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You are a man who works. That is what you do. With so much effort put into the work that you do, you want to be at your best, from your head to your toes. Clothing is an important part of our everyday lives and especially so when you are working. A great pair of waterproof & durable work boots can enhance your performance, protect you, and comfort you for an entire day.
Water and moisture can destroy boots. And, not only can they ruin a perfectly good pair of boots, but they can also cause you injury, promote the development of blisters, aid in catching colds, and much more. A great pair of boots should help to keep your feet dry when you are working in the toughest conditions.
Related: The 7 Best 8-Inch Work Boots for Any Type of Job
There are thousands of models to choose from, but we’re here to help you choose the best waterproof works boots out there.
In This Article
- The 3 Best Waterproof Steel and Composite Toe Work Boots
- The 3 Best Lightweight Waterproof Work Boots
- The 3 Best Waterproof Insulated Work Boots
- The 3 Best Rubber Work Boots
- What To Know Before Buying Waterproof Work Boots
The 3 Best Waterproof Steel and Composite Toe Work Boots
Waterproof boots need to be protective and comfortable. No matter how protective they are, if they are not comfortable to wear, that protection is not going to matter. We have only chosen the boots that provide both.
1. Carhartt Rugged Flex Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot
We love the look of these boots from Carhartt. They have a high collar, which not only looks good but also gives you extra protection against water while cradling your foot and preventing ankle injuries. The double stitching makes these boots as durable as you can get while adding to the look and feel of the boot. You have your choice of two colors and any size you may need.
The unique “Rugged Flex” technology means that the boot moves with your foot. The material will stretch and conform to your foot as you move, bringing the ultimate in comfort. You also have a flexible rubber sole which will absorb any shocks as you make your way through the worksite. The padded tongue and collar help to cushion your foot as you work all day.
The full-grain leather is water-resistant, keeping your feet dry. The soles are also oil, slip, and chemical-resistant — the perfect boots for multiple job sites. You also have a composite toe which is light and protective. Bringing as much protection as a steel toe, you never need to worry about dropping anything on your toe or stubbing it against a surface.
A high-quality boot from Carharrt which will last you for a very long time.
2. WOLVERINE Overpass 6″ Composite Toe Waterproof Insulated Work Boot
For a combination of rugged design with everyday practicality, these work boots from Wolverine are the perfect choice. Their waterproofing and composite toes keep your feet safe and sound, while a suite of useful features makes them a joy to wear. And that is aside from their good looks, which uses real leather for an attractive outdoorsy aesthetic.
The boots are engineered for flexibility, a feature that not enough work boots have. If you find work boots stiff and uncomfortable, this pair of boots is just for you. They are designed to flex at key points so that they move like normal shoes with all the protection of work boots. The padded soles also keep your feet comfortable, even after a long day at work.
When you need to work in stormy environments, you will be grateful to have these boots on. They are insulated to keep your feet warm in the cold, and the waterproofing membrane is breathable to prevent moisture from building up inside. This means your feet will not get clammy and unpleasant odors will not build up.
3. Timberland PRO Boondock 6″ Composite Toe Waterproof Industrial & Construction Shoe
These Timberland boots are created from 100% leather, making them both durable and comfortable. The leather will help to keep out the moisture while remaining breathable and comfortable. There is also a waterproof membrane for extra protection.
The synthetic sole provides cushioning for your foot, letting you stand and walk in the boots all day. The Dual-Density Dynamic Anti-fatigue Technology provides a polyurethane footbed for added comfort, and these boots will outlast much of the compilation when it comes to comfort, even when working in the harshest environments.
The Dual-Density midsole and all-weather outsole add protection from the elements, creating a breathable boot that keeps out the nasty stuff. The outsole also has deep lugs for extra traction and a composite safety toe for added safety.
An excellent and heavy-duty boot.
The 3 Best Lightweight Waterproof Work Boots
Steel-reinforced toes and thick, grippy rubber soles are a must for anyone working in extreme conditions, but those extra features add to the weight of a boot. When you think about inner linings, extra cushioning, and durability, the weight goes up and up, and so does the cost.
Heavy-duty boots are amazing but, after a long day that has stretched for hours, it can become hard to even lift your feet, let alone ones clad in multiple layers of heavy protection. We have strived to strike a balance between protection, comfort, cost, and weight.
