If you think that using the proper work boots is NOT necessary even if your job entails standing or walking around all day or carrying heavy materials, you have got another bad thing coming soon, which could be life-threatening!
According to OSHA, almost 4,700 work-related injuries reported in 2017 in the construction industry alone, and a fifth of that was reported the death (source). Falls were the leading cause of these deaths, followed by being struck by an object, electrocution, and being caught in-between.
Some of these injuries and death could be prevented if adequate safety precautions were taken, including wearing the proper attire, especially the right work boots.
With construction jobs being considered to be one of the most dangerous employment positions, it is essential that proper footwear is worn at all times to prevent work-related injuries.
Through hours of in-depth and fact-finding research on the best lightweight work boots on the market today, we have decided that the KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot is the best as it excels above all others when it comes to providing not only protection to your feet but maximum comfort throughout of the day.
Best Lightweight Work Boots
1. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot
Founded in 2003, Oregon-based KEEN is no stranger when it comes to quality. They have a long line of highly-rated footwear that users worldwide prefer for their comfort, durability, and practicality.
The KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot has a removable footbed with anti-marking soles. It has a padded tongue and collar to make it more comfortable to wear the whole day.
Breathable mesh panels keep feet dry in all weather conditions, while its asymmetrical toe protection provides maximum support to both your left and right foot. The molded, reinforced toe box protects from abrasions and mild impacts while the larger toe box allows toes to move freely with less pinching and binding.
It has superior traction, too, which means going up and down slippery ladders will no longer be as dangerous for you. The Torsional Stability Shank of these Flint Mid work boots prevents twisting, keeping the ankle aligned and straight. The Cleansport NXT TM provides additional odor control as well.
This men’s ankle-cut work boot provides excellent arch support, which cradles your feet following its natural contours, making for a better and more comfortable fit. Its side cutouts allow air, too, to circulate in and around your feet, eliminating odor and sweating.
Pros
- This footwear has a dual-density cushioning midsole, making the work boot comfortable to wear the whole day.
- It has a stability shank that keeps your ankle aligned and straight.
- Upper nubuck leather to keep the feet ultra-dry and comfortable.
- The contoured heel lock prevents the foot from slipping back and forth.
- Oil and slip-resistant outsoles reducing risks of slipping surface.
Cons
- The sole separates after only a few months of wear.
- It has hard heels.
- It takes a longer time to break in.
The overall affordability of this KEEN work boots is excellent, well within the range of other lightweight boots of the same quality. These work boots meet and exceed all previously required ASTM F2412-11 standards for safety.
2. Timberland PRO 6″ TiTAN Composite Safety-Toe Work Boot
Timberland has been a leading footwear manufacturer since 1973. They use both sustainable and recyclable materials in their long and impressive line of quality footwear.
This tradition for excellence can be seen in their PRO 6″ TiTAN Composite Safety-Toe Work Boot. It is considered to be one of the most lightweight waterproof work boots on the market and continues to be one of their bestsellers.
The boot’s high-grade leather exterior with the lace-up design is ideal for those who demand quality at a very affordable price. Its breathable and moisture-wicking lining ensures your feet remain dry at all times, and the Ortholite footbed provides as much comfort as it can.
It has a Pro Rubber slip-resistant outsole that prevents you from slipping even when the ground is wet or slippery. The padded collar is a welcome touch, too, as it prevents chafing while keeping dirt and debris out.
More than a pair of traditional lightweight work boots, putting on these boots in the morning is an excellent way to start a long workday. You can get to work full of the assurance that you will have the protection supplied by the Titan composite safety toe.
Pros
- Its soft full-grain leather is comfortable and ensures shorter break-in time.
- The alloy safety toe provides protection.
- The breathable and antimicrobial lining keeps feet dry and prevents unpleasant odor.
- Slip resistant outsole ensuring that even in the slipperiest of conditions you stay well on your feet.
- It has a cement construction for greater flexibility.
Cons
- It has cheap plastic eyelets.
- Small toe box uncomfortable for wide feet.
Affordable and durable, these Timberland boots are worth a second look. Find out more information and possible money-saving discounts on these boots by clicking the following link.
3. EVER BOOTS Ultra Dry Men’s Premium
Designed to be worn both casually and for work, this boot was created with the highest quality but at a reasonable price.
