers extra protection without extra weight. It also contours to the shape of your ankle for extra stability and comfort. Plus, the easy-lace-up design and side zipper make them easy to put on and take off too.
For our testers, what stands out with this work-ready boot is the weight or lack of it. Unlike the thick, chunky, and heavy design of ordinary work boots, these tactical boots are relatively lightweight. We found them easier and more comfortable to wear all day, whether for working outdoors or 'round-the-house tasks on the weekend. We love the zippered design, too, which makes them easier do don and doff than every other lace-only work boot in our roundup. The wet-weather tractions is no joke, too. Our New Hampshire-based tester, in particular, noted that he felt surefooted and rock-solid on even the most rain-soaked rocky terrain.
With a starting price around $100, these are a near-perfect, budget-friendly work boot that’s tough enough for all but the most heavy-duty jobs. While we wouldn’t recommend them for hardcore job sites where steel toes are required, these are ideal for round-the-house tasks like yard work or demo days. Add to that free shipping and free returns through Amazon and more than 1,000 positive ratings, and these are a great budget buy. What do buyers say? “Great boots. Purchased them for work and they didn’t disappoint. Super comfortable and lightweight. All around great,” said one Amazon reviewer.
Keen has been a favorite footwear brand of ours for more than a decade. Its Anchorage 3, in particular, is a trusted favorite for those who need a waterproof boot for general tasks and projects. They're effective at keeping your socks dry, from both snow and rain, and they have a strong rubber sole that will grip onto all types of surfaces. One downside is the Anchorage 3 is not insulted enough to work in snow for long hours, but they are still warm and lightweight enough to be used for year-round wear.
We love the simple, Chelsea-boot-style design with thick, glove-friendly loops that make these easy to pull on and take off. Our testers noted that these feel more like ultra-durable foul-weather boots that are rugged enough for the job site. If you work outdoors where rain and snow (or general wet terrain) are an issue, these are a rock-solid option to traditional work boots. "From trail days to afternoons chopping wood at the house, I could basically live in these," said one of our testers.
Although there are a lot of work boots out there with good waterproof design, we like the Anchorage 3 as the top waterproof work boot due to its versatility in year-round wear, its ease in being able to pull on, and its overall comfort. Did we mention it starts under $80 a pair?
What do buyers say? "I slide them on to go outside and slide them off to go inside. They are a very nice looking boot and the leather allows my feet to breath, unlike rubber boots that make my feet sweat. After reading other reviews, I ordered 1/2 size larger and they fit nicely with wool socks. They have good traction in the snow," said one Amazon reviewer.
Wolverine has been a fan favorite of hard-working men for decades. The brand’s best-selling Floorhand Steel Toe work boots provide maximum comfort, without that annoying break-in period, courtesy of a pliable but sturdy full-grain leather upper. Slip-resistant soles make for stable footing no matter the terrain, while a removable cushioned footbed molds to your foot. Plus, solid waterproofing ensures these are tough enough to survive the nastiest indoor and outdoor conditions. If jet-black isn’t your style, the Floorhand Steel Toe boots are also available in more traditional tan or brown colorways; but we love the idea of how these boots would pair with our bests jeans and T-shirt.
In the field, our testers universally loved the fit and finish of these top-selling work boots. The premium materials make for a near-zero break-in period, so they feel comfy and ready to roll right out of the box. "My dad only buys Wolverines, and I can totally see why now," said one of our Michigan-based testers.
At a little over $100 (on sale), these are a solid wallet- and work-friendly footwear option. For the price, it’s hard to find anything to complain about, especially considering the steel-toe insert. Some reviewers note that the footbed could be a little more comfortable. If you’re working hard on your feet all day, we seriously recommend a good insole to complement the fit of these work boots. Your feet will thank you!
What do buyers say? “... very sturdy and last a really long time. My job required lots of walking and these boots never hurt my feet. The waterproofing is decent. The padding ankles are a godsend,” said one Zappos reviewer.
