When doing hard labor at the jobsite, we all know how tiring it is to walk around, and how dangerous it can be to work without proper footwear. Work boots were made for that purpose since they provide a sufficient amount of traction, safety, and protection for you.
So, which are the best work boots for concrete surfaces on the market? We’ve chosen some pairs below and listed their corresponding pros and cons to help you find the ideal boots for your needs.
Timberland PRO 6-Inch Direct Attach Men’s Steel Toe Boots
My top pick is the Timberland PRO 6-Inch Direct Attach Men’s Steel Toe Boots. While most of us are familiar with this well-known shoe brand, I took a closer look at the specs and they are actually ideal boots for working on concrete. For instance, they have MaxTRAX tread that will give you a better grip than most other boots on various surfaces.
What’s more, the rugged construction of the waterproof nubuck leather upper will keep your feet protected from work debris and unfavorable conditions, so you can stay focused on the work ahead rather than being distracted by uncomfortable footwear.
Since it has a breathable lining that’s also sweat-wicking, a long day ahead will no longer be filled with uncomfortable (and sweaty-footed) dread. A TPU outsole and a PU midsole are used for added durability, plus there’s a steel toe for protection during work, as per ASTM F2413-18 standards, making it work-appropriate.
The design of the soles helps support the foot for all-day comfort without sacrificing durability. If you have problems with your back during long hours of work, this is a great pair to help release the tension.
Things I Like About This Product: They are relatively easy to break in and they are also a steel toe pair, so they are ideal for hazardous jobs.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: They are a little heavier than most work shoes but if you’re after superb protection, then it won’t be much of a con for you.
Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boots
If you prefer a soft-toe working pair, the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boots are for you. Available in various sizes and colors to choose from, they have hex-shaped grommets which adds to both style and durability. There’s also a speed lacing shaft to reduce downtime when you’re on the jobsite.
As Caterpillar is also a well-known industrial gear provider, needless to say, the boots have great durability for construction work; with a combination of synthetic outsole and leather construction. If you often find yourself accidentally stepping on nails and other small, sharp objects on the jobsite, these boots will provide sufficient protection against punctures.
Aside from being ideal for concrete, they’re also decent for puddles and other wet surfaces thanks to the durable construction. These boots are relatively easy to break in as well.
If you need to wear socks to keep your feet warm during the colder months, the wide design of the boots will provide you with sufficient room for thick socks. Another feature I like about Caterpillar boots (and other equipment) is their good warranty policy that lasts until your boots have worn out.
Things I Like About This Product: The boots have sufficient weather, puncture, and debris resistance, making them ideal for tackling common jobsite hazards.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The laces might not be that durable but they are easily replaceable.
HISEA Men’s Work Boots Neoprene Rubber Boots
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, I’d recommend the HISEA Men’s Work Boots Neoprene Rubber Boots. Since they are made of neoprene, they work well for hot summer days and for fieldwork on farms, making them a versatile pick that perform well outside of just the jobsite.
For people who do farm work, I’d recommend these since the 5-mm-thick neoprene will wick away moisture and minimize foot sweat and stink after a hard day’s work. I also like the boot traction that’s good to use on various surfaces other than concrete, such as rocky roads and even asphalt (great for road construction workers as well).
You will also feel cooler in these boots due to the air mesh lining that helps improve air circulation from within the boots. Even in humid environments or if the sun is striking hot, these boots will provide comfort and dryness. It also has a sealed rubber shell for extra protection around the ankle.
Even though the heel and toe have three layers of rubber, they don’t affect the weight of the boots much when it comes to mobility. The insole is also removable to fit your comfort preference.
Things I Like About This Product: I like the neoprene material which helps keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: You might need slightly thicker socks to keep them from feeling too loose when walking around.
Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Boots
You’ll find the Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Boots comfortable for most weather conditions thanks to its special membrane construction. With a rubber outsole, these are steel-toed boots so they are ideal for women who work on the construction site or on other hazardous jobs.
If you often work in a slippery jobsite or in an area with a lot of rain, then I suggest these boots because they will provide you with comfort and dryness. There’s also the added benefit of toe protection. They provide excellent traction, even when walking on small stones and the like.
For durability, the boots have molded rubber outsoles that are sufficient for traction due to their thickness. Even though they are steel-toe boots, they don’t compromise on style and design, making them also fine boots for walking around the city after a hard day’s work.
