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While any pair of brand-new work boots may look great, the right pair of work boots will protect your feet from injury, provide support, and be comfortable and durable enough to wear during a long day of standing and walking. Our test team researched over 50 pairs of work boots and then chose seven pairs for testing. We pulled them on, laced them up, and wore them in real-life work situations to determine how well they resisted water, withstood punctures, and protected our toes from dropped items. Our favorite pair overall was the Marin line from Brunt, with their exceptionally lightweight and comfortable fit and durable construction.
Both hazards and footwear needs vary from job to job. However, if you’re looking for work boots that will support and protect your feet all day, keep reading to discover how each pair performed in our hands-on testing and which ones are the top picks for the best work boots in various categories.
- BEST OVERALL: Brunt The Marin 6″ Unlined Comp Toe Work Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: CAT Invader Mid Vent Composite Toe Ankle Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST RANCHER: Wolverine Rancher Pro Pull-On Work Wellington
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WATERPROOF: Red Wing Apex 6″ Boa Waterproof Safety Toe Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST STEEL TOE: CAT Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST NON-STEEL TOE: Wolverine Vantage Hyperrest Soft Toe Work Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WOMEN’S SAFETY TOE: Red Wing Tradeswoman 6″ Waterproof Safety Toe Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WOMEN’S SOFT TOE: Carhartt Chelsea Wedge Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST COMFORT: Keen Pittsburgh Energy 6″ Waterproof Boot
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Timberland Pro XR-1 Alloy Safety Toe
↓ Jump to Review
Our Top Picks
When it comes to work boots, there’s no one-size-fits-all pair. Everyone’s feet are different, and so are job hazards and requirements. But whether you need strong ankle support, water resistance, or a safety toe, you’ll find that the best work boots are made from durable materials and feature quality assembly. Our top picks feature work boots for men and women—there is sure to be a pair that will offer comfort, support, and safety throughout the workday.
Best Overall
Brunt The Marin 6" Unlined Comp Toe Work Boot
What We Like
- Lightweight and comfortable fit; suitable for extended wear right out of the box
- Adjustable for different foot shapes and sizes due to a multilayer insole
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting wearability and added value
What We Don’t Like
- Lack of lining and rigid tongue may create friction between boot interior and sock
- High-profile toe area feels clunky; boots are a bit large in this area
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: Leather, rubber, polyurethane
- Toe type: Composite
- Special ratings: ASTM 2413-18, ASTM F2913-19, ASTM F1677-96, ASTM D47-06 903, EH
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Our Ratings: Comfort 4.5/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 5/5; Value 4/5
The Marin work boots from Brunt are sturdy, affordable boots that wear well right out of the box. They boast timeless moc toe wedge styling, a 6-inch shaft made of tough barnyard-resistant leather, a lightweight safety toe, and a slip-/oil-/heat-resistant rubber outsole. The unlined edition that we tested offers maximum breathability for warm climates or indoor work and carries ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) ratings for slip resistance, oil resistance, compression, and electrical hazards.
We wore these work boots for 40 hours of outdoor testing, on and off the pavement. We removed the lower insole layer to provide extra width with thick socks before lacing on the boots. Later, we reinserted the lower insole for use with regular boot socks. The boots fit well and were comfortable right away; only the tongue needed time to break in as it felt a bit rigid throughout the week.
These Brunt boots feature top-notch quality and comfort for the price. They offered excellent support for standing and working in one place. The relatively flat soles were comfortable for long hours of standing on pavement and also provided good flexibility and spring for walking work.
Since these boots are only rated “water resistant,” they are not an ideal pick for constant water exposure. However, for a general-purpose, medium-duty work boot, it’s hard to find a better value.
Get the Brunt Marin work boots at Brunt, Blue Collar Workwear, or Lehigh Safety Shoes.
