Does your workplace expose your feet to wet conditions for long? Do you have to change your shoes every time your shift ends? If you answered yes to these two questions, then you need to own a pair or two of the best waterproof work boots.
Exposing your feet to cold and wet conditions is not healthy. You’ll end up with a situation described as trench foot. Yes, it is a serious condition, and during World War 1, it claimed the lives of almost 80 soldiers.
Despite the fact that technology has improved, it’s still possible to get trench foot if your shoes are not waterproof. Symptoms of this condition include falling off of the skin tissues, blisters, redness, and blotchy skin. This could lead to numbness, tingling sensation, heaviness, and persistent itching.
In this review, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to review for you some of the most comfortable waterproof work boots. Investing in such shoes will make you a happy and productive workman (or woman).
Out of all the choices selected, KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Wide Work Boot outshines most of them because of offering better fit and protection. Now, let’s keep going.
Best Waterproof Work Boots
1. KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Wide Work Boot
With KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Waterproof boot on your feet, you’ll feel invincible. The kind of strength it bears provides the best protection anyone could ever wish for. Given its breathtaking design, there will be so many compliments.
But this boot isn’t about looks, being a mid-rise, it offers protection to the ankles too. The entrance (tongue and collar) is optimally padded to offer a tight but comfy hug. The front-end is equipped with a steel toe to minimize the impact from falling objects.
To prevent overheating and accumulation of bacteria, the interior comes with a dual-density EVA footbed. The existence of EVA technology boosts comfort. This part is removable so that you can use custom varieties. The core features of KEEN Milwaukee Boot include leather topping, rubber outsole, steel toe, and waterproof membrane.
Pros
- It fits as expected (85%)
- A high-end boot with a sturdy structure
- Several color options to pick
- Entirely waterproof
- A classic, trendy design worth admiring
Cons
- Not entirely invincible as it lacks still shanks
- You have to spend a bit more
By investing in KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Waterproof Boot, your feet will be the last thing you’ll ever worry about. With steel toe protection, smashing looks, and able-bodied sole, nothing in the outdoors will scare you.
For Keen lovers, there are many other excellent Keen boots worth looking into. Each varies in terms of waterproofing, stability, traction, and protection. Your needs or the kind of work you do should help to narrow down the available options.
2. Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Waterproof Boot
Lately, it very much possible to bump into a boot that gives you both safety and style. Initially, you had to compromise on one. If you are scouting for a stylish boot that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, check out Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo.
This boot is made from leather and attached to a synthetic sole for supreme stability and traction. The laces adopt a very attractive design and tie up real quick for a relaxed fit. While this kick may be waterproof, it might give in a little when drenched, so don’t stay out in the rain or stagnant water for long.
On the inside, this waterproof boot is lined with air-cooled memory foam for premium comfort. Perhaps the most cherished feature of this pair is sizing. They are true to size and will fit your contours perfectly.
Pros
- Memory padded insoles to boost comfort
- Waterproof covering
- Protective and supportive in unpredictable terrains
- It’s possible to get budget selections
- Modern design
Cons
- No steel toe
- No steel shanks
Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Waterproof Boot is for those individuals who are afraid of wearing ugly work boots. This pair is stylish, comfortable, and strong enough to serve for a year, two or more. However, you might need to spray it to retain the waterproofing element.
3. Danner Men’s Super Rain Forest 200 Gram Work Boot
Danner Men’s Super Rain Forest Work Boot is a unique, high-rise waterproof boot designed for providing the utmost protection. As a high-end product, it sports Danner’s finest quality leather, which is not just double-thick but is triple-stitched for unrivaled performance.
Standing at 8 inches tall, this boot offers protection to a large area of your foot. With full blast waterproof exterior, you have no reason to stop working even in a heavy downpour. The Gore-Tex lining allows for breathability without compromising waterproof ability.
Danner Super Rain Forest features a Vibram sole made from premium, work-specific compounds for better traction and stability. Insulation elements have been added to improve warm as well. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with both steel shanks and steel toe.
