Asphalt paving is hard work! Whether you are a supervisor or a crew, this kind of work environment is highly demanding. You spend long hours standing, exposed to extreme heat, and walking on hot and hard surfaces. Don’t forget to mention the imminent hazards and risks associated with this type of work. Getting the right pair of footwear can spell the difference when it comes to getting your job done well and making sure that your feet are not exhausted by the end of the day.
Use this guide to learn about what to look for in the best work boots for asphalt paving in 2020, as well as the features and factors to look out for when shopping.
Best Work Boots for Asphalt Paving – Buying Guide
Does an asphalt paver need a specialized kind of work boot for the job? The answer is a definite yes!
Asphalt paving can take its toll on your body, and especially your feet. If you do not have the right pair, you are uncomfortable all day because your feet lack the support it needs. When you are uncomfortable, you are distracted from doing your work. It is important to note that this is one of the toughest industries to work on since you are working with hot molten tar that can be up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit!
To make sure that your feet can cope with these harsh conditions, there are a few features to look for when shopping for the best work boots.
A heat resistant sole is one of the primary features you need to look for in your asphalt paving boots. The inner and outer sole of your boots must be made of heat-resistant materials. In addition, these materials must be constructed in a way that it minimizes the heat transfer through the soles of your boot. One of the common types of materials that can withstand extreme heat is the polyurethane compound. You must look at this particular material when shopping for the best heat-resistant boots. It is also a good idea to check for boots that can withstand heat for up to 8 hours!
In addition to heat resistance, a flat outsole is another key feature to look for in asphalt paving boots. Examine the tread pattern and look for ones with no or shallow treads. This will help prevent pebbles, tar, or any remnants of the asphalt to clog up on your soles. If the debris get clogged up on your soles, it is not only annoying but can be a tripping hazard on-site.
A safety toe is another standard feature you need to look for. In fact, it is a must when you are working in an industrial environment because your feet will be exposed to extreme conditions. A composite toe would be the ideal choice in this case, though, to avoid heat transfer (as metal or steel can transfer heat). Among the best options are fiberglass or plastic materials.
When shopping for work boots for asphalt paving, you should also look for a full gusset tongue. When you are working with asphalt, it is very likely that tar, hot oil, or stones could enter your shoe from the tongue lace area. But when you have a shoe with a full gusset tongue, it prevents any foreign substances from entering. This could serve as another layer of protection for your feet against any kinds of workplace injury.
Finally, you need to look for features and characteristics that are designed to boost comfort, support, and performance. For example, you want to choose a pair with proper fit such as ones that do not chafe against your feet. When you wear a pair of boots that are not of the proper size, it can also become a safety hazard on the work site. Meanwhile, you want your work boots to be durable given the extreme conditions it is exposed to on a daily basis. And you want work boots that are built for comfort. It has to have enough arch support, cushion for your feet, and a moisture-wicking lining as it can get very hot when you are working on asphalt paving.
Top 10 Best Work Boots for Asphalt Paving
Check out below for a list of recommended work boots for asphalt paving and some of the features you can expect from each.
1. COFRA Leather Work Boots – US Road Treadless Asphalt Footwear
Cofra is an Italian footwear brand that was established in 1938. Since then, this brand has become synonymous with quality and top-notch designs. If you are looking for the best work boots for asphalt paving, the Cofra Leather Work Boots won’t disappoint. It is packed with the essential features you need to ensure safety while on the job.
The Heat Defender Rubber Sole is made of polyurethane material that can withstand up to 572 degrees of heat for up to one minute contact. You can also expect superior job safety with its composite safety toe coupled with a puncture-resistant sole plate. With these two features, you can protect your toes and feet against any hard impact. The sole is also slip-resistant so you won’t have to worry won’t treading wet surfaces.
The insulated thermic insole is another excellent feature that is available in the Cofra Leather Work Boots. This insole material offers protection to your feet against extremely high temperature so they stay comfortable and within the right temperature. The non-metallic APT plate, on the other hand, offers zero perforation that can protect against electric hazards. These leather work boots are also designed to withstand extreme refinery conditions so you are safe against any kinds of chemical solvents that you could be exposed to.
- It has a variety of heat- and electric-resistant features.
- It protects your toes from any impact with its composite safety toe feature.
- It has an insulated insole to regulate temperature of your feet.
