brown work boots footwear with laces

The Best Work Boots for Men | A Guide to the Most Comfortable Picks

For some jobs and construction sites, protective boots are mandatory, not an option. They are so important that you cannot enter some job sites without putting on one. As such, this has significantly increased the demand for work boots. Many shoe manufacturers have decided to meet this demand, flooding the market with different types of work boots.

With the multitude of work boots on the market, it can be difficult to separate the substandard work boots from the best. Putting on work boots is very important, but putting on the wrong pair can even be worse than not putting on any at all. The wrong pair of boots can leave you in total discomfort while exposing your feet to potential injuries.

With the best work boots for men, you would not have any issues, as it would allow you to work more comfortably and freely. Read on to see our top recommendations and buyer’s guide.

Our top pick is the Carhartt Men’s Energy Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot. This work boot is made with premium quality leather with a super comfortable and durable upper. The boots are designed to last and they provide maximum protection in all work environments.

Here Are The Best Work Boots For Men:

ProductDetails
1. Carhartt Men’s Energy Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot

  • Material: Peanut Oil-Tanned Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 8 – 15
Check Current Price
2. Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response Tactical Boot

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 6 – 13
Check Current Price
3. Timberland PRO Men’s Pit Boss Steel-Toe Work Boot

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15
Check Current Price
4. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot

  • Material: Full-Grain Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Synthetic sole
  • Size: 5 – 14
Check Current Price
5. KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot

  • Material: 100% Nubuck Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15
Check Current Price
6. Irish Setter Men’s Mesabi Steel Toe Work Boot

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 8 – 13
Check Current Price
7. Merrell Moab 2 Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot

  • Material: Synthetic and Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15
Check Current Price
8. Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Work Boot

  • Material: 100% Full-Grain Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15
Check Current Price
9. EVER BOOTS Tank Soft Toe Men’s Work Boot

  • Material: Nubuck Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 6 – 13
Check Current Price

 

1. Carhartt Men’s Energy Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot – Most Comfortable Men’s Work Boots

Carhartt Men's Ground Force 6-Inch Brown Waterproof Work Boot - Composite Toe, Peanut Oil Tan Leather, 11 M US - New For 2017 - CME6355

The Carhartt Men’s Energy Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot is a heavy-duty work boot from a highly reputable brand with over 125 years of experience. This 6 inches work boot is made with 100 percent oil-tanned leather for superior comfort and protection. The boots are designed to keep you safe and protected in all work environments.

The collar and tongue of the boots are padded to provide your feet with all the comfort and support they need. They are not abrasive to the feet and they provide support in all the right spots. To ensure the boot lasts and serves you for years, Carhartt equipped them with its cement constructed Rugged Flex outsole. When it comes to safety, these boots have you covered.

Protection on the job site is very important, and these work boots offer protection against accidental contact with an electrical circuit. With the electrical hazard protection of these boots, you can use them to work anywhere without any worries.

Well, that is not all, as the rubber outsole of this boot is abrasion and chemical resistant also. The boots can withstand any environment because they are oil-resistant, slip-resistant, abrasion-resistant, chemical-resistant, and heat-resistant. It also has a composite safety toe that is spacious enough to provide you with comfort and safety. The safety toe would also protect your toes if you bump into an object.

It also provides enough cushioning to keep you comfortable, thanks to its Ortholite insole and EVA midsole. The boots also feature a FastDry lining that helps to keep moisture at bay while preventing the development of bad odors. They are also durable and they come with a one-year warranty.

Specs

  • Material: Peanut Oil-Tanned Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 8 – 15

Pros

  • Wicks away moisture and prevents the development of bad odors
  • Comes with advanced safety features
  • Designed to keep you comfortable all-day
  • Protects your toes and entire feet.

Cons

  • Bulky construction

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

2. Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response Tactical Boot

Reebok Work Men's Rapid Response RB8894 Safety Boot,Tan,10.5 W US

The Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response Tactical Boot is designed for first responders, military professionals, and law enforcement officers. The boots are very strong and highly durable, and you can use them on all types of terrain, making them a great option for a long day at job sites. This boot comes with a leather and ballistic nylon upper that provides a comfortable and snug fit.

The upper is durable and it can handle even the most rugged terrain. It also has a very nice and attractive design. The EVA midsole of this boot comes with a shock eliminator cushion to reduce stress and fatigue on your feet, leg, and joints. It is designed to keep you secure and protected regardless of where you use it.

It also offers lightweight protection from impact and compression, thanks to its TXTR brand composite safety toe cap. The boots are resistant to heat, electricity, and cold. There is also a nylon mesh lining that wicks away moisture, and this helps to keep your boot odor-free and comfortable all day. The boots come with a rubber outsole that provides great traction on all types of terrains.