Pros
- It’s an all-purpose work boot and thus not limited in functionality
- Fully waterproof
- Top-quality construction for longevity
- Fully breathable
- It can be recrafted to become useful again
Cons
- Lacks both steel toe and shanks
- It comes at a pretty penny
Danner Men’s Super Rain Forest Work Boot is for folks who want all-purpose boots. This one is triple stitched to ensure the seams don’t come apart after many years.
Even better, the boot can be sent back for recrafting in case it needs some repair. All in all, this boot ranks better in terms of waterproof capability. Check out this Danner Acadia boot for another better waterproof alternative.
4. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot
Most premium work boots cost somewhere between $100 and $400. But here the truth; no one needs to spend a whopping $400 on a shoe. Timberland PRO Men’s 6 Inch Rigmaster Waterproof in among high-end varieties that don’t hold back on quality.
This boot has everything you can ever dream of from steel toe, steel shank, slip-resistant outsole, to waterproof membrane. It even comes with an anti-fatigue technology- a comfort-enhancing system that returns energy back to your feet for an energized walk throughout the day.
The full-grain leather used also sports anti-microbial properties that rebuff the growth of bacteria. There is adequate padding to ensure no chaffing or rubbing. Thanks to the PU outsole, Timberland PRO Men’s 6 Inch Rigmaster Waterproof Boot carries manageable weight.
Pros
- A very bold boot to handle wet and other unbearable conditions
- Designed to safety from all form of workplace dangers
- Fits as expected
- Versatile enough to be used both at home and work
- Integrates sophisticated features without costing too much
Cons
- Some people complain about eyelets pinching them. In such a case, you might need to buy a moleskin
- Can give in pretty quick especially when used often
Timberland PRO Men’s 6 Inch Rigmaster is a bold boot built to withstand the toughest conditions. It comes equipped with the necessary protection from electrical hazards, cuts, and burns to odor control. Nevertheless, it can easily give in when used frequently. So make sure you have another pair to swap with from time to time.
5. Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot
Are you looking for a trustworthy boot that will be there for you in both good and bad weather? Well, we got news for you; that shoe is Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Work Boot. It is sturdy, rough, and ready to explore the impossibility.
This boot doesn’t leave anything to chance. On top, it bears a full-grain mahogany leather, and to the bottom, a rubber sole reinforced with steel shanks. There is steel toe protection to the front for added strength.
The company (CAT) used the ERGO comfort system to improve user experience. To begin with, the forefoot sports SuperWelt construction to improve flexibility. The anatomy of the floor is not flat. Rather, it is contoured to follow your curves, thus improving stability.
Despite having a tough external, the inside of this Caterpillar Diagnostic Waterproof Boot bears perforated EVA insole with gel padding to boost comfort. The same soft material is also placed around the opening and shaft. To avoid water penetration, the seams are completely sealed, and the lining reinforced with nylon.
Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Boot consists of the following core features; steel toe, Thinsulate insulation, removable insole, Superwelt construction, and steel shanks.
Pros
- It is entirely waterproof
- Flexible and breathable to ensure all-day comfort
- Anatomically designed to enhance stability and support
- Full-grain mahogany leather than stands the test of time
- Insulated to keep your feet warm
Cons
- Runs a bit bigger
- Might need treatment to retain the waterproof ability
Tough working conditions need nothing but a no-nonsense boot. One such kick is Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Boot. Its loyalty to protecting your feet can certainly not be questioned. It’s a richly endowed boot, and if customer reviews are anything to go by, it surely does exceed expectations.
6. Carhartt Men’s 6″ Energy Waterproof Composite Toe CME6355 Industrial Boot
Though not as glorious as others in design, Carhatt Men’s Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot stands apart as the most endowed in this review. It another no-nonsense boot that offers both primary and secondary feet safety.
This boot will defend you in stormy weather thanks to thanks to the full-grain leather held together through perfect stitching. The impeccable stitching, however, doesn’t impair its breathability. There are adequate airflow areas to ensure your feet stay cool and dry.
Carhartt Work Boot comes with an advanced footbed crafted from 3D foot scans. Do you know what that means? Here is the explanation; 3D modeled footbeds provide unmatched fit and comfort. No matter how weird your foot is shaped, it follows along the contours giving the snug fit.
