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The humble work boot grows on you the more you break it in, becoming something you'll find as valuable as a fine watch. There is no greater satisfaction than pulling off a pair at the end of an honest day's work—feet tired but free of injury—and no greater pride than putting them on the next morning without aches or blisters (compression socks can help). But what exactly makes a work boot so great?
The best work boots are made from durable materials like leather or steel and have a midsole that cushions and an outsole that supports. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your search. From tall pull-up rancher boots to hybrids akin to a hiking shoe, this list has a little something for every worker.
The Best Work Boots for Men - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Work Boots for Men: Nike ACG Zoom Gaiadome GORE-TEX
- Best Waterproof Work Boots for Men: Reebok Beamer Waterproof Work Boot
- Most Comfortable Work Boots for Men: Kuru Footwear Quest Ankle Work Boot
- Best Composite Toe Cap Work Boots for Men: New Balance 989 V1
- Best Winter Work Boots for Men: adidas Terrex Snowpitch Cold.Rdy Hiking Boots
- Best Non-Slip Work Boots for Men: Reebok Trailgrip Work Boot
- Best Budget Work Boots for Men: Timberland Lincoln Peak
- Best Insulated Work Boots for Men: Nike Air Max Goaterra
- Best Lightweight Work Boots for Men: Danner Viscious Work Boots
- Best Pull-on Work Boots for Men: KEEN Cincinnati Wellington
- Best Steel-Toe Work Boots for Men: KEEN Flint II Work Boots
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall - ACG Zoom Gaiadome GORE-TEX
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Midsole: Zoom Air cushioning
- Outsole: Trailframe
A good work boot will provide all-day comfort, no matter the elements and no matter how long you’re on your feet. By those standards, the ACG Zoom Gaiadome GORE-TEX truly delivers. Made from heavy-duty materials, these boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry in all types of weather. Meanwhile, Zoom Air cushioning offers just the right balance of support and comfort.
Factor in the stabilizing outsole, equally suited for the workplace and the trail, and you have the best overall men's work boot.
What We Like
- Great weatherproofing
- Stable choice for the workplace or the trail
- Heavy-duty, long-lasting materials
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Limited color selections
BUY: Nike ACG Zoom Gaiadome GORE-TEX
Best Waterproof Work Boots - Reebok Beamer RB1067
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Midsole: Rubber Bottom and Lightweight Injected EVA Cushion
- Outsole: FootFuel® Injected EVA Removable Cushion Footbed
Made with an athletic fit and supportive feel, the Reebok Beamer RB1067 work boots provide succor during long work days or intense hikes. They’re also thoroughly waterproof, making them a great option for men who need to brave the elements.
Waterproof leather uppers will keep your feet dry while the robust midsole and outsole materials ensure support. A non-metallic, extra-wide toe creates additional comfort and flexibility. And, these boots are rated for safety across a wide range of workplaces.
What We Like
- Extra-wide, non-metallic toe
- Waterproof leather uppers
- Sporty, athletic feel
What We Don't Like
- Outsoles aren’t as well-rated for high-heat environments
- Limited color options
Most Comfortable Work Boot - Kuru QUEST Men's Hiking Boot
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: 18.08 oz.
- Midsole: N/A
- Outsole: Non-Marking Rubber
Even when you're on your feet all day, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t feel comfortable. The Kuru QUEST Men’s Hiking Boot is designed for a truly luxurious experience, with comfort factored into every design element.
Consider midsoles, which are made to promote healthy alignment and posture. There’s also a broad, generous toe box, giving you ample wiggle room. Exceptional arch support comes built-in, making the boot a favorite among hikers who battle plantar fasciitis and related conditions.
What We Like
- Broad, generous toe box
- Built-in arch support
- Heel-to-toe drop ensures pressure relief
- Multiple colorways to choose from
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Limited size selection
- Some reviewers note some problems with the stitching
BUY: Kuru QUEST Men’s Hiking Boot
Best Composite Toe Cap - New Balance 989 V1
SPECS
- Height: 6"
- Weight: 22.2 oz., per shoe
- Midsole: REVlite lightweight foam
- Outsole: Rubber
Affordable, lightweight, and surprisingly rugged, New Balance delivers with the 989v1, a modern black boot that can take on most light-duty industrial work. They feature a composite toe cap and slip-resistant outsole (both ASTM-approved) for oily and wet environments, plus electrical hazard protection.
And their full-grain leather makes them a workhorse, yet their breathable mesh-synthetic fabric helps them feel more like a trusted day hiker boot.