When steel toe boots are overkill, but you need a little more to protect your feet than what traditional work boots offer, composite is the way to go. Function and safety are key in Timberland’s Pro line, and in the Work Summit Composite work boot, in particular. They protect your feet in the most demanding conditions with an ultra-rugged CarbonShield composite safety toe design that's also lightweight (around only two pounds for the pair). A cushioned footbed provides maximum shock absorption and energy return—important if you spend hours on your feet every day. It’s all wrapped in a waterproof upper with an additional waterproof membrane to keep the elements out in even the wettest working conditions.
Our reviewers found these to be true to our experience with the entire Timberland brand. They're extremely rugged and surprisingly lightweight, especially given the safety toe construction. We love the perfect fit of the composite design that feels protective and, most of all, comfortable enough for all-day wear. We appreciate the little details, too, like speed laces that make for easy donning and doffing.
With more than 200 reviews—most overwhelmingly positive—these are a favorite of hard-working men everywhere. With a starting price around $120, these are a great mid-range work boot for medium- to heavy-duty tasks, including many hard-working occupations that are tough on “ordinary” work boots. We also love the rugged, serious look of these that exudes a badass “working man” confidence. What do buyers say? “Best boots I’ve ever purchased … I’ve tightened them once and take them off and put them on without needing to untighten them,” said one Amazon reviewer.
You might be confused seeing a pair of Blundstones on this list due to how fashion-forward they are right now. But it's important to remember these bad boys were made to be work boots and still are work boots at the end of the day. The Blundstone 585 Chelsea Work Boot's construction and durability still holds true after 100 years, and once you break them in you'll find very few boots can compete with their high level of comfort.
Our staff loves Blundstone boots for their versatile design that's equally ready for work and play. The 585's are stylish enough for everyday wear, but rugged enough to tackle most light- and medium-duty tasks for the everyman. They're extremely comfortable, especially with the included extra set of footbeds. We found they take a bit longer to break in the many other boots. But once they're well-worn, you'll never want to take them off. "I have four pairs of Blundstones, and I'm starting to feel like a hoarder. I wear these at my parent's ranch, to the grocery store, and honestly just about everywhere except for bed," said one of our editors.
You can wear these for yard work or for smaller to medium-sized projects. Look for a more insulated pair of Blundstones, though, if you plan on wearing them for long hours at a time in the winter, otherwise you can get away with wearing these for year-round use.
What do buyers say? "These boots were exactly what I was looking for. Quality is top notch! My first wear was out working on a ranch, trekking through woods, through creeks and mud. Withstood everything, and feet stayed dry. Wiped them off and wore them out for a beer at night. Perfect blend of rugged style," said one Huckberry reviewer.
Thanks to its deep catalog of simple, reliable, and affordable workwear, Caterpillar has been a mainstay of job sites around the world for decades. Consider this work boot to be the bread and butter of men’s work boots. The Second Shift Steel Toe boots feature a 100% leather upper that’s lightweight and oil-resistant with padded ankles for stability and comfort. The synthetic, T3 rubber outsole helps maximize traction with excellent slip-resistance. An integrated steel toe offers industry-standard protection against crushing, impacts, and punctures, and adds 600 volts of electrical hazard protection in dry conditions too.
Our testers found it easy to see why these have been a favorite work boot almost since work boots were "a thing." Thick, chunky, and heavy-duty, these are a serious working man's work boot. We love the hardcore, no-holds-barred design that feels purpose-built for even the most demanding environments. The bulletproof construction puts safety and durability above comfort. They're not the most comfortable work boots in this year's roundup, but we found them to rank among the most durable with a design that should last for a year or two, even with daily use.
CAT Footwear’s boots are among the most widely used and best-reviewed in the world, and these steel toe men’s work boots are no exception. With more than 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon alone, they’re clearly a fan favorite among working men everywhere. The best part? At under $90 (on sale), these are arguably the best bang-for-your-buck work boots on the market today.
What do buyers say? Out of more than 13,000 Amazon reviews, 87% recommend the Caterpillar Second Shift Steel Toe with at least a 4-star rating.
