Do you work with asphalt and have been finding it challenging to get the right pair of boots that will give you the comfort and protection you need?
Have your boots been getting damaged due to exposure to the intense asphalt heat daily?
This is not peculiar to you alone!
Many outdoor workers who spread steamy asphalt on roads have been battling with finding the proper pair of boots that are heat-resistant and well-aerated to keep their foot protected, cool, and dry for hours.
We know that walking on hot bitumen or having sticky tar pour on your feet is a risk you face daily.
So, to help reduce this risk, we have analyzed the safety features that the 5 Best Boots for Asphalt Work of 2022 has. These features will help alleviate your fears at work and keep you safe.
A clear-cut certified leader among the lot is the COFRA Leather Work Boots – US Road Tread-less Asphalt Footwear. It wins the category because of the research and technology infused in its design.
Are there other brands with unique features that can insulate your feet from heat while offering protection from scar-causing bitumen?
Let’s take a peek into this independent research!
Best Boots for Asphalt Work
1. COFRA Leather Work Boots
COFRA has been producing safety boots since 1983 and has used patented research and technology to create this specialized boot for Asphalt work.
The pair comes with a heat defender PU between the midsole and outsole that resists the heat of up to 302° F for up to 30 minutes without damaging it.
What’s more? They have a flat sole to prevent leaving markings on freshly laid asphalt.
Such a design also prevents gravel, stone, and asphalt from sticking to the tread.
Pros
- Water repellant leather for the upper promotes durability
- Possesses chemical-resistant features to help it survive the harsh solvents and chemicals that will pour on it if working in a bitumen or petroleum refinery
- Presence of crush-resistant composite toe cap and puncture-resistant sole plate to protect the feet in excruciating conditions
- The insulated thermic insole offers the best protection when embarking on tasks that expose the feet to high temperatures
- Use of a PU/Nitrile rubber sole with heat resistant level up to 572° F
- An anti-perforation non-metallic APT plate ensures zero perforation and electrical resistance
- Electrical Hazard and ASTM F2413-05 (ANSI, I/C 75) Composite Safety Toe compliant
Cons
- The sole is unreliable
- Few color options
COFRA Leather Work Boots – US Road Tread-less Asphalt Footwear is well-fortified to protect against the hazards of asphalt paving work and in high-capacity bitumen refineries.
2. Timberland PRO Men’s 52562 Endurance 6″ PR Boot
Considering the extensive number of hours, asphalt workers spend on their feet daily. For that, they need work boots that will keep them comfortable and safe from the risk that comes with the job.
The Endurance series caters specially for this niche thanks to the Anti-Fatigue Technology comfort system.
The smart technology ensures that the design can minimize the impact. This resistance is the work of the shock-absorbing cones; they compress and rebound to reduce stress on the foot.
It also features a contoured insole that offers support at vital impact zones and pressure points such as the ball of the foot and heel.
Pros
- A rugged full-grain leather upper provides optimal durability and comfort
- Use of mesh antimicrobial lining and cover in the footbed to boost aeration and control odor
- Cement construction design promotes flexibility and short break-in time
- Presence of fiberglass shank and puncture-resistant plate to provide added support and underfoot protection from sharp objects
- Timberland PRO Rubber double toe and Timberland PRO rubber backstay enhance its durability and abrasion resistance
- It is 1/75, C/75, ASTM F2412-11, F2413-11 steel toe as well as impact and compression safety standard compliant
- ASTM F2892-11 Electrical Hazard protection compliant
- You have access to a 30-day Comfort Guarantee where you can return if not satisfied
Cons
- Low-quality stitching on the heel area
- Sole not well glued to the body
- Feels heavy on the feet
To prevent you from slipping on an asphalt paved surface, Timberland PRO Men’s 52562 Endurance 6″ PR Work Boot comes with a durable sole that is oil-, slip-, and heat resistant.
With a steel toe design coupled with a padded collar and heel pull tab, you get to enjoy all-round protection and a superb fit.
If you want to wear timberland boot sparkling clean for a long time, then follow this cleaning guide for Timberland boots that will keep them fresh and prolong their lifespan.
3. Wolverine Men’s Cabor Waterproof 6-Inch Work Boot
Wolverine has always produced innovative footwear made with quality materials since 1883.
No matter how many hours you spend on your feet, you won’t feel tired thanks to the dual-density EPX Anti-Fatigue footbed, which returns energy and allow you to flex your foot as you take each step.
You can tackle every job hazard with the composite toe, moisture-managing mesh lining, alongside Wolverine permanent direct-attach constructed outsole on it. Asphalt plant workers love this pair.