The Ultra-Dry EVER BOOTS is meant to be used in all weather conditions. It is perfect for those in heavy-duty construction, landscaping, and farming work. It can be used for hiking, too.
If you work outdoors all year round, from extreme summer to brutal sub-zero winter, your feet will remain warm and dry if you wear these ultra-dry work boots from EVER BOOTS. Check out for more summer-friendly work boots here.
Completely waterproof with Seal-Direct Attached Construction, all areas of these work boots repel water while at the same time, allowing your feet to breathe through its mesh insulated liner.
It has watertight laces and watertight stitches, too, that will keep your feet dry and warm in wet conditions and during the winter season.
Pros
- Made of waterproof full-grain leather that keeps your feet dry.
- It has a waterproof breathable membrane that lets feet breathe, preventing unpleasant odors from forming.
- Can be used for heavy-duty construction, landscaping, gardening, farming, outdoor hiking.
- It has an insulated/removable interior lining.
- They offer a 30-day waterproof money back warranty.
Cons
- Sizes run small so double check your size before ordering.
- Better suited for work, not hiking.
- It can produce heel pain when standing on hard (concrete) surfaces all day.
These boots are reasonably priced but offer excellent protection from the elements when required. Currently priced well below other work boot styles with similar features, these work boots may well be the ideal work boot for men without spending hundreds of dollars.
They offer a 30-day warranty on the waterproofing, so you can try it out and see. Look at the following link for more information with possible discounts on the already low price of this high-quality boot.
4. Danner Men’s Vicious 4.5 Inch Non-Metallic Toe Work Boot
Established in 1932, Danner is a name trusted by millions for reliable, quality footwear.
Danner Men’s Vicious 4.5 Inch Non-Metallic Toe Work Boot is just one of their many excellent offerings.
Not a traditional work boot, as it departs from the standard 6-inch work boots on the market, these boots remain distinctive in many ways.
This low-cut work boot has a lightweight Trailguard platform that provides torsional support and strength.
It has a durable TPU midsole shank that provides a very noticeable cushioning effect as soon as these work boots are put on. It has molded midsoles that add strength while remaining lightweight.
The rich, full-grain leather upper of the boot is waterproof, perfect for any weather. Its Vibram sole provides better traction on slippery surfaces, too, reducing risks of slipping injuries.
Pros
- The full-grain leather is waterproof.
- 100% waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX liner for superior moisture protection.
- Speedy lace system for a secure fit.
- It has a durable, abrasion-resistant toe cap.
- Non-metallic toe ensure feet safety.
- Its Vibram outsole is oil- and slip-resistant.
- It meets ASTM F2892-11 EH (Electrical Hazard) safety standards.
Cons
- It is stiff and runs large.
- Sometimes make feet sweat.
When wearing waterproof work boots, the proper socks must also be worn. Choose a sock that is designed to breathe with these work boots.
Speaking of Danner Boot, check out our top 5 Boots review here!
5. Maelstrom Zion Waterproof Work Boot
Maelstrom offers premium water-resistant leather lightweight work boots engineered to meet and exceed the most demanding job site requirements. Their Maelstrom zion boots have a stylish design that you can wear even casually.
Typically worn by construction, utility, and industrial workers, these meet the need for anyone looking for quality, dependable, and long-lasting footwear.
Fitted with iH20-Tex liners, the boots keep your feet dry comfortably for the whole day. It has a removable cushioned footbed and a shock-absorbing lightweight EVA midsole that keeps you on your feet long for those extended work shifts.
A dynamic 3-sole system absorbs shocks, reducing foot fatigue significantly. Its composite extended safety toe box also gives your toes more room without pinching or cramping.
Taking work boot construction to the next level, these offer toe and heel reinforcement with a thermoplastic board to retain the semi-rigid “new” shape of these work boots for long periods.
Pros
- The water-resistant leather upper is flexible and durable while remaining stylish
- Athletic cemented construction ensures additional durability and dependability.
- Removable footbed and shock-absorbing EVA midsole can keep you on your feet comfortably even for the whole day.
- It features iH20-Tex liners that keep your feet dry and cool.
- It has a non-abrasive, non-marking, slip- and oil-resistant outsole.
- They offer a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- It has a roomy toe cap but it has a narrow body.
- There is no ankle support.