Things I Like About This Product: It’s waterproof for most jobsite conditions and it has a steel toe.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Depending on your comfort preference, you may have to change the insole to something with better arch support. They are also a little difficult to clean due to the lightness of the color.
Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots
Yet another pair of rain-resistant footwear, the Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots are made from horse leather for added durability (with additional oiling for protection from the elements).
The waterproof membrane construction is not just for resisting wetness in the jobsite but also to prevent the shoes from becoming stinky over time. The boots have a carbon fiber toe, which is a great alternative to those who want jobsite safety but feel as though steel toes are too heavy for them. If you are an electrician and are looking for work boots without a steel toe, these carbon fiber toe boots will work well.
These ASTM F2413-18-compliant work boots are made with a rubber outsole combined with full-grain leather. Inside the boots, you will find a waterproof lining to keep your feet dry for all-day projects.
These boots are also shock-resistant thanks to the PU midsole and PORON Xrd insole. For concrete, the rubber outsole has sufficient traction to keep you from slipping. The construction makes the boots ideal for all-weather work since it has sweat-wicking properties (for the summer) while having insulating fibers (for the cold) as well.
Things I Like About This Product: These work great for electricians since they are metal-free yet still provide toe protection while having good concrete traction.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The eyelets could have been designed better in terms of durability. You may also need to order a size up to accommodate thicker insoles or socks.
Timberland PRO Boondock 6-Inch Electrical Composite Toe Work Safety Shoes
Here’s another one for the hardworking electrician – the Timberland PRO Boondock 6-Inch Electrical Composite Toe Work Safety Shoes. With a TPU outsole for resistance against oil and slippage on the jobsite, and Ever-Guard leather for worksite durability.
They are also equipped with a bit of shock-absorbing material so you can kick away at jobsite items without them deteriorating quickly. Since these are for the electrician, they are composite toe boots as opposed to steel toes.
I also like the waterproof membrane that makes it resistant to wet weather and other unfavorable working conditions. Because the outsole is Satra Tm144:2007-tested, you’ll also find it as a great working shoe in the winter.
These boots also offer protection for those who work in pipeline jobs due to their waterproof qualities. The tread depth will keep your feet stable on slippery concrete and other hazardous surfaces. If you want additional room for your toes, this is the boot pair for you.
Things I Like About This Product: I like the waterproof qualities, which will be helpful for humid and unfavorable jobsite conditions, especially with winter and pipeline work. Since they are a composite toe pair, they are fine for electricians while still providing stub protection.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Replacing the insoles will be a little difficult as only manufacturer-specific insoles would fit in these boots.
Carhartt 11-Inch Wellington Steel Toe Leather Work Boots
For those who want construction site steel toe boots with sufficient height, the Carhartt 11-Inch Wellington Steel Toe Leather Work Boots are for you. These bad boys have a combination of leather, nylon, and a synthetic outsole for durability against work debris and wet conditions.
The boots are waterproof while also bearing sufficient breathability inside, which is important since these are high boots. In the winter, they also make great work boots since there’s a 3M Thinsulate microfiber to keep you warm.
If you are looking for boots that are durable enough to wear in the snow, these will do well due to the insulation factor. What’s more, if you want steel toe boots but without the bulkiness, these are quite lightweight as compared to similar boots.
They will also work well for oil and hot asphalt aside from concrete surfaces, making them great all-around boots for various jobsites. These boots also have a low heel design so if you tend to have aches on your midsection, these will help you feel comfortable for all-day work.
Things I Like About This Product: I like the construction of the steel toe without sacrificing its light weight. It has winter insulation that makes it great for winter work boots, as well as footwear for oil and asphalt surfaces on the jobsite.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The steel toe sidewall could be improved in terms of durability, especially for very rough usage.
Caterpillar Men’s Threshold Waterproof Steel Toe Industrial Boots
Yet another pair of CATs, the Caterpillar Men’s Threshold Waterproof Steel Toe Industrial Boots are made of a rubber outsole with leather upper that has sufficient breathability for hot days. It also has water protection thanks to the seal on the tongue of the shoe.
Made with a slip-resistant outsole for difficult conditions on the jobsite, it also has a waterproof membrane that makes it ideal for heavy rain or other similar wet conditions. Since this is another steel-toe boot pair, it will protect your toes at work from any bumps.
As with many other work boots I mentioned above, it also has a soft insole that’s removable for fitting your custom insoles. If you are looking for fall and winter boots, these will work well thanks to the protection against bad weather.