Pros
- Polyurethane midsole offers optimal protection and durability
- Waterproof leather upper keeps your feet dry on a rainy day or in wet conditions
- The shock-absorbing compression pads in the outsole relieve the foot from impact
- Nylon shank gives durable support to the arch
- Mesh lining promotes aeration and keeps moisture away
- ASTM F2413-18 M 1/75 C/75 Electrical hazard protection and Safety standard compliant
- Slip-resistant rubber lug outsole offers excellent grip on all surfaces
- Access to 30-day comfort guarantee
Cons
- Low-quality shoe strings
- Some reviewers say the insoles fall out easily
- The hooks on the eyelets catch on clothing materials
- Edge of heel protector rubs on the ankle
With the direct-attach construction of the Wolverine Men’s Cabor Waterproof 6-Inch Work Boot, your feet will stay comfortable no matter the heat on the pavement you are working on.
The design is durable, lightweight, and comfortable for asphalt work for the fact that the steel toe is made with light materials.
4. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe Boot
Thorogood has continued to point out how crucial wearing the right footwear is to fulfilling job roles by producing boots with a focus on comfort, innovation, and craftsmanship.
With a signature tobacco oil-tanned leather or full-grain leather, Polyurethane slip-resistant MAXwear wedge sole, and fiberglass shank, you’ll stand out on the bitumen pile or asphalt pavement.
This remarkable pair offers superb comfort, durability, and support on the job.
Due to constant exposure to all forms of surfaces, asphalt workers will find this boot very functional because the sole is slip- and oil-resistant.
It’s a top design that delivers optimal traction and grip when you step on hot pavement.
Pros
- Presence of an engineered composite shank to give stability on all surfaces
- Use of Dri-lex fabric lining to keep the feet cool and dry in hot weather
- Removable dual-density footbed with Poron 4000 comfort cushioning helps with shock absorption from impacts that may be harmful to the joints
- Steel toe protector protects the toes
- ASTM F2413 -11 Electrical Hazard protection and ASTM F2413-11 safety toe M 1/75 C/75 compliant
- The pull-strap and lace-up closure gives a secure and snug fit
- A made-in-USA product
Cons
- Lack of insulation
- Not water-proof boots
- Low-quality laces
- Shoddy stitching work around the sole
The safety features in Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe, MAXwear Wedge Safety Toe Boot makes it one of the best asphalt work boots.
No wonder, beyond asphalt workers, it is also an excellent choice for Boilermakers, Electricians, Ironworkers, etc. as well as workers who walk or stand on concrete for long hours.
Looking for more info? A full discussion about Thorogood Boots might help you.
5. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot
Are you in need of paving boots that are durable, lightweight, and has the right amount of ventilation?
KEEN Boot helps prevent sweating when working under the blazing sun.
This Flint work boot from Keen is made with water-resistant nubuck leather upper.
It has side cutouts with breathable mesh panels that assist with the free flow of air to keep the feet dry and prevent friction.
Featuring left and right asymmetrical steel toe and contoured heel lock, you get protected from hazards on the job if you slid or slip.
Pros
- Presence of Torsional Stability Shank for underfoot resilient support no matter the number of hours you spend on your feet
- Removable metatomical dual-density EVA footbed offers great arch support while cradling the natural contour of the foot
- Padded tongue and collar offer ankle support and keep stress away
- Dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole helps to cushion the feet against impact
- Slip- and oil-resistant non-marking rubber outsole gives you stability and balance on all surfaces owing to the traction technology embedded in it
- Cleansport NXT technology provides natural odor control
- Electrical Hazard Protection compliant
Cons
- It is not waterproof
- Mesh begins to tear, and the sole comes apart with heavy use
- Upper lace latching hooks not ideal
KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot provides long-wearing comfort to stay fit after the day’s job.
This ankle-cut asphalt paving boot has the added benefit of the KEEN Patented Toe protection, which guards the feet thanks to the outsoles that wrap up and over the toes.
Things to Consider Before Buying Boots for Asphalt Work
Build & Construction
Asphalt boots are manufactured to keep you safe on hot asphalt pavement during road construction projects.
The best boot for asphalt work should be made with cement construction or Goodyear welt design that can withstand harsh and hot conditions.
In other words, such should be made with long-lasting materials that will not melt when substances like hot molten tar pour on it.
Comfort
Since you will be spending long hours on your feet, your boot should have proper padding in the midsole and heel as well as adequate arch and ankle support.
The right amount of traction on the heel will help you stay comfortable all day.
Heat & Slip-resistant
Being an asphalt worker means you will be exposed to the heat of up to or over 300-degree Fahrenheit.
You should opt for boots with insole and outsole made from materials that can withstand heat.
Luckily, there are thermal insoles heat barriers in some brands that offer insulation when standing on hot pavement.
Whereas soles made with polyurethane compound have a heat resistance of up to 212° F, nitrile rubber outsoles can withstand up to 500° F heat.
The slip-resistance feature should be good enough to prevent you from falling, slipping, sliding, and injuring yourself. For that, finding slip resistant work boots are essential for safety and stay away from injured.
