A machine is only as good as the person who operates it. Workers are an important part of any organization and when they work with machines they are often prone to injury. An injured worker means a breach in your machinery and less productivity today and tomorrow. Therefore, it is up to both workers and employers to keep themselves and others safe in a work environment.
If your daily job includes hours of exertion and work in a hazardous area, protective clothing and a sturdy hat will not suffice. You also need waterproof work boots to make sure your feet are safe and you can stay on your feet all day.
In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most durable waterproof work boots and how to choose one for yourself.
Index
Things to Consider When Buying Waterproof Work Boots
safety fingers
The toes are the most important part of work boots, as they protect the most vulnerable part of the foot. So make sure you have the correct safety toes on your work boots. In general, work boot toe caps can be divided into three broad categories: aluminum, composite, and steel. The three categories of safety toe caps are classified by ASTM for foot protection in different work environments.
steel toe
The heavier and safer steel toe caps are the most popular choice for protective toe caps. They are best suited for construction sites where there is a constant danger of falling objects, oil spills, heavy machinery, foot snagging, etc. and toes
On the other hand, steel is a conductor of electricity and heat. It tends to heat up very quickly at high temperatures and is not suitable if you work in an environment with an extreme environment and electrical hazard.
garter fingers
Lightweight alloy toe caps, such as aluminum, are ideal for workers who want a lightweight, protective shoe. It has the advantages and disadvantages of steel fingers with less weight.
compound fingers
Composite fingers are non-metallic and are best for environments that need to remain metal free. Provides greater comfort and protection against electrical and heat hazards. For this reason, composite toes are a safe all-weather option.
Composite fingers are made with a variety of different materials including carbon fiber, kevlar, etc. To take advantage of the properties of different materials, some manufacturers even combine materials to make composite fingers.
waterproofing
When you're working outdoors, there's no escaping extreme weather. Especially rainy days can be quite challenging. Waterproof boots are the best way to keep your feet dry in all weathers. If you work in sub-zero temperatures, you might also consider getting the insulated variants of your work boots.
When it comes to waterproofing, work boots have three options, rubber, leather, and Gore-tex. Leather boots are usually the most expensive option. They are generally waterproof, last longer, are comfortable, and look great. Rubber shoes are a less expensive option, but they generally lack the insulating ability of leather boots.
When it comes to Gore-tex, things get a bit tricky. Gore-tex is known for its waterproofing capabilities, but in addition, it is also breathable. This makes it an excellent option not only for cold and rainy climates, but also for warm places. However, some people complain that Gore-tex is not as breathable as we think. For some people, the quality of breathing does not work as expected.
Cost
Unlike most accessories, shoes are not an option, especially work shoes. We have to use them, use them well and use them correctly. When it comes to waterproof work boots, let's keep one thing in mind. They are not cheap. Boots usually start at $100 and a good pair can cost upwards of $600. Remember though, "You may cry once you buy it, or you may cry every time you wear it."
Are socks with your work boots important?
In waterproof shoes, sweaty toes can become a problem. If the shoes are simply waterproof, they might as well be breathable, but if you've opted for 100% waterproof, keeping your feet dry is a struggle. The more waterproof your boots are, the more real this fight becomes. In that case, wearing comfortable socks is key. The socks not only keep your feet dry but also provide extra comfort for tired toes on a long day!
Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for socks:
- Socks must not be made of cotton. Cotton socks are cheaper, but they absorb moisture and keep it close to your feet. This means that your feet will get wet even with your socks on.
- Polyester socks are a good choice as they don't absorb moisture and are much more cushiony than cotton socks.
- Wool and its blends are the best option as the material is naturally antimicrobial. It keeps the feet dry, comfortable and provides the best cushioning. Especially in winter, nothing beats thick wool socks.
How to keep your work boots waterproof?
Work boots are expensive and a long-term investment. It's not every day that you spend a few hundred dollars on a pair of boots. Therefore, it is important to maintain work boots to increase their lifespan and durability.
Here are some quick tips for maintaining your work boots:
- clean up the dirtas soon as you get home. Working outdoors means your shoes are exposed to dirt and grime throughout the day. Leaving it on the shoes even after the day usually means the shoes deteriorate more quickly.
- Store the boots in a dry place.with good ventilation. Not only will it help dry the outer surface, but it will also help evaporate sweat and prevent the growth of bacteria.
- Use conditioners with your leather boots.Oil-based conditioning softens the leather, while silicone and PTFE treatment increases waterproofing capabilities.
- spin bootsAnd don't be left with just one pair of work boots. Most people wear the same pair of boots every day, but getting a second pair and rotating it gives each pair a chance to dry out and last longer.
- wear socks(especially) with your waterproof boots. They help keep the inside of the boot dry and prevent bacterial growth.
