The Best Women's Work Boots [2024] | BootRatings.com (2024)

Our editors research, test, and recommend only the best products we can find online. Bootratings.com may receive a commission if you purchase through one of our links.

On this page, we have researched and reviewed the best women’s work boots with a variety of styles, features, brands, and colors.

Finding the right work boots can be a difficult process. You have to consider safety features, such as slip resistance, shock resistance, safety toe, waterproofing, and price.

We take the frustration out of finding the women’s work boots and present our top picks for standard women’s work boots (#1-8) and tall work boots for women (#9-13).

If you need work boots with insulation against cold weather, check out our reviews of winter work boots for women.

Women’s Work Boots 1-4

Our top recommended women’s work boots all have a safety toe and waterproofing to keep your feet safe.

Recommended boots #1-8 are all 5″ or 6″ in height. Boots 8″ to 12″ in height are listed in the last chart.

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Price

$$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

3

Free Shipping

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Price

$$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

CAT Women’s Excavator Superlite Waterproof Nano Toe Work Boot

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The CAT Women’s Excavator Superlite Waterproof Nano Toe Work Boot has everything you would want in a high-quality work boot built for women…

Super light weight and super tough, they are waterproof, have a compliant composite safety toe, and are rated for electrical hazards. They also have a ton of technologies inside for all day comfort.

If that isn’t enough, they come in three colors including a traditional light brown, a beige color (shown above), and light blue.

Features:

  • Waterproof, premium full grain nubuck leather
  • NanoToe composite safety toe protects against impact or compression (ASTM F2413-18)
  • SRX Slip-Resistant rubber outsole is abrasion resistant, performs against oil and water and provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces
  • Patented iTechnology construction with bond welted forefoot and cemented heel provide durability and athletic comfort
  • Electrical Hazard Protection is rated to protect against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions (ASTM F2413-18 1/75 EH)
  • Reinvented Ease comfort midsole and the contoured, engineered comfort footbed provide extra cushion, support and rebound
  • Ultra-durable rubber toe bumper allows for extended wear and performance
  • Seamless flex point at the toes prevents premature breaks and tears
  • Ergonomic ankle pods offer protection and stability
  • Biomechanical outsole lug mirrors natural gait cycle while walking for all-day comfort
  • Made at a Gold Rated Tanneries (LWG)

Buy or Learn More

KEEN Women’s Seattle 6″ Waterproof Aluminum Toe Work Boot

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The KEEN Seattle Safety Toe Work Boot for Women aims for comfort and protection in a boot built specifically for a woman’s foot.

Asymmetrical aluminum toes weigh 35% less than steeland meet ASTM standards. A waterproof, breathable membrane keeps your feet warm and the legendary KEEN comfort keeps your feet happy when you are on your feet for hours.

Features:

  • Left and right asymmetrical aluminum toes weigh 35% less than steel and meets ASTM F2412-11 and F2413-11 I/75 and C/75 Standards.
  • Built on a women’s specific last
  • KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
  • Nylon shank for midfoot support
  • Waterproof leather upper
  • Electrical hazard (EH) or Electric Shock Resistant (ESR) footwear provides a secondary source of protection in case of accidental contact with live electrical circuits
  • Locking metal lace hooks
  • Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole
  • 90° heel (5/8″ Height) provides stability and helps “catch or lock” the foot in place
  • Heat resistant, rubber outsole rated up to 572° F / 300° C

Buy or Learn More

Upgrade your boots with personalized insoles from treadlabs.comThe Best Women's Work Boots [2024] | BootRatings.com (12)!

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CAT Women’s Wellspring Waterproof Metatarsal Guard Steel Toe Work Boot

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The CAT Wellspring Steel Toe Work Boot for Women offers the safety of a ASTM F2413-11compliant composite safety toe as well as a metatarsal guard to protect the whole top of your foot from falling objects.