- The left shoe is smaller than the right.
These boots remain incredibly affordable, regardless of your current budget restrictions. With its stylish appearance, these work boots are considered to be the best lightweight work boots on the market today.
Refer to the following link for more information on these rugged, waterproof work boots, with possible additional discounts.
6. Carhartt CMH6076 Waterproof Work Boot
Carhartt has been a leading manufacturer of a long line of dependable uniforms and clothing for over 100 years.
Their reputation for quality products extends even to their footwear, seen in their Men’s 6″ Waterproof Breathable Lightweight Leather Non-Safety Toe Work Hiker Boot.
These waterproof work boots are designed to fit and move like a running shoe, offering comfort and stability on all surfaces.
Formed with durable leather and 3D Ariaprene uppers, Carhartt CMH6076 conforms to the shape of your feet for an ideal fit.
These boots also offer your feet the proper air circulation and ventilation to keep your feet dry and sweat-free.
The Storm Defender waterproof membrane keeps out moisture, an added advantage to those whose jobs require them to be outdoors.
Pros
- It uses cement construction for durability.
- Waterproof oil-tanned leather keeps your feet dry.
- Rubber outsole provides very good traction to prevent slipping.
- The EVA midsole absorbs sharp impacts to your feet.
- It has additional electrical shock protection up to 18,000 volts.
Cons
- It is not very durable for the price.
- Its inseams keep rubbing on the ankle.
- Do not offer safety toe features.
- It could use more padding around the ankles.
These lightweight boots do not offer safety toe features. It may be a right for hiking or outdoor activities, but with no protection for your toes. We don’t recommend them for construction or any similar work where toe protection is a must.
7. Wolverine Men’s Hudson W02194 Work Boot
Wolverine is one of the best-known manufacturers of high-quality footwear worldwide. It is an iconic brand trusted by millions of workers in and outside the United States because of their style and quality.
Their Wolverine Men’s Hudson W02194 work boot is one of their products known for superior craftsmanship and the use of superior materials.
While these 6-inch lightweight boots are classified as hikers boots, they also serve as useful, dependable work boots at your workplace.
Its Fulton lug rubber cup outsole has excellent traction and is oil, abrasion, water, and chemical resistant.
Designed with the traditional hiker top cut, Wolverine Hudson W02194 boots meet the minimum standards for safety work boots, as it also offers protection from electrical hazards.
Although the lower cut is less than the traditional 6-inch work boots, these boots are highly adaptable to smaller construction sites, offering the same protection as the higher cut 6-inch work boots.
Big fan of the brand Wolverine? Check out our top 7 Wolverine Boots review here!
Pros
- ANSI 75 rated steel toes that provide maximum on-the-job protection.
- It has a nubuck sueded leather uppers.
- Its mesh lining allows feet to breathe.
- The removable full-cushioned footbed for more comfort.
- Its cement construction offers additional durability.
- Lightweight nylon shank provides greater arch support.
Cons
- Toe design not attractive.
- It does not hold up in all work conditions.
- The heels are too stiff.
These Wolverine boots remain one of the most affordable pairs of work boots on the market today.
Granted, there have been some issues with these work boots in regards to sole separation and other minor problems. However, those issues were immediately fixed by Wolverine customer service.
Not all work boots are going to withstand every work scenario. Consider the work hazards in your job before purchasing a pair of work boots to ensure the perfect fit.
8. Golden Fox Men’s Plain Toe Lightweight Work Boots
This plain toe lightweight work boot can be used for both work and play.
Constructed with durable full-grain leather, Golden Fox Men’s Plain Toe Work Boot doesn’t need a long break-in period. It is also resistant to water, stains, and damage.
Built using Goodyear welt construction, this lightweight work boot is one of the toughest on the market.
Triple stitching from vamp to heels supports the shaft, keeping its shape like new. The polyurethane foam wedge outsole is lightweight, flexible, and shock absorbing.
These 6-inch plain toe work boots incorporate Rubberton soles with an eco-friendly Bontex footboard for additional support and stability.
The footboard is supported with steel shank at the ball of the foot, helping to reduce pressures and stress on the arches of your feet.
Pros
- Oil-tanned leather upper makes it look stylish so you can wear it casually as well.
- The Goodyear welt construction makes this boot highly durable.
