The clothes you wear for work are highly important as these can greatly affect your productivity, comfort, and most importantly, your
safety. This is the reason the best waterproof work boots for men are in demand in the market today. Especially if your job requires you to drive, run, hike, walk or even stand for hours, you know for sure that your feet will be protected.
There are plenty of reasons you should be choosing waterproof work boots over other types of work boots. Some are quite hesitant with this type of boot as waterproofing can sometimes mean less breathability, sometimes even less flexibility. However, there are many waterproof work boots for men that can give you the best of all the features you need from a boot — waterproof, durable, comfortable, stylish and at many times even affordable!
Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry. This is very important as having cold and wet feet all day long doesn’t only feel uncomfortable but may also cause you to get sick. Before you know it, you’ll be nursing a cold or flu by the time you get home. We won’t even get you started with how wet feet and socks can get your shoe smelling really bad as soon as you take it off.
Another important reason you should be getting waterproof work boots is because you never really know the working conditions you have to face unless of course you are exclusively working indoors where the weather and temperature is constant and always dry. If your job requires you to work through wet and slippery surfaces, places where it can get muddy, or even through the rain or snow, waterproof boots are most ideal. Note: There are work boots that are also specifically made for snowy areas.
Waterproofing Your Work Boot vs. Ready-Made Waterproof Work Boots
If you are already starting to shop for work boots, you must have probably noticed how there’s very little to no difference between the pricing of waterproof work boots and the pricing of non-waterproof boots. Because of this, it makes little sense to get one that’s not waterproof. After all, an extra feature that doesn’t really take away all the other great features of a standard non-waterproof work boot won’t hurt, right?
However, there are still some who already have their preferred brand and preferred style of a work boot that may not necessarily be waterproof. Because of this, they attempt to waterproof their work boots themselves. In all honesty, this works sometimes; however, if you are not a professional shoemaker, you also have to be honest to yourself that you might not be able to waterproof your boot as good as you need it to be.
To be fair, there are ways in waterproofing your own boot such as these “trade secrets” that were revealed in an article by the Columbia Staff. You simply have to use a particular kind of leather treatment and follow a bunch of other steps and you are good to go. If this method works for some hikers, then it may also work for you.
The truth is waterproofing your own boot is ideal if you already have an existing pair that you want to use for work and you need it to be waterproofed. If you will be buying a brand new one just to waterproof it on your own, again, makes very little sense. Ready-made waterproof work boots are most ideal because of the following reasons:
1. These boots were made by professionals and are guaranteed to be waterproof. In fact, there are some manufacturers that offer 30-day guarantee deals to assure you that what you will be getting is indeed waterproof.
2. Waterproof boots that are made by professionals are created with your comfort in mind. Since the boot is “completely closed” to keep water from entering the shoe, most waterproof boots are with breathable inner materials so your feet are kept dry yet cool.
3. Some are made with insulated material for warmth should you be working in very cold conditions.
4. Most often than not, there are shoe standards that need to be met if your job requires you to wear waterproof boots — and most often than not, the shoe itself needs to be approved and your little DIY waterproofing project may not necessarily be allowable for some workplace requirements.
Qualities to Look for When Shopping for the Best Waterproof Work Boots for Men
The very first and foremost thing that you need to know when shopping for the best waterproof work boots for men is that the price is not always equal to the best quality. This means that a work boot that will cost you very little money can also be as good as a work boot that costs a lot more. Think of it this way — most of these work boots are made similarly. The brand, marketing costs, the place where it is manufactured, etc. are all factors that contribute to the price. Some are just labeled as luxury brands, hence the price hike. However, these aren’t really important if you only just want a work boot that will work for you. A good pair includes the features we will be mentioning below, which are all very basic but highly important.
In addition, it is important for you to realize that not all work boots are the same. Some are made for those who hike, drive or walk long distances. Some are made for those who stand still most of the time inside a factory or are working industrial jobs indoors. There are also work boots that are better for farmers, landscapers, etc. Essentially, you have to know that everyone who needs a waterproof work boot may not necessarily have the same preferences or requirements.
Special Features
This is the part where you will have to check on the waterproof features of the work boot. There are some work boots advertised as waterproof but are they really? Check on the type of material used and the waterproofing method applied. In most cases, waterproof work boots have rubber soles and leather uppers that are made with waterproof materials. There’s usually a waterproof membrane to block the water from entering the shoe.
