12 Best Waterproof Work Boots of 2023

A good pair of waterproof workbooks is a must have for the working man/woman. The best waterproof work boots not only keep your feet dry and moisture-free but also give you that critical arch, heel, and ankle support so you can stand long hours without discomfort.  Anyone who works a job where you are on your feet a lot can tell you the bad effects of a poorly made pair of work boots. Ruined shoes, dirty feet, and an unpleasant moldy smell can all accompany a pair of boots that is poorly constructed or not fully waterproof.

Why should you want a pair of waterproof boots? Simply put, too much water is bad for the skin and can cause health problems. When your boots become waterlogged, the skin on your feet absorbs water, becoming all wrinkly and soft which can cause painful blisters and cracks to form. These kinds of feet injuries can be particularly deleterious to those who have diabetes or poor circulation. Additionally, constantly wet feet and socks can promote the growth of irritating fungi like athlete’s foot or ringworm.

With that in mind, sit back as we take a look at some of the best waterproof work boots that will keep you comfy and dry. If you’re looking for other ideas, like shoes for nurses, we’ve got you covered too.

What Are the 12 Best Waterproof Work Boots of 2023?

1.Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots

Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots

Timberland is a fan favorite brand among boot enthusiasts due to their excellent and reliable construction. The White Ledge Waterproof Ankle Boots are made for the outdoorsman in all of us and offer a 100% premium waterproof leather upper and an EVA footbed and midsole for long-lasting outdoor action.

Many heavy duty work boots can be constraining on the toes so the wide-soled boot has extra room for toe space for maximum balance and toe comfort. The leather and EVA soles are sealed at the seams to keep water out and your feet dry. Rustproof lace holders ensure your laces won’t come loose while you are working. A generously padded footbed gives a lot of cushion and resistance, a necessary feature if you are on your feet a lot.

The boots only come up to your ankles so they give your lower legs and shins some breathing room. Of course, this means you cannot go wading in water higher than the ankles. If you do not work near a very wet environment then this should not be a problem. However, if you are looking for a boot perfect for easy hiking, fields, or roadwork, then the Timberland White Ledge Ankle Boots are an excellent choice.

Pros

  • 100% leather
  • Good range of style options
  • Rustproof lace brackets

Cons

  • Lower boot means less ankle support
  • Not a lot of insulation, may not be best for winter weather

2. EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men’s Leather Waterproof Work Boots

EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Men's Leather Waterproof Work Boots

The “Ultra Dry” line of boots from EVER BOOTS are made for a wide range of heavy duty uses, from landscaping to construction to hiking. The 100% leather upper is soft and constructed seamlessly to the midsole keeping the boot waterproof but also allowing foot moisture to escape.

The boots run high on the leg, giving excellent ankle support. The specially designed tread pattern on the sole is meant to provide superior traction in wet environments and absorb shock on the heels and arches of your feet. Its sectioned design lets the boots be flexible while offering good traction and footing.

The boots also have a polyester lining that keeps your feet insulated and warm in winter conditions. They are also rather lightweight compared to their construction, so they won’t tire your legs from being too heavy. However, the leather s initially a bit stiff sot’s recommended that you wear two pairs of socks while initially breaking in these boots, at least until the leather becomes a bit softer from use.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Polyester lining insulates feet from cold
  • Outer sole tread designed to support arches and heels

Cons

  • High ankles can irritate the skin
  • Takes a bit to break in, the leather can be tough and hard until then

3. Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Waterproof Boots

Skechers Men’s Relment Pelmo Chukka Waterproof Boots

A name normally known for their sneakers, Skechers provides a solid pair of work boots that has the comfort and style of their more well known casual sneakers. The 100% leather uppers and heavy PU sole of the RelmentPelmo Chukka Waterproof Boots are tough and durable for working conditions, but also look good enough that you could wear these for a casual night on the town.

The ultra soft insoles are comfortable and provide support to critical areas of the foot.They are very lightweight compared to other work boots, making them easy on the feet and legs.