Support
Having the best support should be a priority when choosing asphalt paving boots.
This is to prevent you from ending up with pains on your foot, ankle, knee, and back due to the misalignment of the body.
Your foot, midsole, footbed, arch, and ankle must be well supported to achieve this.
They should have proper cushioning and breathable underlays to cradle the foot and absorb shock from daily impacts.
Breathability
Working under the intense heat or getting exposed to hot molten tar will make you prone to sweating all over.
To protect your foot from sweating (which results in friction), it is vital to opt for asphalt boots made with a breathable leather upper, fabric linen, or mesh panels.
This will promote the free flow of air that will keep the foot dry, cool, and odor-free or try these methods to keep away your boots smell.
Your boot will also enjoy longevity if moisture prevented from building up through proper ventilation features.
Safety protection
The essence of putting on the right work boot is to stay safe. Every other consideration comes after your safety.
As such, these boots should have some safety features that are crucial for you to be able to put in your best at work.
It should have a composite, plastic, or fiberglass toe cap which repels heats, alongside puncture-resistant sole to protect against stepping on sharp objects.
There should also be a full-gusset tongue that prevents hot oil, tar, and asphalt from pouring on your feet through the lace area, thereby causing burns, etc.
They should have Electrical Hazard protection and adhere to Safety standards.
Finally, to stay safe, ensure you buy the right size that will fit you well, so you don’t have issues of flopping or rubbings against the inner surface.
Durability
To ensure your paving boots last long, you should go for designs made with high-quality, durable leather uppers, midsoles, and rubber soles.
They should be heat-resistant to be able to survive the high temperature of the work environment. This is key to preventing their quick disintegration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q. Why do you need asphalt work boots?
A. You need them if you work on hot, slippery or hard surfaces, and pavement work such as roof covering, etc. But most importantly, to keep your feet safe from possible burns arising from hot bitumen.
These boots have features to keep your feet protected from these peculiar work conditions, unlike regular work boots.
Also, it will not make any economic sense to keep buying a new pair of boots monthly due to damage from heat. So you must own a pair that can survive hot asphalt, steam, hot liquid, and still protect your feet at the same time.
Q. What type of sole is best for it?
A. Due to the nature of asphalt work, which is paving a surface with hot tar, an essential feature of the best asphalt boots is a flat outsole.
This type of sole will not pick up stones or pebbles underneath, and they will have no issues with tar-clogging, which can cause you to slip.
Very fundamentally also, flat soles do not have tread, which will leave marks on the asphalt floor.
You can also use wedge sole boots because they offer excellent cushioning and full surface contact, which do not leave dents on surfaces.
Crucially, the sole must be heat-resistant to withstand high temperatures.
Q. What are the safety standards that must be place?
A. Any pair of boots that require you to stand or walk for long hours in an industrial or construction work environment must be compliant with safety standards.
There are specifications put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) to test safety equipment and foot protection capabilities.
The best boots for asphalt work should be compliant with the following standards to keep you safe:
- ASTM F2413-11 1/75,
- C/75 Mt75 EH,
- SD PR, etc.
They should be made from leather given that the material has high resistance against spews from chemical or hot substances.
Q. How should your asphalt boot fit?
A. Wearing a wrongly footed asphalt boot will put you at risk in the workplace. It will make you feel uncomfortable as you move around.
Your boot must fit you well, so you don’t develop swollen feet, as well as suffer from ankle or knee pain after the day’s job.
You must also check the insoles to ensure they match the shape of your arch for you to stay comfortable and safe all day.
Before ordering online, you can go for a fitting in-shop so that you can know your correct size for the brand of choice.
Q. How do you care for your boots for asphalt work?
A. When You see your asphalt boot as an investment to protect your feet and stay safe, you will invest quality time and effort to get the best design and construction available.
You also need to provide proper maintenance to get value from it.
- Ensure you have a proper break-in time to let your feet conform to it
- Make use of a leather conditioner to moisturize it to be flexible
- Apply waterproof spray or wax
- Always dry it out after each use
- Keep the inner and outer part odor-free always
- Have more than a pair to interchange between use
Read also: How to Break in Leather Boots: Pro Tips From Experts
Conclusion
There is no debating it, daily exposure to hot pavement, tar, sharp objects, and hard surfaces are detrimental to your feet.
As such, you have no choice but to fortify your feet with the specialized boots that have the necessary built-in features to keep you safe.
The upper, midsole and full sole must be heat-insulated, toe-protected, puncture-resistance, slip-resistance, and well-ventilated. So you are not at risk of suffering from work-related injuries.
Wearing the right boot will keep you comfortable despite the toughness and slippery nature of the asphalt.
Do not keep exposing yourself to further damage with improper asphalt paving boots.
Owning a pair or two among the brands highlighted on the list of the 5 best boots for asphalt work will help you spend your work time in comfort.
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