Best Work Boots? See what 131 oil field workers say when surveyed. 

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Updated 9/25/22:

If you're looking for an honest review of the best work boots, you've come to the right place. I work on the north slope of Alaska's oilfield. I've worked in some work boots for the last 30 years.

I've worn everything from combat boots to steel toe boots over my career. Between a decade in the Army, 8+ years at the refinery, and 12+ years working in the oil patch, it's safe to say I've worn many diverse boots throughout my life.

I work with some of the most outstanding workers in the oil and gas industry. Not to be self-centered, it would be an excellent opportunity to survey them to get a better idea of everyone's collective opinion.

So, I asked them about their favorite pair of work boots for various occasions. Then I asked them why. Here are their answers from honest workers.

How the survey is being conducted-

I'm surveying people as I see them around the field. I'm not sending out mass emails and spamming my coworkers. I'm just casually asking what boots they're wearing and what they like and don't like about them.

In the oilfield where I work, the head count fluctuates around 700 workers depending on the workload. I intend to find the best work boots according to workers in some of the harshest environments and brutal work hours.

So far, I've asked 131 out of roughly 700 oil/gas workers in the north slope of Alaska oil patch.

18.7% COMPLETE

I'll change the rankings as I continue to get more data. It's not a scientific case study but an excellent conversation about what works for comfort, style, and durability to keep your feet working as hard as you do.

As I get time, I plan to review each of these work boots to give you some honest feedback on what they're like, good or bad.

$ = around $100 or so. Prices are too dynamic in today's market with inflation.

Best steel toe work boots-

When I say steel toe boots, this also includes composite toe work boots for men and women. I didn't ask if they were composite or steel-toe work boots.

1. Keen Boots

28% WEAR KEENS

Keen Summary 

• Offer a wide variety of styles and sizes

• Breathable materials to keep your feet cool

• Are fairly light for fatigue management

28.2% WEAR

You've got to give them credit for having a Built In America product line. The line costs a little extra between $200 - $255 for the pair of work boots that supports American workers.

They offer a standard line that runs $125 - $165. Keen manufactures the standard boot line in the Dominican Republic and Thailand.

Keens offers low-cut Wellington, Romeo, 6" and 8" styles of work boots. They have steel toes, composite toes, and carbon fiber work boots. Use caution as with any brand as some are insulated and waterproof, while other styles are not. They offer soft-toe work boots if your company doesn't require a safety toe boot.

Some positive comments about Keen boots were that they were light, comfortable, and breathable, allowing their feet to stay dry. If you've never worked in the arctic, it's better to have your feet be a little cooler than to be sweating.

I like them because they're light and no break-in period.- Sean / QC

They're light, comfortable and the price is decent.- Ben / Production operator

Keens are durable enough, comfortable and light.- Travis / Production operator

Sole cracked in half due to the extreme cold.- Bob / Production operator

The Keens with webbing holes for laces rubs through eventually. - Mike / Production operator

The negatives I got was that their feet were getting wet in some snow due to the fabric mesh. It was a poor selection of style rather than the boot. Keen offers waterproof work boots to keep your feet dry.

Other comments were that they made an excellent plant or facility boot and great in cold weather environments with the use over boots.

2. Red Wing Work Boots

14% WEAR RED WING

Red Wing Shoes Summary

• Made In America Line
• Goodyear Welt Construction
• DynaForce Comfort Insole

13.7% WEAR

So far in our search for the best work boots, Redwing work boots are a close second.

Redwing makes a high-quality, durable and comfortable work boot. Their boots come in an assortment of styles, including oxford, Wellington, logger, moc toe, and more, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Plus, I have to give them credit for their made-in-America line!

Their price range is from $149 for the oxford made in Vietnam to their $355 SuperSole 2.0 8" steel toe work boot made in America.

Redwing's work boots are offered in a safety toe, electrical hazard protection, and oil and slip resistant rated, so you can feel confident knowing the added protection on the job.

They also have waterproof work boots, metatarsal protection, BOA fit system, and cold weather rated, and some come with DynaForce insole technology for shock absorption.

Comfortable, light weight and I like the insulated ones.- Adam / Roustabout

Great boots. Redwing is all I've ever worn.- Glen / Maintenance

First pair and so far, not impressed. - Ben / Construction & projects

I have only seen one pair of boots with the BOA Fit system. It's a neat concept; however, I'm curious as to the durability of the system. I've come across most of the work boots so far have been the Wellington cut, waterproof work boots made with full grain leather.