They are not perfect though. Notably, some consumers report that the lace brackets come loose rather easily and the waterproof coating loses effectiveness over time. Additionally, the sizing seems to be awkward and non-consistent.  These boots may not be the best quality work boots out there, but it’s hard to find something better for the price.

Pros

  • Sneaker-inspired design looks good for work and casual settings
  • Large footbed for wider feet
  • Affordable
  • Decent ankle support

Cons

  • Lace brackets have tendency to come loose
  • Waterproof seal loses effectiveness over time.
  • Sole tread is somewhat slippery indoors

4. ARIAT Women’s Tracey Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot

ARIAT Women’s Tracey Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot

The ARIAT Tracey Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot is a stylish boot made for the working woman. The western style-design is made out of 100% full grain leather and features an oil and slip-resistant Duratred rubber outsole with an EVA core for shock absorption. The slip on shoe has a generous amount of room for feet and has a very high 9-inch ankle sleeve.

The leather and mesh lining are both waterproof. The boot can be a bit tight at first, especially for those wide wide feet, but things get better once you break them in. Unfortunately, the laceless design means the boot won’t cling as tightly to your foot,but wearing long thicker socks seems to alleviate these issues. The toe box is a bit small too, so you might want to go about a half size larger than normal.

The embossed designs on the leather add some western flair that adds style to your work attire.

Pros

  • Stylish cowboy-inspired design looks really good
  • Excellent ankle support
  • Composite toe has strength of metal but is lighter

Cons

  • Narrow fit and small toe box
  • No laces = less tight fit
  • Hit or miss quality control

5. Gravel Gear Waterproof 6” Steel Toe Work Boot

Gravel Gear Waterproof 6” Steel Toe Work Boot

With an ASTM certified steel toe, the Gravel Gear Waterproof 6” Steel Toe Work Boot is an extremely tough boot meant for heavy duty industrial settings. The fully waterproof leather uppers are soft and durable and the two layer outsole has a core of polyurethane covers in a slip-resistant rubber outsole.

The inside is lined with a waterproof mesh that both keeps water out and traps moisture from sweat so your feet stay dry. A toe guard and heel guard keep those critical points from wear and tear for longer life.

The boots are described as a bit tight and the leather takes some time to break in. They are pretty affordable, so don’t expect that absolute highest quality materials, but they are a steal for the price.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Toe and heel guards prevent wear and tear
  • Very soft leather that cleans easily

Cons

  • Only one style available
  • More affordable means not as high quality construction

6. Chippewa Men’s Waterproof 6” 25203 Lace-up Boot

Chippewa Men’s Waterproof 6” 25203 Lace-up Boot

The Chippewa 25023 Waterproof lace up boot is a quality working boot that will keep your feet dry no matter the scenario. These boots are made out of 100% Bay Apache leather uppers and a synthetic sole. The insole is described as very soft and comfy, perfect for long hours standing on concrete.

The out sole is made out of Vibram brand rubber so it is very tough and flexible. It doubles up on water protection with a waterproof insole and moisture wicking lining and the sole has a steel shank for support that can be replaced over time. It even comes with a small American flag accent on the bottom of the laces if you’re feeling patriotic.

Sizing runs a bit small and narrow so you should probably order a size larger than normal. Additionally, the upper part of the tongue is nicely padded, but the lower part that meets the top of your foot is described as tough, especially if you have tall feet that fill the shoe completely.

Pros

  • Vibram rubber sole is extra tough and flexible
  • Rust-resistant lace brackets
  • Soft Apache Bay leather is easy to clean

Cons

  • Pretty expensive
  • Sizing runs small and narrow s

7. Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot

Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot

The Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Work Boots offer a good looking boot that will last many months on site. Designed with the heaviest industrial applications in mind, this boot is made with Cat’s patent-pending iTechnology construction, which gives work boot durability with the comfort and fit of an athletic shoe.