Red Wing proves there’s no need to sacrifice style for function. These moccasin-style work boots boast plenty of that rugged cool factor. The classic, heritage look has hardly changed in seven decades because, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” right? They were originally created in 1952 and still boast a lot of the same construction, like leather that molds to the shape of your foot the more you wear them. The premium, full-grain leather upper is oil-tanned for a durable finish that resists water and stains. Plus, Goodyear welt construction allows for resoling, if necessary, to extend the life of these work boots almost indefinitely. We also love that they're made in the good ol' USA. Consider it proof that the best things stand the test of time.
We've owned several pairs of these over the years, and they never disappoint. The time-tested design hasn't changed much because it hasn't needed to. After a longer-than-average break-in period, we're confident in saying that these will likely be the most comfortable work boots you've ever worn. One of our testers has worn various pairs of these for the more than 20 years because he refuses to buy anything else.
For a heritage boot with classic good looks that stands out everywhere from your front yard to the job site, it’s hard to beat Red Wing’s Heritage 6” Moc Boot (especially when searching in the winter boot category). These tick all the boxes for all of the most essential features we look for in a quality men’s work boot. Frankly, we can’t think of much that we’d change, other than the notoriously long break-in period for Red Wing boots. The only other downside? Price. At $300, these rank among the most expensive work boots we tested this year.
What do buyers say? “Great boots .... These are proper tuff leather so a bit of breaking in pain can be expected but worth it in the end as these boots last for years,” said one Amazon reviewer.
Let's be honest: Cowboy boots are the OG men's work boot. The Stockton from Tecovas is a luxe, work-focused boot made from buttery bison leather. Like the best cowboy boots of the last century, these feature an unlined 10" shaft and an oiled bovine outer that's built to last. Modern features include a sturdy Vibram outsole and weatherproof seams, to keep you sure-footed in all types of conditions (whether rain, hail, sleet, or snow). And, unlike most purely functional work boots, we can't overlook the timeless, badass style these bad boys give off.
We get it, they're not for everyone. They're more likely to feel "at home" on the ranch than at the machine shop. But if you're willing to rock the style, we promise these are some of the most rugged and comfy boots this side of Texas. They're ridiculously comfortable, thanks largely to the traditional roper shape, soft leather, and removable insoles. After two weeks of testing, one of our reviewers noted, "These are the first Tecovas I've ever worn, but they won't be the last."
Of course, the best work boots for men don't come cheap, and that's doubly true for the most stylish work boots. The Stockton have been a brand favorite forever, and with good reason. Sure, they're a little pricey (at more than $250), but they're also rugged, slip-resistant, weatherproof, and good-lookin' too. If you're after one of the best slip-on boots, we highly recommend these.
What do buyers say? “[V]ery comfortable, perfect fit, very nice leather and color, love the sole, will order another pair,” said one Tecovas.com reviewer.
For the most adverse weather conditions, Sorel makes some of the best waterproof shoes and duck boots designed to tackle almost any environment. So, it’s no surprise that they also make heavy-duty work boots that look great too. Take the ankle-length Ankeny II Mid Boot with a black, brown, or tobacco leather upper that’s waterproofed and seam-sealed for even the wettest conditions. It sports an EVA midsole and cushioned footbed to make those tasks at the shed or on remote forest roads more bearable. Rubber heel and toe caps add extra durability and further protect your feet. With 100 grams of insulation, they’re plenty warm to survive cold winter days.
The first thing our reviewers noticed with these men's work boots is that they're beefy and heavy. But there's no getting around that when you add 100 grams of insulation to each boot. The pay-off is that they're insanely warm in fall and winter, making them perfect for northern climes. They're also seam-sealed and 100% waterproof for tackling hardcore wet-weather conditions. Our reviewers loved the versatility of these as both a work and winter boot, making owning two separate pairs of boots unnecessary.
At $175, these fall neatly into the “mid-range” category of men’s work boots for 2023. They’re not the cheapest, nor the most expensive. But, they are incredibly versatile for a wide range of cool- to cold-weather applications. If your work takes you to wet outdoor places in fall and winter, these offer excellent warmth, protection, and durability at a fairly reasonable price.
What do buyers say? Out of more than 400 Amazon reviews, 85% recommend the Sorel Ankeny II Mid Boot with at least a 4-star rating.