I've heard various comments on the Redwing work boots so far. Several have said that they're super comfortable boots. One guy said so far that he's not impressed with them. They were all satisfied with the quality, save one.

69% of those that wore Redwing work boots were Wellington cut with Goodyear welt construction. All of them were waterproof work boots.

3. Ariat Boots

14% WEAR ARIAT

Ariat Work Boot Summary 

• Limited break in period
• Lots of styles to choose from
• BOA Fit System in a pull-on boot

13.7% WEAR

Ariat has taken the workwear business by storm.

Ariat designs in America but sends its manufacturing to Italy, Mexico, and China.....

Ariat's steel toe work boot costs $100 to $380. Like other brands, they offer a wide variety of styles, including work boots for men in Wellington cut, lace-ups, moc toe pair of boots, and a Romeo-style work boot. They offer a round toe boot and a square toe boot style also.

They have boots that have oil and slip-resistant soles, full grain leather, 6 inches and taller, along with electrical hazard protection. Some of their shoes have Goodyear welt construction.

One neat option I found was the BOA Fit system on some of their pull-on Wellington-style boots.

They last about 9-12 in the welding shop which is good for me.-  Kurtis /  Welder

I have the square toe and they're super comfortable.- Taylor / Welder

They're alright. Could use more cushioning for me. Greg / Sick line company man

They offer a wide variety of women's work boots, including safety toe clogs. They also have those if you're looking for a soft toe.

So far, 89% of the Ariat safety toe boots have been Wellington cut work boots, with 11% being the Romeo style.

One comment I got was to get the un-insulated style if I got a pair. One guy who works in a facility swears by the Romeo-style work boot for comfort. Ariat claims no break-in period on some of their boots, which a couple of guys confirmed.

If you're looking for a steel-toe work boot, you might find that Ariat has the style to suit your needs.

4. Xtratufs

12% WEAR XTRATUF

Xtratuf Boots Summary 

• 100% waterproof
• Reasonably priced
• Rated to -10 °F

11.5% WEAR

Xtratuf work boots are just as expected on the north slope as on Alaska fishing boats.

These work boots have slip-resistant rubber soles and the much-needed safety toe. These boots are 100% waterproof by being triple dipped in latex neoprene.
Sadly, these steel-toe boots aren't made in America anymore. China....

Still, if it doesn't matter to you, they are good boots and are reasonably priced from $55 to $215. They offer free shipping and returns as well.

The Xtratuf work boot supposedly has a temperature rating of -10 °F, and I've worn these work boots down to -25 °F with no problems.

I like them because they're waterproof and feel good. - Gard / Production operator

Work great for me out on the tundra where it's wet. - Carlos / Line lift crew

The insoles absorb shocks and have breathable moisture-wicking material.

I would be surprised if less than 80% of the workforce has this work boot at some point in time worn. Xtratufs are perfect for snow melt and runoff during the breakup season in the Arctic.

Some of the comments I've heard so far have been that most people like to fold the uppers down or wear high socks to prevent the rubber from chafing the lower leg. It's typically not a problem in the winter due to long johns or other inner layer clothing.

If you work in a wet environment or with chemicals, this style of steel toe work boot might be the ticket.

5. Danner Boots

8% WEAR DANNER

Danner Boot Summary 

• Vibram soles for traction
• Dual density footbed for comfort
• Danner Dry Waterproof System

8.4% WEAR

Danner has always made an excellent work boot. I wore Danner military boots when I was with the 10th Mountain Division. The military version was a great pair of boots.

They have a line that is made in America!

Their price ranges from around $140 to $320, depending on the boot style. All of these are safety toes.

They have what I call an athletic style composite toe boot; Wellington cut boot, and a moc toe boot, along with various heels and non-heeled steel toe work boots for men and women. They offer a ton of soft-toe boots if your company doesn't require a safety toe.

Danner boots have a dual-density footbed for comfort. They also have full grain leather upper boots.

Their Danner Dry system is a waterproof steel toe work boot that allows moisture to escape while preventing water from getting in. Danners should keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long.

The Danner Vicious are awesome. Absolutely love them.- Will / Mechanic

The Vicious are the best boots ever. On my second pair. Ryan / Instrument tech

Danner Vicious boots are excellent.- Steven / Production operator

I've worn Danner boots before. They were comfortable, and the traction was perfect in the Fort Drum weather with lake effect snow and ice.