The ERGO footbed combines biomechanics and ingenuity to provide comfortable padding all day long. The breathable interior and mesh lining keep moisture out and also wick moisture off of the feet. The shoe is described as exceedingly comfort and feels like a pair of running shoes.

The 100% leather uppers are fully waterproof and the boot is fully insulated, providing protection from electrical hazards. The boot also looks stylish, but unfortunately only comes in two color options, gray and blue.

Pros

  • Fully insulated against electrical hazards
  • iTechnology design is made to fit like an athletic shoe
  • Fashionable design looks great for many occasions.

Cons

  • Narrow footbed may not be best for wide feet
  • Somewhat tedious to lace and untie

8. Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Waterproof Tan Wedge Soft Toe Work Boot

Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Waterproof Tan Wedge Soft Toe Work Boot

A boot designed with an eye for style, the Carhartt Tan Wedge soft toe work boot is a completely waterproof work boot that looks good on the floor or in casual settings. The 100% leather uppers are completely waterproof and the extra soft insole will keep your feet comfy for over 8 hours of hard work.

The boots run a bit large so you may want to get a smaller size than normal. Although they are comfy, the boots don’t seem to breathe particularly well which can make your feet sweaty and uncomfy. However, there is a removable insole so you can change the fit it it needs some modification. The extra tough rubber outsole is very durable and will stand the test of time, as long as you regularly clean the treads from dirt and dust buildup. The good ankle support from the 6-inch high shaft is a nice bonus as well. However, it is important to note that these are SOFT toe boots, so they are not suitable for working with heavy materials that can drop and damage your feet.

Pros

  • Nice appearance and design
  • Very soft leather and insole
  • Tough and durable outsole for long life

Cons

  • Soft-toe so not suitable for heavy industry
  • Laces are cheap and break easily

9. Irish Setter Men’s 6” Work Boot

Irish Setter Men’s 6” Work Boot

If you are looking for a unique work boot with durability and a classy design look no further. The Irish Setter Men’s 6’ Work Boot both looks good and will last you in the roughest conditions. The boot is made out of 100% Trout Brook leather, crafted exclusively for this particular shoe.  The durable leather is 100% waterproof so no worry about waterlogged feet.

The Irish Setter is highly heat-resistant as well as the sole are melt-resistant to up to almost 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The fully insulated outer sole protects against electrical hazards and the soft nylon lining insulates feet and keeps them dry from sweat.

Also, the classic leather design makes the boots look sophisticated, so you could wear them to more casual events to if you so desire.

Pros

  • Boat shoe-inspired design looks classy and sophisticated
  • Extra heat resistant soles, perfect for factories, foundries, etc.
  • Removable PU footbed

Cons

  • Only 1 color option (brown)
  • Rubber treads will damage if not cleaned regularly

10. Honeywell

Honeywell

A bit different than the other boots on this list, the Servus steel toe work boot ditches the traditional leather construction of a work boot and instead opts for an extremely tough and flexible PVC body. The PVC is completely waterproof and also offers protection from hazardous chemical, fertilizers, and animal waste.

The PVC design makes the boots very light for how heavy duty they are and much more flexible. However, they still have a tough steel toe so you get all the protection of a traditional work boot. Some may not like the laceless pull on design as the boot does not cling that tightly to your foot. The heavy duty treads prevent slipping on most slick surfaces.

The boots are incredibly affordable, though this comes with a noticeable effect on the quality. They also tend to run large so you need to order at least a size smaller than normal. However, for the price, you really cannot find a better quality work boot that can operate in all kinds of environment. The Servus steel toe is a great boot for a novice to work boots who wants to test the waters with a more affordable entry level option.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • PVC construction is waterproof and chemically resistant
  • Laceless design is easy to pull on/off

Cons

  • Lower price = less quality materials
  • PVC can become gummy and rough if not cleaned regularly

11. Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boots

Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boots

A boot designed for the hard working man, the Caterpillar Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe boots feature 100% genuine waterproof leather and a lace-up leather shaft. Inside the boot is a nylon inside lining that wicks moisture away from the feet, keeping them dry and over 200g of insulation to keep feet warm.  