Keen makes some of the best hiking boots, including many favorites of ours here at Men’s Health. The company brings that same expertise to bear on its Detroit XT Mid Boots—a rugged, waterproof work boot that’s versatile enough for a wide range of jobs. The 100% leather upper features a KEEN.DRY membrane that’s completely waterproof yet breathable enough to let vapor (and sweat) escape. The result? Dry, comfortable feet in almost any condition. When the going gets wet, a non-slip rubber outsole also offers maximum traction in slippery environments, whether indoors or out. Plus, soft toe caps fend off minor bumps and impacts, and the design even protects against moderate electrical hazards too.
Fans of Keen's hiking boots (including our outdoor-loving staffers here at Men's Health) will find the same comfort, durability, and versatility in the Detroit XT. They're chunky and heavy-duty in the way that we expect of a quality men's work boot. Despite the ultra-supportive upper, they break in fast, making for maximum comfort and wearability in a few short days. We also like the wrap-around soft toe cap that protects against most job-related bumps and drops (although steel-toe is still the way to go for the ultimate work boot protection).
Given all of the above features and Keen’s legendary reliability, it’s no surprise that these are among the most well-reviewed work boots for men on Amazon. Some buyer’s complain of a longer-than-usual break-in period, and they are a little pricey at around $175. Still, we think these are a solid premium work boot choice if you have a little extra money to spend. What do buyers say? “This is my 3rd pair of Detroit soft toe boots. They are great overall boots,” said one Amazon reviewer.
There’s no better easy-on/easy-off work boot design than the classic Chelsea boot. But, if you like the Chelsea style, but need something stronger than traditional Blundstones, then these reinforced work boots from FSI (Footwear Specialties International) are a solid pick. On the toe and ankle are separate pieces of carbon nanofiber composite, which means you're getting serious armor without the added weight of traditional steel. It’s maximum protection against crushes and impacts in a freer moving design that’s easier on your legs and feet. The lack of metal also makes this a great choice for anyone in a metal-sensitive environment (think security screening and certain laboratories). It’s all wrapped in a waterproof upper that keeps your feet dry in even the nastiest conditions.
Our reviewers loved the overall look and design of these wallet-friendly boots. The classic Chelsea is always a winner among our team, as they're easy to put on/take off and look good enough for cocktail hour after clocking out for the day. Our only real gripe is that these feel like budget work boots. If price is your main buying concern, these will do. Just be prepared to buy your next pair sooner than you might with a more premium work boot.
With a starting price of less than $80, these are a damn good budget work boot option. They tick all the most essential boxes for versatile work-ready footwear that works for just about any job. That includes slip-resistant outsoles, a waterproof upper, a rebound insole that maximizes absorption, and a metal-free composite safety toe for excellent job site protection.
What do buyers say? “These are one of the most comfortable boots ever. In the past I purchased boots of many brands from Redwing to Timberland and others. Will only buy these for now on,” said one Zappos reviewer.
“Doc” Martens are some of the most recognizable shoes in the world. Made for long days in the field, Dr. Martens' classic boot still has all of its familiar trappings: A tough-yet-smooth leather outsole with iconic yellow stitching and a tall lace-up front with metal eyelets. It’s rugged, durable, and makes a statement no matter where or how hard you’re working. The famous air cushioned sole boasts serious, cloud-9-like comfort for long days on your feet (and an optional Dr. Martens-branded insole adds even more comfort). A heel loop helps ensure a quick, snug fit, and the durable rubber sole helps keep your feet planted once the boots are on.
For the ultimate in versatility, we love a pair of Doc Martens. The classic good looks of the traditional 1460 boot is undeniable. But these have the chops to serve as a "daily driver" for hardworking environments, too. They still break in as fast as you might remember from your high school days (assuming you owned a pair back then) with a pliable leather upper that's comfortable enough to wear for long days on your feet. Thankfully, the classic DM outsole has changed little since forever because it just works.
There’s a reason these OG do-anything boots from Dr. Martens have stood the test of time for decades. The simple, durable design is built to handle just about anything. Comfortable enough for everyday wear, stylish enough to make a timeless fashion statement, and durable enough to tackle hiking trails, city streets, and job sites alike. Like the Keen’s above, these are a little pricey at around $170. But, there’s nothing quite like them on the market, which is why they’re our pick for the most versatile work boot for men.
