Carpentry can be a tough line of work. You spend the majority of the day on your feet, bent over, and working hard. That is why it is important to find work boots that are comfortable and supportive, that will help you stay focused on your work.
But it’s not only that.
There are also hazards to working in carpentry. You are constantly surrounded by sharp tools and heavy objects, which can cause injury. That is why it is important to get a work boot that has a solid toe to protect you from injury. Simialir to other blue collar workers such as delivery drivers or mail carriers safety and protection are the highest priority when choosing a shoe.
There’s also the issue of paint, stain, and other liquids on the floor that can cause you to slip. With a work boot that has good traction, you can avoid slipping and falling, both of which can cause serious injuries.
Carpentry is a hard job and that is why carpenters also need durable work boots. Full leather uppers and Goodyear welt construction are must have features when youre looking to buy your next carpenter shoe.
You know what to look for in the best work boots for carpenters, but there are so many options out there to choose from. Not sure where to begin your search for the best work boots for carpenters? Thankfully, we’ve done all the hard work for you! From KEEN to Timberland, we looked at the best of the best and created a list of the best work boots for carpenters.
Top 10 Best Work Boots for Carpenters 2021
Let’s do a quick summary of the top 10 if you’re in a hurry. Following that you can read a comprehensive and detailed review for each of the selected shoes
1. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe
2. Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe
3. EVER BOOTS”Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Boots
4. KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
5. Irish Setter Men’s 83606 6″ Aluminum Toe Work Boot
6. Golden Fox Work Boots 6″ Men’s Moc Toe Wedge Comfortable Boot for Construction
7. RedbacK Men’s Safety Bobcat USBOK boots
8. Timberland PRO Men’s G48 Powerwelt Waterproof 8″ Steel-Toe Boot
9. Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger 6″ Boot
10. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe
So here comes the in-depth reviews, Buying guide and Frequently Asked Quesions
Let’s Start!
1. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe
These leather work boots meet ANSI safety standards
Offers protection against electrical hazards
Maximum comfort and support
These stylish work boots come from one of the most popular brands in the market. And like other Timberland boots, they are made from high quality matrerials and built with durability in mind.
And it’s not only durability.
One of the best features of the Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe is that they meet all of the ANSI safety standards for both slip and oil resistance. That means that you can reduce the chance of slipping and falling and avoid injury which is by far the most important feature we are looking for.
The soles of these work boots provide excellent traction grip. Even when you are working on slippery surfaces, you can get excellent grip. The rubber outsole also delivers protection against electrical hazards, which is always present as carpenters work with electrical components and machinery
The Pit Boss is everything you aspire from a work boot and more. It is integrated with steel toe construction that meets the ANSI safety standards to give you peace of mind. The steel toe is designed to be roomier than your standard toe box so that you stay comfortable without compromising safety.
When it comes to comfort, the Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe also delivers. These boots have thick padding on the collar and boat 24.7 Comfort Suspension technology. This reduces the fatigue on your legs, feet, and lower back. This is essential for carpenters that spend all day on their feet.
As far as the best work boots for carpenters go, with all these features mentioned above, and with a reasnoable price tag this is by far the best work boot for carpenters available today!
- Work boots are durable and will last a while
- Abrasion-resistant outsole provides added toe protection
- ANSI certified for slip and oil-resistance
- Available in a variety of colors
- Padded top collar provides added comfort for long days
- Affordable work boots
- Provides great traction to reduce slips and falls
- Top material can wear quickly
2. Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe
Waterproof full-grain leather upper – Keeps your feet dry
Slip resistant rubber lug outsole
If you want the best work boots for carpenters, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe is a solid option. Though these boots can be expensive, they are built to last, which means they will not need to be replaced as often as other options.
These work boots are constructed with full-grain leather to provide waterproof protection that will keep your feet dry in all situations. Plus, the slip-resistant rubber lug outsole will provide an added level of protection.
When it comes to comfort, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe is at the top of the game. The lightweight cement construction and removable cushion footbeds reduce fatigue so you can keep working all day long in comfort.
