Best Work Boots 2025 – Most Comfortable Boots for Men and Women

The staff at Pro Tool Reviews and I have spent hundreds of hours wearing, testing, and reviewing footwear to find the best pair of work boots for any tradesman. While every trade has distinctive features and priorities, and everyone’s foot is different, our team has the experience to help you make an informed decision.

This year, several well-known brands top our list, while direct-to-consumer and handmade brands continue to impress. There’s also an upcycling and recycling trend in work boot materials.

Best Work Boots: Our Top-Rated Picks

• Best Overall: Red Wing Traction TredLite BOA
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• Best Waterproof: Ariat Stump Jumper BOA
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• Best Pull-On: Tecovas LongHaul Square Toe
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• Best Lightweight: Keen Utility San Jose
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• Best on a Budget: Brunt Marin
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• Best Casual Work Shoes: Red Wing ShieldLite Athletics BOA
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• Best Handmade: Nick’s Handmade Boots Builder Pro
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Looking for More Information? Jump to These Sections!

• More Work Boots We Recommend
• Best Work Boot Brands According to PTR Fans
• What to Look for When Shopping for Work Boots
• Our Favorite Insoles for Work Boots
• Why Your Feet Still Get Wet in Waterproof Work Boots
• Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Best Work Boots Overall

Red Wing’s Traction Tred Lite finally took over as the best overall work boot, displacing the excellent Keen Utility Cincinnati from its multi-year reign. The Vibram LiteBase wedge outsole works great on hard surfaces, but the aggressive tread depth makes it just as effective on rocks, dirt, and grass. With its welted construction, the Traction Tred Lite boot held up in a variety of challenging jobsite environments.

Of course, the most obvious characteristic of this work boot is the BOA fit system. It replaces standard boot laces, and the thin cables tighten or loosen quickly via a dial on the tongue. The system is a real time-saver if you work on secure sites or have to take off your shoes for TSA (Get Pre-Check—totally worth it!) Taking off and putting on your boots is exponentially faster and more convenient when all you have to do is turn the dial.

Some people may not want the BOA fit system. If you like to run your laces at different tightness levels between the top and bottom, an even tightening system like this prevents that.

If you’re willing to forgo the BOA fit system, there are more styles to choose from, including a pull-on Chelsea and women’s models.

Best Waterproof Work Boots

Ariat might not be the first name you think of when you’re shopping for the best waterproof work boot, but we came away impressed by what the Stump Jumper BOA has to offer. Its quality full-grain leather upper is waterproofed and ready for both wet and dry jobsites.

That’s certainly not all, though. The BOA fit system makes adjusting the fit quick and easy, the cushy midsole is comfortable on nearly any work surface, and aggressive tread offers excellent traction and debris release. From a durability standpoint, the welted construction is solid, yet there’s little break-in time required, and toe caps prevent you from wearing through the fronts. It’s an excellent all-around work boot from tip to tail.

The BOA fit system is available on models with 6 and 8-inch heights, plus a pull-on version. All three are also available in lace-up styles if you prefer or want to save some money.

Best Pull-on Work Boots

Tecovas recently launched its first dedicated work boots, but it’s no stranger to building quality boots, and it shows. We tested the square toe pull-on, and it’s ridiculously comfortable right out of the box. Not only does it have a cushy midsole and almost no break-in period, but unlike most boots, its leather is extremely supple.

Tecovas nails the work boot market with ASTM certifications for electrical hazard and oil/slip resistance along with a composite toe and tread that readily sheds mud and debris.

If there’s a downside, it’s that your options are limited. There are no soft or steel toe models for those who prefer them, and there are only three styles to choose from in this initial launch. If others enjoy these as much as we have, we’ll hopefully see additional styles and perhaps some women’s options in the future.

Best Lightweight Work Boots

The Keen Utility San Jose is reasonably lightweight across the entire line, earning our pick as the best lightweight work boot. If you want the lightest of the light, the Oxford Low version is the way to go, weighing just 20 ounces. If you need a safety toe, an aluminum toe model adds less than two ounces.

It’s not just about weight, though. The wedge outsole and LuftCell midsole offer a comfortable wearing experience, especially on hard surfaces. I got them specifically for wearing to events such as World of Concrete, where I’m on hard surfaces for long days.

The wedge sole fuses both casual and classy styling, and the soft-toe version presents a great light-duty option for upper-level meetings or walking the floor.

You have a lot of options with the San Jose, including medium or low boot heights, waterproofing, soft or safety toes, and women’s versions. However, there are no composite or steel safety toes for sites that require them.