Best Bang for the Buck
CAT Invader Mid Vent Composite Toe Ankle Boot
What We Like
- Easy to slip on and off
- Stylish design
- Excellent traction on all surfaces
What We Don’t Like
- Low-top design gives a little less ankle support
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: Rubber, EVA midsole, nylon hardware
- Toe type: Composite
- Special ratings: ASTM F2413-18, ASTM F2413-18
Our Ratings: Comfort 4.5/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 5/5; Value 5/5
If you’re looking for a work boot that doesn’t sacrifice style for function, the CAT Invader Mid Vent is a standout. These were some of the most stylish boots we tested, with a modern, sneaker-like design that doesn’t scream “jobsite”—but still performs like it belongs on one.
We put them to the test over a weekend in Florida, hauling yard debris and making multiple trips in and out of a truck at the local dump. Through it all, the Invader Mid Vent boots held up impressively well. The thick rubber soles provided excellent traction on everything from loose gravel to wet pavement. Even with the Florida heat and humidity, the breathable upper kept our feet cool, and the composite toe offered peace of mind without the extra weight of steel.
One thing we especially appreciated: how easy they were to slip on and off. That might seem like a small thing, but when you’re making quick stops or kicking them off at the door, it makes a big difference.
Whether you’re doing light-duty work, yard cleanup, or just want a tough boot with serious curb appeal, these are worth a look. They’re comfortable, good-looking, and built for real work.
Get the CAT invader work boots on Amazon or Cat Footwear.
Our Ratings: Comfort 4.5/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 4/5; Value 4.5/5
For those who prefer a no-fuss, slip-on work boot, the Wolverine Rancher Pro Wellingtons are a solid choice—especially if your jobs tend to get wet, dirty, or downright messy. These were the tallest boots we tested, and that extra coverage made a big difference when trudging through damp grass, mud, and sandy Florida soil during a week of outdoor chores.
The pull-on design means no laces to deal with—just step in and go. Inside, the wide toe box offers a comfortable, roomy fit, which we really appreciated during long hours on our feet. You also get a choice between composite and steel toe protection, depending on your work needs and safety requirements.
While the boots were comfortable right out of the box, we did run into one minor issue: a bit of excess stitching inside the collar was scratching against a bare calf. A quick pass with a lighter to smooth the area fixed the problem, and it didn’t come back.
Durable, practical, and easy to wear, the Rancher Pros are ideal for yard work, farm chores, or any job where you don’t want to worry about muck ruining your day—or your socks. They’ve earned a permanent spot by the back door (and they look great).
Get the Wolverine Rancher work boots at Wolverine or Boot Barn.
Best Waterproof
Red Wing Apex 6" Boa Waterproof Safety Toe Boot
What We Like
- Short break-in period and comfortable fit similar to hiking boots
- Aluminum toe box adds safety without creating undue weight
- Lightweight waterproof construction
What We Don’t Like
- Pricier than most of the other work boots we tested
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up, BOA dial
- Materials: Vibram, cellulose fiber, EVA footbed
- Toe type: Aluminum safety toe
- Special ratings: F2413-18 M/I/C, Mt, EH, SD 35, PR; F2892-18 EH; F3445-21 SR
Our Ratings: Comfort 4.25/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 4/5; Value 3/5
If you prioritize comfort and walkability with a full range of safety features, Apex work boots from Red Wing Shoes could be a perfect option. These ultra-lightweight waterproof safety boots fit and feel more like hiking boots. They feature cement construction, aluminum safety toes, recycled Vibram soles, and soft nubuck leather uppers for safety and support with an extremely short break-in period.
These work boots were some of the lightest boots we tested at just under 3 pounds. We loved the comfortable yet supportive fit that was enhanced by the unique BOA lacing system. The system incorporates a series of low-friction guides and super-strong wire laces secured with a micro-adjustable dial. Twisting the dial adjusts the fit along the entire contour of the foot, creating a personalized fit with no rubbing or sliding. We could take them on and off in seconds without actually tying them.
