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If you work in a dangerous or rugged environment, there’s a good chance that your company already requires you to wear protective work boots.
But with so many different styles of boots available online and in stores, finding the perfect pair can be a challenge. Unlike other types of shoes, work boots tend to look similar. Deciding which pair to buy usually comes down to the specific details, rather than the color, the style, or the shape and height of the heel.
If you need a new pair of waterproof boots for your job, keep reading. Here are the 15 best waterproof work boots for men and women.
What to Look For in a Work Boot
When buying a new pair of work boots, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
The first thing to consider is the fabric. Most waterproof work boots are made from genuine leather, which is always higher quality than faux leather or PU options. Leather boots tend to last longer and uphold their durability over time, while boots made from softer textiles can break down more easily.
If getting your feet wet is of concern, be sure to buy boots labeled as waterproof, not water-resistant. Water-resistant simply means that they’re able to resist splashes, spills and a few moments in the rain.
You’ll also want to think about the height. Some work boots come up just above the ankle, while others have a taller shaft. If you often find yourself in puddles, standing water or extremely muddy conditions, opt for a taller boot for added protection.
The lining and insole of the shoe are important as well, especially if you’re going to wear your boots every day that you’re at work. Linings made with foam, EVA, extra cushioning or orthotic insoles provide extra comfort so that you can wear them for hours at a time.
And lastly, consider the outsole and the traction on the bottom of the boot. If you work in slippery conditions, choose boots with thick lug soles that offer plenty of traction.
With these things in mind, here’s our roundup of the best work boots for women and men.
The Best Women’s Waterproof Work Boots
Looking for women’s work boots designed with comfort, style and safety in mind? Here are a few of our favorites, ranging in price from $29.99 to $277.
Caterpillar Women’s Mae Steel Toe Waterproof Construction Boot
With cement construction and a PU midsole, the Caterpillar Women’s Mae Steel Toe Waterproof Construction Boots are equal parts safe and comfortable. These boots are made from 100% leather and feature a rugged rubber sole for slip resistance, a nylon mesh footbed for added comfort and steel toes.
These boots will protect you against electrical hazards, as well as all sorts of elements and dangerous work conditions.
Timberland PRO Women’s Direct Attach Soft Toe Insulated Waterproof Industrial Boot
With a six-inch height for ankle protection, the Timberland PRO Women’s Direct Attach Soft Toe Insulated Waterproof Industrial Boot offers a classic, rugged look. This stylish and protective boot is made from nubuck leather and features a chunky, low heel, a durable rubber sole and soft toes.
These Timberland boots are also built for shock absorption, making them one of the most comfortable work boots around.
KEEN Utility Women’s Detroit XT Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
The KEEN Utility Women’s Detroit XT Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot is slip-resistant, oil-resistant, breathable and made for all-day comfort.
These boots are made from manmade materials and feature a rubber sole, aluminum toes, and a flexible and contoured underfoot. What we love about these boots is how sturdy and stable they feel on the feet. They’re also built to protect against electrical hazards.
Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
Available in a variety of cool colors, the Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot is made for the woman who works hard and needs to keep her tootsies protected!
These tall boots are made from premium nubuck leather with a nylon mesh lining, a moisture-wicking sock liner and a PU foam footbed. Slip-resistant rubber soles provide excellent traction, while steel toes offer added protection.
They’re also rated for electrical hazard protection and detailed with ERGO technology for flexibility.
Timberland PRO Women’s Hightower Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boot
With soft toes and a lug sole, the Timberland PRO Women’s Hightower Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boot is a rugged and stylish option for both work and play. These boots are made from 100% leather and feature an ankle-high shaft, a shock-absorbing footbed and a fiberglass shank that provides structure and support.
These Timberlands are also made with a moisture-wicking liner and an anti-microbial treatment. That means they won’t stink after a long, hard day of work!
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Wolverine Women’s Floorhand Steel Toe Industrial Work Boot
If your job requires steel toe protection, the Wolverine Women’s Floorhand Steel Toe Industrial Work Boot is a great choice!
Made from full-grain leather, these Wolverine boots boast a lightweight and comfortable construction. They include a breathable membrane, a moisture-wicking mesh lining, rubber lug soles and a molded EVA footbed.
You can also remove the footbed if you want to wear them with heavier socks.
Athlefit Women’s Lace Up Ankle Boots Waterproof Work Booties
As the most affordable option on this list, the Athlefit Women’s Lace Up Ankle Boots Waterproof Work Booties are perfect for the hardworking woman on a budget. These boots don’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive boots. But they are waterproof, comfortably padded, seam-sealed and finished with rubber soles.