Its structural makeup features no one but two foam layers with unique compression and rebound mechanisms. These ensure better comfort throughout the day. On the outside, the rubber outsole not only offers incredible traction but protects from an electrical hazard, chemicals, amongst other dangers.
Pros
- Advanced footbed
- Massive padding
- Waterproof and breathable
- Offers protection against multiple dangers
- Fairly lightweight
Cons
- Composite toe
- Not as stylish as others
Carhartt Men’s Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot boasts of exceptional quality. Talk of dual-layer padding, EVA components, abrasion-resistant outsoles, advanced footbed structure, and much more. The truth is, this boot should cost more than $300, yet it doesn’t.
7. KEEN Utility Men’s Boulder Mid Waterproof Industrial Boot
Designed for industrial purposes, Keen Utility Men’s Boulder Mid Waterproof Boot boasts of 100% leather with breathable lining. Basically, this a boot that lets you work without attention being deviated to your feet.
Like other midfoot varieties, this boot too takes on an admirable styling for dapper looks. The top (usually the opening) and the tongue are extremely breathable to promote better breathability. If these sections get exposed to water, your boot will get wet.
If you always suffer from smelly feet, this boot’s Cleansport NXT odor-controlling technology will offer some peace of mind. The outsole has multi-directional lugs that keep you steady on wet and slippery floors. To butter it all up, this kick very much true to size. No need to worry about returning.
The core features of Keen Utility Men’s Boulder Mid Waterproof Boot include dual pull tabs, speed lacing system, steel toe protection, Electrical Hazard rating, removable metatomical footbed, and an EVA midsole. Hikers and industrialists will find it to be a worthy companion.
Pros
- Will fit as expected
- 100% leather and thus built to last
- One of the most breathable waterproof work boots
- Modern styling
- One of the most lightweight waterproof work boots
- Steel toe protection
Cons
- Lacks steel shank protection
- No ideal for those who wade in the water
Keen Utility Men’s Boulder Mid Waterproof Boot has all the properties of a reliable industrial boot. But what makes it more appealing is the breathability factor and the additions of odor-controlling technology. What’s more, it fits exactly. So far, it has many gleaming reviews.
8. Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe
If you want a boot that comes from an iconic company, try Wolverine Men’s Floorhand Waterproof Workshoe. Built with full-grain leather, its exterior can take care of your when dealing with wet floors and corrosive fluids.
Wolverine packs superior quality materials for a timeless experience. The interior is lined with soft material to improve comfort. This is taken to a whole new level through the addition of moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you warmer in freezing temperatures.
The outsole is designed with sufficient treads to keep your feet affixed on the ground-despite how slippery the floor is. On top of that, Wolverine Men’s Floorhand Waterproof Workshoe features multiple patented technologies from Wolverine to ensure nothing but the most comfortable experience.
On the flip side, this boot sports a soft toe end and has no steel shanks. So while it qualifies as a robust work boot, it would be great for those who don’t need such protection. But hey, the price is affordable and at times that all one is after. Not the boot you like? Well, you need to take a look at this Wolverine boots that we have review.
Pros
- Affordable waterproof boot
- Long-lasting full-grain leather
- Cushioned interior for all-day comfort
- Takes care of moisture to keep your feet warm
- Multiple patented technologies
Cons
- Has a soft toe
- Lacks steel shanks
Wolverine Men’s Floorhand Waterproof Workshoe is those who are looking for the right affordable work boots with waterproofing. It is super bold and can withstand harsh weather. Comfort-wise, it does offer the best levels.
9. Ariat Men’s Workhog Pull-on Waterproof Pro Work Boot
If you are a state trooper, a serial farmer, or anyone who’s got a flair for boots with a western flair, you’ll fall in love with Ariat Men’s Workhog Pull-on Waterproof Pro Work Boot. This an all-conditions product for going about any demanding outdoor duties.
This is a full-grain leather boot with premium components that shut out water and snow. To distinguish them from other ordinary high-rise boots, this one features unique drawings that give it a stylish look.
This workhog bears Ariat’s ATS Max platform tech. This tech is responsible for stabilizing the feet and minimizing fatigue. When coupled with shock-absorbing EVA midsole, you’ll be a very happy and cheerful person at work.
