Thousands of service technicians perform an inspection, maintenance, and repair of cars and trucks every day. They fix whatever is wrong with the vehicles and help keep things moving. They work at plants 24/7 to ensure uninterrupted power to our homes and offices. Given how hard they work, it’s understandable that the work boots for mechanics must be of high quality.
As a mechanic, you probably spend a lot of time standing on concrete and around numerous hazards present where you work. The work boots you wear should offer you plenty of protection throughout the day. In fact, you deserve an excellent pair of mechanics boot for your daily use.
It should ensure, for example, that the risk of injury from heavy equipment, nails, or other sharp objects in your workplace is reduced. An injury incurred may mean time off work, which in turn means a loss of pay.
Your proper work boots are an extension of you. You need to know that they provide the comfort and the safety you need to carry out your work effectively.
In the following section, we will show you the 7 top work boots for mechanics and technicians. We’ve chosen from the bestselling styles among all the branded products we have reviewed.
While all the pairs listed here are top of the line, we think the Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift 6″ Steel Toe Boot is perfect for mechanics. For its given durability, a high degree of comfort, and the protection it provides.
Best Work Boots For Mechanics
These 7 hand-picked boots are the bestsellers among all the branded products we have reviewed. They are the most popular picks for 2022 for the men’s mechanic work boots.
1. Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift 6″ Steel Toe Boot
The first pair of Caterpillar boots appeared on the market in 1994 after Wolverine Worldwide was licensed to use the Caterpillar name. Since then, these boots have become very popular with people from all walks of life.
Each pair of these boots has been designed to ensure that they can meet the demands that we place upon them. The leather upper provides sufficient room for feet to breathe and expand, while the rubber outsole helps keep you stable and slip-free.
Here are other reasons why we rate the Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift 6″ Steel Toe Boot as our number 1 pair of boots for mechanics.
Pros:
- Goodyear welt construction
- Climasphere insole for comfort
- Steel shank provides extra support
- T3 rubber outsole for optimal traction
The nylon mesh inside the boot helps air to flow freely, preventing moisture from building up inside. Comfort is a given with these boots because of the use of a Climasphere insole.
Furthermore, the rubber outsole fitted to these boots provides plenty of traction on all kinds of surfaces. As soon as you put on a pair of these boots, you will feel confident that these will last.
Cons:
- The insole may need to be replaced after some time
- The soles may crack after heavy use
- It takes time to break them in
Big fan of the brand Caterpillar? Check out our top 5 Caterpillar boots review here!
2. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ MAXwear Wedge Non-Safety Moc Toe Boot
The Weinbrenner Shoe Company has been making Thorogood work boots and shoes since 1892. Over time, Thorogood has proven to be a trusted source for durable footwear.
Boots that carry the Thorogood name have grown in popularity. This is because of the use of top-notch components as well as being made by highly skilled craftsmen.
These American Made Work Boots are not famous only because of their durability, but also because of their stylish looks.
Every pair of these boots is made using some of the latest technology. As a result, no one can deny the durability of this footwear as well as the high level of protection it gives to your feet.
Here are some reasons the Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ MAXwear Wedge Non-Safety Moc Toe Boot is suitable for mechanics.
Pros:
- Goodyear storm welt construction
- Cotton drill vamp lining
- Removable insole
- Outsole made of single density polyurethane
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- It does take time to break in
- There is some discomfort in the toe area
- Soles may begin to crack after some time
The leather used in the creation of this pair of boots ensures that your feet are able to breathe. The use of a removable dual-density insole ensures that as you walk in these boots, the shock is absorbed, not only placing less strain on your feet but also reducing strain on your legs.
Furthermore, the inclusion of the fiberglass shank in them helps to provide plenty of support to your feet. Having been made using Goodyear storm welt construction, you can be assured that these boots have been built to last. The same also goes for the adding of the Vibram outsole.
Like some of the best work boots for mechanics mentioned here, be assured that although these boots are expensive, they are going to last you for many years to come.
3. Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boot
Wolverine is a name that is synonymous with high-quality and durable working boots. The company came into existence back in 1883 with just a capital investment of $2,900.
Since that time, the company has gone from strength to strength. In 1901, it chose to build its own plant in Rockford, Michigan. This is where the company is still located today.
The stylish Wolverine Men’s W02421 Raider Boots offer a level of protection that boots of a similar price cannot offer. The removable insole is one feature that so many people love as they provide lots of support and comfort throughout the day. Here are some of its pros and cons.
Pros:
- Made using good quality leather
- Removable Wolverine Multishox insole
- Slip-resistant, lugged rubber outsole
- Fitted with breathable mesh lining
Cons:
- A thick pair of socks is needed for this pair
- It doesn’t offer enough support to the arch of the foot
- The laces break easily and need to be replaced
The use of good quality leather that they’ve made from the raw material helps to improve the flexibility of these boots. The suppleness of the leather used also ensures that your toes won’t get pinched when you need to bend down at work.
