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Work means something different to everyone. But on the subject of the best work boots, going into a carpeted office and sitting at a desk probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. The brands offering shoes for this category understand that conditions can be hazardous—and not in the figurative sense. From construction zones to oil rigs to coarse stretches of grazing land, many 9-to-5 gigs require footwear that's all about protection. It's not a mere suggestion.
These gigs are outdoors, on sites filled with debris and other obstacles that could very well cause injuries. Reinforced toes, durable outsoles, and waterproof uppers are all hallmarks of work boots that'll stand up to the rigors of, well, work. And for the guys that are going to the office? A form-forward pair that recalls the greatest hits of yesteryear is more than up to the task. However you work, here are the best pairs of boots to help you do it.
Ever Boots doesn’t play around when it comes to offering the goods for risky sites. From the oiled leather and welted construction to the tough rubber outsoles, its styles will keep your feet safe no matter the situation. Many offer the same details, but what sets the brand apart is the hard-to-beat price.
Under Armour isn't the first name that comes to mind when it comes to work boots, but the go-to brand for working out is proving otherwise with this pair for anyone who's thinking more about time on their feet than potential falling objects. It's super lightweight and features a plastic toe cap for (a little) protection, a fitted silhouette for stability, and side zippers that make it easy to put on and take off.
When we first saw these boots, we assumed the price was a typo. Super-slick, waterproof, wear-'em-with-a-sport-coat-jeans boots for just $170? Surely that was wrong! And yet, here they are. And you can buy them right now. The only question left is: What are you waiting for?
These are the quintessential workwear boots for staying comfortable all day, no matter where the day takes you. They're flexible, cushiony, and super soft, with a rounded toe that won't weigh you down.
Take a look at these boots. What do you see? A pair of wheat Timbs, yes, but it's a lot more. From the height to the sole, Timberland Pro brings the extra, work-ready features to its tough boots. This pair has a soft toe, which means you still need to be mindful of tools and debris, but a whole heap of comfort- and safety-enhancing elements mean it's made for an all-day job.
You likely know Dr. Martens for its iconic 1460 boot—the one everyone from old-school punks to modern day cool kids has adopted as part of their uniform. But the brand also has a thriving workwear division, making shoes that are better suited to a job site than a night out. This pair features steel toes for protection, plus a padded tongue and collar for comfort.
Trust that with a name like Wolverine, the brand is as fierce and heavy-duty as it gets. Its Hellcat boots, for example, feature a completely waterproof upper, moisture-wicking mesh lining, and sturdy rubber outsoles. Not only that, but the full-cushioned footbed ensures maximum comfort.
A sturdy, durable option, these boots are hefty without being heavy. The lightweight style glides seamlessly with your stride, and has a heavy-duty tread to ensure no slips or messes.
The cowboy boot isn't just about style—at least in the hands of Ariat. The brand favored by ranchers and those working on rigs is offering a a pair built to withstand electric hazards and oil spills. The steel toes and Duratread outsoles assure it.
Of course Caterpillar, a company that manufactures machinery and engines, offers the kind of footwear that's up to snuff. Just take a look at these boots, which feature a steel toe and padded ankles, along with oil-resistant outsoles.
If you're more concerned with channeling a workwear vibe than finding something you can pull on while actively doing construction work, Red Wing Heritage has you covered. These boots are built to last for years of regular-guy wear. They're made of incredible leather, with impeccable construction, and the look is downright timeless.
The brand? Thorogood. The boots? American Heritage. The name's an immediate indication that you're about to get a pair of impressive, domestically made boots. And guess what? They're crafted with a steel toe and ready to go to work.
Here they are, the Docs you know and love, in all their glory. The 1460 isn't a work boot in the same way a job site-ready, steel-toe boot might be. The style has spread too far and wide to be fenced in by those kinds of distinctions. But if you think of "work" in a relatively open way, these are these are the go-to boots. They look good with pretty much everything, they're comfy, and they last for ages.
Our favorite wear-them-anywhere-you-want boots have received a work-friendly rework. They're definitely worth a try.
Moc-toe boots have a long history in workwear. Some go for a softer route, recognizing that the wearer is perhaps more likely to be grabbing brunch than an I-beam. But this pair leans in on the functionality; the aluminum toe protects you from falling objects, while the padded collar and wedge sole keep you comfortable.
They key factors that me Merrill's celebrated Moab ideal for hiking—abrasion-resistant toe, waterproof exterior, and comfy footbed—also makes it ideal for construction sites.
Whether you're trekking through a storm or going through some home renovations, these Carolina work boots—which are built to be slip-resistant and safe for electrical hazards—are what you need.
The standard brand for quality workwear? Carhartt, of course. A prime example is its waterproof boots, which feature multi-layer cushioning and a durable leather exterior.
Trishna Rikhy is the Associate Style Commerce Editor at Esquire. Previously, her writing has appeared in Vogue Runway, PAPER Magazine, V Magazine, V MAN, and more. She is based in NYC, but can probably be found wherever the strongest cup of coffee is.
Barry Samaha is the former style commerce editor at Esquire, where he covered all things fashion and grooming. Previously, he was an editor at Harper’s Bazaar, Surface, and WWD, along with overseeing editorial content at Tod’s Group. He has also written for The Daily Beast, Coveteur, Departures, Paper, Bustle Group, Forbes, and many more. He is based in New York City and can't seem to find enough closet space for all his shoes.
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