The boots support natural and free movement, thanks to its lightweight and ergonomic design. The toe area is also large, providing your feet with more than enough space to relax. The footbed of this boot is well-cushioned to provide extra comfort, and you can also remove, replace it with a special footbed. To give you the guarantee you need on its durability, these boots come with a one-year warranty.

Specs

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 6 – 13

Pros

  • Made with high-quality materials
  • Supports natural movement
  • Ideal for use on all types of surfaces
  • Designed to keep you safe and comfortable

Cons

  • They run a little big

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

3. Timberland PRO Men’s Pit Boss Steel-Toe Work Boot – Best Steel Toe Work Boots

Timberland PRO Men's Pitboss 6" Steel-Toe Boot, Brown , 12 D - Medium

Timberland is out again with another high-performance work boot that can handle whatever comes its way. The Timberland PRO Men’s Pitboss Steel-Toe Work Boot is one of the best work boots for men. These boots are designed for comfort and protection. It comes with a steel toe cap that ensures your feet are not crushed by dropped tools, debris, or falling objects.

You can also get a secure and snug fit with its upper metal lacing hooks. The lacing system also allows for a customized fit. It comes with a padded collar to provide superior comfort and prevent wear and tear on the Achilles tendon and lower leg. The boots are also designed to keep you safe in electrical hazard environments, thanks to its electric resistance feature.

These boots require a little bit of break-in period but they provide all-day, lasting comfort. Another great feature of this boot is its removable sock liner. The sock liner helps to keep blisters at bay, and you can remove and replace it with medically-prescribed orthopedics. The craftsmanship of this boot is also something to appreciate.

Timberland made these boots with 100 percent leather, and you can get it in four different colors. The leather used to make these boots meet ANSI safety standards. It also comes with a rubber outsole that is abrasion, oil, and slip-resistant. It offers excellent traction and stability. To crown it all, these boots are moderately-price, making them a budget-friendly option.

Specs

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15

Pros

  • 24/7 comfort suspension technology
  • Super safe and protective
  • Steel toe and electrical hazard protection
  • Available in different colors

Cons

  • Requires a little break-in period

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

4. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot

Caterpillar Men's Second Shift Work Boot, Tan, 10.5 M US

Next on the line is the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boot, and it is another highly comfortable work boot that you can use to work all day. These boots are stylish, and they feature a very nice finishing. They are also highly functional and durable. These lushly designed boots come with a mesh lining that helps to keep your feet comfortable and cozy all day.

Caterpillar made these boots with full-grain leather that is oiled for additional strength and durability. These designer work boots are also available in five different colors, allowing you to choose the color that best suits your style. It comes with a thick padded collar that ensures you do not experience any discomfort or foot fatigue while in the boots.

These are also designed with the safety of the wearer in mind. It comes with a synthetic outsole that is slip and oil-resistant. The outsole improves traction and stability on all types of surfaces and terrains. With the Goodyear welt construction of these boots, you can use them for years without experiencing any wear and tear.

The lace-up closure is also there to provide a secure and comfortable fit. It also has a heel pull tab that makes it very easy to wear and remove. The boots are highly breathable, and they ensure your feet are always dry and cool.

Specs

  • Material: Full-Grain Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Synthetic sole
  • Size: 5 – 14

Pros

  • Padded collars for additional comfort
  • Available in different colors
  • Solid and durable construction
  • High-traction outsole

Cons

  • Not the best option for wide feet

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

5. KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot

KEEN Utility mens Pittsburgh 6" Steel Toe Work Boot, Bison Brown/Red, 9.5D

If you are looking for the most comfortable men’s work boots, the KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot is one of the best options to consider. You can work in these boots all day without experiencing foot fatigue or pain. These are also multipurpose boots, as you can use them for hiking also. It comes with a rubber outsole that provides superb traction and grip on all terrains.

The outsoles are slip-resistant and oil-resistant. With the steel toe cap of these boots, your toes would always be shielded from falling materials on the job site. The upper of the boot is made with 100 percent Nubuck leather, and it helps to keep water out. With the waterproof upper, your feet would always be dry and comfortable even when you are working in the rain.

It comes with a metatomical footbed that supports the natural curves of your feet while providing you with all-day comfort. The breathable upper ensures your feet always get what they need – keeping them cool on sunny days and warm on cold days. In addition to being comfortable, these boots feature a durable and attractive design as well.