Plus, they come in a bunch of colors, including pink!
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The Best Men’s Waterproof Work Boots
Whether you’re shopping for steel toe work boots, soft toe work boots, insulated boots or boots designed for electrical safety, here are the best men’s work boots, ranging in price from $78 to $250.
Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot
In genuine leather with a heavy-duty rubber sole, the Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot is perfect for wearing on dangerous and dirty job sites.
This pair of boots is insulated for added protection and warmth. They’re detailed with contrast color trim at the toes and finished with a removable foam gel inset that makes them super comfortable to wear. Criss-cross laces and antique hardware give them a classic look that never goes out of style.
Chippewa Men’s 6″ Waterproof Insulated Lace Up Boot
Keep your feet comfortable and dry with the Chippewa Men’s 6″ Waterproof Insulated Lace Up Boot.
These insulated work boots are made from 100% leather and feature a durable synthetic sole and seam-sealed construction so that no water gets in. Thermolite insulation offers added warmth in the cold.
The hardware is also treated so that when they do get wet, the hardware won’t tarnish. And because comfort is everything, they’re built with a removable cushion orthotic insole.
Timberland PRO Men’s Power Welt Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
Timberland is famous for making great boots, and the Timberland PRO Men’s Power Welt Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot is no exception. These leather boots offer arch support and include an oil and slip-resistant outsole for excellent traction.
Detailed with steel safety toes and a breathable lining, these boots feature a 6-inch tall shaft so that they hit just above the ankle.
KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
Don’t like wearing leather boots? The KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot is one of the few styles to make this list that’s made from fabric instead of leather.
Waterproof and breathable, they have a soft mesh liner and oil and slip-resistant rubber outsoles that meet ASTM standards. They’re also rated for electrical hazard safety and include moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet extra dry.
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Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoes
If your employer doesn’t require you to wear boots with alloy toes or steel toes, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoes are a great option. Designed with a soft toe and lightweight construction, these are some of the most comfortable work boots around.
These boots are fully waterproof with a full-grain leather upper. They’re also built with slip-resistant rubber lug outsoles for great traction, even in slippery conditions.
EVER BOOTS Ultra Dry Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots
If you perform most of your work outside, the EVER BOOTS Ultra Dry Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots will keep your feet warm and dry all day long. These boots are made from 100% leather and feature a rubber sole, removable insoles and thick treads that provide great traction.
The leather used on these boots is soft, so you won’t have to worry about breaking them in. They’re also lightweight and detailed with a steel shank so that they’re comfortable when you’re climbing ladders or stairs.
NAT’S 100% Waterproof Steel Toe Boots for Men
Weighing in at less than 2.2 pounds per shoe, the NAT’S 100% Waterproof Steel Toe Boots for Men are ultra-lightweight and comfy to wear.
Crafted from Natex 2.0 waterproof fabric, double density EVA and rubber, these boots are oil-resistant, slip-resistant and built with heel reinforcement and steel toes.
They’re also CSA Class 1 approved and dielectric to protect against electric shocks, making them perfect for electricians.
Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Insulated PAC Composite Toe Boot
With a 10″ tall shaft for extra coverage and protection, the Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Insulated PAC Composite Toe Boot is a rugged and durable option for any job site.
These Carhartt boots are made from 100% leather. They feature an electrical hazard safety toe, a thick rubber sole and a heel guard that creates ankle stability. They’re insulated, they’re warm, they’re breathable and they’re completely waterproof.
Who Makes the Best Waterproof Work Boots?
There are dozens of different brands that make stylish, comfortable, and durable work boots. But if you’re looking for the best of the best, we recommend choosing Timberland, Caterpillar, KEEN or Wolverine.
These brands make some of the best protective work boots in the market. And since they make so many great designs, it’s easy to find a pair that’s perfect for you!
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Women’s Work Boots
- Caterpillar Women’s Mae Steel Toe Waterproof Construction Boot
- Timberland PRO Women’s Soft Toe Waterproof Industrial Boot
- KEEN Utility Women’s Detroit XT Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
- Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
- Timberland PRO Women’s Hightower Soft Toe Waterproof Work Boot
- Wolverine Women’s Floorhand Steel Toe Industrial Work Boot
- Athlefit Women’s Lace Up Ankle Boots Waterproof Work Booties
Men’s Work Boots:
- Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot
- Chippewa Men’s 6″ Waterproof Insulated Lace Up Boot
- Timberland PRO Men’s Power Welt Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
- KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
- Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoes
- EVER BOOTS Ultra Dry Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots
- NAT’S 100% Waterproof Steel Toe Boots for Men
- Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Insulated PAC Composite Toe Boot
Jessica Heston
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