Best Work Boots for Men: 10 Sturdy, Comfortable Options

Shopping for men’s boots involves a lot of considerations that include style and functionality, fashion tends to come first. However, when it comes to work boots, function absolutely comes first. This type of footwear requires a sturdiness and a durable lifespan that goes above and beyond regular wear and tear. If you’ve been searching for the perfect pair, take a look through our selections for the best work boots for men and you’re sure to find some that you love, that will last you for years.

Our top picks for best work boots for men

How we selected the best work boots for men

We made our selections through a rigorous combination of personal experience, listening to the advice of our two style experts, Dimitry Loiseau and Charles Fratto, and checking that everything on our list has overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, especially when it comes to longevity, comfort, and value for money.

How to choose the best work boots for men

Though they may look like hiking boots, the construction, materials, and overall fit of work boots are often very different. When choosing a pair, consider the following before buying:

Materials

“Figure out which material will hold up for the work you will be doing,” advises Dimitry Loiseau, founder and chief editor of REGARD magazine. “You can find work boots in a range of materials used to construct uppers, insulations, linings, or insulation.” Also consider a steel toe (even if your workplace doesn’t specifically require them), which adds extra protection.

Thickness

“Select boots with adequate insulation if you’re needing an extra layer of warmth and plan to work outdoors,” says Loiseau. “If your work isn’t outdoors this might not be as important to you, unless you’re also looking to protect your foot from the work you’re doing, say in construction, where you may [also] need a metal toe to protect your toes.”

Soles

“Slip-resistant soles provide snow and ice traction during snowfall or ice conditions,” says Loiseau. “You want to find a sole that has a good grip based on the conditions you’ll be working in.”

Construction quality

“Be conscious of stitching quality and seam strength to ensure the long-term use and durability of construction-quality boots,” says Loiseau. “Sometimes this can be an initial splurge, but over time it's worth the investment because your boots will last you longer.”

Cleaning and storing options

“You want your boots to stay in good condition for use during off-season months, so they can last you and you’re not having to purchase new boots every season,” says Loiseau. “Taking care of your boots goes a long way.”

Fit

“Make sure to try on the boots before purchasing to make sure you’re getting a good fit and it's not too tight or loose in any areas,” finishes Loiseau. “This is really important if your feet have wide soles or require additional arch and ankle support.”

Tips for cleaning and storage

“To remove any dirt and debris from your work boots, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth on the outside of the boot,” says Fratto. “Once all the dirt is removed, use a clean cloth to clean and remove any residual suds. If you have leather boots then it’s recommended that you use a leather conditioner, preferably one intended for boots. Once completely dry, store in an air-circulating area so as to avoid any excess humidity or moisture in the air.”

How to maintain waterproofing and insulation for winter boots

“Stick with manufacturer instructions when it comes to waterproofing boots,” advises Loiseau. “Using specific products could help prolong the waterproof fabric, as well as the insulation, which must remain free from mold and mildew build-up in order to remain in their best possible shape and remain comfortable.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between work boots and safety boots?

“Generally, the main difference between work boots and safety boots is that work boots tend to be made of sturdier materials, have a higher ankle support, and have some sort of toe protection, such as steel,” explains Fratto. “Safety boots are pretty similar, though they tend to be lighter and, while still offering toe protection, they are usually made with different materials other than steel.”

Who makes the best steel toe work boot?

“Timberland is a classic and dependable choice,” says Loiseau. It’s also worth checking out options from Keen, Columbia, The North Face, Carhartt, Backcountry, Dicks Sporting Goods, and Muck Boot Company.

Should I size up or down for steel toe boots?

“You should look for the best fitting steel toe boots to ensure the highest standard of safety,” says Fratto. “The toe box should be comfortably snug while still allowing space to avoid feeling cramped. The length of the boot should align with your natural gait so your foot fits with the boot’s break line as you walk. And ideally you should have minimal (or no) lifting of your heel as you walk.”