From Red Wing and Danner to Caterpiller and R.M Williams, the best work boots for men offer support and safety on all terrains, and it’s good news. Whether you work outdoors or on a construction site, one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a sturdy work boot. After all, safety comes first, but there’s than must protection that’s on offer. As men’s work boots have evolved over time, a number of great Australian and American workwear brands have added a more stylish and contemporary approach to their construction. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon to see those who drive a desk settled in for a full day in boots.
What to Look For in a Work Boot
So what makes a good work boot, you might be wondering? When looking for a good boot there are four key things to look out for. These include:
- Comfort – The name of the game is comfort, after all, you’ll be wearing these boots day-in and day-out for around 10 hours a day. It pays to look for a pair of boots that has added arch support and a structure heel.
- Style – You might be a fan of the classic American style of work boot, but the more modern interpretations generally lend themselves well to the safety side of things. If you are a desk-jockey looking to up your style game, it’s hard to go past the moc-toe design.
- Protection – For those actually using their work boots for you, making sure they keep you protected from the elements is key. Most high-quality work boots will have both an inner and outer lining to give you a bit more protection.
- Construction – Depending on the terrain and work you are doing, this can be an important factor. As mentioned, most high-quality boots will feature multiple layers, however, they differ depending on the material used. Considering what you’ll actually be using them for.
Best Work Boots for Men
Like any piece of equipment, you’ll use it doesn’t hurt to do some research to find the best one for you. Well to save you the hassle, we’ve done the research and found the best work boots for men.
1. Red Wing Classic Moc Boot
Originally created in 1952, the Red Wing Classic Moc 6-Inch Boot perfectly combines style and functionality. These leather moccasin style boots are made in the US and feature a Traction Tred Cushion crepe wedge and a thick treaded outsole with an Oro Legacy leather upper that is waterproof. The leather used moulds to the shape of your foot for comfort. The boot also has a Norwegian welt construction which adds to the overall strength and durability. They are available in a range of colours and sizes. They’re built to survive anything you throw their way.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in USA
Sole: Synthetic
Price: USD$400
2. Blundstone Men’s Original 500 Series
Known as the OG Australian work boots, the Blundstone Men’s Original 500 Series are designed to survive harsh conditions. These boots are shaped like a foot for comfort and feature a patented shock protection system. Stout brown premium leather elastic sided v cut uppers are pared with weatherproof leather uppers are fused seamlessly into a polyurethane sole for strength and durability. Removable insoles and muck-proof rubber outsoles add to the boots overall comfort and protection. They’re also available in a range of colours and sizes.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in Australia
Sole: Synthetic
Price: AUD$200
3. Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot
Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot is designed to protect your feet without compromising on flexibility, comfort and support. The boots are made from 100% leather and feature FastDry Technology Lining which wicks away sweat. They’re available in a range of colours and sizes. The boots also have foam cushion insoles and the VA midsole with PU Strobel pad provide that extra comfortable support. Cement constructed Carhartt Rugged Flex outsole and rubber soles make this a durable long-lasting men’s boot that is ready for anything.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in USA
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$200
4. R.M. Williams Comfort Craftsman
R.M. Williams Comfort Craftsman is handcrafted in Adelaide Australia, from a single piece of yearling leather. They’re available in a range of colours and sizes. The boot features a rubber welt sole with a classic squared chisel toe and a flat heel. The inner boot features a comfort innersole as well as a padded heel lining for extra comfort. While double branded tugs and elastic sides finish the boot. They are available in a range of leather shades.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in Australia
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$595
5. Timberland Pro Bosshog
Timberland Pro Bosshog 6” Comp Toe Work Boots are made from premium leather and feature traditional lace-up closure with sturdy fabric laces and top hooks. These all-purpose waterproof work boots feature a breathable, moisture-wicking mesh lining to prevent and control odours as well as a cement construction that provides both long-lasting durability and flexibility. They also feature a cushioned footbed with Anti-Fatigue Technology® and Lightweight EVA midsole that both feature shock-absorbing and long-lasting underfoot support, cushioned comfort. To finish the boots a non-metallic puncture plate is added protection against sharp objects while the non-marking rubber outsole is oil, slip, and abrasion-resistant for added safety.