Best Work Boots on a Budget

If your work boot budget is more like $150 instead of $250+, consider what Brunt work boots have to offer. While they don’t have as wide a selection as other brands we recommend, we’re impressed by the quality of the materials and construction you get for the price. Plus, its direct-to-consumer business model helps keep the price down.

The second-generation Marin has been our favorite so far. With excellent comfort and prices that start around $140 ($150 with a safety toe), it’s an easy recommendation for us to make if you’re on a budget. If your budget is a bit higher, you can opt for a welted or Made in the USA version.

Within the standard Marin lineup, you can choose between 6 or 8-inch heights, a waterproof option, and multiple toe styles. There’s also a 6-inch women’s version available.

Best Casual Work Shoes

Red Wing’s Shieldlite Athletics is light on weight but heavy on features for those of you looking for a quality work shoe. Fitted with a composite safety toe, puncture plate, slip-resistant outsole, and EH rating, it has legit protection for work environments that require it. The flagship model has a BOA fit system that makes tightening or loosening your laces super-quick and easy.

In terms of style, the sneaker-inspired design looks great with jeans or shorts and provides serious cushioning for long days on your feet.

The downside is that all this extra protection comes at a higher cost. There also aren’t any women’s versions available in this line, though the CoolTech Athletics might fit the bill if you don’t need puncture protection.

Best Handmade Work Boots

If you’re looking for boots that can last 3, 5, or even 10 years or more, high-quality handmade boots are the way to go. They’re not cheap, but they hold up better than most off-the-shelf boots. In fact, you can (and should) repair the outsoles and many other elements when they wear out.

We had an excellent experience with Washington State-based Nick’s Handmade Boots. While they’re not technically fully customizable, there are so many options that it feels like they are. What helps set Nick’s apart from other quality handmade bootmakers is that we haven’t found another brand that offers so many sizing options. On top of that, the construction is outstanding.

I went with the BuilderPro model for rugged outdoor jobsites and it’s a great choice for that purpose. If you’re looking for wedges, loggers, or something in between, Nick’s has you covered there with other models.

Keep in mind that boots like these take several weeks to build and to properly break in. Once they do, you’re in for a whole different level of experience thanks to a work boot that’s uniquely built for your feet.

Best Insoles for Work Boots

Superfeet Work Cushion Insoles

Sometimes, the insoles that come in our boots just don’t cut it for one reason or another. Often, it’s a preference, but your foot shape, arch, or other characteristics can create more painful chronic issues. If that’s what you struggle with, your best insole for work boots is an orthotic from a podiatrist who works closely with you.

If it’s more of a preference thing, I recommend trying SuperFeet Work Cushion insoles. These are the best over-the-counter insoles for work boots I’ve worn. I’d been wearing SuperFeet’s Green insoles, but switched over to the Work Cushion model once it was released. These insoles were so highly anticipated that they sold out the first day they were available! Even though they’re more expensive than something like Dr. Scholl’s, their max cushioning and all arch height compatibility are worth it.

More Work Boots We Recommend from Trusted Brands

Plenty of other brands also make quality work boots and shoes that deserve a mention. While they didn’t make the top of our charts, here are some more excellent boots our team recommends based on personal experience.

Best Danner Work Boots: Quarry USA

• Outsole: Heeled Vibram Quarry
• Construction: Cement
• Waterproof: Yes
• ASTM Certifications: EH, slip, oil
• Safety Toe: Soft or alloy
• Price: $310.00 – $330.00

Danner’s Portland-made Quarry USA line is my top choice for the brand. I’m not alone as it’s Danner’s most popular and has been on the market for more than 10 years. They’re waterproof with breathable Gore-Tex and have an 8-inch height. The design has gone through some updates since its original launch, shifting to a more durable midsole while maintaining an excellent comfort level with no break-in time required.

The line includes a variety of options, including soft or alloy safety toes, insulation, and a metatarsal guard. Additionally, you can choose from light brown, dark brown, or black color options. Women have a couple of options as well.

Best Georgia Work Boots: Wedge Work Wellington G5153

• Outsole: Polyurethane wedge
• Construction: Welt
• Waterproof: No
• ASTM Certifications: None
• Safety Toe: No
• Price: $170.00

Georgia Boot’s Wedge Work Wellington may not have a lot of bells and whistles at first glance, but it’s packed with features that make it a workhorse of a boot for farm and ranch use.