- It is puncture-resistant to give you peace of mind.
- It is manufactured by a trusted brand.
- It comes with a treadless pattern on its sole.
- It is not ideal for non-asphalt surfaces.
2. Timberland PRO Men’s 40000 MetGuard 6″ Steel-Toe Boot
Timberland is another familiar name in the industry when it comes to the manufacture of performance shoes, such as work boots. The Timberland MetGuard Steel-Toe Boot is one of the best in the market for asphalt paving as it is equipped with all of the features you need.
This work boot is constructed with Ever-Guard leather known for its superior quality. Moreover, it is an ankle boot so you get adequate support and protection on your ankles on the job site. The work boots come with a steel shank along with a comfortable footbed cradle to give your feet adequate support. Your feet won’t tire even when you spend all day standing. Another essential safety feature you can expect here is the metatarsal shield and steel toe that combines protection against heat and impact.
The rubber outsole is slip-resistant so you can be free of worries when walking on asphalt or wet surfaces. Its hardworking profile is also complemented with its electric hazard protection, making it a true reliable work boot.
- It is designed for durability – as exemplified by its manufacturer: Timberland.
- It is constructed using premium quality leather materials.
- It offers adequate support and protection to your ankles.
- It is made with steel toe, steel shank, and rubber outsole.
- It protects your feet against electric hazards.
- Some of the customers have complained about the stitching quality.
3. Irish Setter Men’s 83606 6″ Aluminum Toe Work Boot
Irish Setter has manufactured one of the best work boots in the market designed for the demands of asphalt pavers. This is a stylish work boot that features a leather upper material. Boasting a classic look, you can expect superior durability with its Goodyear welt construction. It also comes with an aluminum toe that ensures your safety against any falling debris on the site while also being lightweight enough so your feet won’t tire easily.
The insole material is Texon while the outsole is made of rubber that boasts of EVA traction capability. The removable polyurethane footbed provides comfort and protection to your feet from electrical hazards. In fact, this work boot has a heat-resistant capacity offering protection for up to 475 degrees Fahrenheit.
Irish Setter brings over 60 years of legacy in footwear manufacturing. It’s no wonder why it is ranked consistently as one of the best manufacturers of work boots in today’s market.
- It is manufactured using durable and genuine leather material.
- Its interior lining offers comfort for your feet.
- Its construction offers durability that can last for many years.
- It is made of electric hazard safe materials and meets the ASTM safety standards.
- It delivers unmatched comfort with cushioned polyurethane footbed.
- It can be on a higher end of the price tag.
4. Ariat Men’s Hermosa XR 8″ Work Boot
If you are looking for maximum toughness in your work boots for asphalt paving, look no further than Ariat Men’s Hermosa XR Work Boot. This work boot is made with premium, full-grained leather material that is a staple in the Ariat brand. Aside from the use of high quality leather, it is also made with a Goodyear welt construction to add to its longevity.
The Cobalt XR Technology sole combines comfort and support with tremendous ease. It also boasts of a patented X-static lining and Roper toe to give maximum protection to your feet. These patented features provide the right amount of cushioning so you can get more flexibility and stability at the same time.
The PU elastomer footbed on the Ariat Men’s Hermosa Work Boot reduces impact on your feet as it disperses shock with every step. Meanwhile, the prestige of the Ariat brand guarantees that they have paid great attention to detail to ensure that this work boot can keep up with the demands of your work condition.
- It features excellent stitching quality.
- It is made of durable leather materials.
- It provides superior cushioning for flexibility and stability.
- It is made with performance soles for added protection.
- It is a bit on the heavy side.
5. Wolverine Men’s Contractor LX WPF Composite-Toe Construction Boot
Protect your feet from the hazards of your work as an asphalt paver! The Wolverine Men’s Contract LX WPF Boot is sure to keep up with the demands of your work site, which makes it one of the top-rated work boots for asphalt paving.
Made with full-grain leather material, this Wolverine work boot can stand the test of time – and the harsh environments of working with asphalt and all other extreme elements. This work boot is manufactured with rubber outsole so it offers adequate resistance against slippery and asphalt surfaces. You can also stay protected even when at the job site, thanks to its composite toe that satisfies ASTM safety standards for your peace of mind.