The footbed of this boot is removable, and this allows you to replace it with a custom footbed. It comes with locking metal lace hooks to provide a secure, comfortable, and customized fit. The boot comes with dual-density compression-molded EVA and PU midsoles. It also offers electrical hazard protection.

Specs

  • Material: 100% Nubuck Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15

Pros

  • Provides all-day comfort and support
  • Durable, lightweight, and protective
  • A non-slip outsole that improves traction
  • Removable footbed

Cons

  • A bit pricey

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

6. Irish Setter Men’s Mesabi Steel Toe Work Boot

Irish Setter Work Men's Mesabi Steel Toe 83834 Boot, Brown, 9 D US

The Irish Setter Men’s Mesabi Steel Toe Work Boot is praised for the high level of comfort it provides. You can use these for light to heavy-duty tasks, whether falling trees at your yard or working on construction sites all day. The boots are designed to keep your feet comfortable regardless of how long you wear them.

These boots provide excellent arch support, and it takes away any form of discomfort while working. They fit perfectly and comfortably, and they are true to size. The boots are a bit weighty, because of the steel toes, but you will not have any issues with that. The steel toe is there to offer maximum protection against potential foot accidents. You can also use these boots in any weather condition, thanks to its waterproof design.

The boots are made with 100 percent leather, with a highly comfortable lace-up upper. The lace-up system allows for a more secure and customized fit. It comes with a rubber outsole that is both slip-resistant and heat-resistant. The boot also offers electrical hazard protection, which means you can use them in any industry.

The cushion comfort tongue and collar are also there to give better support and comfort. These boots are highly durable, and they would still be intact a few years down the lane. However, some experts said they had issues operating the gas pedal with these shoes because of the height of the collar.

Specs

  • Material: 100% Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 8 – 13

Pros

  • Slip and heat-resistant outsole
  • Electrical hazard protection
  • Provides great arch support
  • Keeps your feet comfortable all day

Cons

  • Uncomfortable when driving with it

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

7. Merrell Moab 2 Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Earth, 11 2E US

Merrell is one of the best shoe brands out there, and it has been able to win the heart of many because of its great line of shoes. This brand makes different types of shoes that cater to the needs of different wearers. The Merrell Moab 2 Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot is one of the best steel toe work boots on the market. This is a high-performance work boot that provides a lot of support.

The upper of this work boot is made with leather and synthetic, and it has a waterproof membrane that helps to keep water out. It is highly breathable and it allows for adequate airflow to keep your feet cool and dry at all times. The boot also comes with a breathable mesh liner for added comfort and support.

These boots are super comfortable on the feet, and they do not require any break-in period. The boot comes with a composite safety toe that provides maximum protection. Despite the steel toe that comes with this boot, it is still one of the lightest work boots on the market. The edges are sealed properly, providing no space for water to pass through.

It comes with a Kinetic Fit Elite footbed that provides maximum comfort and support in the arch and other vital areas of the foot. The soles are made of rubber and they provide stability and good traction. There is also a pull tab at the back of the boot that makes it easy to put on and take off.

Specs

  • Material: Synthetic and Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15

Pros

  • Made with quality materials
  • Super lightweight design
  • Advanced technologies for enhanced comfort and support
  • Keeps you comfortable all day

Cons

  • Limited size range

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

8. Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Work Boot

Danner Men's 15573 Bull Run Moc Toe 6" Work Boot, Tobacco - 11 D

The next work boot on our list is the Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Work Boot. This steel toe work boot comes with a classic design that gives it a unique and nice finishing. It delivers superior comfort and support. Danner is an American shoe brand that has been in the industry since 1932. This brand made these boots with 100 percent full-grain leather.

It comes with a solid upper that provides a secure and comfortable fit. These boots are also durable, thanks to its stitch down construction. It comes with steel toes that meet and exceed ASTM standards. The boots come with a durable rubber outsole that enhances traction and natural movement. The outsoles are also non-marking, slip-resistant, and oil-resistant.

It also features a cushioning open-cell Ortholite footbed that provides extra comfort and support where needed. The shaft measures about 6 inches from the arch and it comes with a steel shank. The toe box of the boot is also wide, providing your toes with more than enough space. You can use these boots on any terrain and surface, whether wet, dry, oily, smooth, muddy, and more.

It also features a lace-up system that allows for a customized fit. The boot is pretty stylish and you can get it in two different colors. It is available in sizes ranging from 7 through 15, with medium to wide width.