- Polyurethane outsole is shock-absorbing, making these boots comfortable the whole day.
- It has a dual cushion comfort insole.
- The thick, grooved outsole for good traction and is oil- and slip-resistant.
Cons
- These boots are good for light duty, yard cleaning, and similar tasks only.
- The heel chafes.
- The boots run narrow.
Ordering work boots online often bring about issues with sizing. Manufacturers recommend checking sizing charts before placing your final order.
As a rule of thumb, you can order your boots one size larger than your usual shoe size to get the most comfortable fit. These boots remain very affordable, with longer wear capabilities when properly maintained.
9. Magnum Men’s Precision Ultra Lite II Composite-Toe Waterproof Boot
An unparalleled dedication to quality and 100% customer satisfaction is what has made Magnum a global distributor of perfect lightweight work boots.
Their Men’s Precision Ultra Lite II Composite-Toe Waterproof Boot, for example, can stand up to the most demanding work situations with excellent comfort and performance.
Featuring a durable leather upper with a gusseted tongue, Magnum composite toe work boots have a special i-shield treatment for maximum protection against water and oil. It has an ASTM rated composite safety toe that provides electrical hazard protection, a massive advantage for those working in construction and similar industries.
The composite toe is roomier, too, as well as lightweight. The contoured memory foam footbed conforms to the shape of your feet with a waterproof breathable membrane that keeps your feet dry.
Pros
- ASTM rated composite safety toe that provides maximum protection onsite.
- It has a waterproof leather upper that’s lightweight and durable.
- Padded tongue and collar for additional comfort.
- It is ankle high for better ankle support.
- Its rubber outsoles have deep ladder grips for better traction.
Cons
- Users complained of issues with sole separation.
- Leather seems to be of poor quality.
- The plastic lace hooks break easily.
Affordable by any means, these boots remain a preferred favorite of those in landscaping and construction trades. Look at the following link for more information.
10. CONDOR Arizona Men’s 8″ Steel Toe Work Boot
Condor is another industry leader when it comes to work boots. Their CONDOR Arizona Men’s 8″ Steel Toe Work Boot, for example, is highly durable and meant to be worn all day, any day, in any job site.
It uses AM-TECH sole technology, the latest in scientific construction of work boots that are currently used by less than 1% of footwear manufacturers. Difficult and expensive, with one of the most sophisticated methods to engineer a work boot sole, it produces a state-of-the-art lightweight steel toe work boots that last for years.
With AM-TECH Direct Soling Technology, Condor directly injects polyurethane that makes up the midsole to form a seamless and permanent bond. With no separation of outsoles, you will get more use out of one pair of these boots through the years, saving you money in the long run.
This Condor work boot has a protective steel toe that meets worksite requirements and a 100% genuine nubuck leather upper that’s durable. Beyond the increase in overall height to 8 inches, these work boots are priced well below competitor’s similar styles.
Pros
- Steel toes are ASTM F-2413-11 certified for protection against electrical hazards.
- 100% Genuine Leather Upper for a premium feel, smoothness, and durability.
- It uses AM-TECH for its soles which means it can last a long time.
- Oil- and slip-resistant, ladder-climbing outsoles.
- It has a removable polyurethane insole.
- The company provides a 1-year warranty.
Cons
- Boots tend to run a bit narrow/small.
- The left boot is tighter than the right.
- The heel appears to be very soft.
Available in three color choices, brown, tan, and black, these boots work very well on and off the job.
With greater ankle support and increased side-to-side flexibility, these well-made work boots are an excellent choice for those who seek out quality without the high cost.
Different Types Of Toe Protection On Lightweight Work Boots?
Thousands of workers are injured each year due to crushing toe injuries, leading to weeks and months of no income. These incidents are preventable, too, if all workers used the right kind of work boots.
Your feet are one of your best assets; you must do everything you can to protect them. Today, there have been changes made to lightweight boots that implement the latest in design while not sacrificing protection.
The following types of toe protection for work boots cover a broad spectrum of employment positions. Many employers in high-risk employment positions require steel toe, composite, or alloy toe work boots as a condition of employment.
Steel Toes
Considered as the toughest toe protection available, Steel Toes boots have been protecting workers’ toes for decades. They can absorb much heavier impacts and more compression injuries. Available in a wide selection of styles, steel toes remain affordable and are cheaper to buy than composite toe boots.
