Top 8 Best Shoes for Mail Carriers in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

The postal service is one of the most important services that exists and one of the toughest jobs in our world.

It’s a mail carrier’s job to deliver the mail in any weather condition, including ice and cold weather,  sunny and hot weather. And it invloves standing on your feet for a long period of time, and many times carrying heavy carriers for quite a distance . It’s not easy!

Buying the right kind of footwear is essential for this work. Otherwise, it can affect your performance, and even cause long term damage to your feet. This is why we took the time and made a thorough research for the best shoes for mail carriers – we chose the 8 that stood out and added a detailed buying guide.

What kinds of shoes should you wear? You’ll need lightweight, yet comfortable shoes with good traction that allow you to walk on any road or terrain without the risk of slipping or tripping, which can even cause injuries.

Here are a few characteristics that should be considered:

• Good traction on snow or ice
• Ventilation and breathability – especially in dry, humid areas
• Cushioned insoles
• Lightweight construction
• Arch and ankle support
• Toe protection
• Waterproof design
• Flexibility – enough room for the foot to move around, but still able to maintain stability

You’ll obviously want to ensure that any shoes or boots are considering are postal-approved as part of a mail carrier’s uniform as well.

With that out of the way, what ARE some of the best shoes for mail carriers in 2021?

What are the best shoes for mail carriers?

Best Overall: New Balance Men’s Mk706v2 Walking Shoe  
Amazing shoes fit perfectly, contains great Rubber sole and approved by U.S. Postal Service. Available only in black. View Review

Runner Up: Reebok Men’s Postal Express CP8500-M 
Made in the US, No break-in time and comfortable for long distance, even more than 10 miles. Available only in black. View Review

Most Durable: Bates Men’s Bates Lites 6 
Bates is known for high quality shoes and this one is no exception. Looks amazing, fits perfectly and long lasting View Review

Best Waterproof: Thorogood Men’s Soft Streets Series 6″
Waterproof shoes, breaks in the moment you wear it, Super shiny. Available in black and made in the US.  View Review

Most Comfortable:Rocky Tmc Postal-Approved Plain Toe Oxford Shoe
Known for great comfort and quality. The lining is super comfortable and helps wick moisture and is SR USA postal approved View Review

Best For Wide feet: Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker
Very comfortable shoes and fits well even for wide feet, breathable lokk great and stay clean even in harshest conditions. View Review

Best for Narrow Feet: Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer
You can walk hours and hours while still feeling comfortable all the time! Lightweight, promotes natural motion by a solid rubber outsole. View Review

Best For Lightweight: Reebok Men’s Postal TCT Work Shoes USPS
Available in black only these shoes made of black leather features a soft toe, moisture wicking lining with Shock Eliminator heel cushion, very light and comfortable. View Review

Top 10 best shoes for mail carriers – Reviews

1. Best Overall: New Balance Men’s Walking Shoe – View On Amazon

In almost any review site or major e-commerce store this shoe is always chosen at one of the best shoes for mail carriers, if not the best. And it gets awesome ratings at all major e-commrce sites, and for very good reasons!

New Balance is well-known for its athletic footwear, so this black walking shoe – made in the USA – is a combination of “sporty” and business-casual styles. It is US Postal Service approved for being a good walking shoe for mail carriers.

Its polyurethane outsole provides comfort and lightweight durability. The C-CAP midsole (built with ROLLBAR technology) and rubber sole contribute to the overall support. Premium foam inserts are high-density and feature open-cell foam to comfortably conform to the foot and relieve pressure.

NB’s Walking Strike Path technology used in the build of the outsole helps stabilize the feet an guide them along through the walking gait cycle.

There is an approximate 13-mm drop (or off-set).  The insole can be replaced.

2. Runner Up: Reebok Mens Postal Express CP8500-M – View On Amazon

If you prefer boots, then these “Chukka-style” Postal Boots are ideal. The MIL-33 moisture-wicking lining and waterproof membrane ensure that neither rain nor snow will stop you from doing your job.