For the more stylish carpenter, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe is great. They come in three different colors—black, dark brown, and wheat—so no matter what your style is, the boot can deliver.
If you are searching for a great work boot, the Wolverine Men’s Floorhand 6 Inch Waterproof Soft Toe Work Shoe is one to consider.
- The full-grain 100% leather upper makes the boot waterproof
- The outsole offers great traction on slick surfaces
- The removable cushion footbeds enable you to insert custom orthotics
- Lightweight cement construction reduces fatigue
- Boots are very comfortable to wear during long days
- Shoelace tabs can fall out after a few months
3. EVER BOOTS”Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots
fitting perfectly extremely comfortable
Break In Free: No break-in period
When you want quality work boots for your job, you should look at the EVER BOOTS”Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots Construction Rubber Sole. These boots are built for the hardest workers. Those that do carpentry work like framing will love the durability of these boots.
Not only do these boots have great toe protection, but they are also comfortable. These top work botos for carpenters boast insulated mesh that provides added comfort and warmth. It also has shoelace tabs that allow you to adjust the laces on your boot to find the perfect, most comfortable fit.
The EVER BOOTS”Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Work Boot is made with 2.0 mm nubuck leather that provides protection in all types of work settings. This also makes it easy to clean since all you need to do is wipe the boots with a damp cloth to clean them off.
If you want a high-quality work boot for carpenters, definitely check out the EVER BOOTS – they are high quality, afforadable price and excellent shoes!
- Well-built with solid toe protection to reduce injury
- Stylish design that can be used for work and casual wear
- Shoelace tabs make it easy to adjust shoes for a comfortable fit
- Mesh lining provides breathability and comfort in damp working conditions
- The outsole is made of nubuck and is easily cleaned
- Quality 100% leather upper
- Rubber sole and Goodyear welt construction makes these shoes durable with great traction
- They are not the most durable boots
4. KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
Very safe – Steel toes for added protection
Comfortable and pretty light unlike other steel toes boots
Anyone searching for the best work boots for carpenters will love the KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot. These boots are soft toe, which some carpenters love because it provides added flexibility. You won’t have the added protection of a steel toe or composite toe boot, but the boot does meet ASTM F2892 EH standards.
The great thing about the KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot is that it offers electric shock resistance. With electrical hazard-rated outsoles, this provides great traction and added protection from electrical circuits and hazards.
The rubber soles are also oil and slip-resistant which reduces the risk you’ll slip and fall. The KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot also features a nylon shank and air-infused midsole. This brings comfort and great support, which is great for carpenters that are working long hours.
If you want a great work boot, the KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot is a solid contender.
- 100% Nubuck leather makes this shoe durable
- Locking metal lace hooks for easy adjustability
- Rubber sole provides added traction and slip resistance
- Dual-density compression-molded Eva and PU midsole provides added comfort
- Steel toes for added protection and reduced risk of injury
- Ability to serve as a work boot or sports shoe
- Soles are not as durable as other brands of work boots for carpenters
5. Irish Setter Men’s 83606 6″ Aluminum Toe Work Boot
Heat-Resistant outsole – resistant to melting at a minimum of 475 Fahrenheit
The Irish Setter Men’s Aluminum Toe Work Boot is another model to consider when you are in the market for the best carpenter work boots. It is a mid-priced pair that gets the job done that looks good, too.
This pair is made with Trout Brook Leather, which is crafted exclusively for the Irish Setter brand. Thus, you can expect superb quality and advanced performance that you can depend on for many years.
These work boots are also equipped with protective sole and heel construction that can rise up to the demands of the work environment. These features are delivered to offer next-level protection and to reduce hazards on the job. In particular, it gives you peace of mind against electrical hazards.
Aside from protecting you from electrical hazards, these work boots feature outsoles that pass tests on high heat surfaces. Therefore, it can withstand up to 475 degrees Fahrenheit of heat. And as expected, the Irish Setter Aluminum Toe Work Boot is integrated with a safety toe feature. It has satisfied the ASTM F2413-11, I/75C/75 standard so your toes are protected against all kinds of compression and impact at work.
- It is constructed with the toughest kind of leather material.
