Best Work Boots
Selecting the ideal work boots for both men and women in various trades poses a unique challenge. Every trade has specific requirements, and each person’s feet are different, which further complicates the decision given the myriad of choices available from numerous reputable brands.
This year, some models like the ever-popular Keen Cincinnati make a comeback. We are also seeing a rise in brands that sell directly to consumers and offer handmade options. Moreover, the use of recycled materials in work boots is becoming a trend.
Despite the multitude of excellent choices, we’ve narrowed down our list to avoid an excessively lengthy review.
BEST WORK BOOTS of 2025 – OUR TOP PICKS
- CARBON-FIBER TOE: Left and right asymmetrical, non-metallic carbon-fiber (composite) toes offer an unobtrusive fit and are 15% lighter than steel; These boots meet or exceed ASTM F3445 and F2413 M I/75, C/75 EH standards
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY is a waterproof, breathable membrane liner, keeping your feet dry and comfortable; Full-grain barnyard resistant waterproof leather helps resist the damaging effects of oleic acid, urea, sodium chloride, and ammonium hydroxide
- SOFT TOE: Left and right asymmetrical KEEN.PROTECT soft toe caps help safeguard against minor impact that meet or exceed ASTM F2892 EH standards, but are not reinforced with a secondary crush resistance material
- TRACTION: Oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking, rubber outsoles; Made with wedge tread, and siped outsole that helps provide traction on slick, flat terrain with limited debris buildup; Meets ASTM F1677 Mark II and ASTM F2913 SATRA non-slip standards
- Premium waterproof full-grain leather upper looks and feels premium
- Breathable waterproof membrane with moisture wicking mesh lining. Removable Durashocks dual-density PU footbed supports every step
- AMERICAN MADE with USA and globally sourced components by the skilled craftsmen and women at Thorogood’s US plants
- THOROGOOD “JOB-FITTED” DESIGN means 1957 Series steel toe boots are ideal for a range of outdoor and industrial applications – go-to boots for a carpenter, construction worker, crane operator, electrician, HVAC technician, ironworker, millwright, pipefitter, plumber, welder, or anyone else who needs comfortable safety toe protection while doing dirty jobs
- The perfect crossover product for the rancher that needs more grip outof his cowboy boots for hopping on and off that feed trailer
- VentTEK shaft combines full grain leather with cooling mesh panels for
- SOFT TOE: KEEN.PROTECT soft toe caps help safeguard against minor impact that meet or exceed ASTM F2892 EH standards, but are not reinforced with a secondary crush resistance material
- TRACTION: Oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking, rubber outsoles; Made with wedge tread, and siped outsole that helps provide traction on slick, flat terrain with limited debris buildup; Meets ASTM F1677 Mark II and ASTM F2913 SATRA non-slip standards
- CARBON-FIBER TOE: Left and right asymmetrical, non-metallic carbon-fiber (composite) toes offer an unobtrusive fit and are 15% lighter than steel; These boots meet or exceed ASTM F2412 and F2413 M I/75, C/75 EH standards
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY is a waterproof, breathable membrane liner that lets vapor out without letting water in for keeping your feet dry and comfortable; The Cincinnati 6” work boots have a mesh liner that integrates with the waterproof membrane
Best Work Boots for Men
Keen Utility Camden
After years of favoring the Keen Utility Cincinnati, it took the impressive Keen Camden to take its place at the top of our list. The Camden expands the brand’s robust offerings with its composite toe and waterproof design. What really sets it apart is the aggressive tread combined with the exceptionally comfortable Luftcell midsole, making it suitable for nearly any condition. Its durability and the ability to prevent back and leg pain make it the best overall work boot for men.
- 90° heeled design with aggressive tread suitable for hard surfaces
- Available in hiker style, 6-inch and 8-inch heights
- Made with full-grain leather
- Features Keen Luftcell air-infused PU midsole
- Includes removable PolyAer dual-density footbed
- Built with Goodyear welt construction
- Waterproof with left/right-specific carbon fiber safety toe
- Nylon stability shank included
- Oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated, barnyard chemical resistant
- Priced between $215 – $230
Best Work Boots for Women
Keen Utility San Jose
The Keen Utility San Jose offers a design tailored for women, providing a comfortable and secure fit suitable for different foot shapes. This 6-inch wedge boot, available with or without an aluminum safety toe, features a lightweight Luftcell midsole that provides comfort throughout long workdays.