Don’t think that just because they are tough like boots that they are uncomfortable. They still fit as snugly and comfortably as Reebok sneakers – much in part due to the soft toe design.

There is a pi-1000 cushion insert to cushion the heels and eliminate shock. However, this can be removed or replaced if need be.

The outsole offers a good amount of protection from slips, chemicals, heat, oil, abrasion, and so forth. These Reebok Boots for mail carriers have a 100% non-metallic construction and are considered “security friendly”. Design elements include leather and synthetic sole.

In addition to being USPS-Certified and US-made, these are also Berry Amendment-Complaint boots.

Conclusion

Much of the decision comes down to your personal preference. Which style do you prefer? What about the brand? New Balance? Reebok? Either way, you’ll get a good pair of shoes for mail carriers that’ll help you get around, day after day.

3. Most Durable: Bates Men’s Bates Lites 6 Inch Uniform Leather Chukka – View On Amazon

Are you looking for some US Postal Certified footwear? This 6-inch Chukka boot is made in the US with 100% leather and features synthetic sole and breathable Dri-Lex lining. The Matrix outsole, combined with welted Goodyear rubber construction, make these Bates boots very durable.

From the arch, the shaft of each boot measures approximately 6-inches. There is also an innovatively designed moisture management system to help keep your feet dry in rain or snow. The non-marking, long-lasting outsole prevents wear and tear.

Not only is it a nice looking boot that’s constructed out of the best materials, it’s also comfortable to wear. The removable insert is cushioned to provide extra comfort. With features like non-metallic shank and construction, the Bates Lites 6-inch boots are undetectable in environments with electronic security.

Overall, these lace-up Chukka boots are designed for comfort and support for long periods of walking. Standard and wide sizes are all available.

4. Best Waterproof: Thorogood Men’s Soft Streets Series 6″ Waterproof – View On Amazon

Thorogood is an employee-owned company that has been making quality, “work-fitted” footwear for 125 years, and this footwear in particular is a great choice for mail carriers.

These are black full-grain leather “plain toe” boots that are waterproof and feature a 125 polyurethane footbed, which is comfortable and removable. It’s a single-density insole that offers maximum support with the contour heel cup. On top of that, there is 400g of 3M Thinsulate Insulation to ensure that your feet are kept warm and dry when delivering mail in cold weather.

The exclusive SOFT STREETS outsole features dual-density polyurethane directs-inject technology. This adds some flexibility to the fitting, making it easy to break-in quickly with no issues.

Have prescription orthopedic inserts? There is enough room to comfortably place them in these boots.

The Thorogood Mens Weatherbuster footwear is seam-sealed, well-insulated, and waterproof. There is polyester lining as well as a “Direct Attach” construction.

They are postal certified for mail carriers and Berry compliant.

5. Most Comfortable: Rocky Tmc Postal-Approved Plain Toe Oxford Shoe – View On Amazon

Although not listed #1 on our list, by no doubt it is one of the best shoes for mail carriers, as it has unique qualities, that come at a reasnoable price tag.

This pair of Oxford shoes by Rocky Tmc is 100% leather and measures 4-inches in height. They are a high-quality option to meet all of the needs of a postal worker – and offer a bit of style in the process.

The heel and platform measure approximately 1.5-in and 1.0-in respectively. With materials such as full-grain waterproof leather, non-metallic stabilizer, and Aegios microbe shield enhance the durability. Wear them as much as you need without worrying about bad odor or mildew, thanks to the Aegis microbe shield. There are also materials such as lightweight polyurethane to ensure that they fit properly and comfortably.

The Plain Toe Oxford shoes have a very professional appearance and the full-grain leather is polishable. With the oil-resistant and slip-resistant TMC direct attach outsole (TPU / PU), they are safe to wear, provide stability, and are approved by the postal industry.

The 4-in of height allows for the footwear to be paired with any pant leg, as it’s not too high or too short for Oxford style shoes.