The abrasion resistant toe of the Wolverine Men’s Composite Toe Boot reduces wear-in issues and ensures that this pair is durable enough even on high impact areas. There is no need to worry about pain on your toes and feet while on the job! In addition, the Posi Fit Heel offers a more comfortable fit for you so that you can focus on the task at hand. The work boot also comes with a moisture-wicking mesh lining and breathable waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry at all times.
Finally, Wolverine has delivered when it comes to bringing a rugged work boot that ticks off all the essential items you would expect for asphalt paving work boots.
- It is made with composite safety toe for protection without fear of electric hazards.
- It provides comfort cushioning for your feet.
- It is waterproof with moisture-wicking mesh lining.
- It comes with an abrasion-resistant toe with zero break-ins.
- It comes with a rugged style yet lightweight.
- It is not oil-resistant.
6. Timberland PRO Men’s Gridworks 8″
Another entry on this list from Timberland is the PRO Men’s Gridworks Work Boot. It is touted as one of the top work boots for asphalt paving because of its industrial-standard safety features that does not compromise on comfort and efficiency on the job. Made with 100% leather material, the PRO Men’s Gridworks from Timberland is a mid-high work boot that combines durability, performance, and quality in one.
Every material and feature that is incorporated into this work boot was handpicked to ensure that it meets industrial standards. Moreover, they are designed to meet the demands of the work environment for asphalt pavers. And yet, Timberland elevates these features to the next level by integrating the brand’s patented quality craftsmanship that has helped it become one of the best in the market since 1973.
A global leader in the manufacture of performance boots, the Timberland PRO Men’s Gridworks 8-inch work boot is made with a rubber sole for slip-resistance and protection against any kinds of surfaces. It boasts of a fiberglass shank to deliver optimum structural support. Its dual-density dynamic anti-fatigue technology ensures that it can cope with the demands of your job while making sure that your feet won’t get exhausted even when you are on your feet for hours or all day long. Meanwhile, the alloy safety toe ensures that your feet are protected from impact on-site while keeping the work boots lightweight. The work boots feature a flat wedge shape and low temperature formation to ensure optimum traction on a variety of surfaces.
- It is manufactured with Timberland’s patented technology.
- Its flat wedge shape delivers optimum traction.
- It is integrated with anti-fatigue technology for your feet.
- It comes with a lightweight alloy safety toe.
- It integrates durability, performance, and quality in one boot.
- Some users complain that it is too large.
7. Timberland PRO Men’s 8 Inch Boondock Composite-Toe Waterproof
Another excellent entry to this list from Timberland is the PRO Men’s 8-inch Boondock Work Boots. This is yet another one from the brand’s offering of authentic and waterproof leather work boots that are built for performance and toughness. As you would expect from a global leader in shoe manufacturing, this pair delivers the design and engineering of a world-class pair of boots.
These work boots for asphalt paving are made with 100% leather and textile materials. Therefore, durability is a standard for this work boot as it offers superior quality and protection for your feet while doing asphalt work or any other similar industrial jobs. It has an 8-inch shaft so you can protect your ankles from any chemicals or hazards on the site without compromising on comfort and style. At the same time, it comes with 2-inch heels and a 1-inch platform so you can get enough traction on asphalt surfaces.
It comes with a dual-purpose top hardware to ensure ease of lacing. In addition, it boasts of a waterproof membrane so your feet can stay dry at all times. The molded rubber toe protector provides an additional line of defense against any impact when working with tools and heavy machinery on the work site. The fiberglass shank is a standard for the Timberland mid-high work boots.
- It is made with high quality leather materials.
- It is durable so it can withstand the extreme conditions of asphalt paving work.
- It is mid-high so it protects your ankles and feet.
- It boasts of a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry.
- It comes with a standard toe protector to prevent injuries due to impact.
- It is not an insulated boot.
8. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe
Over the years, Thorogood has enhanced its craft in order to produce work boots that combine innovation, comfort, and craftsmanship. It has consistently striven to produce work-fitted jobs so you can find the perfect pair for any job! It has successfully done so; in fact, the Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe is one of the best in the market when it comes to asphalt paving boots.
The American Heritage Moc Toe from Thorogood is manufactured using high quality full-grain leather. Manufactured in the US, this work boot for asphalt paving is available in two color options: black or tobacco oil-tanned. It comes with a removable ultimate shock absorbent footbed and comfort cushion insole so your feet do not hurt even when you spend all day on your feet. You can focus on your job and not on the pain on your feet because the foot bed and cushion ensures that it does not hurt your feet on impact.
