Folks working risky manual labor jobs need to get themselves the best waterproof steel toe boots money can buy. Besides being dangerous, jobs like construction require working outdoors leaving you open to the elements, so your footwear has to be water resistant and provide adequate protection from physical damage.
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Luckily for you, I’ve managed to compose a list of reviews of such shoes and they’ll do more than a good job in keeping your feet safe and dry.
So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
Contents
Top Waterproof Steel Toe Boots Reviews
Timberland PRO Direct Attach Work Boots
Timberland is a brand that doesn’t need any introduction. This is the company that helped shape and popularize the work boot as we know it today, so it’s only natural to think that they’d have one of the top products in this category.
Their Pro series is classic-looking, comfortable, waterproof, as well as shock resistant – indeed anything a worker could ask for. Wearing them during long work days won’t be a problem thanks to their comfort suspension system which will ease the strain on your feet.
This shoe also has seam-sealed water-resistant uppers to prevent rain or moisture from seeping in from the top and thus preventing the feet from getting wet. I’m confident that this model will meet even the strictest equipment standard of any given workplace.
Now, who are these shoes for? Timberland Pros are suitable for professionals working in construction, carpeting, steel production, electrical works, plumbing, and so on. Basically, they’re great for physical jobs that involve a certain dose of risk.
In case you happen to be concerned about how you look at the job, you won’t get much more stylish than Timberland.
Keen Utility Men’s Braddock Work Boot
Here’s an exciting model hailing to us from Keen, a famed manufacturer of durable footwear for all kinds of rough conditions. Let’s dissect their Braddock work boot and see what it’s all about.
At first glance, you’ll notice that these shoes have a rather “outdoorsy” look as if they were meant for hiking and not dangerous jobs. However, once you start to inspect the construction of this model, you’ll realize that they are in fact the real deal.
First, the easily noticeable steel toe cap is thick, durable, and able to withstand some serious weight and impact. The sole of the boot wraps around the toes so the rubber will absorb a part of the force if something happens to fall on your foot.
Second, the comfort level of this product is outstanding. This is mainly thanks to three essential elements – the arch support, heel cushion, and stability shank. You’ll be able to work some serious hours in this one without getting fatigued.
Third, Keen’s dry waterproof membrane will not let any water seep through, but will allow some airflow and decrease the chance of your feet overheating. The latter is very important as working with sweaty feet is uncomfortable and might even give you blisters.
Last, this model is available in two colors so you’ll be able to pick the one that you fancy more.
Timberland PRO Rigmaster Work Boots
As you’ve probably expected, here’s yet another Timberland shoe. Here, we have a model named Rigmaster, and it’s sweeping the market like a storm.
So, what makes this one different from the previous Timberland shoe I reviewed? Well, Rigmaster ditches the classic and famous look of Direct Attach for a more stylish and “hard” looking design.
Besides the appearance, another crucial point is that the Rigmaster employs a unique anti-fatigue technology – a shock-absorbing comfort system that optimizes one’s use of energy. The water resistance is, of course, a must, and these shoes excel at this. The full-grain leather is paired with a waterproof membrane to stop even the smallest drops of water from getting in.
Speaking of material, the shoe is entirely made from leather except for the sole which is synthetic. There have been no complaints of a crease forming in the front of the shoe even when worn for extended periods of time.
Another essential feature, especially for those working in the oil industry, is the slip resistance. The sole of the shoe is designed to provide exceptional industrial traction and give you a firm step even on oily surfaces.
Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Work Boot
Caterpillar is another name well known by all those interested in work boots, and the product that I’m about to review does not disappoint.
As with most work boots, Caterpillar’s Diagnostic places focus on two main factors – safety and comfort. The steel toes are covered by a thin layer of rubber and are able to meet all the industry safety standards. Besides impact, these boots will protect you from electrical hazards of up to 600 volts of power.
When it comes to comfort, it’s important to say that Caterpillar’s model has EVA removable foam inserts with gel technology, which is something that not many work boots can boast with. If working in the cold, this shoe has got you covered with 200g of insulation to keep your feet warm.
As waterproofing is a must, you’ll be happy to find out that this pair is made from some of the best waterproof material known to man – leather. It also utilizes some nylon-mesh lining to make sure water doesn’t find its way to the inside.
All in all, Diagnostic is not only functional but also looks great and will not leave you dissatisfied.
Wolverine Men’s Marauder W02165 Boot
Laces aren’t your thing? Looking for a classic looking boot? If the answer to both questions is yes, then take a look at Wolverine’s Marauder.
One could say that this product is the perfect example of how old-school craftsmanship and modern technology can be brought together to create something of great value. This model resembles cowboy boots but with a sole of regular working shoes.
The Marauder is made from leather and is shaped in a way that gives it superior waterproof ability. The boots are very high, and they go up to the half of the calves so they’ll keep your feet dry even when going through swampy or muddy terrain.
The moment I saw these shoes I thought that they look really comfortable, and I wasn’t wrong! Your feet will nestle in their interior and working long days will not put a strain on them. In addition, the Marauder has quite a bit of insulation to protect you from the cold.