Built for women’s feet, this very popular boot is also waterproof and meets ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH Electrical Hazard standards.

Features:

  • ASTM F2413-11 Composite Safety Toe protects against impact or compression
  • ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH Electrical Hazard Protection rated to protect against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions
  • Full grain waterproof leather
  • Metatarsal guard for protection from falling objects
  • Nylon Shank
  • Cement Construction for durability
  • EVA comfort footbed
  • Slip resistant and oil resistant rubber outsole

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Wolverine Floorhand Steel Toe Work Boot for Women

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Wolverine Floorhand Steel Toe Work Boots for Women are a great basic boot with a waterproof exterior, steel toe for impact protection, and traditional good looks in black or brown.

Inside, a moisture wicking mesh lining and full-cushion footbed keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Features:

  • ASTM F2413-18 M I/75 C75 EH rated steel toe
  • Waterproof full-grain leather upper looks and feels premium
  • Moisture wicking mesh lining to keep feet cool
  • Removable full-cushion footbed
  • Rubber midsole
  • Rubber outsole grips the ground
  • Lightweight cement construction
  • Nylon shank adds extra strength

Buy or Learn More

Women’s Work Boots 5-8

The next set of recommended women’s work boots are a continuation of the list above with more brands and styles to choose from.

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Price

$$

Height

5"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

2

Free Shipping

The Best Women's Work Boots [2024] | BootRatings.com (21)

Price

$$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$

Height

6"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

Ariat Telluride Composite Toe Work Boot for Women

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The Ariat Telluride Composite Toe Work Boot for Women is built for maximum slip resistance, stability, and comfort.

Waterproof with a ASTM F2413-18 F/I/C EH rated composite safety toe, these boots have just 5″ shaft height, making them the shortest boot in our recommendations.

Features:

  • Safety toe is ASTM F2413-18 F/I/C EH rated
  • ATS® Pro technology for advanced stability and superior comfort
  • Waterproof PRO™ construction with waterproof full-grain leather
  • Metal detector friendly 100% non-metallic safety technology
  • Mesh lining
  • Shock-absorbing EVA midsole
  • Oil- and slip-resistanting Duratread™ outsole for maximum wear resistance
  • 90° heel
  • Passes European standards for SRA slip resistance level
  • Meets EN ISO 20435 SB level requirements for safety footwear

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Wolverine Piper Composite Toe Work Boot for Women

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The Wolverine Piper Composite Toe Work Boots for Women are a no-nonsense option to keep your feet safe on the job.

ASTM F2413-18 M I/75 C/75 EH rated composite toes protect you from harm while the waterproof full grain leather upper keeps you dry.

Features:

  • ASTM F2413-18 M I/75 C/75 EH rated composite toe
  • Waterproof full grain leather upper looks and feels premium
  • Non-metallic hardware for safety
  • Feet stay dry with waterproof membrane and mesh lining
  • All-day cushioning from removable air cell PU cushion and molded EVA midsole
  • Rubber outsole grips the ground
  • Lightweight cement construction

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Carolina Parthenon Composite Toe Work Boot for Women

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Carolina Parthenon Composite Toe Work Boots for Women are made to protect and provide all-day comfort.

Carolina’s proprietary SCUBALINER waterproof lining system and OVERTIME comfort system ensure your feet are dry and comfortable all day.

The composite safety toes, triple-rib steel shank, and oil resistant rubber lug outsole protect you from the dangers of your job.

Features:

  • Composite Safety Toe Cap
  • Waterproof SCUBALINER™
  • Mesh Lining
  • OVERTIME™ Comfort System Footbed
  • Electrical Hazard Rated
  • Triple-Rib Steel Shank
  • Goodyear Welt Construction
  • Oil Resisting One-Piece Rubber Lug Outsole
  • Alternate Brown Lace Supplied

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KEEN Flint II Steel Toe Work Boot for Women

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The KEEN Flint II Steel Toe Work Boots for Women look and feel like a sneaker but protect your feet like a boot.