What do buyers say? “Great shoe. Waaaay more comfortable than I thought they’d be,” said one Zappos reviewer.
There is no one perfect work boot, but rather the best pair of work boots for you. It all depends on where you’ll be wearing them and what you’ll be doing in them.
The best work boots for men can be pricey and the features are a little confusing. Let’s look at the most important considerations when shopping for your perfect pair.
A comfortable fit matters above all else. For long days on your feet, you could argue that wearing no shoes at all is better than wearing uncomfortable shoes. That’s doubly true for work boots that, in some cases, could be worn for eight, ten, even (gulp) 12 hours or more in a single day, depending on your job requirements.
Good-fitting boots should feel snug, but not tight, against the sides of your feet. You want a firm fit that stays in place without squeezing your feet. Sizes can vary widely between brands, so if you can’t find a good width, you may want to consider wider or narrow sizes. For your toes, you want about a thumb’s width between the tips of your toes and the inside of the boot. This is usually enough to account for the swelling that’s typical in hard-working environments.
One other thing to consider is the heel. Make sure it’s snug in place without any slippage, as this will keep you more surefooted. This is especially important for work boots where safety is key.
For maximum comfort, look to steel shanks, which provide support between the insole and outsole and reduce the load on your feet and calves, as well as any type of comfort insole.
Like hiking boots or water shoes, the soles of the best work boots are specially treated to offer a high level of traction—i.e., extra grippy and slip-resistant. These can include special treads at the sole or designs that increase friction to the ground like lugged, grooved, ridged, deep-cut teeth, etc. for better footing in slippery environments.
When it comes to the style of the sole for work boots, keep an eye out toward wedge soles and heeled soles. The wedge sole runs through the outsole from heel to toe, giving your whole feet complete contact with the surface. This design is easy on your feet because your weight is spread throughout a larger area. As such, work boots with wedge soles are often worn for working on (indoor) flat, hard grounds like a warehouse floor made of steel, concrete, or asphalt; but they’re not recommended for job sites or construction sites that are more likely to be bare ground rather than flat and hard.
The heeled sole—though only limited to the back of the boots—is often treated with more grooves and lugs for higher traction that can really dig the sole into the earth. As such, work boots with heeled soles are designed for bare-ground work in uneven, bumpy, rough terrains (usually in the outdoors but heeled soles are a pro at any kind of job site). The heeled sole also gives you more stability on a ladder. All in all, heeled-sole work boots are a must-have for outdoor workers like construction workers or loggers, but it isn’t as comfortable as wedge sole.
Good men's work boots are made with multiple layers of different materials. So be on the lookout for materials (most often you get leather for the upper and rubber for the sole) and how they’re put together to make a pair of work boots. Goodyear welt is a time-honored, tried-and-tested construction that puts shoes together by stitching the upper leather and insole together with a welt—a special piece of leather—along the outsole. This construction offers arguably the strongest and most durable build, though the leather will need time for breaking in.
It’s a fancy word for “what will you be using your work boots for?” If you’re looking for a pair to protect your feet at home while mowing the lawn, working on your car, or doing light demo work on that house you’re planning to flip, a pair of durable, but lightweight boots will probably get the job done.
If you’re working 12-hour days at a pit mine, you’re going to want something heavier, probably with a steel or safety toe. Then, of course, there's a long list of versatile, medium-duty work boots that fall somewhere in-between.
If your work outdoors takes you into wet or muddy terrain, be sure to invest in a pair of waterproof (or at least water-resistant) work boots. But if getting around quickly is your biggest concern, opt for a lightweight pair that won't weigh you down.
The best work boots for men (we’re talking brand-name work boots with a steel toe and dozens of great features) run north of $300. But, you can find a decent pair of light- to medium-duty boots for around $100-$150. If you’re minding your budget, there’s no need to overpay. Just find the best work boots that are only as tough and rugged as you need without unnecessary features.