After wearing the boots for more than 40 hours of landscaping and tree-cutting work, we were pleased with the results. The soft leather and cement construction was extremely comfortable from the start and only got better with wear. The waterproofing capability held up well during rainy, muddy days. The only question as yet unanswered for us is: How long will they last? At a price of more than $250, their working life will hopefully stretch beyond 2 years.
Get the Red Wing Shoes Apex work boots at Red Wing Shoes.
Best Steel Toe
CAT Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
What We Like
- Very comfortable (once worn in)
- Top-quality materials
- Superb protection and excellent grip
What We Don’t Like
- Really rubs your ankles on the first day
- Robust construction makes them quite heavy
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: Rubber outsole, full grain leather
- Toe Type: Steel toe or soft toe
- Special ratings: ASTM F2413-18, ASTM F2413-18
Our Ratings: Comfort 4/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 5/5; Value 5/5
The CAT Second Shift Steel Toe boots are a classic, heavy-duty work boot built for tough jobs—and they deliver where it counts. We tested them over a busy weekend at a Florida dump, hauling yard debris in and out of a truck, and they held up like champs.
These boots are made with top-quality leather and feel built to last. The steel toe offers serious protection, and the grippy outsole handled everything from loose gravel to slick concrete without slipping. You can tell right away these are made for hard work.
That said, be prepared for a break-in period. The first day out, the tongue rubbed our ankles pretty hard. But after some wear, the leather softened, and they became one of the most comfortable pairs we tested. Just don’t skip thick socks on day one.
The trade-off for the rugged build is a bit of weight—they’re heavier than some of the more modern styles out there. Still, for those who want a tough, traditional work boot with long-term durability, that’s a small price to pay.
If you’re looking for comfort after the break-in, excellent grip, and rock-solid protection, the CAT Second Shift boots are a dependable choice that’ll stand up to the elements and the jobsite.
Get the CAT Second Shift work boots at Amazon, The Home Depot, DSW, or CAT.
Best Non-Steel Toe
Wolverine Vantage Hyperrest Soft Toe Work Boot
What We Like
- Look great while being super comfortable
- Excellent grip and waterproof materials
- Plenty of toe protection options
What We Don’t Like
- Hurt our ankles the first day
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: PU midsole, TPU SR Lug outsole, full grain leather
- Toe Type: Composite or steel toe
- Special ratings: Not mentioned
Our Ratings: Comfort 4.5/5; Water Resistance 4.5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 5/5; Value 5/5
If looks could carry heavy loads, the Wolverine Vantage Hyperrest would win best dressed on the jobsite. This boot is absolutely gorgeous—both inside and out—with rugged performance to match its sleek, modern design.
We wore the Vantage Hyperrest boots during a full day of moving portable air conditioners in and out of the house, up and down stairs, and through Florida heat. They held their own through all of it, offering excellent grip on slick indoor floors and dusty pavement alike. The waterproof construction was a bonus, especially during surprise afternoon showers.
There’s a solid range of toe protection options available—including soft, composite, and steel toe versions. We tested the soft toe, which still felt secure and supportive throughout the day.
Like some of the other boots we tested, these did require a short break-in period. The way the tongue is sewn into the sides caused it to rub uncomfortably against our ankles on day one. But once the material softened, that discomfort disappeared, and the boots settled into a snug, supportive fit.
For a waterproof work boot that looks great, grips like a champ, and is made to last, the Vantage Hyperrest is a top contender—just give it a little time to break in.
Get the Wolverine Vantage work boots on Wolverine or Boot Barn.