Asymmetrical steel toes protect you from crush hazards while the waterproof, breathable membrane and electrical hazard rating provide even more protection.

Features:

  • Left and right asymmetrical steel toes offer maximum comfort and unobtrusive fit
  • Waterproof, breathable membrane
  • Water resistant leather provides a barrier against liquid absorption
  • Electrical hazard (EH) rated – providing a secondary source of protection in case of accidental contact with live electrical circuits
  • Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole
  • A lightweight, compression-resisting midsole provides 50% more energy return than standard EVA foam
  • Mesh liner provides breathability to help keep feet cool in warm environments
  • Removable metatomical PU footbed
  • Reflective webbing for additional safety and visibility
  • External Stability Shank (ESS) for midfoot support

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Tall Women’s Work Boots 1-5

While all of the boots above are 6″ tall or less, the next batch of recommended women’s work boots are 8″-10″ for those jobs that require more ankle protection or may spend more time in wet environments.

Just like the rest of our recommendations, all of these boots are waterproof and have a protective safety toe.

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Price

$$$

Height

8"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

3

Free Shipping

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Price

$$$

Height

8"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$$

Height

10"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$$$

Height

8"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Narrow

Colors

1

Free Shipping

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Price

$$

Height

8"

Safety Toe

Waterproof

Other Widths

Wide

Colors

1

Free Shipping

CAT Echo Steel Toe Work Boot for Women

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CAT Echo Steel Toe Work Boots for Women are our top choice for a tall work boot because they have it all…

A tall silhouette and modern colors (black, grey, and purple) look great while waterproof design with a ASTM F2413-11 I/75 C/75 rated steel toe and ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH electrical hazard protection protect you from your work environment.

Mesh lining and a moisture wicking sock liner keep your feet dry and comfortable on the inside.

Features:

  • Waterproof, premium nubuck leather keep feet dry and protected
  • Steel Toe protects against impact or compression (ASTM F2413-11 I/75 C/75)
  • Electrical Hazard Protection rated to protect against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions (ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH)
  • Patented iTechnology® construction with goodyear welted forefoot and cemented heel offers Cat Footwear durability and athletic comfort
  • Engineered nylon mesh lining optimizes breathability and comfort
  • Nylex™ Sock Liner wicks away moisture from the foot to keep it dry and comfortable
  • PU Foam Footbed and PVC midsole provide cushioning comfort and shock absorbance
  • Steel Shank provides support and stability
  • Slip-Resistant rubber outsole is abrasion resistant, performs against oil and water and provides grip on low traction surfaces
  • Made at a Gold Rated Tanneries (LWG)

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KEEN Seattle 8″ Safety Toe Work Boot for Women

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Like the 6″ version above, the KEEN Seattle 8″ Safety Toe Work Boot for Women aims for comfort and protection in a boot built specifically for a woman’s foot with 2 more inches of height.

Asymmetrical aluminum toes weigh 35% less than steeland meet ASTM standards. A waterproof, breathable membrane keeps your feet warm and the legendary KEEN comfort keep your feet happy when you are on your feet for hours.

Features:

  • Left and right asymmetrical aluminum toes weigh 35% less than steel and meets ASTM F2412-11 and F2413-11 I/75 and C/75 Standards.
  • Built on a women’s specific last
  • KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
  • Nylon shank for midfoot support
  • Waterproof leather upper
  • Electrical hazard (EH) or Electric Shock Resistant (ESR) footwear provides a secondary source of protection in case of accidental contact with live electrical circuits
  • Locking metal lace hooks
  • Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole
  • 90° heel (5/8″ Height) provides stability and helps “catch or lock” the foot in place
  • Heat resistant, rubber outsole rated up to 572° F / 300° C

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Carhartt Steel Toe Wellington Work Boot for Women

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The Carhartt Steel Toe Wellington Work Boots have a tall 10 inch height with full waterproofing to keep the elements out while an integrated steel safety toe protects your feet from impact.