Durability
Most work boots are made for heavy duty use. Of course, this boot is made for working so the expectation is that it won’t break that easily even if you use it in the roughest ways possible. Depending on the type of job you will use it for, some boots can last for years while others can last for months. Ideally, replacement of work boots should be happening every year, two years or so.
Comfort
It is but common sense for a work boot to be very comfortable. Even regular rubber shoes that we use on the daily must be comfortable, more so the work boot that you intend to wear for hours on end every day. Work can get very tiring and stressful and the last thing you want to worry about is a sore foot. A waterproof work boot may seem tough and rugged but the insides should be soft, cushiony and breathable. Your feet must be kept dry but cool. We mentioned earlier that some waterproof boots have an insulated inner material because some need boots they can wear in colder regions.
Top 10 Best Waterproof Work Boots for Men in 2018 – Complete Chart
1. Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot
Possibly one of the most reviewed and highest rated pair of waterproof boots, the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot is
definitely worth your attention, hence getting the number one spot on this list. Thanks to the thousands of comments and reviews shared by very satisfied owners, it is safe to say that this pair is absolutely worth every penny. It is stylish yet rugged and durable; its affordability is just a great bonus!
Special Features
When it comes to waterproofing, you will surely be satisfied with the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot. It has a seam-sealed full-grain leather upper plus a collar and tongue that’s comfortably padded. While it is as waterproof as a waterproof boot can get, it remains breathable especially at its footbed, which is made with a removable dual density EVA material. It wicks away the moisture from your feet that essentially leaves you dry and cool.
Durability
Timberland is a brand that’s reputable in the footwear industry for years. It was in 1973 when they first introduced their waterproof leather boot, which was then already became the industry standard for protection, workmanship and durability. To this day, they kept their promise to their market to provide boots that are very durable to last for many years. While some workers “damage” their boots within a few months or so, which is completely natural for work boots because of the nature it is being used, the Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot makes a whole lot of difference as it lasted for years for many of its owners.
Comfort
It is essential for every work boot to be very comfortable as it is worn for hours on end each working day. The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot is especially comfortable as it features Timberland’s signature B.S.F.P. system. BSFP stands for Break, Support, Flex and Propel. This means that whether you’re walking, running, hiking or you need to walk through slippery surfaces, this boot will keep you safe, protected, and most importantly comfortable through it all.
Pros
- Timberland’s BSFP system
- Reputable brand
- Fairly priced
- Comfortably padded
- Seam-sealed full-grain leather upper
- Removable dual density EVA footbed
Cons
- Some owners claim size discrepancy
2. Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 Rugged Flex Six-Inch Waterproof Work Boot
Another one of those reputable brands when it comes to work boots, Carhartt came out with the Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 Rugged
Flex Six-Inch Waterproof Work Boot and the market was pleased. There are plenty of high reviews and ratings as well for this pair of work boots and while it isn’t as affordable as some others found on this list, it is exactly as advertised — you are indeed getting what you paid for.
Special Features
The Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 Rugged Flex Six-Inch Waterproof Work Boot is a composite-toe pair of work boots made with oil tanned leather and a rubber sole. Its exceptional workmanship, sturdy materials and waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry at all times. It will keep you safe in the workplace as well as its composite toe meets the standards of the ASTM 2413-11 EH and the shoe’s rubber sole is oil, chemical and slip-resistant.
Durability
This pair of waterproof work boots may not have the same number of reviews of the previous Timberland pair we reviewed above but the existing ones coming from very happy owners prove that it is as durable as you need your pair of boots to be. This pair of Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 Rugged Flex Six-Inch Waterproof Work Boots was made to be rugged and tough and it features a cement construction that you can best rely on to last for many months of very tedious work or even years with proper care.
Comfort
For some shoe manufacturers coming out with their own work boots, durability is all that matters and comfort is only secondary. Thankfully, Carhartt understands that their market needs something that’s not only durable but comfortable as well. The Carhartt Men’s CMF6371 Rugged Flex Six-Inch Waterproof Work Boot features Ortholite insoles, which offer 5 different layers that give enough cushioning and flexibility. Whether you’re walking, standing or even hiking, you will surely feel as comfortable as you need to be with this pair.
