When shopping for the best work boots for men, comfort and durability are two almost obviously important factors to consider. However, what else should you analyze when picking the best pair of work boots for you?
In the following article, we’ll be breaking down this topic exactly.
In addition to providing some background on the work boot characteristics to take into account, we will also list some of the best work boots for men that we’ve found on Zappos.com. Zappos carries top brands like Wolverine, Timberland, Keen Utility, Caterpillar & more, which makes them a great repository for your work boot needs.
Many of these brands implement specialized and proprietary technology intended to put their own products above those of others. In some cases, they can seem like marketing ploys, so we’ll address this on this page as well.
What Features To Look For In Work Boots
When shopping for work boots, there are certain features to look for that will make sure you have the best possible protection and comfort.
Steel toe boots provide maximum safety from electrical shock, compression, and impact hazards. Waterproof construction ensures your feet stay dry in wet conditions while oil-resistant outsoles keep them from slipping on slick surfaces.
Insulated work boots provide extra warmth when it’s cold outside and removable insoles give you the option of adding cushioning as needed. Depending upon your job duties, these features may be essential or just an added bonus.
Other features to consider include the height of the boot and the materials used to make them. High boots provide more protection from water, mud, and debris but may not be necessary if you only work in dry environments.
Leather is a popular choice for construction because it’s durable and often looks better with age. Synthetic materials like nylon or neoprene can also provide superior protection while still being lightweight and breathable.
Once you find the right pair of boots, make sure they fit properly to get the most out of your purchase. Check that they are comfortable and don’t rub or pinch your feet when walking around; this will help prevent blisters, calluses, and other forms of foot discomfort over time.
Lastly, it’s important to take care of your boots to get the most out of them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and waterproofing and store them in a dry place when not in use. Doing these simple steps will ensure that you have shoes that last for years to come.
Which Features Are Ploys and Which Are Actually Useful?
When shopping for work boots, it’s important to distinguish between features that are actually useful and those that are merely marketing ploys.
While certain features like steel toe protection, waterproof construction, and removable insoles can be beneficial depending on the job, others may be unnecessary.
For example, some brands may promote “anti-fatigue” technology or “extra cushioning” but these features don’t guarantee superior comfort or improved performance. Additionally, while most modern materials do an excellent job of protecting your feet from the elements, certain ones may not last as long as leather or more traditional styles.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you need from your work boots. Ask yourself which features will benefit you the most and don’t be swayed by flashy marketing claims. By doing this, you can ensure that you get the best possible pair of boots to protect your feet while on the job.
ASTM Standards In Boots
When it comes to working boots, safety is the number one priority. ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards are set by an independent organization that tests and evaluates products for their effectiveness in protecting the wearer from potential hazards.
A boot labeled with an ASTM rating means that it has been tested and meets certain requirements for protection from impact, compression, electrical shock, and more. When shopping for work boots, always make sure they meet the appropriate ASTM standards to ensure your safety at work.
Are My Boots ASTM Certified?
If you’re not sure if your boots are ASTM-certified, there are a few ways to find out. The most obvious way is to check the box or packaging for any indication that they meet the ASTM standards. If nothing is listed, you can always look online and search for “ASTM” plus the name of your boot. Most brands will have detailed information on their website about which of their products meet the necessary requirements.
If you still can’t find anything, it’s best to contact the manufacturer directly as they will be able to provide more specific information about what certifications each style has been tested for.
- Type: Versatile Work Boots
- ASTM: F2413-11 M I/75 C75 EH
- Pricing: $195 [Buy On Zappos]
- Currently on Sale for $179.95
We’re generally very fond of Wolverine, and their work shoes are impressive to say the least. They’re particularly comfortable and offer all the key features you’d want from work boots.
Comfort is ensured thanks to H-Plate suspension that returns energy as well as shock-absorbing compression sidewalls. Furthermore, they’re waterproof full-grain leather and feature a nanotechnology CarbonMax safety toe for a lighter and more ergonomic fit.
We really love the two-tone brown boots, but they’re also available in a darker brown as well as tactical matte black.
- Type: Versatile Work Boots
- ASTM: F2412-11 F2413-11 F2892-11
- Pricing: $140 [Buy Now On Zappos]
- Currently on Sale for $108.95
Timberland are renowned for providing solid footwear for work. The Pit Boss is no exception as well as being a stylish Nubuck leather 6″ boot.
As well as meeting the ASTM standards mentioned above, there’s a very comfortable open-cell polyurethane footbed with antimicrobial treatment. Thanks to their Pro 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology, you can expect all-day comfort thanks to a nylon shock diffusion plate and a Goodyear welt.
Whilst we’re fond of the tan Nubuck leather, you can also opt for either the black or brown options instead. Each are very stylish with that iconic Timberland appeal.
- Type: Tactical Boots
- ASTM: F2412-11 F2413-11 F2913
- Pricing: $165 [Buy Now On Zappos]
- Currently on Sale for $121.99
The most exceptional tactical boots that we’ve encountered, Timberland have surpassed themselves. Made with premium materials, expect the most protective and stylish, high-quality boots.
With the hazards faced by the military and emergency services, expect these boots to meet numerous ASTM standards. Furthermore, these boots feature waterproof full-grain leather and ballistic nylon uppers, which are pathogen resistant. Meanwhile, a composite safety toe provides protection whilst the molded EVA midsole offers lightweight, cushioned comfort.
Being tactical boots, it’s no surprise that these boots are only available in black. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll need them in another color!
- Type: Versatile Work Boot
- ASTM: F2913-19
- Pricing: $214.99 [Buy Now On Zappos]
- Currently on Sale for $194.95
A utility brand owned by Red Wing, Irish Setter features some stunning and practical boots. We love the worn saddle full-grain leather and were impressed by the lightweight aluminum toe cap too.
Besides adhering to the ASTM standards above, you can expect a non-metallic shank for increased support as well as the aforementioned aluminum toe cap. Furthermore, a removable PU footbed offers all-day cushioned comfort. Similarly, there’s an Irish Setter’s unique Comfort Trek outsole for added traction.
Although only available in a deep brown, we’re still in love with the worn saddle style that it creates. Even if there we other options, we’d doubt that we’d prefer them over this.
Dr Martens have a well-established reputation for making work boots that are so stylish that they’re deeply ingrained into our popular culture. Today they’ve expanded into more specialized working shoes as well as their iconic ranges. Rigger boots were first used on oil rigs in the UK’s North Sea. They’re also fantastic safety boots for working on sites.
As well as meeting all the necessary ASTM standards, these boots are like durable heavy-duty Wellingtons. Convenient to just pull on, they’re water-resistant and non-slip, as they were designed for oil rigs. Furthermore, the air-cushioned outsole and Smarmask insole ensure premium comfort.
Dr Martens realize that their shoes are fashion icons as well as utility boots. Therefore, several options are available, which all feature Dr Marten’s famous yellow stitching and soles. You can opt for either black, dark brown or even a weathered-looking vintage tan.
Shoe Content