Several technologies keep your feet comfortable inside while the thick rubber tread is designed to shed mud and provide traction when working outside or inside.

Features:

  • Steel toe protects against impact and compression hazards and meets ASTM 2413-18 standards
  • Meets ASTM 2413-18 EH standards for secondary protection against incidental contact with electrical circuits of 18,000 volts or less under dry conditions
  • Carstrong® durable reinforced fabric prevents wear and tear
  • Storm Defender® waterproof breathable membrane keeps feet dry and lets them breathe
  • FastDry® lining wicks sweat and fights odors
  • Cushioned, polyurethane insole to absorb shock
  • Rubber outsole

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Irish Setter Crosby Safety Toe Work Boot for Women

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The Irish Setter Crosby Safety Toe Work Boots for Women are a stylish take on the traditional work boot design with all the features you need for a safe and comfortable day on the job.

Designed specifically for a woman’s foot, these boots have a ASTM F2413-18, F/I/C, EH PR and CSA (Canadian) compliant composite safaty toe, ultra dry waterproofing system and a mix of materials for abrasion resistance and protection for your whole foot.

Features:

  • Composite safety toe meets ASTM F2413-18, F/I/C, EH PR and CSA standards
  • Puncture resistant to ASTM standards
  • ASTM rated for electrical hazards
  • UltraDry™ Waterproofing System
  • Soles are heat resistant to melting at a minimum of 475º Fahrenheit (HRO)
  • Non-metallic, puncture-resistant insoles are manufactured from high-strength, woven fibres that meet or exceed all world standards for puncture resistance, including CSA, ASTM and EN
  • Also available in 4″ and 6″ heights

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Carolina Elm Composite Toe Work Boot for Women

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Carolina Elm Composite Toe Work Boots for Women are a tough, logger-style work boot built for long days outside in any weather conditions. Logger boots are designed for wet and uneven terrain and the raised heel is compatible with climbing spurs.

The ASTM F2413-18 rated composite safety toes, proprietary waterproof lining system and electrical hazard rating work together to keep you safe and dry.

Features:

  • Composite Safety Toe Cap is ASTM F2413-18 rated
  • Waterproof SCUBALINER™
  • Electrical Hazard Rated
  • Non-Metallic Shank
  • Welt Construction
  • Removable PU Dual Density Memory Foam Footbed
  • Oil Resisting One-Piece Rubber Lug Outsole

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How to Choose the Right Women’s Work Boots for YOU

Men aren’t the only ones who work in tough, demanding jobs. Women also endure rugged working conditions and they require the right work boot that will accommodate their needs as well.

That’s why we have provided valuable information for both gendersand reviewed brand name boots to assist you in making a well-informed decision when selecting comfortable steel toe work boots.

What exactly is needed in a well-manufactured boot? The answer depends on your needs, which we address here and in our detailed reviews.

When choosing a comfortable work boot, several features need to be considered before making your selection.

