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Electricians and electrical technicians need special footwear that can meet the demands and requirements of their line of work. Their boots need to be not only sturdy and durable but also comfortable and able to protect them from electrical shocks. In short, electricians need these boots with special features and materials to do their jobs safely.
But choosing a pair of these boots can be a challenge. What should an electrician look for in a boot, and why does it matter? This guide on the best work boots for electricians will help and includes only boots with electrical hazard (EH) ratings.
- BEST OVERALL: Wolverine Men’s Overpass 6″ Composite-Toe Boot
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6″ Composite Toe Boot
- UPGRADE PICK: Keen Utility Men’s Troy 6″ KBF Composite Toe Boots
- BESTWATERPROOF: Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock Composite Toe Boots
- BEST INSULATED: Thorogood Infinity 8″ Waterproof Composite Toe Boots
- BEST COMPOSITE TOE: Carhartt Men’s Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boot
- BEST COMFORT: Keen Men’s Detroit XT Mid Soft Toe Waterproof Boot
- BEST SOFT-TOE: RockRooster Woodland Work Boots for Men
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Work Boots for Electricians
Choosing a pair of the best boots for electricians takes a little bit of research. The following are some of the most important points to consider when shopping for this type of footwear, from the hazard rating to the materials used to make the boot. Be sure to understand each of the following sections before settling on a pair of boots.
EH Rated
Although most work boots can handle a construction site, electricians should look specifically for electrician work boots that are rated for electrical hazards. To qualify for an electrical hazard (EH) rating, the boots must pass a test in accordance with the ASTM International standard ASTM F2412-18a.
These electrician boots will offer protection in two ways. First, the entire surface consists of nonconductive materials, preventing electric shocks from passing through the boot and into the wearer’s body. Second, these boots completely isolate the wearer from the ground, preventing the chance of grounding the wearer and allowing an electrical charge to flow through the wearer’s body. These boots must withstand a flow of 18,000 volts for 1 minute to earn their rating, among other tests to meet the standard.
Outsole and Shank Support
The outsole of most electrician work boots is made of rubber or compounds made of rubber and other materials—and for good reason. First, rubber offers a lot of grip, is often oil- and slip-resistant, and is a fairly hard-wearing material. Importantly, rubber does an excellent job of insulating the wearer from coming in contact with the ground and thereby preventing accidental shocks.
Because electricians are on their feet all day, they need plenty of shank support. However, the best shank materials for electricians—fiberglass, nylon, or other composite materials—are nonconductive. Steel shanks offer more support but are better conductors of electrical currents, so electricians might prefer to avoid them.
Note: Boots that meet EH standards are safe to wear on a jobsite, regardless of shank or toe material.
Safety Toe
Some of the work electricians perform requires lifting heavy objects or working around falling objects. For that reason, many choose to wear boots with safety toes, or protective caps over the toes to prevent injury. But just as the material used for shanks make a big difference in boots for electricians, the right materials make all the difference for construction boots as well.
Safety toes come in a few different varieties: steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, composite, fiberglass, and plastic. Steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber are extremely durable, but they can conduct electricity, so they’re not the safest option for an electrician’s work boots. In most cases, electricians should opt for composite, fiberglass, or plastic toes. These materials are nonconductive, allowing electricians to protect their toes from injury while also preventing shocks.
Note: Carbon fiber can conduct electricity, but it’s a much worse conductor than steel or aluminum. And as long as a boot meets EH rating standards, it’s safe. This even includes steel- toe boots for electricians.
Waterproofing and Insulation
Water and electricity don’t mix, so electricians avoid water as much as possible. However, for scenarios in which an electrician might need to trudge through a puddle around a jobsite, waterproof work boots are essential. Waterproof work boots typically consist of a treated or impermeable outer layer and a tongue that’s stitched higher along the opening, and it involves a special technique used to attach the sole to the upper shell.
Insulation may also be a factor in deciding on the best boots for an electrician. Insulation can range from 100 to 800 grams or more, with higher numbers representing more insulation. Electricians can typically get away with 100 to 400 grams of insulation, allowing for lighter-weight boots that still protect their feet in the colder months.
Comfort
Although protection is important, work boots must also be comfortable, or the electrician won’t wear them. Much of this comfort comes down to factors such as shank support, proper fit, anti-fatigue suspension and insoles, and linings that wick moisture away from the skin and promote breathability. Also, many manufacturers make athletic or hiking-style boots to promote comfort while still providing protection.
However, remember that most work boots for electricians will require a bit of a break-in period. Don’t be surprised if the boots are a bit stiff at first, but adding a little boot conditioner and putting some miles in while wearing them should have them feeling comfortable within a week or so.