Cat Footwears trademark ERGO comfort system, the Diagnostic is specifically designed to fit the contours of the feet and support their natural movement. The high cut 6-inch shaft is padded for extra ankle support. The boots also have a EVA gel insole that is removable in case the footbed is too shallow or you want to put custom inserts in.

Pros

  • 200g of insulation keeps feet warm
  • ERGO comfort system is good for those with foot problems
  • Removable gel insole lets you customize the fit
  • High padded shaft for ankle support and comfort

Cons

  • Waterproof sealing wears off over time
  • Hard insole take time to break in
  • Leather can be hard to clean

12. Timberland PRO Women’s Titan Waterproof Boot

Timberland PRO Women’s Titan Waterproof Boot

Another entry from boot making giant Timberland, the PRO Women’s Titan Waterproof Boots are designed specifically with the working woman in minds. The Powerfit Comfort System is explicitly designed for the shape and contours of the female foot to provide long-lasting comfort while working.

The high-top 6-inch shaft gives excellent ankle support in a wide range of environments, including construction, road work, hiking, and more. The Titan safety steel-toe protects your vulnerable digits while working with heavy materials. The 100% leather uppers are soft and completely waterproof and have an internal mesh lining that wicks moisture away from the feet. The webbing is also treated with an anti-microbial agent that prevents bacterial growth on wet feet.

As an added bonus, the shoes are fully insulated and can protect against electrical hazards and a heel insert gives durable shock absorption to critical areas of the foot. Lastly, the boots have a 30-day money back guarantee so you can return them if you are not fully satisfied.

Pros

  • Made specifically for women’s feet
  • Electrical hazard and shock protection
  • Timberland PRO boots are certified by the APMA for foot problems

Cons

  • Lace gromets in ankle can irritate leg
  • Heavy and somewhat stiff

What To Look For When Buying Work Boots

Before buying your pair of boots, consider the following things:

Durability

The most important thing is to make sure that your work boots can stand up to the demands of hard labor. The best work boots are made out of high quality materials that can withstand a beating. Nothing is worse than finding a good fitting boot only to have it fail within the first month or two of wearing. Make sure to check product reviews regarding durability. A solid pair of workboots should last you at least a year, assuming normal 40-50 hour work weeks.

Comfort

It is also important to gauge the comfort of your work boots. A good work boot has enough cushion to keep your feet comfy during long hours standing on concrete and other hard surfaces. Comfort can be achieved by thick cushioning and a properly constructed insole that absorb shock. Check product reviews to make sure the outer material of the boot such as the leather of PVC are also soft and won’t irritate your legs, especially if they have a high ankle sleeve.

Ankle Support

Different work boots have different lengths of ankle support. You need to ask yourself how much ankle support you need, and find a boot with the appropriate ankle shaft. More hiking-inspired work boots tend to have a lower ankle shaft, allowing more mobility at the cost of decreased ankle support. In contrast, boots with high ankle shafts give a lot of ankle support but may impede mobility. Figure out how much you will be moving and how much ankle support you need first before buying

Conclusions

So which waterproof work boots are the best? As always, the question depends on your specific needs. The best waterproof work boots provide great comfort and durability with a heavy duty build meant for rough environments. As a couple of suggestions, Timberland has many different styles of boot with a wide range of prices which could work for any kind of worker. Alternatively, the Skechers Pelmo Chukka boots is an extremely affordable entry level option. Either way, this guide will hopefully point you in the right direction for buying the right work boots.

Sources

Witting, B. “Wet feet are bad for your health but they don’t cause colds” Pedorthic Association of Canada. (December 2016).

Stewart Hovis

Stewart is a professional writer with over 10 years of freelance writing experience. He has written many product reviews and he’s doing it amazing. Stewart lives in Maine and recently joined us to contribute a top-notch, reliable and accurate content.

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