Composite Toes
Composite toe work boots are similar to steel toe work boots with one very notable difference. Composite toe boots use a type of composite material, usually a combination of Kevlar aramid fiber and carbon fiber. These materials are non-conductive, so electricians and those working around high power lines typically choose them for obvious reasons.
Many workers prefer composite toe work boots in cold weather and extreme heat conditions because of the discomfort of wearing steel toe work boots in these situations.
Alloy Toes
Lightweight waterproof work boots with alloy toes continue to gain popularity. Strong and durable as steel toe work boots, the main difference lies in the materials used.
Alloy toe work boots comprise either titanium, aluminum, or a combination of other lightweight materials. They are 30-50% lighter, too; however, they are also more expensive than steel toe or composite toe work boots.
Soft Toes
Soft toe work boots have no place in workplaces with a high risk of a foot injury.
Offering little to no protection of the feet, especially the toes, these boots are mainly attractive to potential consumers based on the low price.
Workers wearing these boots to any job site are taking dangerous risks with the possibility of work-related injuries, or worse, dismissal.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Lightweight Work Boots?
Being on your feet all day takes a toll on your body. Wearing heavy boots can lead to sore feet and even backache. These kinds of discomfort can distract you from your job and may even lead to longer-term injury.
The importance of wearing lightweight work boots, therefore, can never be emphasized more. Regardless of the weather condition, it keeps your feet in comfort while providing adequate support to arches, heels, and toes. Built from the best leather materials available, lightweight boots provide a “walking on air” sensation that is relaxing, especially during a long workday.
Regardless of your present employment position, wearing the wrong work boot makes an already long day, longer. It relieves pressure on the feet, legs, and lower back area, greatly reducing sick leaves and keeping you on your feet longer.
Restrictive in nature, heavy work boots limit your mobility. It can give an unfavorable picture of you to your job supervisor. Often a requirement for employment, wearing the wrong work boot on dangerous job sites, is often grounds for immediate dismissal.
With less weight placed on your feet, lightweight boots do not give the impression of a bulky feeling all day. As they are made from flexible but durable leather, these work boots offer better gripping ability on slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of falling. These kinds of boots are usually breathable, too, which keeps your feet dry all day and prevents infections and unpleasant odor.
Just remember, though: always consider your present employment requirements when selecting your pair of work boots. Not all boots are made alike, so taking that factor into consideration will lead to a better fit.
How To Choose A Lightweight Work Boots?
Purchasing an excellent lightweight work boot is a decision not to be taken lightly. Your life and the ability to support your family depends on your ability to work safely in your chosen field.
Often, workers buy boots based on price alone without thought or consideration for the protection that these boots may or may not offer. This is a big mistake that, hopefully, you won’t make.
Take a moment to thoroughly read the information below to give you a better understanding of how to choose the right lightweight boots perfect for your specific situation.
Durability
A right work boot should offer enough durability so that you can stand up to the harshest conditions without compromising the safety of your feet.
Look for work boots that are well-constructed by a reputable manufacturer with proven experience in the work boot industry.
You might take a look at our review on 7 excellent durable work boots.
Comfort
It has been said time and again that work boots that do not provide the comfort level required are a contributing factor to an accident waiting to happen. Lightweight steel toe work boots have made significant improvements to comfort levels from previous styles.
Safety
According to OSHA, over 99 workers were injured every week in 2016. Unfortunately, this number continues to rise annually. Safety cannot be stressed enough. Wearing improper work boots to your place of employment will only add to this growing number.
It offers you the ability to work at your chosen place of employment in complete comfort and protection. Do not take chances with your health.
Conclusion
Why take chances with your health and livelihood? When every year, thousands and thousands of people suffer from a work-related injury, especially in high-risk job sites.
Every place of employment from construction sites to in-door factory positions to driving trucks has a potential risk of serious injury to any employee.
Wearing the proper work attire, including the best lightweight work boots, is the worker’s primary responsibility.
You can safely navigate high-risk activities like walking on slippery surfaces or climbing in and out of delivery trucks carrying heavy materials when you wear the appropriate work boots.
All the work boots reviewed in this post will protect you and keep you on your feet injury-free. Wear the proper work boots and continue to provide for your family through the years, injury-free, and in comfort.
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