  • Type of Work– What type of job do you have and what features are most important for comfort in the environment you’ll be subjected to? For one, do you work outside? What’s the average temperature? Are you working in snow, ice, or rain? Or is it hot, humid, or dry? Variations tend to change dramatically when it comes to the functionality of work boots. In addition, what types of terrain do you generally work on? Is it concrete, rocky, unstable, or flat dirt?
  • Cold Weather– Let’s say that you are subjected tofreezing temperatureswhere snow and ice might be a factor. Yourfeet are generally one of the first body parts that feel the cold and damp environment. It can be miserable. For that reason, it’s essential to select winter work boots that offer additional insulation and are waterproof. These features prevent your feet from getting cold and wet, or even worse… frost bite.
  • Wet Weather– Just as waterproofing is required by someone who works in snow and ice, it’s also essential for those who work outdoors in the rain or near bodies of water where getting wet is unavoidable. There’s nothing more uncomfortable when working than having your feet soaked through to your socks. Plus, wet boots also tend to create rubbing or blisters.
  • Hard Surfaces– Walking or standing on hard surfaces such as concrete or cement can pound on your feet, knees, and back causing unnecessary pain that can last years. A proper sole orcushioned insertdesigned especially for these circ*mstances can help avoid that pain, plus, additional support in areas like your arch will alleviate pressure caused by these hard surfaces.
  • Uneven Terrain– Added traction and slip resistance will keep you on your feet and prevent injury from slips on uneven terrain. In addition, your ankles are at risk and a boot with a sufficient shank will help eliminate the possibility of a twisted ankle. Shock absorption is another factor to consider for comfort in this type of environment.
  • Fit– Lastly, a proper fitting boot that is not too loose or too snug will conform to your feet the way they are supposed to. Having an improper size will create rubbing, blisters, and soreness. The boots you choose should feel like they were made specifically for you or as an extension of your feet.

How Should You Pick a Lightweight Work Boot?

When you’re in the market to buy a new pair of women’s work boots, how do you know if you’re selecting the correct boots for your particular situation?

First and foremost, you want your boots to be comfortable. Comfort is not a feature you want to compromise. A well-selected work boot allows you to perform your tasks without pain and discomfort from rubbing and lack of proper shock absorption. To determine the comfort level required, you will first need to know your feet.

Do you haveflat feet, wide feet, or a certain medical condition such asplantar fasciitis? Some work boots cater to these specific conditions, so it’s good to research the features when purchasing.

Another important factor in selecting the perfect work boot is whether or not they are for outdoor wear. Will you be working in the elements such as rain, snow, or in ice? If you answered yes, then you will want to consider purchasing a waterproof work boot. If you work in a factory or warehouse, you may need safety compliant boots without waterproofing.

Let’s not forget slip-resistant, traction, and electrical hazard soles. Will you need these added safety features? If you’re working on wet surfaces, uneven, difficult terrain, or around electrical equipment, these will be necessary for your protection.

Lastly, there is the issue of toe protection. Work boots come in a variety of toe strengths that offer different degrees of protection for your feet. Depending on your job, you’ll want to consider which one will work for you.

Steel Toe vs. Composite Toe

Work boots could have a soft toe, steel toe, composite toe, or aluminum toe. Soft toes offer no special protection but each variation of safety toe is designed for extra protection, but with different materials.

Some employers have requirements per their insurance company stating that all employees must wear steel toe boots on the job site.

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Steel Toe– The ideal steel toe boots offer maximum protection in dangerous working conditions. They are designed to completely seal the toe area, preventing serious injury from kicking hard surfaces, or from heavy falling objects.

Generally constructed out of steel, they are sometimes combined with an electrical hazard rating for additional protection.

Composite Toe– A composite toe is also considered a safety toe. Lighter than a steel toe and it won’t set off metal detectors since it is constructed out of a composite ceramic material Other materials include but are not limited to Kevlar, carbon fiber, and plastic.

For instance, if you’re employed at an airport or government building and require safety toe boots, a composite toe would be ideal. Similar to the steel toe, it also protects your feet against impact and crushing. In addition, composite toes are designed to withstand extreme heat and cold. See below for more information on composite vs. steel toe.

Aluminum Toe– Aluminum toe, also known as an alloy toe, is another form of safety toe that offers protection from injury. Also, lighter than a steel toe, it’s generally constructed out of aluminum or a titanium based material. More room is available in the toe area of the boot because the aluminum toe is of thinner construction. Therefore, those with wider feet might be more comfortable with an aluminum toe.

In general, both the steel toe and composite toeare considered to be safety toesand are designed to protect your feet from impact, compression and/or injury that could be sustained on the job. However, there is a slight difference in the two, and depending on where and how you will use them will make the difference in which to pick.