Our Top Picks
The above mentioned information should be very helpful in finding the best work boots for electricians, but now it’s time to shop. The following boots listed are some of the top products on the market, so keep them in mind when making a final decision.
Note: All of the following boots are EH rated.
Best Overall
Wolverine Men’s Overpass 6" Composite-Toe Boot
Those hunting for an all-around capable electrician’s boot should check out Wolverine’s Overpass 6-inch work boot. This work boot features a premium waterproof leather upper complete with an abrasion-resistant toe as well as a moisture-wicking lining to keep feet cool and comfortable. The dual rubber and polyurethane outsole provides plenty of grip as well.
Those concerned about the amount of metal their work boot may contain can rest easy with the Overpass. It has a composite toe and nylon shank, and it’s EH certified. It’s lightweight and features shock absorption as well as a removable cushioning insert for improved comfort. Just keep in mind that some may find the orange accents to be a bit garish.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Composite
- Shank type: Nylon
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Waterproof upper with abrasion-resistant toe
- Composite toe and nylon shank
- Moisture-wicking lining to keep feet comfortable
Cons
- Loud orange trim on the boot
Get the Wolverine work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Best Bang For The Buck
Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6" Composite Toe Boot
Those looking to protect their toes and their wallets might appreciate Carhartt’s CMF6366 composite-toe boot. This pair of boots features a composite, nonmetallic toe for extra protection against shock. It also has a moisture-wicking lining to help keep feet comfortable and odor-free.
This affordable EH-certified boot also boasts a full-grain leather upper for good looks and long-term durability as well as a removable insert for improved comfort. However, these boots do have steel shanks, which could be a deal breaker for some shoppers. Still, at this price point, some may feel the steel is worth the savings.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Composite
- Shank type: Steel
- Waterproof: No
Pros
- Composite toe and EH rating
- Full-grain leather upper
- Removable dual-density footbed
Cons
- Steel shank
Get the Carhartt CMF6366 work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Tractor Supply Co.
Upgrade Pick
Keen Utility Men’s Troy 6" KBF Composite Toe Boots
Electricians looking for a pair of boots that can do just about everything they need should check out the Keen Utility Troy 6-inch boot. This pair of EH-rated boots have a carbon fiber toe and nylon shank to keep things lightweight for long days on the jobsite. They’re also waterproof—a big benefit for some shoppers.
The Keen Utility Troy boots feature a leather upper for durability as well as oil- and slip-resistant nonmarking soles. The moisture-wicking lining inside the boot helps to promote comfort and dries quickly once wet. There is even a dual-density polyurethane footbed with pillow-top cushioning inside. The only real consideration is that this pair of boots is expensive.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Carbon fiber
- Shank type: Nylon
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Lightweight features
- Waterproof design
- Moisture-wicking lining
Cons
- This pair of boots is an investment
Get the Keen Utility work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Cabela’s.
Best Waterproof
Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock Composite Toe Boots
When the weather’s wet but the job still needs to get done, electricians should consider the Timberland PRO Boondock 6-Inch boot. This boot features a special waterproof leather as well as a waterproof membrane inside to prevent water from working its way into the boot. It also has a moisture-wicking lining inside the boot to promote breathability and comfort.
This boot features as little metal as possible. The safety toe is made of a composite material, while the shank is fiberglass, offering safety and support without conductive materials such as steel or aluminum. The outsole is heat-, slip-, and abrasion-resistant, and it has a polyurethane footbed that absorbs shock and minimizes fatigue. These features don’t come cheap, though, so expect to pay a little more for these boots.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Composite
- Shank type: Fiberglass
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Waterproof leather and membrane
- Composite toe and fiberglass shank
- Polyurethane footbed absorbs shock and minimizes fatigue
Cons
- A little expensive
Get the Timberland work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Tractor Supply Co.
Best Insulated
Thorogood Infinity 8" Waterproof Composite Toe Boots
Cold weather can’t stop progress, so on those bitter days, electricians might want to try out Thorogood’s Infinity work boots. These EH-rated boots feature a waterproof design with 400 grams of 3M Thinsulate insulation, helping keep feet warm and dry while minimizing bulk and weight. The design also touts premium full-grain leather for durability.
These boots use nonconductive materials for both the safety toe and shank—both components are made of a composite material. Also, the outsole fights fatigue while resisting slips. Although the 8-inch height might be slightly higher than some electricians are used to wearing, the added protection and insulation in the colder weather will likely pay off.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Composite
- Shank type: Composite
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- 400 grams of 3M Thinsulate insulation
- Waterproof design
- Fatigue- and slip-resistant outsole
Cons
- 8-inch height might be a little high
Get the Thorogood work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Thorogood.
