Apparel Tips

6 Best Work Boots for Men Trying to Get Traction

mens boots with gloves and tape measure
mm
Written by Natalie Gasper

Men’s Boots That Will Work as Hard as You Are

Being on your feet all day is tough, but wearing the wrong pair of boots makes it even tougher. We’ve chosen top-rated options for all your boot needs, whether you need a cowboy boot, waterproofing, max comfort, or non-slip boots.

Work boots can make a world of difference in keeping your feet comfortable and protected. Look for several key safety features (including traction and electrical protection) along with features designed for comfort and durability.

As a bonus, many of these work boots are also safe for riding!

Work Boot Basics

There are several things to keep in mind when choosing a pair of work boots. Let’s look at some of the most important factors.

Safety

  • Traction / Slip Resistance
  • Toe Protection (steel or composite)
  • Puncture Resistance
  • Electrical Protection

Comfort

Comfort is second only to safety, and for good reason. Eight-plus hours on your feet requires maximum comfort, so look for quality insoles and excellent shock absorption.

Durability

Not all work boots are created equal when it comes to durability (or how long the boots will last). Some pairs may check all the boxes, but only last a year (or less). Others can keep you going for years.

To maximize durability, make sure the boots fit correctly, are made from high-quality materials (like leather), have a stitched sole, and are broken in correctly. Don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of socks, either.

Best Men’s Work Boot Options

Boot Style Brand Price Point* Key Feature
Cowboy Boot Carhartt Men’s 11” Waterproof Safety Toe Wellington $$$ Stylish two-tone boots in several color options
Waterproof & Insulated Boot Irish Setter Elk Tracker Men’s 12” Waterproof Insulated Boot $$$$ Top-notch traction
Most Comfortable KEEN Utility Men’s Cincinnati 6” Composite Toe Waterproof Wedge Boot $$$ Air-infused midsole for cloud-like comfort
Summer Boot Ariat Intrepid VentTEK Composite Toe Work Boot $$$ Cowboy-style stitching
Lace Up Timberland Pro Pit Boss 6” Steel Toe $ Three classic colors to match any styles
Non-Slip Sole Wolverine Men’s Wellington Boot $$ Unique cross between a cowboy boot & a rain boot

*Relative to other items on the list

Men’s Work Boot Recommendations

Cowboy Boot: Carhartt Men’s 11” Waterproof Safety Toe Wellington

This waterproof, steel-toed boot is as comfortable as it is beautiful.

PROS:

  • Wide range of full, half, and wide size options
  • Breathable waterproofing (keeps your feet dry inside and out)
  • Molded heel counter to maximum support
  • Lightweight

CONS:

  • Sizes may run small compared to other boots

Where to buy it: Amazon

Waterproof & Insulated Boot: Irish Setter Elk Tracker Men’s 12” Waterproof Insulated Boot

Designed for all-day wear, these boots combine a memory foam footbed with ScentBan technology to keep your feet comfy and fresh.

PROS:

  • Steel shank (maximizes stability and supports your calves)
  • GORE-TEX waterproofing
  • Thin yet warm layer of insulation
  • Can be re-soled to extend the boot’s life

CONS:

  • Fit is tight for a couple of weeks (until broken in)

Where to buy it: Amazon

Most Comfortable: KEEN Utility Men’s Cincinnati 6” Composite Toe Waterproof Wedge Boot

These carbon-fiber safety toe boots are so light, you may think you’re standing on a cloud.

PROS:

  • Waterproof with breathable liner
  • Goodyear welt construction (enhances durability)
  • Full-grain leather
  • Excellent traction

CONS:

  • Boots can’t be re-soled (reduces boot’s lifetime)
  • May not be suitable for construction sites

Where to buy it: Amazon

Summer Boot: Ariat Intrepid VentTEK Composite Toe Work Boot

These boots combine the best of cowboy style and working man’s comfort.

PROS:

  • Full-grain leather (very durable)
  • VentTEK cooling mesh for airflow
  • SpiderTEK Pro technology (maximizes support and comfort)

CONS:

  • Are snug when you first wear them
  • May run large

Where to buy it: Amazon

Lace Up: Timberland Pro Pit Boss 6” Steel Toe

These classic boots pair all the safety standards you could want with top-notch comfort.

PROS:

  • Great traction
  • Suspension technology for increased comfort
  • Suitable for many fields of work

CONS:

  • Can be uncomfortable until broken in

Where to buy it: Amazon

Non-Slip Sole: Wolverine Men’s Wellington Boot

These boots may look casual, but they pack a punch. After 135 years, Wolverine knows a thing or two about creating a quality boot.

PROS:

  • Contour welt lets the boot move with you for increased flexibility
  • High-quality, waterproof leather
  • Ortholite footbed
  • Scuff resistant

CONS:

  • Boots are tight until broken in
  • Heavy use may cause leaking

Where to buy it: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the top five best work boots?

We’re big fans of all the boots in this article! There’s no one list of five boots since everyone needs work boots for different reasons. A construction boot will have different features than someone who stands on concrete all day. Prioritize what you need in a boot to find the best pair for you.

leather lace up work boots and leather gloves

Source: Canva

Q: What is a good brand for work boots?

Chippewa, Wolverine, Timberland, and Ariat are all popular brands for work boots.

Q: What are the most comfortable work boots for standing on concrete all day?

You can’t go wrong with American Heritage Work Boots. The Irish Setter Ashby Men’s Leather Safety Toe Boot also has rave reviews.

Q: What boots should I wear for construction?

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has several requirements. Good construction boots must be puncture-resistant, slip-resistant, and provide shear and impact protection. Most steel-toed boots fit these requirements.

Q: Can you ride in work boots?

Any boot with a closed toe, hard sole, and a one-inch heel is safe for riding. While some work boots fit this description, they may not provide the best ankle support in the saddle.

Parting Thoughts

Say goodbye to tired and sore feet, once and for all, with one of these stellar work boots.

P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:

 
Love it? Share it!

About the author

mm

With a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Central Florida and an editing certificate from the University of Washington, my decade-long writing journey has been a kaleidoscope of diverse experiences. I've had the privilege of contributing to a spectrum of platforms, including newspapers, print and online magazines, literary journals, and individual clients on subjects spanning from horse care, gardening, motorcycles, to exploring East Asia.