Steel toes have been protecting feet in the work field for many years. The plate situated over the toe area is constructed of heavy-duty steel. Because they are a safety toe,OSHArequires them to meet ASTM standardsand receive ratings for impact and compression. For example,A rating of I/75 means that the steel toe can withstand an impact of 75 lbs. A rating of C/75 is a compression rating of up to 2500 lbs. of pressure. Composite toesalso follow ATSM standards and receive ratings.

Composite toes are constructed out of synthetic material such as Kevlar, plastic, carbon fibers, and rubber. With the absence of steel in a composite toe, it makes them much lighter than a steel toe. They offer better electrical resistance and offer more insulation in cold weather. In addition, they do not set off metal detectors, so those who work in secured areas can pass through without setting off any alarms.

Steel toes tend to be puncture resistant, shatterproofand cost a lot less than a composite toe. However, steel toes are not very insulated in colder temperatures.

To wrap it up:

  • Insulated for cold – Composite Toe
  • Puncture resistant – Steel Toe
  • Lightweight – Composite Toe
  • Shatter proof – Steel Toe
  • Won’t set off metal detectors – Composite Toe
  • Cost less – Steel Toe
  • Better electrical resistance – Composite Toe

Other than these basics, it comes down to where and what you will be using them for. Both of these toes offer sufficient protection with different variations. There is no perfect work boot safety toe, so choose a style according to your needs.

Work Boot Buying Guide

  • If you are purchasing work boots for a particular type of job, find out if your employer has anysafety gear requirements. Hardcore work environments require additional safety features for your protection.
  • If you are working outside in the elements such as rain, snow, or ice you’ll need a good weather proof boot you can get or one constructed with water-resistant material. In addition, if you are going to be subjected to extremely cold temperatures, you might want to consider insulated boots to keep your feet warm.
  • What types of terrain will you be working in?If the ground is uneven, or the surface is unsteady, then you will want to find work boot with a traction sole to grip surfaces.
  • Are you going to be working on slippery surfaces caused by water, ice, or even oil? If so, then you will want to get a work boot that offers slip-resistance.
  • Do you work around electricityor electrical components? Consider purchasing a boot with an electrical hazard rating to protect you against dangerous shock conditions.
  • Do you spend long hours working in the heat? Consider breathable work boots that will allow vapor to escape, and manages sweating. Check out our tips tokeep your feet from sweating in boots!
  • If you have flat feet, wide feet, or a foot condition, particular boots will accommodate those issues.
  • What kind of support will your ankles need? Will you need a high shaft boot to protect your ankle from twists, or does your job require the flexible movement of the lower ankle?
  • Another feature you might want to consider is a rubber toe or heel guard that is mark or abrasion resistant. If you are working in an environment where you are constantly scuffing your toe against objects, this feature will protect the surfaces and your boot from damage.

Types of Protection for Work Boots and ASTM F2413

Work boots can offer various forms of protection, depending on your needs. In this section, we will discuss what forms of protection are available in the work boots.

In addition, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) sets the minimum standards and testing procedures for safety footwear. If you have a requirement to meet ASTM F2413-11 standards (or other release year, based on the last two digits of the standard number (F2413-xx), those are listed below as well.

Waterproof– These boots are essential if you are working outdoors, subjected to wet conditions such as rain, or if you are working around or in water. They are specifically designed to keep water from entering into the material and eventually getting to your feet. Nobody likes to get wet feet when they are working. It’s not only uncomfortable, but a boot that isn’t waterproof and is subjected to water will eventually deteriorate, causing them to fall apart or stiffen up. Water in or on work boots can also lead to fungus or mold.

Weatherproof– Weatherproof is similar to waterproof except a weatherproof boot is also designed to keep your feet warm in colder temperatures. These types of boots are more insulated, and are a good pick for snow.

Water Resistant– A water-resistant work boot will also keep water out, but are not meant for standing in water. Generally, a water-resistant work boot has a water repellent applied to the outer material that helps rain or splashing water to roll off.