Of course, the steel toe cap is there and meets all the industry requirements, and the rubber sole is lightweight and easy to walk in. One other benefit of these boots is that they’re easy to put on – just slip your foot in and you’re ready to go.
Gravel Gear Work Boot
Now, here we have a brand that many might not have heard of but which is definitely worthy of mention – Gravel.
It’s hardly a surprise to see that this model has all the features that other shoes in this review have, but it’s still a unique product.
The somewhat distinct design is what sets it apart from the other models I reviewed, and while they have a more classic look, this one is a bit sportier. Of course, this doesn’t mean that it looks bad, and it still has all the functionality of a high quality work boot.
This shoe utilizes a removable polyurethane insole which has a lot of heel cushioning and is very pleasant to the feet. Its exterior is made from leather and a special membrane that is breathable and waterproof at the same time. Inside, the mesh lining wicks moisture and keeps the feet dry.
On top of all of this, you won’t have to worry about sliding or slipping, as the sole is made to prevent that.
The steel toe protection has been ASTM approved and ensures protection from falling objects. Another thing that gives Gravel’s product an edge is its price, which is relatively low compared to its competition.
Keen Utility Men’s Detroit Work Boot
You’ve already seen Keen’s Braddock, and now it’s time to meet Detroit. What’s the difference? Let’s find out.
Same as Braddock, this model is made from waterproof Nubuck leather which is a material that this company uses a lot. What is different is the shape of the shoe, as Detroit seems to be a bit narrower than the former, so it will be more suitable for a different kind of foot.
Besides the leather, the dry-lex lining and a waterproof membrane also contribute to the shoes’ water resistant properties. The outsole’s rugged lugs will prevent you from sliding on oily surfaces.
In case you need to wear orthotics, you’ll be happy to know that this model has removable EVA insoles. Another characteristic of the shoe which adds to its comfort level is that it is designed to be spacious and perform like a hiking boot.
The steel toe box is asymmetrical, meaning that each shoe has one adapted to this particular food (left/right). Also, the steel caps are quite spacious and allow a lot of free movement of the toes.
Timberland PRO Boondock Work Boot
This is the third and last Timberland shoe that I included in today’s article. Just the fact that there are three models from this company in this list shows that Timberland is truly a leader in its field.
Like most other work boots, Boondock is made from leather and rubber. The rubber covers the steel cap at the front of the foot and adds additional protection and shock-absorbing properties to the shoe.
The aforementioned materials are also the reason why this model is waterproof, and the insulation on the inside stops the cold from reaching your feet.
The sole of this shoe is big and sturdy-looking which, while being durable and protective, also seems uncomfortable. However, this is not the case, and these boots are super comfy.
As with all models from this brand, Boondock too includes the trademark anti-fatigue comfort system that optimizes the energy use of the feet and helps you make long work days seem shorter.
Since a lot of footwear of this kind is rather tricky to get into, Timberland included a “finger grip” which is there to assist you when putting the shoes on.
Magnum Men’s Austin Work Boots
In a list filled with Timberlands and Caterpillars, it’s easy to overlook a brand like Magnum. However, this would be a huge mistake as this company makes some seriously good work shoes.
Men’s Austin is a sturdy and durable boot made from leather and rubber (sole). The steel toe box is ASTM approved, but that’s not all – they also have electrical hazard protection which is undoubtedly a bonus.
Austin is 100% waterproof and will allow you to work in the worst of weather conditions. The mesh which covers the tongue of the shoe is breathable and gives way to airflow which is as important as not letting water through.
Speaking of its design, this is a beautiful looking model and will probably appeal to those who like simplicity. It is available in two colors – black and coffee – so you can pick one that matches your work outfit.
Like many other shoes, this one too has a removable EVA insole which enables you to replace it with some orthotics or different kinds of insoles. If you decide to buy this pair, you’ll get an extra pair of black laces with it.
Skechers Workshire Relaxed Fit
Last but not least, here is a pair from the world-renowned Skechers. Everyone knows them for their sneakers, and if you didn’t know that they make work boots too, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.
The first thing that I noticed is that these shoes come in four colors, which is a lot of options for footwear of this kind. Of course, this is far from being the most important feature, but it will let you pick the one that you like the most.
The shaft of the boot measures around 5.25” from the shaft, while the heel and the platform are 1.5” and 0.75” respectively. This construction makes them very comfy, and they will not tire your feet after hours of use.
The smooth full grain leather is not only durable, but also water resistant. The relaxed fit design pairs well with this material and gives your feet a lot of room to move freely. Adding to the comfort is the memory foam cushioned insole which also happens to be removable.
Another useful characteristic of Workshire is the slip resistant sole which creates excellent traction on most surfaces.
Conclusion
Slowly but surely, I’ve reached the end of the article, and I hope that you like what I’ve prepared for you today. Buying waterproof steel toe shoes shouldn’t be difficult as there is a lot of choices out there. My last advice for you would be to try out several different pairs before settling for the one that suits you the most.
If you have any suggestions or thoughts, please feel free to share them with me in the comment section below. Until next time, have a good one!