Pros
- 100% leather with rubber sole
- Composite toe — meets ASTM 2413-11 EH
- Oil, chemical and slip resistant
- Ortholite insoles
Cons
- Sizing and fit doesn’t seem to work well with some owners
3. Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6-Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe
For a brand that was established back in the late 1800’s, it is but natural for consumers to feel more confident with Wolverine
footwear. After all, the company has proven to offer comfort and durability at its finest throughout decades and even almost a century and a half. While there are different requirements for work boots especially around the toe area, those who are perfectly fine with a soft toe feature should consider the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6-Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe. This is a very affordable pair that has received great reviews from owners who thought it is a great shoe for work.
Special Features
The Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6-Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe is made with imported leather material — full-grain waterproof leather — along with a rubber outsole that offers extra traction. Since it measures a good 6 inches from the arch, it keeps your entire foot dry should you be walking in muddy surfaces or in areas with shallow puddles of water. It is available in dark brown and wheat color choices, which let you add a touch of style with your everyday work wear.
Durability
When it comes to durability, Wolverine doesn’t disappoint. Through all the years they’ve been one of the dominant brands in the boot industry, durability is one of the thing they’re most reputable about. Should you need a pair of work boots that you want to use for months or even years on the daily, then you can have enough confidence with a pair of the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6-Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe.
Comfort
Though some owners shared that this pair can be quite heavy compared to other ultra-lightweight boots, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6-Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe still remains very comfortable. For all-day comfort, it comes with a removable full-cushion footbed.
Pros
- Full-grain waterproof leather
- Rubber outsole
- Slip-resistant
- Removable full-cushion footbed
Cons
- A bit heavier compared to other lightweight work boots
4. Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Waterproof Work Boot
It’s not even a surprise that another Timberland has grabbed a spot on this list, and it is actually just the second of three work boots
from this brand. Just like the first one we featured, the Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Waterproof Work Boot has received hundreds of close to perfect reviews, which simply show that this is just a great pair any person looking for a good work boot would like to own.
Special Features
It is such a great bonus that the Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Waterproof Work Boot is a very good looking work boot. Available in a stylish gray color, you can even wear this casually after work hours. Part of the Timberland Hyperion series, this boot is made with premium leather that features a waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry and adds to abrasion resistance.
Durability
As mentioned earlier, Timberland is very reputable when it comes to footwear and with durability, they never disappoint. Some claim that their Timberlands don’t last as long as their other work boots but for more consumers, they couldn’t be happier with their Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Waterproof Work Boot. This boot features Ever-Guard leather that’s resistant to abrasion and is very durable.
Comfort
Perhaps the most comfortable waterproof work boot among the ones you will find on this list, the Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Waterproof Work Boot even has a 30-day Comfort Guarantee that allows you to get a full refund without any questions asked if you feel like you are not comfortable at all with this boot. It also has an Anti-Fatigue Technology Comfort System that’s shock absorbing, heavily supportive and offers utmost comfort at all times. It comes with a lightweight EVA midsole that allows athletic performance too. It even has an XL alloy safety toe for the best fit and protection.
Pros
- Premium Leather material – Ever-Guard Leather
- Anti-Fatigue Technology Comfort System
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- XL Alloy Safety Toe
Cons
- Limited color options
5. KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Wide Work Boot
All of the brands featured on this list of the best waterproof work boots for men are reputable for their comfort and most importantly
durability. KEEN Utility is no exception. The KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Wide Work Boot is one of the two KEEN Utility work boots we’re featuring here and it is definitely much deserving of the top 5 spot. This boot is available in Dark Earth (Brown) and Black colors and is quite a fashionable yet rugged choice.
Special Features
This boot from KEEN Utility has earned hundreds of great reviews from owners not only because it is a stylish boot, but also because it features the KEEN.DRY Waterproof Breathable Membrane that allows your feet to stay dry yet cool at all times. It is slip resistant and non-marking and also has an oil and slip-resistant outsole.
Durability
KEEN Utility doesn’t take for granted the importance of durability when it comes to work boots. Truth be told, this might just be one of the most durable boots out there. It is made with genuine leather and a rubber sole, with a moisture-wicking lining and Tough Tech nubuck upper.