Specs

  • Material: 100% Full-Grain Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 7 – 15

Pros

  • Steel toe protection
  • Stitch down construction for stability and strength
  • Well-cushioned footbed for comfort and support
  • Breathable and lightweight upper

Cons

  • On the higher end of the price spectrum

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

9. EVER BOOTS Tank Soft Toe Men’s Work Boot

EVER BOOTS "Tank Men's Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Insulated Work Boots Construction Rubber Sole (10 D(M), Darkbrown)

We have another great work boot for men, and that is the EVER BOOTs Tank Soft Toe Work Boot. These high-quality boots deliver exceptional performance and durability. The most interesting part is that they are super cheap. They are one of the most affordable work boots for men. These boots are made with 2mm Nubuck leather that provides superior comfort and durability.

If you spend a lot of time on the job site every day, you can rely on the comfort of these boots. The boots have a steel shank design that helps to relieve the pressure that causes discomfort and foot fatigue. There is also mesh lining in the boots, and it helps to keep your feet warm when working in cold weather.

The boots also feature a Goodyear welt construction that translates to durability and longevity. They are break-in free and you can get them in two different colors. It comes with PU insoles that provide maximum comfort to your feet and long stand hours. The lace-up closure allows for easier wearing and taking off while providing you with a customized fit. The rubber outsole also provides great traction on all surfaces.

Specs

  • Material: Nubuck Leather
  • Gender: Male
  • Sole: Rubber sole
  • Size: 6 – 13

Pros

  • Very cheap
  • Provides all-day comfort
  • Highly durable
  • Easy to wear and take off

Cons

  • No larger sizes

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

The Best Work Boots For Men Buyer’s Guide

brown work boots footwear with laces

Not all work boots are created equal. Hence, you need to keep some vital things in mind when buying a work boot. Here are some important considerations to make.

Steel Toes

Your safety is very important when working in any environment. Work boots come with many safety features, with steel toes being the number one. However, not every work boot comes with this feature. If you work in the factory, construction sites, or loading dock where there is a high chance that something can fall on your legs, then this feature is mandatory.

If you are working in an environment where there is little chance of toe injury, then you must get a work boot with steel toes. With this feature, you will not experience any pain or suffer any injuries if an object falls on your feet or if you bump into any object.

Electrical Protection

There are work boots that would protect you from experiencing shocks through the feet. If you are working in an environment with electrical hazards, then you need a pair of work boots with electrical hazard protection.

Comfort

No matter how good a work boot is, it would be useless if it is not comfortable. Your comfort is one of the most important features you need to consider when buying a pair of work boots. However, a couple of factors determines the level of comfort you derive from the boots.

Some of those factors include the boot’s size, fit, soles, and materials used to make it.

Hence, you should go for a pair that provides a perfect fit. The boot should not be too loose nor should it be too tight. If you prefer lace-up systems, then you should go for one that provides a secure and comfortable fit. For those that prefer pull-on boots, you also want to make sure it fits securely and perfectly.

Lightweight

The weight of the boots also plays a key role in the level of comfort it provides. Putting on boots for the better part of the day is already not an easy thing, and you do not want to worsen it by wearing heavy boots. As such, you want to make sure the boots are lightweight and very easy to walk with.

From the soles down to the material used to make the upper should all be lightweight. When it comes to work boots, the lighter, the better.

Durability

The last thing you want is to spend your hard-earned money on boots that will not last. Durability is another vital factor to consider, as this is an investment you need to take seriously. You should go for boots that would be able to withstand wear and tear. You also need to consider the kind of task you want to use the boots for and go for an option that can handle it.

The boots should be made with high-quality materials, such as genuine leather, synthetic or rubber outsoles, EVA or PU midsoles and insole, and more. All the materials used to make the boot should be highly durable and supportive. The sole should be thick enough to withstand everyday use without wearing out. The stitching and construction should also be top-notch, to provide you with a long-lasting boot.

Recommendations

One of the best ways to find the right work boot is to ask your co-workers for recommendations. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to work shoes, as different feet have different needs. However, this is not a bad place to start, considering you all are working in the same environment.

Hence, you can ask for recommendations and still consider the factors listed above to find the right one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Keep My Feet Protected Without Excess Weight?

Yes, you can, and you can do that by going for comfortable work boots with a composite toe material.

Why Is It Important To Wear Comfortable Work Boots?

Comfortable work boots are very important as they help to prevent discomfort while allowing you to concentrate on your work without any distractions.

How Do I Know If A Work Boot Is Comfortable?

All the work boots on this guide are super comfortable. However, you can still read the reviews of previous users before buying, as they would give you a head start on the level of comfort the boot provides.

Conclusion

When buying work boots, you need to consider your needs, your line of work, and the vital features (including safety features) you need to survive in your work environment. From the work boots reviewed in this guide, our top recommendation is the Carhartt Men’s Energy Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot, thanks to its solid construction, durability, and high-quality material.