Due to the design, they will also be comfortable enough for drivers, especially if you drive trucks for long hours. It will work well for temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit if you wear proper socks for the occasion.
Things I Like About This Product: The boots are easy to break in and they’re ideal for winter conditions, as well as for truck driving.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The provided inserts aren’t that comfortable, so you may want to use your own.
KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Xt Mid Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boots
For those looking for a low-profile pair, the KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Xt Mid Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boots are for you. They have a soft toe design with a rubber outsole.
Adhering to ASTM F2892 EH standards, the boots are waterproof for wet weather conditions. If you’re looking for boots that aren’t steel-toe but still provide a sufficient amount of protection on the jobsite, these are for you. They’re made with more flexibility and a lightweight feel.
These can also be used for hiking other than the jobsite wear, due to the waterproof qualities and good traction and curves underneath. If you often work with your knees down, such as when making repairs on the jobsite, these are for you thanks to the KEY-TECH FLEX feature that gives it sufficient comfortable flexibility.
Things I Like About This Product: If you value comfort and flexibility, such as when doing electrical work or bending over for fixing or repairing items, these are great work boots for the job. They’re not too stiff and are easily flexible for bending and kneeling.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Depending on your comfort preferences, you will likely end up having to replace the provided insoles. Since these are not steel toe boots, they aren’t ideal for heavy work or hazardous construction sites.
LARNMERN Waterproof Steel Toe Boots
If you’d like steel toe footwear but you want something that won’t break the bank, the LARNMERN Waterproof Steel Toe Boots are a pair worth checking out. These are waterproof while also resistant to slipping and abrasions thanks to their rubber caps.
For added safety on the jobsite, it has anti-static wires on the insole. You also won’t feel sticky or gross on a hot day thanks to its moisture-wicking EVA insole, which is also coupled with arch support for all-day labor.
If you live in a tropical environment, the humidity and rain won’t interrupt your feet as these boots have sufficient waterproofing qualities. They also have sufficient padding so if you’re looking for comfort for all-day standing jobs, these boots won’t give you a difficult time (or a backache at the end of the day).
Things I Like About This Product: I like the waterproofing feature, which makes it ideal for wet-weathered jobsites by keeping your feet dry and comfortable. These are also steel toe boots so they’re ideal for avoiding stubbed toes on construction sites.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The boots aren’t that wide so if you’re looking for a lot of room inside for comfort or if you have wide feet, these might not be for you.
ROCK POSTER Men’s Work Boots
For those who often step on sharp objects at work, you’ll find the ROCK POSTER Men’s Work Boots a great pair to keep injuries at bay. These are made with steel toe and are puncture-resistant. The TPU outsole will help you keep a steady grip on oily surfaces, as well as for static electricity.
PORON XRD is also used on the insole to help with user fatigue for all-day working in the field. Due to the wide profile shape of the boots, they’re ideal for people who want something very comfortable. Additionally, the full-grain leather construction gives waterproof qualities.
Aside from the steel toe, it even has a PU over-mold for added protection in case you hit something hard. I like the memory foam insole that conforms to your feet to provide relief against soreness from long hours of standing and working.
Things I Like About This Product: It has a memory foam insole, which would appeal to those who often get sore feet during all-day work. They are also ideal for people who have wide feet.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: They run a little large so it’s best to order a size down or prepare to add a thicker sole or socks.
The Methodology: What I Considered When Picking the Work Boots for Concrete Featured Above
So how did I come up with the picks mentioned above? To help you decide, here are some criteria that I depended on when choosing the best work boots for concrete:
Safety Certification
Work boots, at best, should be ASTM certified, especially if it is required in your workplace or jobsite. Look for boots that have sufficient safety certifications, especially if you’re in the field of electric work and construction.
Even if your jobsite doesn’t require an ASTM-certified pair of boots, it’s always nice to have peace of mind knowing that you’re protected with extra care by your boots against punctures, bad weather, and oil slippage.
Traction and Grip
If you are looking for work boots that will do well on concrete, then they need to have sufficient traction and grip. For this, the bottom parts should be designed to keep your feet steady even if there’s oil or water on the surface. Traction is a number one safety point for work boots, especially if you are working in humid and wet environments.
For those who work during the winter or in heavy rain, a pair of work boots that have good traction and grip are essential.
Durability
Work boots are typically made of real or synthetic leather. This makes them resistant to various jobsite hazards, such as punctures, rain, humidity, and the like. When your work boots are properly cleaned and maintained, they will last longer, but I’d prefer if the boots are made with higher quality material so you don’t have to replace them too quickly.