"All construction sites require work boots to be worn with toe protection as a minimum," says David Nicholas, a professional electrician. "Typically this protection is provided by steel at the toe, hence the common name, steel-toe boots." And when it comes to work boots, the terms “steel toe” and “safety toe” are often used interchangeably. To get really literal, all steel-toe boots are safety-toe boots, but not all safety-toe boots are made with a steel toe. Confused? Let’s dig a little deeper.
Steel toes were once the gold standard of protective work boots, and they’re still relied on for the most hardcore jobs. As the name implies, they’re built with an internal toe box that encases your toes in heavy-duty steel. Most steel-toe boots look like any ordinary work boot, but a hidden steel “cage” protects your toes from punctures, compression, crushing, and a whole lot more. Because they’re the most heavy-duty protective boots, they’re also the heaviest. "This extra weight becomes really noticeable after a long day on site and boots typically get quite uncomfortable," says Nicholas.
So, if weight is a concern, thankfully, modern boots have solved this problem by offering composite-based safety toes that might be more your speed for protection, according to Nicholas. With composite materials, steel is no longer the only protective material used in safety boots. "Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) toe boots offer the same level of foot protection as metal but are considerably lighter and much more comfortable to wear all day long," he says. For instance, future-forward footwear like Timberland’s Men's Pro Work Summit Composite Toe Ele 6 NT WP features a composite safety toe that’s lighter and more comfortable than steel.
The best work boots tend to be ASTM-compliant—i.e., work boots that meet the Standard Specification for Performance Requirements set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. This safety rating shows whether the boots comply with the minimum requirements for protective footwear in hazardous workplaces. It gauges performance standards such as impact resistance, compression resistance, puncture resistance, chain saw cut resistance, metatarsal protection, electrical hazard, static dissipation, conductive properties, etc.
When searching for a pair of solid work boots, you should opt for one that at least meets some form of ASTM rating. For instance, the most common ASTM-F2413 standards rate anything from safety toe to electrical hazard resistance to impact and compression; and ASTM F3445-21 rates slip resistance. So be sure to read the product description.
For boots in general, it’s always better to have boots that run a little large than boots that run small because that tightness is much more intolerable. If you have wide feet, definitely size up by at least a half since you’ll get in more comfort that way. And while work boots are often roomy enough to be worn with socks, if you feel too tight with socks on, we do recommend sizing up by a half just in case.
In addition, if you’re wearing steel-toe boots, you’ll definitely want to buy a half size larger than your normal shoe size since these boots are heavy and difficult to slip into. Larger-sized work boots will also give your toes more wiggle and breathing room. Consider "wide" sizes if need be.
What are the most comfortable safety work boots?
The result was almost unanimous among our reviewers: Blundstone's 585 Work Boot. Close runner-up: Red Wing's 6" Classic Moc Boot.
What is the best material for work boots?
There are tons of great composite materials on the market today. But, for our money, leather is still the best overall material for work boots. It's soft, pliable, comfortable, breathable, and durable.
Should I put insoles in my work boots?
The short answer is: Probably. For most wearers, a good pair of insoles for work boots (or even orthotics, if you're willing to spend a bit more) provide better sole support, alleviate pressure, and give better heel support by absorbing frequent shocks and strikes.
What's the difference between high-cut and low-cut work boots?
High-cut boots offer better ankle and Achilles tendon support with a taller and stiffer fit. Low-cut models offer less protection but are often more comfortable, especially if your work involves bending down a lot.
What does the green triangle mean on work boots?
Among the long list of extra safety technologies built in to the best work boots, a green triangle indicates that a boot offers sole puncture protection. This is especially important in work environments where share objects (think screws and nails) are common.
For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's own style and gear editors and writers on the top work boots for men. Experts including our fashion director, Ted Stafford, and our gear and commerce editor, John Thompson, put dozens of top-selling men's work boots through the wringer to evaluate everything from fit and support to price and durability. The list above represents our honest picks for the best work boots for men in 2023.
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South Africa, and survived a near-miss great white shark attack in Mexico. His travel advice has appeared on the websites for Forbes, Travel + Leisure, CNET, and National Geographic. He loves the great outdoors and good bourbon, and (usually) calls Tulsa, Oklahoma home. Mike also enjoys speaking in the third person.
John Thompson is the Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include attending concerts, spending time outside, and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.
Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.
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