6.  Best for Narrow Feet: Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer – View On Amazon

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that combine a classic professional look with the comfort of sneakers, this option from Nike could be worth checking out.
These shoes include several features designed to increase comfort, including a perforated leather upper and mesh tongue for extra breathability as well as a foam phylon midsole. They also boast an air-sole to provide support for your feet while simultaneously reducing shock.

On the downside, they tend to start squeaking with time, so if you prefer something silent, this might not be the best pick. Also, some might find the hard rubber soles quite stiff, although they do provide good traction in slippery conditions.

In sum, a lightweight shoe that is simple yet stylish and that would be a reliable option for anyone who needs something suitable for mail carriers or other similar occupations.

7. Best for Wide Feet: Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker – View On Amazon

For those who like to get great bang for their buck, these sneakers from Sketchers could be a great pick. They have an understated professional look, but they’re also available in a range of colors, allowing you to choose a pair that suits your taste.

Features important for mail carriers include a high-traction rubber sole that will help prevent you from slipping in wet or icy weather, and they also incorporate a cushioned mesh tongue and a memory foam insole, making them extremely comfortable to wear.

One thing we like slightly less is that they don’t perform so well in wet weather since they don’t do a great job of keeping water out – and the memory foam then suffers if it gets wet. Also, we’re

slightly concerned about how they will hold up overall in the longer term.
These minor negatives aside, these shoes could be another great choice for those needing mail carrier-friendly footwear, and if that includes you, these is an option that should be worth considering.

8. Best Lightweight: Reebok Men’s Postal TCT Work Shoes USPS Approved – Cp8275 – View On Amazon

 

These black work shoes from Reebok have been designed specifically with postal workers in mind and are USPS-approved, so if you are a mail carrier or have similar requirements from your footwear, you know these are shoes you can trust.

As well as looking highly professional, they feature a 100% leather upper and a dual-density polyurethane sole, providing a great combination of comfort and safety. They also boast a moisture-wicking lining to help keep your feet dry while you work.

The main issue here is that these shoes are not cheap, but if you want top quality, you have to expect to pay more. Also, they are perhaps not the most inspiring shoes, although when you’re at work, making a fashion statement is probably not your most important consideration.

This is the last model on our best shoes for mail carriers – but dont get it wrong, overall, a solid and reliable option that most mail carriers will be more than satisfied with – and a smart pick, as long as you don’t mind meeting the higher price tag.

Recently Added: 9. XPETI Men’s Thermator Mid Waterproof Hiking Trekking Hunting Trail Outdoor Boot – View On Amazon

This pair of boots is ideal for mail carriers who often have to trek over tough terrain in order to make deliveries. With features like an integrated inserted EVA midsole, they are sturdy even when carrying heavy packages.

There is good traction thanks to a rubber toe cap and rubber outsole, designed for optimal grip. The outsole materials such as Hydroshield Membrane and a waterproof mesh upper help keep the feet dry.

XPETI makes footwear for outdoor enthusiasts, and a pair like these can benefit mail carriers who often have to walk on uneven or unstable ground. They provide good stability and support, while keeping the feet dry and “breathable”.

9 Points you must consider When Choosing the Best Shoes for Mail Carriers

If you work as a mail carrier and are in the market for a new pair of work shoes, you’re probably wondering about the kind of features you should pay attention to when choosing – so let’s have a look at this now.

1. Non-slip soles

Since mail workers need to be out in all kinds of weather, you need a pair of shoes that offer you a good degree of slip resistance to help prevent you from falling over when the ground is wet or icy.
Look for shoes with rubber soles featuring an effective tread pattern that will provide the maximum amount of traction to help avoid slipping.

2. Shock absorption

Since as a mail carrier, you will be on your feet for large parts of the day, you should look for shoes that offer a good degree of shock absorption. This will help prevent discomfort from
walking up and down stairs or on any other hard surfaces.

3. Breathability

During work hours, you won’t usually have the time to take your shoes off to give your feet a rest, so it’s important that the shoes you wear offer plenty of breathability. This will prevent moisture from building up in your shoes and making your feet feel uncomfortable.