- It offers optimum heat resistance.
- It comes with high quality safety toe construction using aluminum materials.
- It protects against electrical hazards.
- It is also waterproof.
- It is a little snug around the toe area.
6. Golden Fox Work Boots 6″ Men’s Moc Toe Wedge Comfortable Boot for Construction
Lightweight & Durable: Rubber outsole gives superior traction
Built to Last – softens with wear
If you are looking for the best work boots for carpenters, the Golden Fox Work Boots 6″ Men’s Moc Toe Wedge Comfortable Boot for Construction is a quality option. The great thing about these work boots is that they are perfect for stylish carpenters. With sleek leather uppers and a fashionable look, you can even wear these work boots out after work for a drink with coworkers or friends.
Don’t let the fact that these work boots are stylish fool you. They are also great for carpenters. These boots have sturdy construction. The Golden Fox Moc Toe Work Boots feature a full-grain leather upper that makes it extremely durable and easy to clean. It also boasts a rubber sole with great traction so you will not slip.
As far as comfort goes, the Golden Fox Moc Toe Work Boots deliver. With a shock-absorbing cushion and a mesh lining, you can comfortably wear these boots all day long. This is great for carpenters who spend their whole day on their feet!
When it comes to great work boots for carpenters, you won’t find a better option than the Golden Fox Work Boots 6″ Men’s Moc Toe Wedge Comfortable Boot for Construction.
- Durable oil full-grain leather is water repellent and extremely durable
- Comfortable and breathable due to the polyurethane cushion insole
- Shock-absorbing cushion provides added comfort and reduced fatigue on your lower back and legs
- Goodyear welt means added durability
- Mesh lining wicks away moisture and keeps your feet warm during cold days
- Stylish boots that can transform into casual wear after work
- Rubber soles provide great traction
- It takes a while to break in the boot
7. RedbacK Men’s Safety Bobcat USBOK Dark Brown Elastic Sided Steel Toe Leather Work Boot
No Break in period
Comfortable and provides great support
Another excellent addition to your choice of work boots for carpenters is the Redback Men’s Safety Bobcat Steel Toe Work Boot. It is reasonably priced at around the $150 range so it is a good investment for carpenters looking for a reliable pair for work. It also packs a variety of features that give you confidence while on the job.
The Redback Steel Toe Work Boot is constructed using premium leather materials. It is made in Australia and boasts of quality that is built to last. The boot itself is constructed with leather that is up to 2.7 mm in thickness. According to the manual, it is also up to 20% stronger than other work boots in the market. Therefore, it can proudly claim that this pair offers beyond the minimum international standard when it comes to safety and protection.
The leather is oil tanned and full chrome that means it does not harden or crack easily. Whether you are standing up or working on the ground, you can expect these boots to hold their shape longer. It also boasts of the Anatomic sole profile that minimizes sagging and gives optimum comfort to your feet in the process. No more foot fatigue, as well as leg and back ache when you are working on site.
- It comes with a composite toe so you get the best of both worlds: lightweight and protective.
- It is comfortable and provides support to your legs and back.
- It comes with a non-existent break-in period.
- It is extremely durable.
- It is easy to put on and remove.
- It is Australian-made so sizing can be off; make sure to check the sizing chart thoroughly.
8. Timberland PRO Men’s G48 Powerwelt Waterproof 8″ Steel-Toe Boot
Comfortable and long lasting
Ever-Guard leather upper with waterproof membrane
Timberland shoes are built with the tradition of excellent craftsmanship and toughness in mind. This is what you can expect from Timberland PRO Men’s Waterproof Steel Toe Boots. It is rated as one of the best work boots in the market for carpenters because it has everything you could ever need to support working all day.
This steel toe boot is constructed using premium leather so you are confident it can withstand any outdoor elements. At the same time, the material makes it waterproof so your feet can stay dry all day long. It is also designed using the Goodyear Welt Cast-Bond technology to provide stability and a durable chemical bond. The choice of soles to use offers slip and abrasion resistance to the pair. And to top it off, it feels extremely comfortable to wear, too!