Are you a hard laborer? Do you find that you often throw away work boots because you wear them out quickly? If so, it’s best to get a thicker and more durable pair. Consider it an investment, and that way you won’t have to keep replacing them with new pairs. Added outside reinforcements would be helpful, too.
Type of Toe Protection
Toe protection for work boots come in different styles, such as the following:
- Steel toe – will protect against stubbed toes and hard objects on the jobsite. They are a little heavier than standard work boots but will provide the best protection.
- Composite toe – these are more suitable for electricians because they are metal-free and won’t ruin their line of work, unlike steel toes.
- Soft toe – for fieldwork that doesn’t involve many hazards, soft toes are the best for emphasizing comfort while still having protection.
These protection types are all different from each other and it all depends on your needs. For instance, an electrician might find composite toes better since they provide comfort while also protecting them from the elements. Steel toes, on the other hand, are more preferred by construction workers. Soft toes might be favored by truck drivers.
Comfort
We all want work boots that are easy to break in. Usually, break-in periods for such boots will take somewhere between a few days to two weeks, depending on your comfort level. No two work boot pairs are the same and every worker is different too, so the break-in period is usually a subjective matter.
With that said, you’ll also want work boots that have sufficient foot support, especially on the insole. However, it’s not uncommon to find work boots that don’t exactly have comfortable insoles so you’ll have to adjust by providing your own.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Let’s face it – leather is tedious to clean, but the result is a pair of durable work boots. With that said, these boots should be less of a chore to clean and maintain, which is why some manufacturers combine regular leather with synthetic parts not just for durability but also for simple maintenance.
Size and Color Choices
A great pair of work boots should fit well to the user to provide you with the best comfort and protection on the jobsite. There should be a size chart and it should also be indicated if the foot sizing is on the normal or the wide side. Different color choices should also be present.
Easy Returns and Warranties
Ordering work boots is no different from ordering your favorite gym shoes or sweatshirt – it’s always a good idea to ask the manufacturer about easy returns and warranty policies. This way, you will have peace of mind if the item doesn’t fit your size or if you feel uncomfortable with it.
Most people don’t like the hassle of having to return their work boots to get a proper fit, so the manufacturer should make it a simple process to better appeal to their customers.
Weather Resistance
One factor that makes work boots worth buying is their weather resistance. The most common weather-resistant feature you’ll find among them is being waterproof so you can take them out in the rain.
Similarly, look for the following features on whether you’ll use it as a summer or a winter pair:
- For warm weather, I’d prefer work boots with neoprene so that sweat will be easily absorbed and wicked away, keeping you dry and comfortable. If you are looking for high boots for fieldwork such as farming, consider a breathable pair in terms of design and construction.
- For cold weather, look for insulation materials in the boots. These will keep you warm and comfortable even when the temperatures drop at your jobsite. Of course, it also depends on the type of socks you’ll wear.
Style and Design
Are you looking for a high- or low-profile pair of work boots? It all depends on your preferences – some people prefer a low-height pair because it gives them a lot of flexibility at work.
On the other hand, if you want extra protection from tall grass and splashes of mud (such as when doing fieldwork) then you’ll find tall boots more suitable for the job.
Summary
Overall, my top choice are the Timberland PRO 6-Inch Direct Attach Men’s Steel Toe Boots, which are easy to break in. They are also steel toes suitable for hazardous industrial work. The next pair in my list are the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Work Boots, which are puncture- and weather-resistant for rough use.
If you want simple boots that will do the job, the HISEA Men’s Work Boots Neoprene Rubber Boots are for you, which have moisture-wicking capabilities ideal for farm work. Female jobsite workers will find the Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Boots comfortable and tailored to their needs for steel-toe boots.
I also like the Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots and the Timberland PRO Boondock 6-Inch Electrical Composite Toe Work Safety Shoes, both of which are ideal for electricians due to not having steel toes (composite toes are used).
However, for steel toe boots, you’ll love the Carhartt 11-Inch Wellington Steel Toe Leather Work Boots due to the just-right weight and asphalt-resistant bottom. For winter driving and work, another steel toe pair are the Caterpillar Men’s Threshold Waterproof Steel Toe Industrial Boots.
For those who want foot flexibility without compromising on protection, the KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Xt Mid Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boots are for you. In bad weather, the LARNMERN Waterproof Steel Toe Boots will keep you dry while the ROCK POSTER Men’s Work Boots are ideal for people with wide feet.