Meanwhile, the fiberglass shank provides superior structural support for your feet. It is also integrated with the MAXWear wedge slip-resistant outsole that gives you maximum traction on asphalt and slippery surfaces. With a steel toe protection, your feet are protected against all kinds of injury or impact.
- Thorogood is a brand that has committed to delivering work boots fitted for specific types of jobs.
- It offers maximum protection with the steel toe feature.
- It provides optimum comfort with the material used on the foot bed and insole.
- It comes with a wedge outsole that is slip-resistant.
- It is made in the USA.
- The fit on the heel area could be a bit more snug.
9. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot
The Keen Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot is another highly recommended pair for those looking for the best work boots for asphalt paving. This light-duty work boot is both versatile and durable making it a reliable option for asphalt workers.
This work boot features side cutouts that offer proper ventilation for your feet, which is a great feature given how hot it can get on the work site. It provides adequate air flow that will keep your feet cool and comfortable. It also boasts of a dual-density midsole that provides adequate cushion for your feet. The stability shank is another notable feature that gives support to your feet when working all day.
In addition, the Keen Utility Men’s Flint Mid Work Boot comes with asymmetrical steel toe. This feature is a standard in the industry to ensure protection on your toes and feet against impact while at work. You can, therefore, rest your worries since this pair is what you need to focus on getting your job done while it does its job, too.
- It is lightweight yet durable.
- It comes with a stability shank for maximum support.
- It offers superior cushioning for unmatched comfort.
- It features an industry standard steel toe for your protection.
- It is not CSA approved.
10. Carhartt Men’s CMF6380 Rugged Flex Six Inch Waterproof Work Boot
To complete this list of the best work boots for asphalt paving, there is the Carhartt men’s Rugged Flex Waterproof Work Boot. This pair of work boots is made with 100% leather material with a shaft that measures 6 inches from the arch and less than 2 inches in heel measurement. The premium leather upper material and all the other features available make it a suitable pair of work boots for the demanding job of asphalt paving.
The Rugged Flex work boot from Carhartt is designed to do the work for you! Its composite toe feature delivers protection not just from impact but also from heat and electric hazards. It boasts of a cement construction, which is an industry standard if you expect a pair of work boots that can withstand the toughest work conditions. At the same time, it is manufactured with rubber heels and toes to protect against electric hazards and to offer great traction on various surfaces. It also comes with a lace-up closure so you can put it on or take off with tremendous ease.
The composite safety toe feature of the Carhartt Rugged Flex Work Boot exceeds the ASTM safety standards when it comes to electric hazards. It is also designed to deliver superior comfort and slip-resistance.
- It is made with a composite toe for your safety.
- It exceeds the ASTM safety standards against electrical hazards.
- It delivers great traction on various surfaces.
- It is made with cement construction for reliable durability.
- It is made for superior comfort and support.
- It is not entirely waterproof.
FAQs on Work Boots for Asphalt Paving
Why is heat resistance important for asphalt paving boots?
Working with asphalt means that you are exposed to extremely hot environments that can reach up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. A heat-resistance sole is your only line of defense so you don’t feel the heat from the outside on your feet.
What other safety features to look for?
Aside from the heat-resistance and a safety toe, make sure your boots are puncture-resistant. You will be working with various tools on site and a puncture-resistant sole can keep your feet protected at all times.
What hazards are present when working as an asphalt paver?
In this type of work environment, you are dealing with various kinds of hazards such as extreme heat, molten tar, slippery surfaces, hard surfaces, and sharp objects and tools. Make sure you choose footwear that can protect against all of these known hazards.
How do you ensure durability of asphalt paver boots?
For durability, choose work boots with a leather upper material that has Goodyear welt or cement construction.
Why choose non-heeled work boots?
Work boots that have no heels or patterns are an ideal option for asphalt pavers. This ensures that no patterns or heel marks are imprinted on the soft asphalt.
Conclusion
A good and high quality pair of work boots for asphalt paving is vital in giving your feet protection and comfort while on the job. If you need to find the right pair, make sure to look into the features and characteristics listed above. You can also check our recommended models and assess the features of each to suit your needs and preferences.
A little investment in research and comparison is important so you can get the best pair that gets the job done!