Working on a rough and rugged site will require the right set of gears. Jobs carried out on rough terrain will require a high level of safety gear and comfort. To improve safety and comfort on the leg while working on a site, the best waterproof steel toe boots will be a good pick. A pair of the boot gives protection to the leg while working on a site. Since safety is one of the hall-mark of a good toe boot, there is a need for a worker to look out for the best boot he/she can get to better ensure safety. This article will list out the make-up of an ideal steel toe boot, and also give a list of some of the best toe boots in the market.
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Contents
Here Is a Buying Guide for Steel Toe Boots
Comfort
What is a toe boot without comfort? The essence of wearing a boot on site is to give safety to the leg. Comfort is the first feature of a good boot. Since workers wear boot all day long, moving around the workplace with a tight boot will cause great discomfort. To assure comfort, the boot should be breathable. If you work in an environment with an unstable temperature you will need a boot that can breathe. A shoe that lacks breathability will cause discomfort to the toes. Also, when you sweat while working with a non-breathable boot, the sweat causes odor and dirt to the toes.
Weight
You might want to overlook this when buying a toe boot. Some workers go for heavy boots thinking that it will be of high quality. Little do they know that too much weight does not add-up to quality rather, it makes the boot heavy to carry. Working with an over-weight boot will slow done the worker’s rate and sap strength quickly. If your job will need you to move around frequently, it is recommended you get a boot that doesn’t weigh so much.
Waterproof
Working in a damp or waterlogged area require a boot that can resist water. A boot that is not waterproofed will allow water into the toes, thereby causing the toes to smell and loss comfort. Can you picture yourself working with a soaked boot all day? It causes infection and irritation. Working with a waterproof shoe will make you unstoppable; you are assured that the boot is breathable and does not leak. Go for a boot that can resist water or is made with a material capable of preventing water from permeating the boot.
Durability
What sense does it make when you have to change your boot frequently? A boot with safety features such as toe protection, comfort, and so on but does not last long is not recommended for work. Ensure the longevity of the boot you want to purchase. You can even look for a boot with a warranty to be sure you are choosing a durable boot.
Maintenance
Working on-site doesn’t take away the chance for you to look good. Ensure to clean your gears at the end of your daily job. We recommend you purchase a boot that doesn’t require much energy to clean. After the work of the day, just a little strength is left and the body needs to rest. Purchase a boot that can be easily cleaned let’s say, with a towel and soapy water.
Below Is a List of Some Work Boot That Gets the Job Done
Muck Boots Chore Classic Tall Steel Toe Men’s Rubber Work Boot
Made to be comfortable with its synthetic, rubber sole. With this 5 mm neoprene-boot, you can be sure to be comfortable while working on site. The boot is waterproof, flexible, shock-absorbing, and can preserve heat. The boot can adjust to your feet size to prevent blisters and abrasion. Muck boot is about 16 inches high to give more protection to the feet, it has easy-to-clean rubber material. It is breathable and allows air to flow through the boot.
Pros
- Heel reinforcement for added protection
- Durable
- Breathable
Cons
- It is slippery
Thorogood, Maxwear Wedge Waterproof Safety Toe Boot
This maxwear wedge has a slip-resistant outsole, made in the USA, secured with full-grain leather that resists water. Its footbed gives the boot ability to absorb electrical shock. This boot has been evolving from 1957 and it keeps getting better. Its manufacturer keeps upgrading it to give more comfort to its customers. You can get extended sizes, metatarsal guards, and styles like lace-to-toe and side zip. This specialized shoe should be used for a specialized job.
Pros
- You can dictate the design you want to manufacturer
- User and job-friendly
- Satisfying customer service
Cons
- Ensure you get the original as there is less quality made by other shoemakers.
Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Steel Toe Work Shoe
What will you think of an imported boot? High quality, durable, water-resistant, and so on. The wolverine boot is strong and rugged. The boot is completely made with leather; it is durable and fits well. This leather material is 100% waterproof. Other features of this boot include, soften footbed for comfort, 6 inches shaft from the arch, and synthetic sole.
Pros
- You can add cushion sole
- Can withstand a certain level of pressure
- Durable
Cons
- Lace hook can snap off easily
Skechers for Work Men’s Workshire Relaxed Fit Work Steel Toe Boot
This leather boot is made to give comfort to the feet. Although this is meant to be used for work on-site, you can rock it on a jean trouser and T-shirt. Its Rubber sole makes your feet feel comfortable and less stressed. Its shafts measure 5.25 inches from arch, heel measures 1.5 inches, and platform measures 0.75 inches. Skechers men boot has been tested and found to meet standards for effect and compactness. Its surface is well insulated to prevent shock from the electrical accident.
Pros
- Protects against electrical shock
- Easy to clean
- The midsole for arch support
Cons
- Can be damaged easily if not taken care of
Caterpillar Men’s Threshold Waterproof Steel Toe Industrial Boot
The caterpillar, also commonly known as CAT is a renowned construction company. I want to believe, a boot made by CAT will be equipped with the right features to deliver comfort and safety. Its manufacturer knows what a boot on-site should look like. It is rugged and firm in look. Its lace hook is made with quite different styles from other boot; it lasts long and keeps the boot firm to the feet. Its leather is waterproof and breathable. It does not slip off the ground.