Best Composite Toe
Carhartt Men’s Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boot
Electricians who work in industrial settings might require safety-toe boots, in which case the Carhartt Ruggedflex safety-toe work boots might be just the pair. This 8-inch work boot features a nonmetallic composite safety toe that will prevent injuries while also minimizing the chance of an electrical shock.
These boots feature a waterproof leather, a waterproof and breathable membrane, plus 400 grams of 3M Thinsulate insulation to keep feet dry and warm throughout the day. Also, the rubber toe and heel on the outside of the boot promote stability and add a layer of protection against scrapes and scuffs. If there’s a downside, it’s that Carhartt doesn’t list the material for the shank.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: Composite
- Shank type: Unknown
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Composite, nonmetallic toe
- Waterproof and insulated
- Rubber toe and heel promote stability and added protection
Cons
- Unknown material for the shank
Get the Carhartt Ruggedflex work boots for electricians on Amazon or at Tractor Supply Co.
Best Comfort
Keen Men’s Detroit XT Mid Soft Toe Waterproof Boot
Electricians who want to stay comfortable all day long but don’t want to sacrifice EH protection might consider the Keen Detroit XT. These boots feature a hiking-style design, making them one of the most comfortable work boots for electricians. The design allows the user to cover plenty of ground in a day without discomfort, while the lack of a safety toe keeps the boot light and flexible.
The Detroit XT boots have a waterproof, breathable membrane to keep feet dry but also wick away sweat and moisture. The rubber outsole is also oil- and slip-resistant, and the polyurethane footbed helps reduce fatigue. Unfortunately, Keen is not forthcoming with the shank material, but given the boots’ EH rating, they’re suitable for electrical work.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: None
- Shank type: Unknown
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Hiking style for all-day comfort
- Waterproof and moisture wicking
- Light and flexible
Cons
- Unknown shank material
- Soft toe not as protective on construction site
Get the Keen Detroit work boots for electricians on Amazon or at REI.
Best Soft-Toe
RockRooster Woodland Work Boots for Men
Electricians who want stability and durability from a work boot but would prefer not to wear a safety toe should check out RockRooster’s Woodland work boots. This pair of boots for electricians features a waterproof design with a breathable membrane to keep the feet dry and promote air circulation.
The rubber outsole on the Woodland boot is chemical-, oil-, heat-, and acid-resistant, allowing electricians to wear these boots in a wide range of situations. The rubber toe and heel will help promote stability and prevent abrasions as well. While RockRooster doesn’t list the shank material anywhere, these boots are EH rated, so electricians who’d prefer a soft-toe work boot needn’t worry.
Product Specs
- Safety toe: None
- Shank type: Unknown
- Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Rubber toe and heel for protection
- Soft toe for all-day comfort
- Waterproof and breathable
Cons
- No shank material listed
Get the RockRooster work boots for electricians on Amazon.
Our Verdict
Electricians looking for a solid overall boot should consider the Wolverine work boots for electricians for its composite toe and nylon shank. However, for those who would prefer to save a bit of money, the Carhartt CMF6366 work boots for electricians may fit the bill.
How We Chose the Best Work Boots for Electricians
Putting together a list of the best electrician work boots was no small task. We had to draw on years of experience in the trades as well as our knowledge of work boots to come up with the features we felt were most important before we could even start looking at boots.
Once we knew which features we were looking for, we performed extensive product research to compile a list of the best shoes for electricians that met our criteria. We then dove deeper on each pair, comparing features and prices to ensure we were suggesting nothing but the best quality and value. We tossed the boots that didn’t offer enough value to the side, and then awarded the remaining boots a spot on this list based on their strengths.
FAQs
Although this guide offers a lot of information on the best work boots for electricians, try to avoid feeling shocked. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about this special footwear, so be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below.
Q. Do electricians need special boots?
Typically, no, electricians don’t need special boots. However, some standards on jobsites, in unions, or from employers may require EH-rated boots.
Q. How can I tell if a pair of work boots is EH rated or not?
The sole of the boot should have an EH-rated designation.
Q. What’s the difference between steel-toe boots and composite-toe boots?
Steel-toe boots use steel alloys that can conduct electricity, while composite-toe boots use plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, or a mixture of the latter three materials to reduce the chances of the wearer getting an electrical shock. Note that some carbon fibers can conduct electricity, but they’re less conductive than metal.