SPR barnyard chemical-resistant leather makes it more durable than traditional boot leather. A Goodyear welt construction gives it a strong build and a wedge sole adds comfort to complement the insole when you’re working on hard surfaces. Plus, having loops on both sides makes pulling on these 10-inch boots much easier.

With a price tag well under $200, it’s an excellent value for such a quality build.

Best Irish Setter Work Boots: Clearwater

• Outsole: Vibram Beehive wedge
• Construction: Cement
• Waterproof: Yes
• ASTM Certifications: EH, slip
• Safety Toe: Soft or steel
• Price: $154.99 – $159.99

Irish Setter is a good bet for folks who have a work boot budget under $200 and the Clearwater is a relatively new model that’s getting quite a bit of attention. It’s a lightweight wedge that promises greater comfort without sacrificing the protection you need. Aside from a couple of color choices and the option of a soft or steel toe, there aren’t a ton of choices to make, but there is a women’s model available. With a price tag under $160, it’s a high-value pick that covers the most common needs.

Best Keen Utility Work Boots: Camden

• Outsole: Heeled KEEN.TOUGHSOLE
• Construction: Welt
• Waterproof: Yes
• ASTM Certifications: EH, slip, oil
• Safety Toe: Carbon
• Price: $215.00 – $230.00

We’ve been wearing the Keen Utility Cincinnati since its launch, and it was going to take something special to knock it off the top of our list thanks to its outstanding balance of protection, durability, and comfort. After I switched to Keen’s Camden boots during my review, I knew Keen had a winner.

Expanding the brand’s heavy-duty line, these heeled boots sport a carbon toe and waterproof construction. However, it’s the combination of an aggressive tread pattern and super-comfortable LuftCell midsole that makes it suitable for darn near any situation. The durability and grip are excellent, and the fact that these boots help me avoid back and leg pain makes these some of the best all-around work boots for men.

Best Thorogood Work Boots: 1957 Series

• Outsole: MaxWear 90 heeled or MaxWear wedge
• Construction: Welt
• Waterproof: Yes
• ASTM Certifications: EH, slip, oil
• Safety Toe: Soft or steel
• Price: $290.00 – $300.00

I love the look of classic boots. The Thorogood 1957 Series includes excellent safety toe work boots (they also make soft-toe models). Heeled or wedge soles are storm welted to the upper and a moc toe design sets the tone. It’s a comfortable and durable waterproof steel toe boot with a great style to match. Plus, it’s assembled in the USA from global materials. I’m apparently not the only fan, either. Our social media survey found plenty of experienced tradesmen who trust their feet to Thorogood and no one else.

Wolverine 1000 Mile Series

• Outsole: Leather or rubber heeled, wedge
• Construction: Welt
• Waterproof: No
• ASTM Certifications: None
• Safety Toe: No
• Price: $384.95 – $400.00 (Limited Editions are more expensive)

We can’t have a best work boots article and ignore the Wolverine 1000-Mile series. As Wolverine’s premium boot line, these handmade boots are the best the brand makes and are among the best-looking boots I recommend. However, they don’t have the safety options and certifications that others do, so keep that in mind. Models with aggressive tread patterns are perfect for those occasional jobsite visits, but these boots are more about making a statement than working 12-hour days on the jobsite.

Keep your eyes open—Wolverine offers limited special edition models from time to time.

Best Work Boot Brands According to Our Readers

We asked which brand was your favorite on our social media channels. After analyzing more than 200 responses, one brand clearly led the pack, and the rest followed.

Of course, many other brands became part of the conversation. That even included some we hadn’t heard of yet as well as several from Europe that aren’t available in the US. The list sorted out like this:

1. Red Wing (53 votes)
2. Thorogood (29 votes)
3. Keen (24 votes)
4. Danner (20 votes)
5. Wolverine (19 votes)

What We Look for in Work Boots

Snug But Comfortable Fit

Never, ever buy a work boot that doesn’t have the proper fit. It’s a recipe for a lot of discomfort for your feet and potential injuries over the long term.

When you put your foot in, make sure your heel is as far back in the shoe as it can go. Once there, find a size that gives you a little extra room—about the width of your thumb. If you do that, you’ll have room for the foot swelling that everyone experiences over the course of a day. The amount of room can be tough to check on steel-toe boots, so try a soft toe for sizing if you’re buying in the store.

Then there’s the width. Good-fitting boots should snug up against the sides of your feet, but they shouldn’t squeeze them. You’re looking for stability, not discomfort. The opposite is also true—you don’t want too much width. Too much room lets your feet slide side-to-side and leaves you with unstable footing.