You don’t have to worry about getting injured if something gets spilled on the floor. The use of the Multishox lugged rubber outsole isn’t just slip-resistant, it is oil- and abrasion-resistant as well.
With the inclusion of a Multishox insole, you’ll find wearing a pair of Wolverine boots each day extremely comfortable. This is because the insole has been designed, so it responds to the way you move.
4. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel Toe
For over 45 years now, Timberland has proven to be a company you can trust when it comes to work boots. Each pair made is based on the original ideas of its founder Nathan Swartz.
Many people thought he was made when he designed a pair of leather boots that were also waterproof. After all, these are much needed winter boots to keep feet dry and warm. Yet this company just continued to improve.
Today these boots are now seen as a fashion icon and don’t look out of place whether worn to work or casually. Every pair of these Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel Toe boots today is made to the same exacting standards and provides you with the right level of comfort and protection.
Pros:
- Padded top collar for comfort
- Top hooks made from cast metal
- Nylon shock diffusion plates fitted
- Goodyear welt construction
Cons:
- You may need to use an additional insole
- A collar may cause irritation
- It takes weeks to break in
The toecap within the boot will protect your feet from all kinds of hazards and meets specific ANSI standards.
As these boots are much wider, they provide your feet with more room, so having to spend 12 hours or more on your feet won’t prove difficult. You want boots that aren’t just strong, but comfortable, too.
An added feature that you’ll love with these is the additional padding around the top collar. There are nylon shock diffusion plates, too, a feature that helps provide further support to your feet.
5. Skechers USA Men’s Verdict Waterproof Boot
Skechers isn’t a name that one readily associates with making good quality work boots.
Originally, the company, which was set up in 1992, was going to be the distributor of Dr. Marten’s shoes. However, by 1993, founder Robert Greenberg decided that they should instead focus on designing and making their own boots. For the past 26 years, the boots and shoes made under this label have grown in popularity.
If you want a pair of affordable but stylish work boots, then the Skechers USA Men’s Verdict Waterproof Boots are the ones for you. The inclusion of memory foam insoles helps to provide added comfort, even if you spend 12 hours or more on your feet each day.
Pros:
- Waterproof leather uppers to keep feet dry
- Tongue and collar padded for comfort
- Use of shock absorbing technology
- Outsole made from rubber
Cons:
- It needs time to break-in
- The collar around the top is stiff
- The insole may need to be replaced
The oiled leather upper will not only fit well around the foot, but it will also help ensure that these boots are waterproof.
Some people feel that the height of these boots is a little short. We still included them in our list as they offer plenty of support to your feet throughout the working day.
As mentioned already, the insole is made using memory foam. So the level of comfort offered to you is very high. This type of insole offers a great deal more support to all areas of your foot as well, so your feet will feel less fatigue even after hours of use.
6. Thorogood Men’s GEN-FLEX 6-Inch Lace-Toe Composite Work Boot
Manufacturing of Thorogood boots first began back in 1892 by the Weinbrenner Shoe Company. Over the past 126 years, people have turned to this company to buy boots and shoes. Even today, most boots you can buy bearing the Thorogood name are still made in the USA.
All boots carrying the Thorogood logo have become the first choice for many people working in a variety of roles. From policemen and firemen to mechanics and engineers, Thorogood is their choice.
They choose them because of the high standard of finish and the use of materials that provide ample protection to your feet throughout the day. Here’s why the Thorogood Men’s GEN-FLEX 6-Inch Lace-Toe Composite Work Boot is great for you.
Pros:
- Abrasion-resistant side and toe bumpers
- EVA cushion flex insole
- EVA midsole
- Anti-roll bar heel support
Cons:
- The heel may separate
- The stitching just for show
- Boots can break down fast
These boots have been designed to look the part and the use of the tumbled full-grain leather helps to add a touch of class to the design.
These are more affordable options for anyone who’d like to own a pair of boots made by Thorogood. Just like their more expensive counterparts, though, you’ll find a pair of these will offer you a good level of protection.
Thorogood has realized how important comfort is to those who wear their boots. They certainly don’t disappoint in this respect as each pair is fitted with EVA insoles and midsoles. Also, the inclusion of an anti-roll bar heel ensures that plenty of support is provided around this area of your foot.
There are likely to be plenty of slip hazards where you work, but don’t worry. The double density rubber soles ensure that you won’t take a tumble should your feet come in contact with any liquid or oil spilled on the floor.