The best options for waterproof work boots
Timberland Pro
Timberland Pro is the best option if you want a tough pair of boots that are also waterproof. With a protective steel toe cap, leather upper, and Goodyear welt construction, the Timberland Pro is an all-in-one option. Other notable features include a rubber outsole and polyurethane midsole, which wick away moisture and keep feet dry all day.
Most people who have used Timberland say that the waterproofness of the shoe is the only reason to buy it. It's also durable, strong, and stylish, but because of the steel fingers, it's not ideal for electrically hazardous work environments.
our opinion
Overall, the Timberland Pro is comfortable, durable, robust, and ideal for workers in the oil and gas industry. It's not the most durable shoe out there, and it's pretty comfortable on long, busy days. Naturally, shoes are subject to normal wear and tear, but the most common problem with Timberland Pro is that the sole cracks after a few years.
Muck Boot - "Homework" Collection
The Muck Boot Chore Collection is an excellent choice for windy and snowy weather. Most of the boots in the Chore collection are high-top and reach almost to the knees. However, they can easily roll up when you put them on or take them off. Most of the users said that the Muck boots are highly reliable in cold and harsh weather. You can easily wear them up to 18 hours a day and stay dry.
Unlike most companies that make work boots, Muck Boots also caters to women. The most popular choice from the Chore Collection is the Women's Chore Wide Calf. Each boot in the collector is rated for different temperatures and types of work, making it easy to choose shoes to spec.
The most common problem encountered with muck boots is deterioration of the heels and soles. This calls into question the durability of the Muck boots. People with sweaty fingers also had a problem with the boots as they are not very breathable. Therefore, it is important to wear socks with boots.
our opinion
Muck Boots' to-do collection is reliable, comfortable, and affordable. They are easy to walk on for long hours and are 100% waterproof. Excellent for hunting, gardening and working in extreme cold. With heavy use, boots are said to wear down on the heels and in the sole area. However, with normal use, the kicks can last up to seven years (with normal wear and tear).
Danner Boots
Danner offers many different collections of work shoes suitable for various tasks. This includes indoor work boots, Steel Yard, Bull run, Quarry, safety toe boots, and work boots made in the USA. Indoor work boots are lightweight and versatile enough to handle multiple job sites. Steelyard offers comfort and durability. The Running Bulls have a full grain leather upper with the Danner Wedge sole. Danner also worked with Vibram to integrate a new highly durable 12 Iron Vibram midsole and outsole into the Quarry collection.
Danner has been around since 1932 and most of their products are made in the USA. The boots are waterproof and made with GoreTex. Danner recommends using a water- or silicone-based treatment (products that contain water or silicone as a first or second ingredient) to maintain the breathability of the waterproof liner.
our opinion
Danner boots are known for being durable and comfortable. Their GoreTex boots are waterproof and the leather ones are water resistant. Boots may seem expensive, but their durability makes them worth it.
bluntstone impermeable
Unlike most work boots, Blundstone boots come without laces. Due to the simple slip-on design, they are known to be the best choice for farmers and people who work outdoors in wet and cold environments. Low boots or boots with laces fill up with water and dust and spoil the overall shoe experience.
Most Blundstone shoes are made of premium waterproof leather and stitching. They also include a removable sheepskin insole for added warmth and comfort. In terms of durability, shoes can last three or more with proper care. They are waterproof, but it is recommended to lubricate them every few months.
Finally, the Blundstones are also the first choice of Adam Savage, the American special effects designer. He is one of the Blundstone loyalists and has worn the boots for about 12 years. While he praised them, he also mentioned that he wore the boots while making MythBusters and wore the shoes in extreme temperatures (118 degrees Fahrenheit and 40 degrees below zero).
our opinion
Most users say that Blundstone boots are very comfortable, light and durable. They are also waterproof and a great choice for outdoor workers in cold, windy locations. Most people prefer lace-ups, but if you put comfort and durability before style, try the Blundstones!
Anxious
Along with durability, Keen's doesn't compromise on design. Your shoes are resistant and elegant. Compared to the Timberland, these boots are very light and give the feeling of wearing sneakers. They are rated for electrical work and are an excellent choice for working in extremely cold climates.
the shoes werereviewedby the Living the Dream team, who used them on their 465-day trip around the world. They said the shoes were comfortable and durable. When it comes to waterproofing, Keen boots have withstood treks to Everest Base Camp, climbing snow-capped mountains in Switzerland, trekking in Patagonia, exploring the Oman desert, safaris in Africa, and treks through various European cities.