Pros
- Breathable material
- Non-slippery
- Gets the job done without pain
Cons
- Can easily rip apart from the steel toe end
KEEN Utility – Men’s Mt Vernon 8″ (Steel Toe) Work Boots
More comfort and strength from this leather and synthetic boot. This boot met ASTM testing standards; the pair is equipped with an irregular safety toe, composite toe outline for maximum support, and special structural steel. To ensure timeless comfort, it is made with a direct-attach midsole and a dual-density EVA footbed. The keen boot has a breathable membrane that keeps moisture or vapors out without water getting in. You can walk confidently all day without fear of slipping off the ground- it has oil and slips resistant outsole. Its 8-lace hook helps secure the boot to the feet.
Pros
- Made with one of the finest materials
- Non-slippery
- It is American built
Cons
- Not ideal if you are required to stand for long
Honeywell Safety XTP Chemical Resistant Men’s Safety Hi Boots
This is quite different from other boots reviewed earlier. It is more of a work boot; it cannot be worn for off work. This boot is protected from harsh chemicals, it is seamless and waterproof. Its soft insole gives heel and arch support- wide steel shank supports the arch. The composition of Honeywell boot is such that it gives comfort due to its insole and outsole design. It is reinforced at stress point to protect the toes from impact from an accident. It is ideal for use in general industrial work, fish processing, poultry, and oil rigs.
Pros
- Provides prolong support and comfort
- ASTM recommended
- Protects against electric shock
Cons
- The material can be easily cracked
Timberland PRO Men’s 47001 Power Welt Waterproof Steel-Toe Boots
Just as the name sounds, it is strong and powerful. It is an imported boot, made with synthetic sole and leather upper. Its design is assuring and looks confident. Its insole is well cushioned to give comfort to the feet; the outsole is also perfectly shaped. Its shaft measures 6 inches from the arch, the platform measures 1 inch, and heel measures 1.5 inches. It has a firm grip to the ground- it does not slip. You can easily clean dirt off it after each use. You can also decide to make it fashionable, it fits a casual outing.
Pros
- Breathable mesh lining
- Can be used for all construction activity
- Oil and slip-resistant
Cons
- Might cause pain for growing feet
ROCKROOSTER Men’s Work Boots
Matches up with ASTM standards, it can be used for industrial work, adventures, and hiking. It can be used for work on rocky areas. The material is breathable and waterproof. Uniquely lined outsole to prevent slip and its footbed are well structured for more support and comfort. The rock rooster men boot is one of the most recognized brands in the US. This boot is simply equipped with what it needs to deliver comfort. Has zipper to make it fit firmly.
Pros
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Made for comfort
- TPU outsole for better grip
Cons
- Insufficient padding for the zipper- causing a bruise on the ankle
Wolverine Men’s Floorhand Waterproof 10″ Steel Toe Work Boots
Wolverine boot is made with a thick leather outsole; it is waterproof. The outsole is made of rubber that resists slipping off the ground. The outsole is mounted on a rubber sole that allows easy movement without pain. It is ideal for workers dealing with cement; it does not weigh down- it is lightweight. Wolverine boot is ideal for all kinds of construction. If you are going on hiking, you are recommended to choose a lightweight boot that fits around your feet firmly .You can see some more best waterproof pants for hiking here.
Pros
- Breathable
- Water-resistant
- Can be easily pulled on and off
Cons
- The back heel gets torn with continual use
LARNMERN Steel Toe Boots
A new feature to this boot; anti-nail penetration midsole to prevent been piercing by a sharp object, steel toe cap design to give protection from a falling object. The larnmern boot has an impact resistance of at least 200J and more than 15KN anti-static pressure. It’s made of leather, TPU, and mesh. It has a semi-nested windproof tongue to prevent sand, rain, and dust from the boot. It doesn’t add weight to the leg; reducing work stress.
Pros
- Oil resistant outsole
- Reflective strips for safety in the night
- Protects against electrical shock
Cons
- Confirm size before purchase- it might be small for certain feet size
Hawkwell Men’s Steel Toe Safety Waterproof Leather Work Boots
Imagine working on site and cruising. It can be called “fashion on site.” Its rubber sole is well cut out like a set of teeth, it does not slip off the ground. The hawkwell work boot meets safety standards; it is safe for protecting the toe against injury. Durability can be assured with the seam-sealed leather outsole; it makes the feet comfortable. Shaft measure 6 inches from the arch. This men-waterproof boot can be worn at work as well at home with comfort and style.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Fashionable
- The padded leather collar around the ankle
Cons
- Lace can be torn easily
Conclusion
Comfort and safety are assured when you get the right boot. Common defect with work boots is separation from the sole, tearing lace, and broken steel toe protector. You will notice that most of the boot above have similar features but with slight differences. However, a boot that can be used for work and pleasure, and for working all day gets the highest purchase. Lack of proper care can speed up the damage of a boot, never look down on your boot as being strong enough to last without care.