7. Danner Men’s Vicious 4.5 Inch Work Boot
Through the years, Danner footwear has only gotten stronger. They originally made boots specifically for loggers, followed by ones for shipyard workers. Nowadays, the company makes boots for all types of workers, including those who work as mechanics, engineers, or law enforcement officers.
Since the company was formed, it has continued to work on ensuring that they produce affordable handcrafted work boots. This is a company who has stuck to its principles and chose to make good quality handcrafted boots.
For those who are on their feet for several hours a day, the Men’s Vicious 4.5 Inch Work Boot will provide comfort and stability to you. This is one of the best Danner boots in the market today.
Pros:
- Waterproof breathable Gore-Tex lining
- Speed lace system
- 90-degree low profile heel
- Vibram Vicious outsole
Cons:
- The arch part is high
- The rubber at the front may separate
- You may need to opt for a wider size
Danner has taken into account how important it is that the boots you wear will conform to your feet. In doing this, ‘they’ve come up with a pair of boots that ‘don’t just offer a high level of comfort but also provide your feet with a good deal of protection.
As they have chosen to use a Trail guard platform inside the boot, this has helped to reduce the weight. While not exactly a lightweight boot, the Trail guard provided does reduce levels of fatigue when worn for long periods.
You will find that these boots offer a lot more room around the toes, yet provide a much snugger fit around your heels.
This non-slip mechanic boot comes with Vibram Vicious outsole ensuring that the risk of you slipping on any fluids or oils is reduced. However, be aware that this can sometimes come away at the front.
Danner has worked very hard on coming up with a pair of boots that are built to last.
Important Factors to Consider When Selecting Mechanic Boots
Safety
Your toes are very important as they help you maintain your balance. You need to provide them with ample protection, and a good quality pair of boots will do just that.
As a mechanic, you cannot just wear any kind of boots. Minimalist boots, for example, won’t provide you the protection you need. Look for a pair of boots that come with reinforced toes. The materials used to create these should be able to bear any impact.
You have two options available to you. You can either buy boots with steel toe boxes or ones that have composite toe boxes. What is important is that both of these should meet ASTM safety standards.
The main advantage of opting for boots with a composite toe box is that they weigh less, so the amount of stress being placed on your feet is less. Choose boots with the following ASTM code. ASTM F2413-11 i/75 C/75.
Waterproofing
As a mechanic, you are likely to come in contact with water at some point. So you need to buy boots that provide ample protection against water, either water-resistant or waterproof.
If you can, look for boots that come with a GORE-TEX membrane lining, as the Danner Acadia waterproof boots. Not only does it prevent water from getting inside your boot, but it also helps air to flow through them.
If you do get your boots wet, make sure to dry them before you go back to work. Here are some tips on drying your boots overnight.
Electrical Hazard Protection
At times you are going to have work with machines that are powered by electricity. There is a big risk that you could end up stepping on a bare wire or open circuit. You need a good pair of boots, then, that will protect you against electrical hazards.
There is no need to buy work boots for electricians or linemen. Again, there are numerous pairs of work boots for the mechanics available. However, make sure that the ones you select come with the ATSM rating of F2413-11 EH. Boots such as these are able to withstand shocks of up to 18,000V at 60Hz for one minute.
Insoles
You could be on your feet for several hours at a time, without getting any rest. A good quality insole won’t just help prevent pain to the base of your foot but also your heel.
If possible, choose boots with removable soles, as you won’t need to replace the whole boot when the insole eventually disintegrates.
Also, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you can replace the insole provided with an orthotic one, ensuring that you are giving your feet the support that they need. Nevertheless, here is a collection of top 7 boots for plantar fasciitis that comes with the orthotic footbed.
Traction
Look for boots that come with very rugged soles with a varied tread pattern. These types of boots can grip onto slippery surfaces far better, which are common in workplaces like yours. Thus, the risk of you slipping over spilled oil and getting injured is greatly reduced.
Comfort
As a mechanic, your job tends to be quite active, and your feet need to be comfortable.
You need boots that will provide support to all areas of your foot, not just your toes. Look for work boots that have plenty of padding around the ankle area.
Also, choose a pair that is fitted with a very fluffy insole, as they will help absorb more of the impact as you walk around. This will keep your feet free of fatigue.
In Conclusion
When it comes to buying a pair of boots, the price shouldn’t be the only consideration. Instead, you need to concentrate more on how comfortable the boot is, and if they meet the latest health and safety standards of your workplace.
We would like to advise you to spend some time to study the boot requirement and best practices in your industry. With time spent on reading, you will learn what the best work boots for mechanics are. You can then try on different pairs to find out which one provides the best fit for you.
Each of the work boots we reviewed here outweighs their current competitors. Pick any pair of boots from your favorite brand and be assured of having a pain-free and comfortable day at work.
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