Some wearers have complained of high arch support and have had to add insoles to provide support.
our opinion
For anyone looking for rugged, waterproof work boots, Keen footwear is a great choice. They performed well in extreme weather conditions and are extremely comfortable and lightweight.
baffin
If you live in extremely wet terrain and are looking for a light and comfortable pair of boots, try the Baffins! In addition to interesting names and designs, Baffin shoes also perform well in harsh, wet weather. Most shoes (specifically snow boots) are made with a waterproof rubber sole.
The Baffin Arctic boots are known for being completely waterproof and are among the warmest shoes for harsh weather. Most styles of Baffin boots, and all of their hard-core snow boots, are built with a waterproof rubber bottom, where rubber types vary by boot. For example, Baffin's Polar series boots (rated to -148 degrees Fahrenheit) are made of a special type called Polar Rubber, a heat-reflecting core and an air bubble between the foot and sole. On the other hand, boots for less severe climates are made of a rubber upper with a specialized EVA compound midsole and seven layers of Thermoplus insulation.
our opinion
Baffin is popular for his snow boots and his leather and rubber shoes are perfectly waterproof. They are a great option for people who live in places with extreme climates. Due to their excellent insulating capabilities, many wearers consider Baffins their go-to winter or storm shoe.
start roja
Red Wing is a storied boot company founded in 1905, so when we say storied, we mean it. For years it was considered one of the best and maintained an enthusiastic consumer base. Red Wing work boots are quite popular with construction workers, welders, carpenters and more. For the past few decades, they have focused on making work boots that can be worn as everyday casual wear.
Notable features of the Red Wing include durable leather, waterproofing, and a large toe box. Starting with the toe box, Red Wing advertises extra comfortable boots with 44% more toe box area than regular shoes. As a family-owned company based in Minnesota, their boots are made from American-sourced leather using time-honoured techniques. In work boots, waterproofing is often a must and Red Wing takes a three-layer approach to waterproofing: lining, foam, and bootie (a waterproof barrier). Additionally, a protective material, Tricot, is applied outside the liner for complete waterproofing.
However, in recent years the quality of Red Wings boots seems to have declined. These include inconsistent sizes, various quality issues, waterproofing that wouldn't hold up, broken seams, and more. The company would take the boots back and replace them, but changing them when you've just broken them in is pretty inconvenient.
our opinion
The Ring Wing has made a name for itself over the last 100 years among working people, and its heritage boots are worth a try. His boots are waterproof and very comfortable. Recent quality issues may be a deal breaker for many, but you can always find a reliable pair in their various collections.
dry footwear
When an expensive pair of boots is out of reach and you're looking for an inexpensive alternative, Dry Shods is a great place to start! Their boots are affordable starting at $99, though you won't find much variety and style.
Dry Shods boots are rated for temperatures ranging from below zero to 80 degrees. All of their boots are made with hand-laid rubber, with a breathable, stretchy lining that makes it easy to put on and take off. To top it off, the boots are made to be 100% waterproof and water resistant. In addition to the size of the foot, you can also choose between high or medium boots.
our opinion
The Dry Shod is an inexpensive option, but your options are limited when it comes to boot styles. They are a new name in the boot department, and their rubber boots are a great option for cold places. They are known to be waterproof and comfortable. The best part is that whatever style you like, you can get it in mid or high cut depending on your preference.
Thorobueno
Thorogood boots are another great work boot choice in terms of durability, comfort, waterproofing, and style! They've been making quality men's work boots since 1892. No matter what the job, Thorogood offers features to protect its wearers, from a round toe boot with safety guard to an insulated pair. Her shoes are mostly tall lace-up boots and are only available for men.
sewreviewedThorogood Moc Toe Boots. Ben Robinson, the writer, wore the boots for five years, where he wore them two to four times a week (sometimes for casual walks as well). He described the shoes as comfortable right out of the box and their construction has held up after five years of rigorous use with minimal wear.
our opinion
For those looking for style, comfort, and durability all in one place, Thoroughgood is a great choice. They have been in the boot business for over 100 years and their boots are of high quality and hold up well to the elements.
Ariat
For waterproof boots, the Ariat is another great option. It features lace-up and lace-up work boots, making it easy to find boots that meet your specific needs. Their boots are available in different colors, designs, styles, and shades as well.
Ariat uses Pro Waterproof technology to completely block out mud, water and wind. Thanks to the Ariat ATS Max platform, foot fatigue is minimal and body alignment is proper. The combination of lightweight midsole and non-slip sole ensures comfort and durability. They are waterproof and hold up well in harsh weather conditions.
In terms of pricing, Ariat boots range from $150 to $300. They are expensive, but they last up to 5 years for most wearers, so it's worth it.
our opinion
Ariat's tall boots are an excellent choice for rainy and snowy locations. Most users commented that they are non-slip, comfortable, and a good option for cold and humid climates. Although most of the shoes in his collection can be expensive.