High-rise boots can be so troublesome to get into. That’s why you see most popping up with dual pull tabs to help you squeeze the foot through. However, this boot has a U-entry system that allows for effortless wearing. Other helpful features of this boot include composite shanks, Duratread outsole, and a roomier round toe.
Pros
- It is suitable for all conditions
- Lightweight cushioning
- Improves body alignment and stability
- Convenient U-entry style and a wide opening for easy on and off
- Resists both water and snow
- Affordable work boot
Cons
- Composite toe and shank
Ariat Men’s Workhog Pull-on Waterproof Pro Work Boot is a true partner to associate with when you work in tough environments. It offers massive protection, premium comfort, and a better fit. If you love boots with a western appeal, this one will warm your heart (and feet, of course).
10. ROCKROOSTER Men’s Work Boots Waterproof
If you find yourself googling about the right work boot below $100, then you might fancy ROCKROOSTER Men’s Work Boots. This is a mid-budget boot equipped with high-end features such as steel toe, oiled full-grain leather, contoured footbed, and anti-fatigue technology.
This boot also scores well on design thanks to the unique YKK zipper. A lot of premium technologies have gone into this work boot. For instance, the interior is lined with COOLMAX tech that absorbs moisture to keep you dry all day. On top of that, Poron Xrd Repeated strengthens the fabrics making them resistant to impact, thus offering reliable protection.
ROCKROOSTER Men’s Work Boots sport a robust rubber outsole with massive treads for an anti-slip session. Furthermore, it offers protection against electric shock, cuts, burns, and corrosive fluids.
Pros
- Costs less than $100 bucks
- Features anti-fatigue comfort technology
- Lightweight and durable
- Offers maximum protection against many dangers including electric shocks
- Designed to conform to the contours of your feet
- Effectively waterproof
Cons
- Nothing worth mentioning
For less than $100, ROCKROOSTER Men’s Work Boot is actually a steal. It has everything high-end boots have from classic looks, premium technologies to waterproof capability. It’s also heavily padded, and when you throw in the anti-fatigue mechanism, It becomes by far the most comfortable kick to have at your workplace.
What To Consider Before Purchasing Waterproof Work Boots
There is a multitude of work boots on the market, and each is unique in its own way. A boot may be waterproof but lack the strength to handle the stress that comes with your work. Some could prevent water seepage but increase overheating. That’s why you must concentrate on a wide scope of factors before finally clicking on “add to Cart.”
Here are a few core things you must consider:
Waterproof
If you are a gardener, industrial worker, a construction worker, or a seasoned hiker, then the waterproofing element has to come first. This should be a priority for anyone who spends the better part of their day wading through fluids and wet surfaces. If it’s all about keeping yourself warm, then you need the well-insulated winter work boots.
Quality and Material
Work boots are designed to offer the level of protection no other shoe can. Therefore, the integrity of their structure should be able to stand firm against water elements, hot liquids, corrosive fluid, and other workplace perils.
The first thing your eyes won’t miss is the top leather covering. It needs to be tough, with waterproof ability. Full-grain leather is preferable most of the time. But there is no mistake in considering a mix of suede and leather (but this one is likely to be water-repellant not waterproof.
The presence of nylon mesh, Goodyear welt construction, or any other reliable technology ensures longevity.
Outsole quality
It doesn’t matter how much sophisticated the leather on top is if the outsole sings a different song. An outsole protects you from sharp nails, stones, corrosive substances, and many other workplace perils.
If the surface you work on is ever slippery, boots with aggressive treads will improve stability. Most soles do not conduct electricity, and therefore you have nothing to worry about.
There are also boots that bear steel shanks within the sole. These metallic structures serve two purposes; to maintain the shape of the boot and prevent penetration of sharp objects.
Toe protection
It’s hard to tell when your toes will get caught in the crossfire. However, the nature of your work should decide whether you need steel toe protection or not. Not all toe ends feature steel. Some are made of strong composite material to keep the weight a little lower. Read on alloy toe vs. steel toe vs. composite toe to know which one fits your workplace.