Interestingly, Danner is the opposite of Ariat when it comes to Wellington cut boots so far. Of the guys that wear Danner work boots, only 16% were Wellington.

Danner might be what you're looking for if you like comfort and need a great all-around work boot.

6. Timberland Boots

7% WEAR TIMBERLAND

Timberland Boot Summary 

• Great styles to choose from
• Reasonably priced
• 30 Day Comfort Guarantee

6.9% WEAR

Timberland Pro has been around for the last 20-plus years. Their idea was to bring an affordable work boot to the professional workforce.

Timberland Pro boots cost between $100 to $245. Timberland imports their boots.

They're offering waterproof steel-toe boots, moc-toe, Wellington cut, and athletic and Romeo-style boots. They have 6-inch, 8-inch, and full grain leather upper steel toes. Soft-toe boots are available as well.

They're pretty affordable and have been comfortable. - Doug / Roustabout

Timberland Pro boots have been around for a while. I've personally owned a pair of their 6-inch full grain leather steel toe boots. My only complaint was that the webbing lace loops eventually ripped out. Otherwise, they were perfect boots for the money.

Another cool feature is Timberland's 30-day comfort guarantee. If you purchase a pair of boots from them and don't think they are as comfortable as your other work boots, they'll refund your money. Check out their website for more info.

If you worry about making the wrong choice when purchasing a pair of boots, the Timberland Pro might be your best work boot option with their 30-day comfort guarantee.

7. Reebok Work Boots

8. Wolverine

3% WEAR WOLVERINE

Wolverine Boots Summary 

• Offer some lines made in USA
• Known for quality leather since 1883
• 30-day comfort guarantee

3.1% WEAR

Wolverine has been crafting quality leather boots since 1883 and introduced the 1000-mile boot in 1910. The boot was supposed to be comfortable and last a thousand miles.

Wolverine work boots are made overseas, except for three pairs from Rampart's lineup built in the USA. They run for around $200. Their whole lineup costs between $85 - $229.

Wolverine offers a 30-day comfort guarantee as well.

They are comfortable, cheap and last a good bit. - Josh / Production operator

If you like working with companies that give back, you'll like Wolverine and their Project Bootstrap. With less than 10% of high school graduates entering an actual trade, Wolverine donates $30 per pair of boots to organizations that teach kids the trade crafts.

Side note: As a metal head, I was excited to learn they've worked with Metallica's Scholars and their All Within My Hands non-profit.

9. Carolina

2% wear CAROLINA

Carolina Boots Summary 

• Design boots based on occupation
• Known for quality leather
• Offer a built in the USA line

1.6% WEAR

With the occupation or trade in mind, Carolina designs a quality work boot. Carolina even goes as far as making a guide to help choose the right boot for your line of work.

They are known for their quality leather and offer a line made in America. China makes the rest of their boots.

I love my Carolina boots. Been buying them for a long time. - Eric / Facility maintenance hand

They are a relatively new brand with a good following. Just read some of the reviews around the web, and you'll see that they have a reputation for building a long-lasting boot.

So far, in this survey, Carolina is the last to cut, with the lowest numbers. One curious observation was that the guys wearing the Carolina boots were from the east coast. Is it a regional brand awareness thing?

Best Pull On Work Boots-

Cowboy cut work boots-

Cowboy or Wellington cut boots made up 23% of those surveyed so far.

1.Ariat Cowboy Style Work Boots

is currently in 1st place and has made up 53% of the cowboy/wellington style boots as of the time of this writing.

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2. Red Wing Work Boots

Red Wing has made up 37% of the cowboy cut safety toe boots surveyed.

Red Wing

3. Carolina Wellington Style Work Boots

Carolina is currently tied for 3rd place and has made up 3.3% of the cowboy/wellington style boots as of the time of this writing.

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3. Timberland Wellington Work Boots

Timberland has made up 3.3% of the cowboy cut safety toe boots surveyed and is currently tied for 3rd place.

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3. Cody James Wellington Work Boots

Cody James has made up 3.3% of the cowboy cut safety toe boots surveyed and is currently tied for 3rd place. Admittedly, I had never heard of them until conducting the survey.

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Romeo Style Work Boots-

1. Ariat Romeo Pull On Work Boots

Ariat is once again leading the way with their Romeo style work shoes. They currently make up 66.6% and are in 1st place for pull on boots.

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2. Wolverine Romeo Pull On Boots

Wolverine is currently in 2nd place with their Romeo style work shoes. They currently make up 33.3%.