Material: Full-grain Leather
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$200
6. Ever Boots Tank Soft Toe Leather Work Boots
Ever Boots Tank Soft Toe Leather Work Boots are all-purpose boots that are designed with premium 2.0MM Nubuck leather. Each boot is built with an insulated mesh lining that consistently keeps your foot warm and comfortable, while the PU Insole provides maximum comfort to your feet. Crafted with Goodyear Welt Construction for added strength and their signature Tank tread pattern offers dependable traction when working on slippery and uneven surfaces.
Material: 100% Leather
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$80
7. Wolverine Men’s SR Direct-Attach
Wolverine is an iconic American brand that combines superior materials with timeless craftsmanship, Their Wolverine Men’s SR Direct-Attach 6″ Work Boot do just that. They’re made with a tumbled full-grain leather upper and features a permanent direct-attach construction that seals out water. Long-lasting Dri-lex lining wicks away sweat, while a removable double-density footbed adds cushioning and stability while you work. The boot is finished with slip-resistant soles as well as Wolverine DuraShocks® SR Polyurethane outsole which absorbs shock.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in USA
Sole: Syntehtic
Price: AUD$400
8. Golden Fox Moc Toe Wedge
Golden Fox Work Boots 6″ Men’s Moc Toe Wedge is made with durable oil full-grain leather. The boots are water repellent, softens with wear and are built to last. They have a comfortable & Polyurethane Cushion insole which is also shock-absorbing and helps supports the lower back and legs. The 6″ Moc Toe Wedge also features a Goodyear Welt which creates a superior bond between the uppers and the outsole strengthening the boot. Steel shanks are also added to provide extra support around the arch of your foot.
Material: 100% Leather
Manufactured: Made in USA
Sole: Polyurethane
Price: AUD$130
9. Blundstone Men’s Work Series
Since 1870, Blundstone has been making sturdy and unique boots in Tasmania, Australia. The Blundstone Men’s Work Series is designed for protection and durability. The boots are made using a sturdy leather upper, it also features stretchy elastic panels and an oil and acid resistant outsole. The boot also features a Broad fitting Type 1 steel toe cap for extra protection.
10. Skechers Tarlac Steel Toe Work Boot
Skechers Tarlac Steel Toe Work Boot is just like other work boots. These waterproof work boots feature a steel cap toe as well as slip-resistant and oil-resistant rubber traction outsoles. They’re made with a smooth 100% leather and corduroy mesh fabric upper. The boot is available in a range of leather shades. What sets this work boot apart is its mid-calf height, which is a little lighter and comfortable for stomping around the worksite. The boots also have Skechers signature memory foam insole, that’s designed to keep your feet refreshed and comfortable as you work.
Material: 100% Leather
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$100
11. Dr. Martens Unisex-Adult Work Construction Boot
Dr. Martens Unisex-Adult Work Construction Boot is crafted with waterproof crazy horse leather that features a waxy, oily finish. It’s available in black and dark brown. These boots are constructed with a padded collar and an internal steel-toe cap. It also features a 6-tie boot with two tunnel hooks along with Dr. Martens iconic and durable PVC air-cushioned sole.
Material: 100% Leather
Sole: Synthetic
Price: AUD$200
12. R.M. Williams Yard Boot
R.M. Williams Yard Boot is the creation of the all Aussie collaboration between Marc Newson and R.M. Williams. The Yard Boot 365 is handcrafted in South Australia, it pays homage to the R.M.William’s Gardener Yard Boot. This modern-day work boot is crafted for the modern-day worker and it’s made from one piece of hand-oiled kip leather. This boot features a rubber outsole with a sunray sole tread pattern as well as an engineered elasticised knit gusset with R.M. Williams signature embroidered tug. The boot is available in a range of leather shades.
Material: Greasy kip leather
Manufactured: Made in Australia
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$445
13. Caterpillar Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
Caterpillar is known for its durable work boots. The Caterpillar Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot is made with 100% quality oiled full-grain leather. The boot is available in four different leather shades. For extra comfort, the ankle-cut padded boot features a climasphere breathable insole as well as an engineered nylon mesh lining. They’re also made with a slip-resistant outsole and a Goodyear welt construction that provides maximum durability and flexibility when working.
Material: 100% leather
Sole: Synthetic
Price: AUD$140
14. Danner Bull Run
Since 1932, Danner has been making durable and comfortable boots in the USA. This tradition continues with the Danner Bull Run 6” Work Boot, which is handcrafted and has a stitch-down construction for strength and stability. It’s also waterproof and made from the highest quality full-grain leather. They also feature an OrthoLite footbed for comfort and the sturdy Danner Wedge outsole which provided good grip.