- Wedge outsole with subtle moc toe stitching
- Available in 6-inch height
- Full-grain leather upper with Keen Luftcell air-infused PU midsole
- Removable polyurethane footbed
- Medium-duty with cement construction
- Offers water-resistant and waterproof options
- Available in both men’s and women’s styles, soft or aluminum safety toe
- Oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated
- Priced between $155 – $165
Best Waterproof Work Boots
Wolverine I-90 DuraShocks
The Wolverine I-90 DuraShocks boot excels in wet conditions with its waterproof full-grain leather and moisture-wicking liner. The DuraShocks insole adds comfort, and the dense midsole offers protection against oil, chemicals, and heat.
- Available in wedge or heeled outsole styles
- Options include moc toe, hiker, Romeo, and Wellington styles
- Comes in 6-inch and 8-inch heights
- Features removable DuraShocks dual density footbed
- Built with Goodyear welt construction
- Waterproof with soft or CarbonMax safety toe
- Offers men’s and women’s options
- Oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated
- Priced between $174.95 – $194.95
Best Steel Toe Work Boots
Thorogood 1957 Series Safety Toe
Thorogood’s 1957 Series offers a classic look with modern safety features, making it the best steel toe work boot. The storm-welted heeled or wedge soles and moc toe design enhance its durability and style. It’s waterproof and crafted in the USA.
- Heeled or wedge design with moc toe style
- Available in 6-inch or 8-inch heights
- Full-grain leather upper
- Features removable Ultimate Shock Absorption memory foam footbed
- Built with Goodyear storm welt construction
- X-Stream Waterproof
- Available with a steel toe (soft toe also available)
- Men’s style only
- Slip-resistant, EH-rated
- Starting at $279.99
Best Non-Metallic Safety Toe Work Boots
Red Wing King Toe 8-Inch Waterproof CSA Safety Toe (Style 3512)
The Red Wing King Toe 3512 offers a spacious toe box with a non-metallic safety toe, making it ideal for those needing extra space. It’s EH-rated, puncture-resistant, waterproof, and suitable for high temperatures.
- Heeled design in a traditional style
- 8-inch height
- Full-grain leather upper with Swen-Flex puncture-resistant footbed
- Direct attach construction
- Waterproof with a non-metallic safety toe
- Men’s style only
- Oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated, CSA-approved
- Priced at $279.99
Best Pull-On Work Boots
Ariat Hybrid VentTEK Western Boots
Ariat’s Hybrid VentTEK boots excel in agricultural settings due to their breathability and comfortable fit. These boots merge a traditional Western look with modern features for superior performance.
- Features VentTEK mesh panels for cooling
- Premium full-grain leather with vented mesh underlays
- Removable cushioning insole
- Duratread oil- and slip-resistant sole
- Barnyard chemical-resistant
- Wide square-toe and Horseman heel
- 1.5-inch heel height with a 6-inch shaft
- Available in sizes 7-14
- Priced at $199.95
This guide aims to simplify the selection of work boots by focusing on various needs and preferences, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your work environment.
Best Lightweight Work Boots
Keen Utility San Jose Oxford Low
The Keen Utility San Jose Oxford Low represents the pinnacle of lightweight design in work boots. With a stylish blend of casual and formal aesthetics, this boot features a soft toe for light-duty work, ideal for indoor settings or managerial tasks.
- Wedge design with Oxford style
- Available in low height, with a 6-inch version also offered
- Crafted from water-resistant leather
- Features Keen Luftcell air-infused PU midsole for comfort
- Removable polyurethane footbed
- Cement construction for durability
- Available with a soft or left/right-specific aluminum safety toe
- Includes a nylon stability shank for support
- Men’s style, oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated
- Priced between $135 – $140 (up to $175 for the 6-inch version)
Most Comfortable Work Boots
Keen Utility Cincinnati
For those who prioritize comfort, the Keen Utility Cincinnati stands out with its wedge design and Luftcell midsole, which provide support and comfort throughout long working hours. This model is particularly suited for individuals who need reliable footwear that can withstand prolonged use without compromising on comfort.