Weight
So much material goes into waterproof work boots with the intention of improving safety. The results? You end up buying something that is too heavy to walk in. By the time it hits mid-day (or halfway through the shift), you are already exhausted.
It’s possible to get the right lightweight work boots. We’d suggest you weigh your current boot and use it as the standard for purchasing others. However, super lightweight boots are likely to skimp or even neglect some safety elements.
Brand
Consider this last tip a strategy to reduce costs without compromising on quality. Apple happens to be the most expensive phone brand, followed by Samsung and then others. This means a Huawei phone with the same features as an iPhone is going to cost less. Is the analogy clear? Good.
Now, rather than spend money on a famous boot brand, you could simply take a look at other lesser-known versions, and you’ll get a good bang for your bucks. But if you prefer the classic nature of bigger brands, be ready to shell out a bit more, and there is no problem with that. After all, people who feel good about their looks are more productive than those who don’t.
Last but not least, buy a boot that is not only easy to clean and treat but dries faster as well. You don’t want to wake up in the morning only to find it wet and be forced to wear it that way. You can always look to the internet in case you want to learn how to dry boots quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section provides you with some worthwhile info by covering a few questions frequently asked by other users. Keep reading. We’re sure you’ll bump into information you’ve never heard before.
Q. What are the benefits of having waterproof work boots?
A. First and foremost, waterproof shoes make it possible for you to focus on your work. To put it in another way, you stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. Imagine for a minute sloshing in your waterlogged boots on your way to work; that can annoy you to death, right?
Secondly, waterproof boots minimize the hassle involved in drying boots. Unlike Canvas sneakers that dry within a few hours, a boot can take the entire night and still have some wet surfaces. With waterproof varieties, you simply wake up in the morning and slide your foot in.
The third and most important reason for investing in the best waterproof work boots is longevity. Most footwear, irrespective of the material, usually conks up because of wet conditions. Once that ceases to be a problem, your kick will probably last long enough to be passed down to others.
Q. Which is more important between style and comfort?
A. Well, comfort should definitely come first. However, in this era of multiple eye-candy boot designs, you should be able to get one that strikes a good balance between the two. Boots come in many forms from athletic, high-top, and even low top to meet the needs of users.
Some do go well with casual and official clothing, while others can match well with both of them. So while picking work boots, do think about your work clothing.
Q. How much should the best waterproof boot cost?
A. The ideal waterproof boots cost somewhere between $90 and $200. Such a boot will have full blast waterproofing capability with a thick outer that can withstand years of adverse conditions.
With boots, you get exactly what you pay for. Budget boots will mostly bear a weak outsole, breakable insoles, and leather that rips apart or let’s water in after some time. Advanced ones, on the other hand, feature extra safety features like steel toe, steel shanks, ankle protection, electrical hazard protection, and much more.
Basically, the more detailed the boot, the costlier it gets.
Q. What’s the right time to replace my work boots?
A. Workboot should be replaced once the safety elements are damaged. So if your kick’s leather has lost its integrity, the outsole is dented, and the steel toe no longer absorbs impact from falling objects, it’s time to put it in the store.
Other signs that a boot needs a time out include water leakage, separation of seams, broken midsoles, and weakened metatarsal guards. For some boots, the soles can be replaced, and this is a good thing, but it’s not common.
Q. Is there a difference between water repellent and waterproof boots?
A. Yes, there is. Waterproof boots will not allow water to get through, no matter how long they remain submerged. Water repellent boots, on the other hand, feature a special compound that makes them immune to light rain showers and water splashes. However, when fully immersed, they get drenched.
Conclusion
Landscaping, gardening, industrial work, and other related jobs are so demanding. Besides overtaxing the body, there are so many hazards that could befall you. By investing in the best waterproof work boots, you improve the safety and health of your feet.
Waterproof boots are versatile. Most of them consist of steel toe technology, Goodyear Welt construction, steel shanks, and outsoles with aggressive treads. As you can see, it’s not just about preventing water seepage.
The level of water repellent or waterproof varies depending on the material used. But you don’t have to stress yourself unnecessarily because we’ve already listed the finest options for you. Any pick will get you covered when working in bad weather. All the best!
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