Best Women’s Safety Toe
Red Wing Tradeswoman 6" Waterproof Safety Toe Boot
What We Like
- Cushioned ankle moves with the wearer and provides ample support
- BOA Fit System makes boots easy to tighten, even while wearing gloves
- VersaTrax rubber sole offers superior traction on slippery, uneven surfaces
- Fit is roomy enough for thick work socks and the wearer’s preferred insole
What We Don’t Like
- Sturdy sole requires ample break-in period for optimal comfort
- Lacing system may not be ideal for those with a high instep
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up, BOA dial
- Materials: Leather, polyurethane insole, rubber outsole
- Toe type: Carbon-fiber safety toe
- Special ratings: F2413-18, EH
Our Ratings: Comfort 4/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 5/5; Value 4/5
The Red Wing Shoes Tradeswoman work boots can withstand just about any test. The manufacturer has tested the composite safety toe to protect users from 75 pounds of force. These leather work boots are waterproof, and their thick rubber soles are slip- and puncture-resistant. They also feature a BOA lacing system for easy, click-and-twist dial lacing—similar to those on cycling shoes.
We were impressed by the ruggedness of these work boots from the beginning of our testing. First, they withstood submersion up to the laces in both a tub and large muddy puddles. Then, they maintained traction on a muddy hill and a variety of other hard, wet surfaces. The composite toes absorbed the impact of the kettlebells we dropped on them. Plus, even though they’re not rated for puncture resistance, the soles were thick enough to withstand smaller sharp objects in our tests.
However, all that durability can have its disadvantages. The rugged soles don’t lend themselves to these being comfortable work boots, as they take time to break in. While we liked the functionality of the dialed laces, they tighten evenly all over, so users with high insteps would have to slide a couple of fingers under the bottom two rows of laces to prevent overtightening.
Get the Red Wing Shoes Tradeswoman work boots at Red Wing Shoes or Winterport Boot Shop.
Best Women’s Soft Toe
Carhartt Chelsea Wedge Boot
What We Like
- Versatile style suits work and casual social settings
- Easy to slip on and off even with gloves or messy hands
- Sturdy sole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces
- Soft toe still provides some protection against stubbing
What We Don’t Like
- Wide fit may not suit some users
- Stiff sole takes several hours to break in
- Not water-resistant
Specs
- Boot type: Pull-on
- Materials: Leather, polyurethane, rubber
- Toe type: Soft (non-safety)
- Special ratings: ASTM F2892-18, EH, ASTM F3445-21, SR
Our Ratings: Comfort 3.7/5; Water Resistance N/A; Protection 4/5; Traction 5/5; Value 3.5/5
These Carhartt Chelsea wedge boots provide the durability of a work boot in an on-trend style, highlighted by an oil-tanned leather upper with a contrasting gold and cream sole. But these boots are about more than looks. Stretch panels on the side and a loop on the back make getting these boots on and off a cinch. They’re also rated for electrical hazard protection and slip resistance.
While these are light-duty work boots, we still found them to be quite sturdy in our tests. Though technically considered soft-toe work boots, they protected our toes from bumps and the impact of lightweight objects up to 3 pounds. We also got traction quite easily on wet inclines and even on wet composite decking.
However, these attractive pull-on work boots weren’t without their pitfalls. First, they are somewhat wide work boots, particularly on the heel. This looser fit caused quite a bit of slippage when we were walking. We were also surprised that they took several hours to break in; they appeared more flexible than they actually were in testing.
Since the boots don’t provide additional safety features, such as impact or puncture resistance, we would have preferred they offer at least some water resistance to make them more functional and a bit better value. Still, if you’re looking for a light-duty but sturdy work boot—that also happens to be stylish—these Carhartt boots could very well fit the bill.
Get the Carhartt Chelsea work boots at Amazon (wide), The Home Depot (medium), or Tractor Supply Co. (wide).