- Wedge design with aggressive tread suitable for various terrains
- Available in moc toe and Wellington styles
- Offered in 6-inch, 8-inch, or mid-calf heights
- Constructed from full-grain leather
- Features Keen Luftcell air-infused PU midsole
- Removable PolyAer dual-density footbed
- Goodyear welt construction enhances durability
- Available in waterproof options
- Comes with a soft or left/right-specific carbon fiber safety toe
- Available in men’s and women’s styles, oil and slip-resistant, EH-rated, barnyard chemical resistant
- Priced between $180.00 – $205.00
Best Handmade Work Boots
Nick’s Handmade Work Boots
For those seeking longevity and customizability in their footwear, Nick’s Handmade Boots offer an exceptional choice. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these boots are designed to last and improve with wear, embodying the essence of bespoke craftsmanship.
- Available in a range of styles including wedges and loggers
- Customizable to ensure a perfect fit
- Built for durability with superior materials
- Requires a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort
- Starting price at $520.00
Best Work Shoes
Skechers Crankton Construction Shoe
The Skechers Crankton Construction Shoe combines the lightweight, cushioned feel of sneakers with the rugged durability required on job sites. This hybrid design makes it ideal for various environments, ensuring both safety and comfort.
- Combines leather, synthetic, and mesh materials for durability and breathability
- Features a soft or steel toe for safety
- EH-rated to ensure protection
- Equipped with a shock-absorbing midsole and memory foam insole for all-day comfort
- Available in several colors to suit personal style preferences
This comprehensive guide to work boots and shoes aims to cater to diverse occupational needs, ensuring comfort, safety, and style. Whether you’re engaged in heavy-duty construction, light managerial tasks, or require a custom fit, this selection offers a range of options to suit various professional and personal preferences.
Best Budget Work Boots
Brunt Work Boots
When you’re operating within a budget closer to $150 rather than $500, Brunt workwear merits serious consideration. While their range might not be as extensive as some larger brands, the exceptional quality of their materials and construction at this price point stands out. Our reviewer, Josh McGaffigan, highly praises Brunt for their comfort right out of the box, especially the Distasio and Marin models featuring the Brunt Toe.
One of Brunt’s advantages is their direct-to-consumer model, eliminating traditional retail markups. Also, don’t miss their workwear, including favorites like the Coady hoodie and Torra pants.
Best Insoles for Work Boots
Superfeet Work Cushion Insoles
Sometimes the standard insoles just aren’t enough due to personal preference or specific foot characteristics that can lead to discomfort. For those needing tailored orthotic support, a podiatrist-customized insole might be the best choice. However, for general enhancements, the SuperFeet Work Cushion insoles are our top recommendation. Initially available in the Green version, the new Work Cushion variant sold out on its first day due to its maximum cushioning and versatility across all arch heights.
Best-Selling Work Boots on Amazon
Top Picks for Value and Comfort
- Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe: $73.36
- Cat Footwear Men’s Threshold Waterproof Soft Toe: $89.96
- Wolverine Men’s Floorhand Waterproof 6-Inch Steel-Toe: $87.96
- Timberland PRO 6IN Direct Attach Men’s Steel Toe MaxTRAX: $159.99
- Skechers Men’s Burgin-Tarlac Industrial Boot: $49.99
Best Work Boots Brand: Reader’s Choice Voting
We reached out on our social media platforms to discover which work boot brands our followers prefer. Keen Utility and Red Wing were the clear frontrunners, followed closely by Thorogood and Danner, which also received substantial support.
Explore the lively discussions and share your own preferences on our Facebook and Instagram pages!
More Recommended Work Boots from Trusted Brands
Further Top Picks Across Categories
- Best Ariat Work Boots: Ariat Workhog Series – This series includes a variety of pull-on and lace-up styles, featuring Western-style durability and tread necessary for nearly any jobsite. The WorkHog XT with a BOA system particularly stands out.
- Best Danner Work Boots: Danner Quarry USA – Celebrating over a decade on the market, this line features breathable Gore-Tex and robust construction, requiring no break-in period. Available in a variety of safety toe and color options.
- Best Georgia Work Boots: Wedge Work Wellington G5153 – Known for its durable build and chemical-resistant leather, this boot is ideal for agricultural use, with pull loops for easy wear.
- Best Irish Setter Work Boots: Irish Setter Kittson – A stylish, budget-friendly option under $200, available in men’s and women’s styles, with safety toe models and pull-on options.
- Best Kodiak Work Boots: Kodiak McKinney – Perfect for colder climates with a variety of height and style options, providing affordability without compromising on quality
- Best Tecovas Work Boots