Oil Resistant– It’s important that you realize there is a difference between oil resistant and slip resistant. If a work boot manufacturer says that the boot is oil resistant, it means that the upper portion of the boot, meaning the leather or other material it’s constructed with resists oil. Basically, similar to water-resistant, but in this case, oil or something similar to oil is kept from staining or penetrating the exterior.

Slip Resistant– Slip resistant is a property of the soles of the boots and refers to the traction you get on slippery surfaces. Some slip-resistant soles are designed to withstand oily surfaces as well.

Electrical Resistant– Electrical resistant is also known as electrical hazard or shock resistant. This means that the boot has an electrical hazard rating or an EH rating of various levels. This safety feature prevents the possibility of a person getting electrocuted while working around electricity. Generally, the rating is associated with the soles of the work boots or the toe. Even steel toe boots with the appropriate rubber toe cap can be shock resistant.

According to the ASTM F2413 standards, electrical shock resistant (EH) footwear must be capable of withstanding the application of 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for 1 minute with no current flow or leakage in excess of 1.0 milliampere.

Static Dissipation– Unlike the electrical resistant boot, static dissipation or ESD is a reduction of static electricity through your body. The outer sole,insole, and lining work together to conduct electricity and ground it. However, you should never replace the insole with anything other than an approved static dissipating insole. Also, in order for it to remain effective, you must keep floors and soles clean and free from dust.

The ASTM F2413 standard for static dissipating footwear (SD) ensures the boot will maintain electrical resistance greater than 1,000,000 ohms (1 Mega Ohms) and not exceed 100,000,000 ohms (100 Mega Ohms).

Heat Resistance– Being exposed to high heat is a problem without the right equipment. Heat resistant boots offer added protection in environments such as firefighting, welding, smelting, or any other high-temperature surroundings. Specific materials incorporated in the construction of the boot soles and leather are designed to take the heat, while protecting your feet.

Safety Toe– Safety toe work boots are essential for protecting one’s feet from impact and crushing. In the construction field, or if you are working with or on heavy machinery, safety toe work boots can prevent serious injury. Safety toe work boots come in a variety of types. Steel toe is most common but you can read about all of them above.

The ASTM F2413 standard rates safety toes for impact (I) and compression (C) resistance. A rating of I/75 C/75 will protect the your toes from an impact of up to 75 foot-pounds and compressive loads up to 2,500 pounds.

Puncture Resistant– Work boots with a puncture resistant rating have a special outsole that prevents objects from penetrating and reaching your foot, causing serious injury. This is a particularly good feature if you are working on construction sites where there is the possibility of stepping on a nail.

Sole puncture resistant footwear (PR) should withstand a minimum nail penetration force of 270 pounds, according to the ASTM F2413 standards.

Shaft Height– Depending on the work environment, a shaft in the boot can be very important. Added height in the shaft supports your ankles when you need it most. This feature can prevent unwanted sprains and other injuries that can hinder your mobility. Lower shafts are more flexibleand are designed for a person that needs more agility.

Metatarsal Guard– Generally, metatarsal guards are combined with a safety toe. It’s an extra flap that is either incorporated internally or externally on a work boot. The metatarsal guard is situated over and behind the toes where the small bones in your feet are prone to injury. This is an excellent added feature for someone who is subject to hazardous working conditions where something could fall on the top of your foot.

The ASTM F2413 standard test is performed by dropping a 50 pound weighted bar 1.5 feet onto the metatarsal guard. (75 foot-pounds of impact energy.)

Wrap Up

Women who work hard need boots that can keep up with the job while providing comfort and protecting your feet.

Good women’s work boots come with many different features but all provide the core basics of waterproofing, safety toes, and durable construction.

We hope you found our reviews helpful and your next pair of work boots!

The Best Women's Work Boots [2024] | BootRatings.com (2024)
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