Comfort
This full-grain leather boot is made with a patent-madding KEEN Welt flexible construction, a dual density EVA footbed and the Hydrophobic/Hydrophilic 2-Zone Comfort Technology. According to the many reviews of owners, the KEEN Utility Men’s Milwaukee Wide Work Boot is true to how it is advertised as it is definitely the most comfortable boot they’ve ever owned. It is also a great bonus that there’s very little to no break-in period with this boot for most owners.
Pros
- Full grain leather
- Fashionable color options
- Dual Density EVA footbed
- Tough Tech nubuck upper
- Hydrophobic/Hydrophilic 2-Zone Comfort Technology
Cons
- Some owners claim this boot can retain foot odor at times
6. EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots
While it isn’t exactly one of the boots you will find in lists such as this one, we have carefully considered customer reviews and ratings
as well as the efficiency of the features needed for a really good waterproof work boot for men. We’ve come up with the decision that the EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots is most definitely deserving of a spot on this list. Truth be told, there are also hundreds of high ratings for this boot and it is one of the most affordable you will find on the market — even less than half of the price of most of the boots on this list.
Special Features
Some manufacturers promise waterproof features on their work boots only to disappoint consumers after they have already made the purchase. For some people, they wouldn’t risk on getting cheap and budget-friendly pairs simply because they think that those aren’t as waterproof as they need it to be. Thankfully, the EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots comes with a 30-day waterproof money-back warranty. This means that you can easily send your pair back should your feet get wet while on the job. It is made with waterproof leather that keeps you feet dry and the boot has an insulated lining for keeping your feet warm.
Durability
Despite being one of the most affordable waterproof work boots out there, the EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots still proves to be one of the most durable choices. The boot is made with high quality materials and exceptional workmanship is evident in this pair. You can use it for all types of outdoor work including heavy duty construction, gardening, farming or even for your hiking needs.
Comfort
Note that the EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots is a “big fit” pair so it is best to check on sizing details should you be ordering this online to ensure comfort and the perfect fit. It runs a half size larger than a Timberland work boot. It is lightweight and flexible with a comfy PU midsole and a bending rubber sole for the best comfortable feeling while wearing them.
Pros
- 30-Day Waterproof Warranty
- Very affordable
- Ultra Dry features
Cons
- Sizing can be bigger so always better to check sizing details first
7. Caterpillar
The CAT logo of the Caterpillar brand is a true symbol of heavy duty durability. For many consumers who are looking for work boots,
this is the brand that first comes to mind. For many years, it has become the work boot of choice because of impressive durability, undeniable stylishness and rugged features. The Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot manages to get a spot on this list because it meets all the standards we have set for the best waterproof work boots for men — it is also quite affordable.
Special Features
This leather boot is made with waterproof leather material that will keep your feet dry throughout your working day. Working during the colder season? No worries as the Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot comes with a 200g Thinsulate insulation feature, which will keep your feet warm at all times.
Durability
We have already stressed enough how durable Caterpillar shoes are; however, are they as good with waterproof work boots? You bet they are. According to the hundreds of ratings and reviews of owners, the Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot is indeed very durable and with proper care, you wouldn’t need to replace this within the next couple of years or so. The hardware is made of the best quality materials and workmanship is exceptional — you will see this as soon as you hold the boot in your hand and you feel it as soon as you wear these on your feet.
Comfort
The Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot may be a steel toe foot but it doesn’t feel to hard on the feet at all. It comes with a removable EVA foam insert with gel technology for the most comfortable fit. It is best to check on sizing details though as some owners claim they are not getting the perfect size when ordering this pair.
Pros
- 200g Thinsulate Insulation
- Waterproof Materials
- EVA foam insert with gel technology
Cons
- Sizing not always so accurate, best to check sizing details first
8. Skechers for Work Men’s Radford Boot
Skechers may have always been known for fashionable sneakers but they did not fail when it comes to the athletics department, and
yes, including the industrial and construction department. They are offering some of the best and most fashionable work boots for men and women, and thankfully, they kept their prices friendly for everyone to easily afford. None of the features of the Skechers for Work Men’s Radford Boot are cheap though. It is not only a good looking boot but it is as waterproof as you need it to be. This pair that’s available in a black and brown combination is definitely deserving of a spot on this list.