Best Comfort
Keen Pittsburgh Energy 6" Waterproof Boot
What We Like
- Comfortable right from the start; no break-in period necessary
- Excellent fit, easy to slip on, and rubber midsoles made for smooth walking
- Carbon-fiber toe keeps the boot lightweight but offers protection
What We Don’t Like
- Pricier than some of the other work boots we tested
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: Leather, rubber, PU
- Toe type: Carbon-fiber safety toe
- Special ratings: ASTM F3445-21, F2413-18 M I/75 C/75 EH, ASTM F1677-96 Mark II nonslip, ASTM SATRA TM31, ASTM D471-06 903
Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Water Resistance 5/5; Protection 5/5; Traction 4/5; Value 5/5
We wore this pair of Keen Pittsburgh boots for 2 days straight during a range of weekend adventures and were very impressed with how comfortable they were right away. They slipped on easily, and the overall fit was as secure as it was comfortable.
After a 1-hour drive to a hiking trail and the 4-hour hike, we expected some blisters from a brand-new pair of boots, but we experienced nothing of the sort. The middle sole layer is a spongy rubber that provides a very smooth walking experience, so long hours on a jobsite can be less tiring with these boots cradling your feet.
They also fit the bill as protective yet lightweight work boots, thanks in part to the carbon-fiber toe box (instead of heavier steel) that withstood our tests of dropping 10-pound dumbbells onto our toes.
In addition, these Pittsburgh work boots are also fully waterproof, which we tested by standing in a bucket of water for 15 minutes. The tongue is sewn all the way to the top of the boots to keep your feet dry if you are wading through water. We also felt secure on slippery surfaces while wearing these boots. The hard rubber soles are oil- and slip-resistant with plenty of textured grooves and tracks to provide a good grip, even when walking up a wet grassy hill as we did during our testing.
Get the Keen Pittsburgh work boots at Amazon, Cabela’s, or Keen.
Best Lighweight
Timberland Pro XR-1 Alloy Safety Toe
What We Like
- Super light and comfortable out of the box
- Still provides good toe protection
- Great for running around all day
What We Don’t Like
- Not much protection outside of the toe box
- Not the most stylish (if that matters)
Specs
- Boot type: Lace-up
- Materials: Nylon mesh upper
- Toe Type: Alloy safety toe
- Special ratings: ASTM F2413, F2892, and F3445
Our Ratings: Comfort 5/5; Water Resistance 3/5; Protection 4/5; Traction 4.5/5; Value 5/5
If you’re after sneaker-like comfort with just enough protection to get through light-duty jobs, the Timberland PRO XR-1 might be your new go-to. These work shoes are incredibly lightweight and comfortable straight out of the box—no break-in period required.
We wore them during our hot Florida weekend at the dump, hauling out yard waste and hopping in and out of a truck. In the thick afternoon heat, we were thankful not to be weighed down by a bulky boot. The XR-1s felt cool, breathable, and easy to move in, making them ideal for anyone who needs to stay on their feet and on the move all day.
They still provide solid toe protection, making them a big step up from standard sneakers if you’re working around heavy objects. That said, the protection is mostly concentrated in the toe box—there’s not much shielding elsewhere—so these aren’t the right choice for more hazardous environments.
As for looks, they’re more function than fashion. The design is simple and not particularly eye-catching, but that’s a fair trade-off for the comfort and agility you get.
Bottom line: If you want a light, breathable work shoe with real toe protection, the Timberland PRO XR-1s are a smart pick—especially for hot climates or all-day wear.
Get the Timberland Pro XR-1 work boots on Amazon, Zappos, or Timberland.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Work Boots
Testing Stats
Products tested: 10
Hours spent testing: 2 to 5 days (8-hour workdays)
Tests performed: 5
Price range: $100 to $270
Before selecting the work boots for our testing, we researched more than 50 high-quality pairs, recording their attributes, material quality, and consumer satisfaction. We naturally considered certain brands—after all, well-known manufacturers like Red Wing Shoes, Keen, and Carhartt have long been associated with top-notch boots and workwear. We further narrowed our list by selecting boots with a variety of protective purposes.