Material: Full-grain leather
Manufactured: Made in USD
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$290
15. Thorogood American Heritage
The Thorogood American Heritage 6” Moc Toe MAXwear Safety Toe Boot is made using full-grain leather and comes in two colours. The boot features a Goodyear storm welt construction along with a MAXWear Wedge slip-resistant outsole. For added protection, the boot is equipped with steel toe protection. The boots also feature electric shock-resisting soles and a removable Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed on a Poron comfort cushion insole for extra comfort.
Material: Full-grain leather
Manufactured: Made in USD
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$300
16. Keen Detroit XT Mid Boots
Keen is relatively a young brand, yet its products are made to last and are designed for heavy outdoor use. The Keen Detroit XT Mid Boots are made to take on any job site. They feature KEEN’s Grip oil and slip-resistant non-marking outsoles for protection as well as KEEN’s Key-Tech Flex which adds extra comfort while reducing foot fatigue.
Material: Synthetic
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$200
17. Caterpillar Men’s Generator
Known for its durable work boots, it is no surprise why Caterpillar is so popular. The Caterpillar Men’s Generator 8″ Waterproof Steel Toe Boot is made with 100% waterproof leather and uses seam sealing waterproof liners. They also feature a nylon shank for added support and stability. For extra protection, the boots are made with a T900 Outsole and use SRX Slip-resistant Rubber Outsole which reduces the risk of slips.
Material: 100% leather
Manufactured: Made in USD
Sole: Leather
Price: AUD$200
18. Under Armour Valsetz RTS
Most known for their athletic wear, Under Armour also have some amazing worksite footwear. The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 with Zipper Military and Tactical work boot is made with a lightweight, durable synthetic leather and an updated textile upper. It features a UA ClutchFit ankle support system that contours and provides support while you work. For extra protection, the boot has a TPU toe cap as well as a welded PU film that surrounds the perimeter of the boot for abrasion resistance.
Material: Textile and Synthetic
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$150
19. Men’s Timberland PRO 6″ Pit Boss Steel Toe Boots
The Timberland PRO 6″ Pit Boss Steel Toe Boots are made from premium 100% waterproof rugged nubuck leather. They’re designed for optimal performance and comfort on the job as they feature a moisture-wicking lining and anti-fatigue insoles. With a Goodyear welt construction and electrical hazard protection and slip and oil resistant soles, you know these boots will last.
Material: Leather
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$150
20. Wolverine Durashocks 6” Work Boot
Wolverine Durashocks 6” Work Boot is made using premium waterproof full-grain leather upper. These boots also feature a breathable waterproof membrane with moisture-wicking mesh lining. They also feature removable durashocks dual-density PU footbed that supports every step. The boots are finished with a Goodyear Welt construction, nylon shank and slip-resistant soles.
Material: Synthetic
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$400
21. Caterpillar Men’s Threshold Waterproof Industrial Boot
The Caterpillar brand is known for its durable work boots, and their Men’s Threshold Waterproof Industrial Boot is made to work. These waterproof boots feature a breathable yet waterproof leather upper for durability. The boots are made with a slip-resistant outsole, a flexible ERGO midsole and a soft removable insole for comfort. The boot is finished with seamed seals that ensure all-around water protection.
Material: Textile and Synthetic
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$140
22. Ariat Groundbreaker Wide Steel Toe Work Boot
The Ariat Groundbreaker Wide Steel Toe Work Boot is not your average work boot. Its made with premium-grade leather features a western style with 900 denier nylon shaft on a Groundbreaker platform. This cowboy styled work boot has a wide square safety toe, an extra comfort insole and are designed with Ariat’s Four Layer Rebound technology for a cushioned footbed and breathable mesh lining. They are also made with a heavy-duty non-marking Duratread is slip and oil-resistant outsole.
Material: Leather
Sole: Rubber
Price: AUD$200
General FAQs
Our list is filled with some of the best brands for work boots, but the best of the best would have to be Blundstone and Carhartt.
It all depends on how frequently you use them and what you use them for, but a good pair of boots should usually last a good six to twelve months maybe more.
There are so many comfortable boots on our list, but the most comfortable would have to be Red Wing's Classic Moc 6-Inch Boot.