4. Moisture-wicking

Some shoes are designed to help wick away any moisture or sweat that builds up in your shoes during the day, helping keep your feet dry, comfortable and free of unpleasant odors.

5. Overall comfort

You should also pay attention to the overall comfort of the shoes since you will be wearing them constantly throughout your whole working week.
Some shoes include features like a padded tongue or memory foam insoles, which will help make them more comfortable to wear. Also, pay attention to how stiff the sole is since this may affect overall comfort levels.

6. Waterproof

An important point to note is how resistant to water shoes are. As a mail carrier, you may well find yourself outside in the rain, and if your shoes easily let in lots of water, you will find it quickly makes your working day miserable.

7. Weight

Choosing a lightweight pair of work shoes is an important consideration. You might not think a little extra weight makes a lot of difference, and if you only walk a few steps, it doesn’t.
However, that extra weight quickly adds up throughout the day, and wearing shoes that are too heavy will fatigue your feet and legs more quickly.

8. Durability

You should pay attention to how durable your shoes are. You need to pick a tough pair of shoes that can stand up to a bit of wear and tear – otherwise, you will find yourself replacing them far more often than you might like.

9. USPS-approved

If you are a mail carrier working for the USPS, you need to choose a pair of shoes that carry the “Green Tag”. Otherwise, without this certification, you may be fined for wearing non-regulation footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few important questions that people have about choosing the best shoes for mail carriers.

Q: Is it essential to wear shoes specially designed for mail carriers?

A: Since mail carriers are constantly on their feet, they have specific demands on their footwear. This means ensuring you have the right shoes is essential to make your daily work as comfortable, safe and pain-free as possible.

Furthermore, during your daily work, you may be faced with walking over a range of surfaces in all kinds of weather conditions. For this reason, you need a pair of shoes that will minimize the chances of you slipping and injuring yourself.

This is why choosing a pair of shoes that have been specifically designed with mail carriers in mind is always the best option. That way, you can be sure you are wearing shoes that offer the best combination of safety and comfort, allowing you to do your job with confidence.

Q: Can you just wear regular shoes for the job?

A: Technically, it is possible to find shoes that have the same attributes a mail carrier looks for in a pair of work shoes – namely that they are comfortable, slip-resistant and rugged.

However, if you decide to wear a pair of regular shoes for the job, you are taking a risk over their performance, and you may be putting yourself in danger.

For this reason, it is now illegal for mail workers in the US to wear non-approved shoes – which just goes to show how important it is to choose the correct footwear for your job.

Q: How do you know if shoes are suitable for mail carriers?

A: To know if shoes are USPS-approved, you should look for the “Green Tag”. This certification is given to footwear that meets the correct standards of safety, durability and comfort that guarantee that mail carriers can do their job properly and safely.

Q: How do shoes obtain the Green Tag?

A: To obtain Green Tag certification, shoes must have slip-resistant soles, water-resistant black leather uppers and must go through rigorous testing. The testing is repeated every three years to renew the certification to ensure standards of production don’t fall.

Q: How can you ensure your shoes last as long as possible?

A: Green Tag-certified shoes can be expensive, so once you’ve bought a pair, you’ll want to make sure they last as long as possible.

Always keeps them dry, and if they get wet during the day, make sure you dry them out thoroughly overnight. If they get dirty or muddy, clean them when you arrive home after work to reduce any lasting damage or build-up of grime.

Make sure you always wear socks with your shoes to prevent sweat and moisture from building up. Otherwise, you are providing a home for bacteria, which will cause your shoes to smell bad and the material to deteriorate.

Q: Where can you buy mail carrier shoes?

Most of the usual online or physical shoe stores carry USPS-approved shoes. Simply look for the Green Tag when you buy to make sure the shoes are approved for your job.

Conclusion

As you can see, when it comes to finding the best shoes for mail carriers, you have several solid options to pick from. For safety and comfort reasons, it is important to take care when choosing the right shoes, but any of the options in our review would be a great place to start your search.