Our testers wore the boots as they would on a typical workday. They noted the break-in period of the boots (if necessary) and the overall comfort level. Then, they tested the manufacturer’s claims. For example, if the manufacturer advertised the boots as waterproof, the testers walked through shallow puddles, stood in a sprinkler, or even submerged their feet. If the boots were supposed to be puncture-resistant or protect feet from dropped items, the testers walked on sharp tacks or dropped weights on their toes, respectively. They also noted the slip resistance of the boots and whether they ran true to size.
For each test, we awarded points to the work boots based on a rubric. The better they performed in each test, the more points they received. After testing, we averaged the points and noted the pros and cons of each pair to help us determine whether it deserved a spot in our top picks and—if so—in which category it best fit.
What to Consider When Choosing Work Boots
Comfort, durability, and safety are top priorities when it comes to boots for work in outdoor or even dangerous environments. Individual needs vary, but some factors remain constant—work boots should offer a comfortable fit, provide water resistance and breathability to keep feet dry, support the feet and ankles, and insulate feet from cold temperatures. Consider the following attributes before buying.
Materials
Most, but not all, work boots feature leather uppers because leather is durable and offers protection against lateral punctures and tears. On the downside, leather can be heavy, so some manufacturers use leather for the parts of the uppers that need the most protection and incorporate lightweight synthetic materials along the tongue for breathability.
Rubber is the most common material for outsoles due to its high degree of slip resistance. Some older-style boots feature hard leather soles, but they can be slippery, and the boots may need an extended break-in period.
If you prefer lightweight work boots but require protection from dropped items, consider boots with a carbon-fiber toe rather than traditional steel toe boots. Carbon-fiber toes are strong and offer ample protection, but their lighter weight makes them more comfortable.
Waterproofing and Insulation
Waterproofing, or at least a measure of water resistance, is desirable in work boots exposed to wet conditions. Membranes, such as Gore-Tex, prevent water from permeating the boots. However, the downside to completely waterproof boots is reduced breathability, which can lead to smelly boots and cause sweaty feet and other potential foot problems. A happy medium is more breathable work boots that feature water-resistant uppers, sealed soles, and lining on the boot’s upper tongue.
Boots for pouring concrete are typically fully waterproof slip-on boots to prevent wet concrete from touching the skin and causing irritation. Muck-type boots are often best to keep in an entry closet or by a front door to pull on quickly.
Those who work outdoors in cold weather will likely prefer an insulated lining like Thinsulate, which helps keep feet warm but can also add undesirable bulk to the boots.
Support and Comfort
Comfort is vital in work boots, especially for wearers who spend long hours on their feet. In some jobs, foot and ankle support is crucial, but this is a fine line. You may want supportive boots when working on uneven terrain or lifting heavy items, but overly rigid boots can limit mobility and pinch calves and feet. Generally, the best work boots offer a balance of support, comfort, and flexibility—all three are essential for productive and pain-free workdays.
Trying on work boots before buying is optimal, but since many boot types are only available online, consider the retailer’s return policy. Boots in many brands—but not all—run true to size, so read customer comments before buying in case you need to size up or down.
Safety Features
Steel or carbon-fiber toes are some of the most common safety features in work boots, along with ankle support to reduce twisted or sprained ankles.
Today’s manufacturers are constantly improving their boots’ safety features, and many of those attributes are rated by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Dozens of ratings may apply to individual boots, such as a rating of ASTM D471-06, which means the boot resists water, to an EH rating, which means the boot will withstand some electrical hazards.
In addition to the special ratings, most manufacturers will explain their boots’ safety attributes, but check out the ASTM website for clarification.
FAQs
Many work boots are pricey, so it pays to be an informed shopper. Some of the more common questions we’ve heard—and their answers—are below.
Most work boots should last between 6 months and 2 years, depending on their quality and the type of work they’re subjected to.
If your feet hurt after wearing work boots, it could be due to improper fit, too little cushioning, or lack of support.
Neither. Work boots should fit comfortably with enough room for your toes to wiggle but not so much room for the boots to slide and cause blisters.