It is clear that Timberland has set a new standard when it comes to work boots! It is no wonder the brand is considered a leader in the work boot department with its advanced engineering and premium craftsmanship.
- It comes with solid construction so the stitches do not come undone very easily.
- It is suitable for all kinds of weather – hot or cold.
- It is superior in comfort.
- It is extremely waterproof.
- It offers protection against electrical hazards.
- It does not breathe well inside the shoe.
9. Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger 6″ Boot
Slip and oil resistant
Made in the USA
The Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger Boot is an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best work boots for carpenters. It is priced on the higher end of the range but it does so in exchange for premium quality material and construction. This work boot is made with 100% leather materials and is constructed in the US.
The Iron Ranger was named after the hardworking miners in Minnesota; thus, it exemplifies the same quality and resilience you would expect from a miner’s boot. This one in particular features a durable stitch-down welt construction so it can hold its shape and maintain durability for many years.
This robust footwear also comes with oil-resistant soles so you won’t have to worry about slipping or falling while on the site. The contrast stitching gives it a stylish appearance but it does not compromise on safety, thanks to its cap toe.
- It is manufactured in the US.
- It is made from 100% premium leather.
- It features double-stitching welt construction for added durability.
- It comes with a roomy cap toe for protection from injury.
- It is slip and oil resistant.
- It runs larger than regular shoe sizes.
10. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe
Goodyear storm welt construction
Made in the USA
Completing the list of the best work boots for carpenters is the Thorogood Men’s American Heritage Moc Toe. Thorogood has continually evolved over the years in its effort to bring the most reliable and comfortable work boots in the market. The American Heritage Moc Toe is a pure example of that effort as it combines innovation, comfort, and craftsmanship in one model.
Thorogood understands the value of having good work boots to rely on as part of your livelihood so you can get the job done. Not only is this recommended for carpenters but boasts of qualities that make it ideal for electricians, sheet metal workers, fabricators, utility linemen, and more. The tobacco oil-tanned leather material used on the American Heritage Moc Toe gives it a stylish look. But don’t let that fool you because this pair is built to last.
It is constructed with electric shock-resisting soles that can absorb up to 18,000 volts at 60 Hz. It also has excellent resistance to compression and impact; in fact, this pair is designed to withstand up to a 50-lb weight. Meanwhile, it is equipped with a removable and shock-absorbing foot bed so you can get the right amount of cushion you need to last you through each working day.
- It comes with a stylish design and color.
- It offers protection against electric shock.
- It is durable and can provide protection against impact and injuries.
- It comes with a shock-absorbing cushion and foot bed.
- It has a slip-resistant outsole.
- The work boots run a bit narrow.
Buying Guide – 6 Points to Look for in when searching for the Best Work Boots for Carpenters
Carpenters typically work more than 40 hours a week and up to 8 hours per day at a time. They spend most of their time on their feet. The working environment also entails a lot of danger as there are plenty of sharp objects, heavy items, or hard surfaces. On top of that, carpenters often work in an outdoor work environment. This exposes them to variable working conditions (mostly extreme weather conditions) on a day to day basis. Needless to say, this is a strenuous work environment that carpenters have to deal with on a regular basis.
Taking precautionary measures and observing safe work practices can be a lifesaver for carpenters. It is also important to wear protective gear at all times once you enter the working site. The right pair of work boots that can withstand the challenges mentioned above is of the essential. You want boots that not only make you comfortable while working but can also withstand the extreme conditions at the job site.
To help you find the right pair, there are a few features and characteristics that you need to look for in an ideal work boot. With boots that have the following features, you can enjoy peace of mind while on the job:
1. Durable and Flexible
Durability is an obvious factor to consider when shopping for carpenter work boots. It is the most important feature with regards to safety since you will be dealing with heavy machinery and tools. At the same time, you will be standing a lot so you want your boots to offer longevity. Flexibility is also important because you do not want your boots to restrict your movement. It should adapt to your movement instead so you can stay comfortable and be productive at work.