There is no point in wearing protective boots if they only cause fatigue. Here are some boots that offer premium protection while remaining lightweight.
1. NAT’S S620 100% Waterproof Ultralight Steel Toe Boots
These boots have an amazing look; they look fashionable, yet are sturdy and durable, and they do not disappoint when it comes to comfort. They are feather-light, weighing in at less than 2.2 lbs per foot. With steel-toes included, that is an impressive feat.
The stability starts with a rubber sole, providing you with excellent traction. The double-density outsoles give impact, shock, and vibration absorption, keeping you on your feet for hours (and days) of comfort. The outsoles are also anti-slip and high-wear-resistant. Where some boots may wear down over time and become uncomfortable, these will not. The boots are also excellent for high-slip areas where there is oil or other lubricants present.
The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry and also actively wicks away moisture when you are working. The NAT’s S620 boots are CSA Class 1 & Dielectric approved, featuring a kevlar plate and a steel toe.
For all their protection, these remain ultra-light boots.
2. FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Lightweight Work Boots
Need a pair of hardcore boots to protect your feet? These combat-style work boots from Free Soldier are super lightweight so you can wear them for any activity, but they really come into their own on a jobsite or on a hike through rough terrain. Their heavy-duty fabric is puncture proof, and reinforced toes and heels mean nothing will jab into your feet.
The boots are also waterproof inside and out with a Lycra cloth lining, which also provides breathability. A gusseted tongue keeps water from leaking in through the ankle hole and prevents dirt and pebbles from slipping inside.
And that is not the end of these boots’ practicality. They have a non-slip sole with a tread engineered for traction. The interior is padded and supported for comfort even in rough terrain. Whether you are trudging through mud puddles or walking over rusty metal, these boots will keep you safe, and will look great while doing so.
3. Timberland PRO Titan Waterproof 6″ Alloy Safety Toe
Timberland knows what they are doing when it comes to work boots. These are extra-tough and super-light, the perfect combination for when you are on your feet all day long.
With a 1.5” heel, rubber sole, and thick tread, these boots offer slip-resistance and comfort. The thick sole is hard to puncture and provides shock-absorption when you are on your feet all day. The exceptional comfort comes from the TiTAN waterproof technology, ensuring that your feet stay dry for the entire day.
The Powerfit comfort system is ergonomically designed to allow for all ranges of movement, provides critical support, and gives long-lasting comfort. The alloy safety toes and cement construction provide a level of protection that most boots do not have, and the low-profile outsoles give excellent grip.
Amazing workboots that are secure, supportive, and comfortable.
The 3 Best Waterproof Insulated Work Boots
Waterproofing is great but can fall flat if there is no protection against the cold, especially in climates when that is an important factor for up to half of the year. Multiple layers will protect most of your body, but your feet are a different story. There are only so many pairs of socks that you can fit under your work boots.
The most effective solution is to find insulated work boots. Not all boots can deal with colder climates, but we have found some that do. Not only that, but these boots are also waterproof, comfortable, and durable.
1. Carhartt Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boot
If you work in a variety of conditions, you need shoes with the right set of safety features to protect you no matter the environment. These work boots by Carhartt are just such a pair of shoes. With a safety toe, electrical insulation, rubber sole, and thermal insulation, you are safe from punctures, electrocutions, and freezing temperatures.
The boots have a waterproof membrane, which is complemented by a sweat-wicking lining to keep your feet perfectly dry. Your feet will also be well supported, thanks to integrated foam in the midsole to provide multi-layered cushioning. After a long day on a jobsite with these boots on for hours at a time, you will appreciate the support to prevent your feet from getting sore.
This pair of boots looks great too, thanks to an upper made of genuine leather. In high-wear sections, synthetic fibers provide extra durability. And because both these materials are waterproof, you have extra protection against rain and mud.
2. Timberland PRO 6 Inch Boondock Composite Toe WP Insulated Industrial Work Boot
These Timberland work boots look great and have a toughness that protects your feet while keeping them warm. They are great boots for on and off the worksite.
The outer is leather, bringing all the benefits that leather brings. It is waterproof, breathable, flexible, and durable. The thermal plastic urethane sole adds more durability, but also creates warmth while being waterproof too.