What We Like
- Breathable comfort with just the right amount of protection
- Lightweight
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- Glued construction means you can't re-sole these
- Not suited to wet environments
Best Winter Work Boots - adidas Terrex Snowpitch COLD.RDY Hiking Boots
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Midsole: N/A
- Outsole: Traxion
Get ready for winter with the Adidas Terrex Snowpitch COLD.RDY Hiking Boots, designed to help you weather even the chilliest elements.
These boots are insulated to facilitate warmth in all conditions; and, they’re water-repellent, meaning your feet will remain nice and dry even during winter drizzle. We also love the modern, athletic style, the dependable Traxion outsoles, and the snug fit.
What We Like
- Water-repellent
- Insulated for winter-readiness
- Edgy, modern style
What We Don't Like
- Limited color/style options
- Not as appropriate for wearing in mild weather
BUY: adidas Terrex Snowpitch COLD.RDY Hiking Boots
Best Non-Slip Work Boots - Reebok Trailgrip Work Boots
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Midsole: DMXRide Cushion Foam
- Outsole: Slip-resistant rubber
Need a little extra traction? Consider the Reebok Trailgrip Work Boots, our pick for the most dependable non-slip men’s work boots.
The extra-grippy rubber outsole ensures safety even in treacherous conditions, but that’s just one of the selling points of these boots. We also love the leather and mesh uppers, which are breathable and lightweight while still offering plenty of protection. An extra-wide toe affords ample wiggle room, while a cushioned foam insole maximizes comfort.
What We Like
- Excellent traction
- Cushioned insoles for maximum comfort
- Waterproof, moisture-wicking lining
What We Don't Like
- Limited color/style options
- Not as recommended for cold weather wear
BUY: Reebok Trailgrip Work Boots
Best on a Budget - Timberland Lincoln Peak
SPECS
- Height: 6"
- Weight: 20 oz., per shoe
- Midsole: EVA
- Outsole: Rubber
Technically, these Timberlands are hiking boots. But we think they're a perfect match for lighter-duty work with their speed-lace hooks, springy cushioning, and most importantly, waterproof membranes. Think lawn care, trail maintenance, and carpentry.
However, these boots boast no toe protection, so don't expect to stroll onto a construction or logging site.
What We Like
- Snug yet comfortable
- Toe bumpers and heel pieces made with climbing rubber
- Sustainably-minded materials and fabrication
What We Don't Like
- Not suited for heavy-duty or high-risk jobs
- Glued sole cannot be resoled
Best Insulated Work Boots - Nike Air Max Goaterra 2.0
SPECS
- Height: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Midsole: Supportive Foam
- Outsole: Rubber
The Nike Air Max Goaterra 2.0 work boots are made from premium leather for a street-ready look. However, these boots aren’t only fashionable. They’re also functional, with supportive foam midsoles as well as padded collars with added insulation for brisk days or colder workplaces.
Additionally, a rubber outsole creates great traction and support, making these boots a fine choice for all-day wear.
What We Like
- Extra padding and insulation
- Supportive foam midsoles
- Fashionable, street-ready look
What We Don't Like
- Not as rugged or durable as other options
- Not our top choice for waterproofing
BUY: Nike Air Max Goaterra 2.0
Best Lightweight - Danner Vicious Work Boots
SPECS
- Height: 6"
- Weight: 29.5 oz., per shoe
- Midsole: EVA
- Outsole: Rubber
Heritage brand Danner does not disappoint with their hiking-inspired design. Vicious work boots blend nimble mobility with rugged features such as waterproof and breathable Goretex liners, oil and slip-resistant Vibram outsole, and a speed lacing system that will never yank out. And they're pretty light for what they can accomplish in a day's work.
What We Like
- Time-tested heritage brand
- Thick comfortable lining
- Surprisingly flexible and nimble
What We Don't Like
- Lacks a proper safety toe
- Not ideal for work in hot weather
BUY: Danner Vicious Work Boots
Best Pull-On - KEEN Cincinnati Wellington
SPECS
- Height: 10"
- Weight: 32.9 oz.
- Midsole: Air-infused polyurethane
- Outsole: Rubber
True to the midwestern spirit, the KEEN Cincinnati rancher boot sports an easy Wellington pull-on design and a rich all-leather upper that is barn-proof: It's resistant to urea, oleic acid, ammonia, and salt. If these boots could carry you through a long day on the farm, you know they'll shine on an outdoor worksite.