The other big piece of the fit puzzle is the heel. When trying on boots, check to ensure your heel is locked in and stable. You don’t want it sliding around.

Safety Considerations

Safety toes create a barrier of protection around your toes in the event of something heavy crushing down on them or slamming into them from the front.

Check with your safety manager to determine if you need a safety toe for work and which styles are approved. If you need them, carbon fiber toes are the lightest option, followed by composite and aluminum. Steel is still king on many jobsites, though more and more workplaces are leaving the style up to the user provided the boot meets required ASTM standards.

If your workplace doesn’t require safety toe boots, it’s up to you. When it’s our choice, we prefer either a soft toe or a carbon fiber safety toe.

There are other safety features that your workplace may require as well. Check with your manager and see if you need:

• Metatarsal Guard (Metguard)
• Electrical Hazard (EH)
• Puncture Resistance
• Heat Resistance
• Chemical Resistance
• Oil and Slip Resistance

Comfort

What makes boots comfortable changes with your foot shape. In general, your foot should feel secure without putting any undue pressure on parts of your feet. You can always loosen the laces (which is why we LOVE BOA systems), but you can’t do anything about the rest of the boot.

The midsole does a lot for the overall comfort of a boot. One of the reasons you see some contractors wear sneakers on jobsites is that the EVA foam in them is so cushiony that it’s much more comfortable than boots. At least until recently.

New midsoles are air-infused and less dense, giving them more cushion than ever before. Like sneakers, the midsole breaks down faster than more dense designs, so you may find you don’t get quite as much life out of the most comfortable work boots.

The last major discussion point is the insole. Most brands put some type of polyurethane insole in their boots to help with cushioning. Keep in mind that they’re replaceable. If you want more cushioning, better arch support, or just a different feel, you can always pick up another insole and swap them out.

Sole

Boots usually come in one of two sole styles: heeled or wedge.

Heeled boots are the most traditional style and dominate the choices presented by most brands. They tend to have an aggressive tread that offers fantastic traction on bare ground. They’re appropriate for just about every jobsite but typically aren’t as comfortable as wedges when worn on hard surfaces for long periods.

Wedges tend to be more comfortable because they spread your weight out over a larger surface, reducing fatigue in your feet and legs. The trade-off is that they typically have very shallow tread that isn’t as appropriate for work on dirt and rocky terrain. They do their best work on asphalt, concrete, steel, and other flat, hard surfaces.

Recently, we’ve started seeing hybrid boots that combine a wedge design with a medium-aggressive tread that fits the best of both worlds. Currently, it’s the style I prefer for all-around work.

Construction

Materials are important, but it’s how they’re put together that tells you a lot about how long the boot will last. There are several different types of work boot construction.

Cement construction is when the upper, midsole, and outsole are glued together. It’s the weakest connection type but tends to yield lighter, more flexible boots. This construction style also carries a lower price tag than other types.

Strobel construction pops up occasionally and is more common with athletic shoes. With this form, the upper is sewn to fabric to create a sock-like look. From there, the midsole and outsole are glued on.

Direct injection is a process of injecting molten material (often polyurethane) for the sole and then immediately pressing the upper onto it so they bond. This keeps the boot lightweight, flexible, and generally stronger than cement without the high cost of welting.

Goodyear welting has been around for a looooooong time and is still considered the strongest possible way to put a shoe together. The upper, midsole, and outsole are sewn together using thick, strong thread. These boots tend to be heavier and take longer to break in but are much more durable.

Other Features to Consider

• Pull-on, laces, or BOA system
• Low, mid, or high lengths
• Waterproof or non-waterproof
• Anti-bacterial/anti-odor treatment

Why Do Your Feet Get Wet in Waterproof Boots?

Waterproof boots are great, but they have limits. Waterproof linings, sealed stitching, and other techniques can prevent water from penetrating the material. However, the tongue area on a traditional boot is one likely place where water can find its way in when I’m standing in water.

To avoid that, consider a Wellington slip-on style and skip the tongue altogether. Or, if you need the ultimate protection against water, go with a dedicated water boot, such as the Grundens Deck Boss.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested the product or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves, and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

Since 2008, Pro Tool Reviews has provided in-depth tool reviews, buying guides, how-to articles, and industry news in the construction and lawn care industries. We focus on professionals in the trades and our writers have the skills and experience to know whether a tool or accessory will hold up on the jobsite.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Additionally, our team will put their hands on hundreds more tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year. If I recommend a work boot, that means I’d wear it myself (and perhaps I or one of our staff already does!)

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