And though it’s not a guarantee of higher quality, American-made is an encouraging sign on many boots, including those made by Red Wing, Wolverine and Thorogood. Goodyear-welted shoes can also be resoled once the heel wears out, allowing you to keep the boots for years and years. A Goodyear welt indicates a shoe that’s stitched to the sole in a way that allows for greater water resistance. Good terms to look out for include Goodyear-welting. When shopping for work boots for casual use or style, it’s still worth looking under the hood, so to speak. Some job sites also require safety toes, which can include steel-toe or composite toe (a durable and lightweight synthetic alternative). You’ll want to look at the ASTM standards, which cover everything from slip resistance to protection from electrical hazards. If you are buying work boots for their intended purpose, then your checklist is likely to be longer. But there are exceptions to both of these norms. There’s no one standard for what defines a work boot, but they typically have shafts that are at least 6″ for ankle coverage and soles made from rubber, rather than leather, for superior comfort and traction. Of course, the best work boots for men should also keep you on your feet through an entire day of work, whether that work involves drywall, spreadsheets, or a little bit of both. Because of their rugged look and cushioned soles, work boots can be worn for style as well as comfort. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SPY.com may receive an affiliate commission.Ĭontrary to popular belief, work boots don’t have to be used for, well, work.

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