A thermal plastic sole adds warmth to your foot while remaining waterproof. The dual-density midsole and cold-formula TPU outsole add insulation to the boot, and the lace-up closure locks in that warmth while adding support to your ankle.
A padded collar means that your ankles will not rub against the boot. The rubber toe cap protects your toes and is light and insulated too. A rigid external heel cup adds sturdiness to the bottom of the boot, allowing you to move and be supported. The cement-heel construction also adds an extra layer of protection when you are on worksites.
An insulated boot that will protect you from extreme cold.
3. Timberland PRO Helix Hd 8″ Composite Toe Waterproof Insulated Industrial Boot
You can trust Timberland when it comes to work boots. These ones are durable, supportive, protective, and will keep your feet toasty-warm all day. Put in a full day of labor, no matter the weather conditions.
The shaft runs up to the ankle from the arch, providing sturdy support. The leather on the outside gives lots of flexibility and freedom, the combination bringing you the best of both worlds.
With 400G of insulation, you can rest assured that the boots are going to keep your feet warm. The comfort is also going to keep you going all day long. The anti-fatigue technology features a polyurethane footbed that absorbs shocks and returns energy to your feet.
The full-grain leather is waterproof and breathable, and the waterproof membrane adds an extra layer of protection from the elements. Along with being breathable and moisture-wicking, the inner lining is anti-microbial too.
Comfortable and waterproof work boots that will keep your feet warm all day.
The 3 Best Rubber Work Boots
When you work in extreme weather conditions or in places where there is lots of water, there is nothing better than a rubber boot. If you have to wade through streams, slush, flooded areas, or even puddles, rubber boots can be a life-saver and keep you on the worksite for longer.
They also protect you from hazardous environments. If you work with electrics, and there is any water about, then rubber boots could literally be a life-saver. Alongside that, they also provide protection from slips and a barrier to falling objects. They can protect from extreme heat, and offer lots of comfort.
1. Muck Boot Muckmaster Commercial Grade Rubber Work Boot
A choice everywhere for framers and anyone else who works on similar sites, these Muckmaster boots offer functionality, protection, waterproofing, and comfort.
The rubber sole has excellent traction and is, of course, waterproof. The neoprene boot extends that rubber waterproofing and remains one of the best materials for keeping out moisture while providing optimum flexibility.
The EVA contoured midsole, molded outsole, and comfort topline all come together to create one of the most comfortable rubber boots that you will find. The calf-high rubber overlay protects the bottom part of your leg as well as your feet, keeping you dry and warm.
The 5mm CR flex-foam with air-mesh lining and 2mm thermal foam under the footbed give more insulation for added warmth while providing comfort and flexibility.
A flexible boot for all weather conditions.
2. Dunlop DURAPRO Boots with Safety Steel Toe
A rubber boot made completely in the USA that is functional and waterproof and adds more convenience when compared to your average work boot.
This Dunlop DURAPRO boot is all about comfort and ease of use. The 360-degree pull tab allows for easy donning and doffing, with a sloped comfort top that minimizes rubbing. These small touches mean that you do not waste time getting the boot on and off, and do not suffer from rubbing and chafing when you are working.
The boots are comfortable and flexible, letting you move your foot into any position while still offering waterproofing and warmth. The extra design put into the sole gives you more traction, especially when you are in wet areas. The outsole is also resistant to oil, keeping that traction when conditions are at their most slippery.
The boots are designed for a perfect fit, optimizing the comfort that you feel when you are at work. They are lightweight but still feature a protective toe cap.
One of the most comfortable waterproof boots out there, and made completely in the USA.
3. Servus XTP 15″ PVC Chemical-Resistant Steel Toe Work Boots
These Servus XTP PVC boots can stand up to the wettest conditions. They also hold up to other liquids too. The Triple Density Technology does not degrade and provides protection from harsh chemicals and oils. The seamless design means that no water, or other liquids, can get in.
The foot-form contour cushion insole gives you heel and arch support. It is also removable and washable, limiting the build-up of bacteria, and giving you the option to keep the inside of your boot fresh. The dual-compound center sole gives added cushioning for all-day comfort, and the open-pattern outsole self-cleans as you move. The result is a tough boot that almost takes care of itself.
A steel toe protects from any dangerous impacts and the boot has reinforced stress points for extra durability. The Xtra Traction Performance brings you an outsole that is also excellent in slippery conditions, protecting you from falls.