2. Steel Toe
This is one of the non-negotiable features when it comes to choosing the best boots for carpenters. This is an industry standard so your toes are protected from heavy objects that could potentially fall on your feet. There are plenty of materials available for safety toes on your boots but steel is the heaviest one and could offer the best protection. You can also find aluminum ones that are equally durable and tough but not as heavy as steel. Composite toes are the lightest ones in the market but they are ideal only for protecting against bumps and impacts.
3. Puncture Resistance
Nails and other similar types of debris are part and parcel of your work environment as a carpenter. Make sure to choose a pair of work boots that can protect your feet from accidentally being punctured by any of these hazardous items. Ideally, your work boots must have midsoles that are made of either steel, Kevlar, or aluminum. It is also important to check the soles capacity to handle penetration forces of 1100N or less. You want to ensure that nothing can penetrate through your soles and your feet.
4. Slip Resistance
Having items fall on your feet and toes are not the only hazard that you will face in a carpentry site; you will also be dealing with the possibility of slipping or falling. Therefore, find a good pair of work boots that are slip-resistant. This will give you adequate traction against all types of work surfaces so you can get better grip with every step.
5. Boot Weight
A lot of carpenters tend to overlook this particular factor when shopping for boots only to regret it later. You want to choose boots that have durable materials that can protect you from falling debris or any other hazards while on the job. But you want to make sure that the weight of the boots won’t slow you down at work.
6. Breaking In Period
It is not uncommon for most shoes to have a break-in period when you wear them for the first time. But as a carpenter, you want something that has minimal break-in period so you can optimize its performance at work. The sooner you can break in your shoes, the better able you can perform your work with maximum comfort and support.
On top of the factors that are listed above, there are many other notable factors to look into when you want to get the best work boots for carpenters. Among them are the breathability of materials and the right fit of the shoes. It is also important to consider how contoured the boots are since you will be moving around a lot. While you spend most of your time on your feet, you want your boots to be flexible enough when you have to kneel down or work on the ground. You do not want your boots to constrict your movement whatsoever.
Best Work Boots for Carpenters – Frequently Asked Questions
If you are going to buy the best work boots for carpenters it is important to know what to look for. Not all shoes are created equal and there are some shoes that are better than others when it comes to long days on your feet. If you want to reduce your risk of injury or fatigue, keep reading to learn what to keep an eye out for when selecting the top work boots for carpenters!
What should you look for in quality work boots for carpenters?
There are many features that make a work boot “the best work boot for carpenters” and we are here to break down that list for you. When you are looking for a great pair of work boots, look for boots that:
- Are in your budget range
- Are Comfortable with shock absorption to reduce fatigue
- Offer the right toe protection – steel/composite toe for protection vs. soft toe for flexibility and comfort
- Have a mesh liner to provide temperature control
- Feature a rubber outsole for slip-resistance
- Have leather construction for durability
- Have electric resistance if your job requires it
- Fit your style preference
- Are lightweight to reduce fatigue
What are the best brands for carpenter work boots?
There are many great brands that come to mind when you are talking about the best work boots for carpenters. These brands include Timberland, Keen Utility, Carhartt, Wolverine, Ever Boot, and Golden Fox. Other top brands for the best work boots for carpenters include Caterpillar, Redback, Irish Setter, and Thorogood American Heritage.
Where can you buy the best work boots for carpenters?
There are many places that you can buy work boots for carpenters. While you can find these types of work boots in department stores, the best place is often online retailers. Purchasing work boots for carpenters from Amazon is often a great option because you can find great deals, get boots delivered quickly, and returns are easy to make!
Do carpenters need to have steel toe boots?
Steel toes are not required for carpenters. However, some carpenters like to have steel toes because it provides added protection when they are lifting heavy things. Others prefer soft toe moots because it allows them more flexibility and comfort.
How long do work boots for carpenters last?
How long the best work boots for carpenters really depends on the construction of them. Quality work boots will last a while, especially if you maintain them well. With careful cleaning and care, you can keep your work boots looking and feeling great. Be sure to wipe your boots clean but avoid using bleach or strong detergents that can damage the material. You can also use silica gel packets to wick moisture from the boots. Overall, if you care for boots well, you should be able to get at least a year out of them, if not more.