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Best over boots for cold weather-

Overshoes or boots are an excellent option if you work indoors and outside. They allow you to have light safety toes for inside and overshoes when outdoors.

An excellent cold weather work boot will cost you $200 or more. Theoretically, you could have the same amount of money into a good pair of boots for winter that you'd have in light boots and overshoes.

I choose overshoes to save money and space as my room storage is small on the Alaska North Slope. Overshoes are very compact when stored.

NEO's or New England Overshoe

15% WEAR NEOS

NEO Overshoe Summary 

• Wind and waterproof
• Excellent snow & ice traction
• Really light for fatigue management

15% WEAR

I wear my Keen utility boots under a pair of NEOS during the winter and while working outside. I've worn them down to -45 °F ambient and -78 °F with the wind for limited amounts of time with no problems.

NEO's costs between $50 and $195 depending on the style and features.

NEO's are worth their weight in cold because they'll keep your feet warm and dry. The durable uppers are wind and waterproof.

They are outstanding in snow and ice. There are 16 replaceable studs on the bottom of each overshoe. A small pocket on the inside holds a small wrench for maintenance. Think of it as studs for your feet.

I'll caution you that these overshoes are like ice skates on hard, slick surfaces like steel and tile. I wouldn't recommend driving with them on either.

So far, 15% of the people surveyed say they were NEOs over light steel toes during the winter months. I'm one.

Best logger style work boots-

Surprisingly, logger-style steel toes currently only make up 2% of those coworkers I've questioned. I would have expected more.

I'm not saying that the following two brands are the best work boots, but they are by far the definition of quality handmade work boots. That quality comes at a premium.

1. White's Boots

1% WEAR WHITES

White's Boots Summary 

• Hand made in America
• Rebuildable
• Premium boot at a premium price tag

1% WEAR

I've only seen one person wearing the Whites Boots on the slope; however, I've known another three people wearing them at the refinery. Everyone I've ever known that has worn Whites have been thrilled with them.

Made in America, these are high-quality, handmade boots. They are fully rebuildable. I can't overstate the quality of these boots.

I have to say, White's are the best quality work boots out there. Best boots that I've ever owned. Tim / Supervisor & Engineer 

There is always a catch with everything. These features come at a premium, ranging from $310 to $740.

Depending on the latch, some will take a bit to break in, while others will have a quick break-in period. I've always wanted to try the Foreman's non-logger style from White's, but they're a little out of my price range.

2. Nick's Boots

1% WEAR NICKS

Nick's Boots Summary 

• Hand made in the US
• Quality & rebuildable work boots
• Really nice full leather boots

1% WEAR

Essentially tied with White's, Nicks Boots are the second pair of logger-style boots I've surveyed so far. Like the previous brand, Nicks boots are high-quality handmade leather work boots.Nicks boots come with a reasonably healthy price tag but are worth every penny. Their work boots range from $530 to $610.

I like them. Nicks is a dang good boot.- Clint / Roustabout

Sourced and hand built in America. Using old-world craftsmanship and techniques to build an excellent quality boot. If the sole or anything else, minus the uppers, wears out, Nicks can rebuild them.

Best indoor facility work boots-

1.Keen utility

28% of the workforce wears Keen Utility work boots.

2.Reebok Work Boots

Reebok work shoes are a distant second, being worn by 3%.

3.Ariat Romeo Style Work Boots

In a third place so far, Ariat Romeo style work boots are worn by 2%.

Best Work Boots Honorable Mention <1%

1. Blundstone Boots

2. Georgia Boots

3. Cody James

4. Grundens

5. New Balance

6. Sketchers

7. Carhartt

8. Caterpillar 

Final thoughts on the best work boots-

This survey is ongoing, and I'll update it as I get more data points. One thing that stood out to me was the diverse brands out there. There were several brands and styles that I had never even considered.

As of now, for every worker who hates a work boot brand, a handful of people will swear they're the best work boots money can buy.

One other item that I wish I would have asked was where they lived. Alaska is a hard place to live with limited shopping abilities. Alaskans are often stuck buying what's available at the local outfitter store.

It's easier to get a variety of work boot brands due to cheaper shipping in the lower 48 states.

If you wear the same as my coworkers or something I didn't mention or that we haven't heard of let us know. We'd like to know your thoughts on what is the best work boots.

Leave a comment with what you wear, your job title, and what you like or dislike about them and I'll try and add it to the list of best work boots in an online section.

Some of our other articles you may be interested in about welding tools & gear:

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