These boots are built to last and designed for optimal comfort in wet environments.
What To Know Before Buying Waterproof Work Boots
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
When looking for a good work boot, you need to think about the weather conditions where you work. Depending on what you do, you may need a waterproof boot or only a water-resistant one. But, what is the difference?
Waterproof means that you can be exposed to wet conditions for extended periods of time and the boots will not let the water penetrate. You could even stand in water, and the water will not get through to your feet.
Water-resistant work boots will stop water from getting through temporarily. If you were to step into water or be working in the rain, you would be protected, but you will not be protected from long-term exposure.
You can not go wrong with a pair of waterproof work boots. They will save your feet in heavy and light water conditions. If you are not exposed to a lot of water, then water-resistance will be fine.
The Material
A work boot is only as good as the material used to create it. If the material is not waterproof, the boot is not going to be; if it is not durable, the boot is not durable. The material can make or break a boot, so you had better make sure that the material is up to the task.
If you are looking for work boots that are waterproof, then nylon, canvas, rubber, and neoprene (among others) are great choices. These materials are used heavily in waterproof boots, along with other clothes, accessories, and equipment.
Even the materials that are not waterproof can do a great job at soaking up moisture and not letting it through.
Leather is also an option and allows for breathability along with waterproofing. Because of leather’s durability, it is often a choice for heavy-duty work boots. Full-grain leather is the best and will last the longest.
Durability
Worksites can be hazardous areas, and your full concentration needs to on what you are doing, rather than if your boots are going to hold up. No matter the worksite that you are working on, you need to be sure that your boots are up to the task.
A good boot starts with quality materials, and they need to be constructed well too. The sole should not start to peel, seams should remain intact, and the material should not crack, rip, or tear.
Welt construction is a good sign that a boot is going to hold up to the task. Durable material is stitched to the upper and the sole to work as an unbreakable barrier, holding the boot together. These boots are almost indestructible and offer superior durability.
With durability, attention should also be paid to the sole. The sole should not peel after wear, and it should be non-slip too, and provide lots of traction. For worksite use, the soles should be able to resist slipping on water, oil, grease, acid, and more and be resistant to those liquids too.
Comfort
The material holds up and the boots are well constructed, but what is the point in wearing them if they are not comfortable? You should be able to wear work boots all day and not feel that your feet are about to explode.
Comfortable work boots take the burden off your feet, protect your ankles, cushion your sole, stay in shape, and let you focus on your work.
The right shape and size is the first thing to consider. Once you have shoes that fit, you need to make sure that they are breathable for hot temperatures and feature enough insulation for when it turns cold. They should have enough room to move your toes while cradling and supporting your feet. Moisture should not be let in and any moisture inside should be wicked away to prevent chafing and blisters.
In essence, when you are wearing your work boots, it should not feel as if you are wearing your work boots.
Safety Toes
For anyone who has ever stubbed their toe, you know that toe protection is essential on a work site. Many work boots come with toe protection, and the toe protection can vary by degrees.
Steel toes are probably the protection which you are most familiar with. They give great protection and are almost impossible to penetrate (you can even kick things when you get angry and not damage your toes). The downside to steel is that it is heavy and conducts temperature. If you work in cold conditions, then steel is not ideal.
Aluminum toes give as much protection as steel toes do and are lighter. The downside is that they are bulkier than steel toes. They also conduct temperature, so they are also not ideal in cold conditions.
Composite toes can be crafted from plastic, carbon fiber, or kevlar. They provide a lot of protection, and the main selling feature is that they do not conduct temperature, so your toes will not get especially cold when the temperature drops.
If you do work in cold climates, then look for a shoe which has extra insulation but be prepared for those boots to be warm when the weather begins to heat up.
Steel, aluminum, and composite toe caps compared (by “safetybootsuk”).
Sole & Heel
The sole and heel are an important part of your shoe when it comes to safety in the workplace. You should be looking for a sole and heel which is slip-resistant (oil-resistant if you can find it).
Slipping causes a great many accidents in the workplace, and prevention is the best cure.
Your sole and heel should also be puncture-resistant. The best way to avoid a nail in your foot is to look where you are going, but that is not always possible. Many work boots are fitted with a puncture-resistant plate in the sole to protect against anything which you may step on. Depending on where you work, you can also find acid-resistant soles.