The lightweight asymmetrical carbon fiber toe box keeps you safe from falls and punctures while staying roomy. Plus, these boots look timeless and they're as easy to pull on as they are to care for.
What We Like
- Barnyard-resistant
- Durable Goodyear welt can be resoled
- Light carbon fiber safety toe
What We Don't Like
- Without lacing, they may not fit everyone snugly
- Some may find the heel difficult to break in
BUY: KEEN Cincinnati Wellington
Best Steel-Toe - KEEN Flint II Work Boots
SPECS
- Height: 5"
- Weight: 3 lbs. 0.6 oz., pair
- Midsole: KEEN.ReGEN (lightweight, compression-resistant)
- Outsole: Nonmarking rubber
Moisture-wicking and surprisingly light, the KEEN Davenport strikes a fair balance between work needs and comfort. Their asymmetrical steel toes make these a veritable (and comfortable) medium-duty boot and the oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles help with increasing your amount of traction. Our only complaint is that they may wear out sooner than you'd like if you're really putting them through their paces.
What We Like
- Moisture-wicking and water-resistant
- Comfortable steel toe
- Removable footbeds
- Shellback heel support
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Glued construction means they cannot be resoled
- May wear out in under a year if you put them through their paces
How to Choose Work Boots
Height
Work boots come in a variety of heights, depending on the job, from what are essentially rugged sneakers with safety features to knee-highs in the spirit of the rancher. However, the staple height for most needs is the typical 6” boots that rise just up the shin. With their ankle support and added protection up the lower leg, look to taller boots for muckier jobs, unstable ground, or navigating sharp objects or thorns. The downside for some will be their added weight and lack of flexibility.
Weight
Traditional steel-toe work boots are among the heaviest shoes you will own. For some, this gives a sense of heritage and security they're willing to lug underfoot. Others will opt for modern safety-toe alternatives, made to the same standards of protection, only ditching steel for materials such as aluminum or even carbon fiber. Other components will tip the scale as well, from the thickness of the sole to the thickness of the upper material, typically leather. There are some modern styles made without leather. They tend to be lighter and more breathable but will likely wear out sooner. That's a tradeoff some are willing to make for the sake of comfort.
And while modern materials have made the best work boots lighter, overall, here's the bottom line—with durability and safety comes added heft. Choose your happy medium based on the nature of your work. What works for the avid gardener won't suit the workman assigned to a jackhammer for the day.
Midsole
Snug between the outsole you see and the upper you feel lies the all-important midsole. Balancing shock absorption and cushioning with protection and support, this component can make or break a work shoe. If you're working around a lot of puncture risk (think nails, glass or sharp spurs) you may be willing to give up a bit of flexibility for puncture protection. On the other hand, if you're doing lawn care all day, you may opt for something more forgiving with more foot-to-ground sensation.
Outsole
The outsole of any work boot must hold up to years of punishing wear and tear while still giving you a sure footing. When considering the outsole, find one that matches your work. Construction work absolutely requires ladder treads for slip protection when climbing. Loggers should use boots with deep tread for added safety over any terrain. Most outsoles are made of rubber as it's oil, abrasion, and slip-resistant. But you may opt for the modern lightweight alternative, thermo polyurethane. However, it’s important to know that this outsole material isn’t suitable if you're working near heat sources.
FAQs About Work Boots
What brand has the best work boots?
There is no single brand that can hold that honor. When choosing a brand, focus on their heritage: What were they used for back in the day? Read the reviews and ask anyone wearing them at your worksite for an honest assessment. Consider their customer service and warranty fulfillment. Sure, there are dozens of bargain brands. But when it comes to something you wear day in and day out, price should be the last consideration.
How long should you wear work boots?
If you hear stories of boots lasting a decade, those are tall tales told by those who've never had to put their boots through their paces of a 40 to 50-hour work week. It's more realistic to assume your boot will wear out in 300-500 miles in normal conditions. For those who work on their feet most of the day, even pacing racks up the miles and you should expect them to wear out in five to seven months.
How do you break in work boots?
Showing up to a full day on the job in a pair of new shoes, especially if it's a brand or model you've never worn before, is a bad idea. Instead, make sure to do some rigorous walking or hiking in your boots about three times before you switch over. That's why it helps to have a second pair in the rotation. Some boots will take longer than others to break in, especially if they're of the most rugged variety. A small minority will never break into your liking—that's when it's time to lean on a good return policy.
About the Author
Marco is a writer and avid runner. He’s passionate about health, wellness, and the benefits of regular exercise.
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