Special Features
One look at the Skechers for Work Men’s Radford Boot and you will already know that it is truly waterproof. The upper is made with waterproof oiled leather and the lower part of the shoe is a seam-sealed rubber shell foot. Yes, even if the water tries hard enough, they just couldn’t get inside of this shoe. That leaves you feet dry even in the harshest weather conditions.
Durability
The Skechers for Work Men’s Radford Boot is a 6.5-inch synthetic sole shoe with a lace-up closure and metal hardware. Skechers may be known for fashion but this boot is proof that their engineers and designers did their work excellently as it is indeed very durable, according to customer reviews that we have gathered. It is made with a combination of leather and synthetic materials.
Comfort
Owners claim that even during the cold weather, the Skechers for Work Men’s Radford Boot has kept their feet warm. We’re pretty sure that you will also be one of those who will appreciate this composite toe boot as it is very comfortable and requires very little time for breaking in. It features a gusseted tongue design, that keeps the interiors of your shoe moisture and debris-free.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Waterproof – Oiled leather upper, Seam-sealed rubber shell foot
- Gusseted tongue design
Cons
- Some owners claim that the boot can get quite hot/warm when wearing during the summer season
9. KEEN Utility Men’s Warren WP Work Boot
Another affordable yet very fashionable choice from KEEN Utility, the USA-made KEEN Utility Men’s Warren WP Work Boot has
received a spot on this list because it works as advertised — it is waterproof, durable and comfortable. Most owners of this boot claim that it is the most comfortable they have owned and after using it for quite some time, it is still working very well. Some work boots won’t even last for a couple of months or so but the KEEN Utility Men’s Warren WP Work Boot is definitely worth every penny — it is indeed a reliable pair of boots.
Special Features
We already told you that this is quite a fashionable pair of boots and while the color option is only Cascade Brown, it is exactly what one would like to wear for work as it matches most types of work clothing. This rubber sole boot features the KEEN.Dry waterproof technology that keeps your feet dry but cool as it has a breathable membrane. Its upper is made of nubuck waterproof leather. It also meets ASTM F2412-11 F2413-11 I/75 C/75 EH and F1677-96 Mark II non-slip standards.
Durability
This is the second KEEN Utility boot on this list and just like the first one, it has received numerous high ratings and reviews from owners due to its durability. The material used for the KEEN Utility Men’s Warren WP Work Boot is a combination of genuine leather and synthetic leather and it has a rubber sole. It has left and right asymmetrical steel toes as well.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, the KEEN Utility Men’s Warren WP Work Boot delivers very well. As mentioned, it has a breathable membrane, which keeps your feet dry yet cool. According to owners, it is quite flexible and is very comfortable to wear. It has a removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed.
Pros
- ASTM F2412-11 F2413-11 I/75 C/75 EH and F1677-96 Mark II non-slip standards
- Breathable membrane, unbuckle waterproof leather
- Dry waterproof technology
- Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
Cons
- May require a few days of break-in period
10. Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot
Last but definitely not the least among the top 10 best waterproof work boots for men is yet another Timberland shoe. This has also
received numerous high ratings and reviews and if you are truly looking for professional work boots that will keep your feet dry, the Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot is most definitely one of your best choices.
Special Features
There are mixed reactions from owners of the Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot. While most claim that it is as waterproof as they need it to be, some say that after a couple of tears on the toe area, the water is already getting inside the boot — we say that it is best to just ensure that your boot is in great shape before wearing them. When it starts tearing up, it is time to replace them. The Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot is still one of the best because with proper care, you should be able to use it for quite a long time.
Durability
We mentioned how some owners claim that after a couple tears, the Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot is no longer as effective in waterproofing; however, it is important to mention that for most owners, this is considered one of the most durable boots they have every owned. Made with brown tumbled leather and a synthetic sole, this lace-up work boot features the Timberland PRO rubber vamp that’s made for heavy-duty use, heat resistance and extreme durability.
Comfort
This pair has also proved to be very comfortable based on owner reviews. The Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot has a fiber glass shank that offers structural support. Its padded collar adds to comfort and it also has a mesh lining that is treated with antimicrobial elements that fights odor and keep your feet comfy.
Pros
- Waterproof membrane, padded collar
- Mesh lining with antimicrobial treatment
- Structural support with the fiber glass shank
- Timberland PRO rubber vamp
Cons
- May require quite a bit of time when breaking in
Brendan Fullerton
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