These Western Work Boots Are Awesome, But Do They Replace Traditional Lace-Up Boots?

Work boots need to be functional, but they can be stylish, too.
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Tecovas Long Haul Work Boots
Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila

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No other clothing has the ability to make or break your day like work boots. A sorry pair of boots can make your feet hurt, your back ache, and let your socks get wet, all before lunchtime. But the right ones let you focus on the job and leave you feeling good at the end of the day. While durability, comfort, and safety are absolute requirements for good boots, there are plenty of types and styles to choose from. I’ve always worn lace-up boots but recently tried out a pair of Tecovas western work boots.

I’ve been wearing Tecovas Long Haul waterproof square composite toe work boots for weekend home repairs and chores for the past couple of months. I am a writer, and I never was a cowboy, but I spent 25 years working in construction, landscaping, and plant nurseries, so I recognize good boots when I wear them. These Long Haul work boots are the real deal. Unlike traditional western boots, they include comfort and safety features to cushion and protect feet in harsh working conditions. I’ve worn them indoors and out, in wet and dry weather, on pavement, mud and everything in between. At my part time wear rate, they’ll probably last a decade or more.

  • Tecovas Long Haul Work Boots
  • Tecovas Long Haul action 4
  • Tecovas Long Haul action 3
  • Tecovas Long Haul action 2

Before I sing the full praise of these boots, I’ll admit that pull on work boots are not ideal for every job. I do not like wearing them when I know I’ll be piling up the mileage, which is the reason I always opted for snug-fitting laceups for landscape maintenance and retail nursery work. The rigid sole and raised heel are not conducive to fast-paced walking. But pull ons are great when you are constantly climbing in and out of a truck, tractor seat, or heavy equipment because there’s no risk of laces getting caught on a step, track, bucket, or implement. For the same reason, they make a ton of sense for shop work and for some construction jobs.

I’m not usually big on ordering boots online because I don’t like the hassle of exchanges in the case of a poor fit. I was relieved when they came true to size, and pleased with the initial quality and craftsmanship. They feature a stylish waterproof cowhide upper that fits like a glove, and have a 12-inch shaft with metal pull holes. The traditional leather outer boot encases a lightweight square composite safety toe and breathable waterproof bootie. They also include removable cushioned insoles and fiberglass shanks for all day comfort and support on any walking surface. The dual density synthetic outsole is slip resistant and oil resistant with a muckoff tread. Made in Vietnam, Tecovas Long Haul boots meet ASTM standards for slip resistance, electrical hazard protection, and safety toe. My size 13 pair weighs 2 pounds 14 ounces per boot.

Rating: 4/5

Tecovas LongHaul Boots Review

Tecovas Long Haul Work Boots

My work includes standing and walking around on hard surfaces in the shop and driveway, climbing ladders, and working on grass, bare dirt, or mud in the yard and garden. The elevated heel, rigid sole, and Goodyear welt on these boots provides sure footing in all of those conditions. I usually just brush off any loose dirt, but when they get muddy I hose them off. My feet stay dry but the outer leather does get damp, so I stuff them with paper to retain their shape as they dry out. I have not used leather conditioner or applied oil yet, but they are probably due.

For me, comfort matters above all else when it comes to boots, and my Long Haul boots are comfortable. It started with a proper fit and they have broken in perfectly. I’ve worn them most of the work I do in all kinds of weather, including hard rain and temperatures as low as 15 degrees, and my feet have always stayed warm and dry. They’re tough enough to protect my feet during storm clean up work and I feel perfectly secure wearing them on a ladder. They have the safety features that I need for most of my projects, and look great, but because I still crank out 5 miles on yard work days, they won’t completely replace my lace up boots.

Where to Buy the Tecovas Long Haul Work Boots

Get the Tecovas Long Haul Waterproof Square Composite Toe Work Boots at:

 
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