Reviews

Few things can make an outfit like a pair of knee-high boots. In fashion, boots are often an intricate affair, mixing utility and style in ways that are either unnecessary or impractical in other types of clothing. Being considerably taller than an average piece of footwear, knee-high boots allow this unique item to form a larger part of your ensemble, but things in fashion are rarely as simple as they should be.

Finding a shoe size that fits can be tricky since not all shoe sizes are created equally, it seems. However, a little browsing through the reviews of a particular piece of footwear will usually reveal if it sizes a bit smaller or larger than than the number on the box would suggest. Then you might have to deal with your feet being narrower or wider than average. That one requires a little more effort to find suitable footwear without having to try on dozens and dozens of shoes like a reverse-Cinderella.

Knee-high boots, as stunning as they look, add another wrinkle into this situation with calf size. Unfortunately, unless the knee-high boots you are looking at are of the neoprene workboot variety, you will likely need to find a pair that suit your calves, since good looking boots tend to be made from less pliable materials like leather and suede. Getting knee-high boots that are too wide will feel clumsy and awkward, like your legs are rattling around as you walk, while getting knee-high boots that are not wide enough will… well, they won’t fit. And nobody wants to buy a gorgeous pair of knee-high boots only to find that they can’t zip them up!

Fortunately, the fashion industry is aware of the struggle of the wider-calved people among us, and there are plenty of options out there for you to choose from. And, in an effort to make your search a little less stressful, we’ve put together a list of our ten best boots for wide calves. We’ve tried to include a little something for everyone here, so hopefully, you will be able to find a boot that fits you comfortably and matches your style. So let’s get to it!

1. TOETOS Women’s Knee High Winter Riding Wide Calf Boots

Kicking things off (sorry), these knee-high boots may look like they are made from genuine leather, but it is actually faux leather. Despite this, many wearers report that it feels as good as the real thing, with some even preferring the faux leather over the real deal. There is a rubber outsole to provide grip on those cold winter streets, and a side zipper to make getting the boots on and off as easy as possible.

The cuff clocks in at just over 17″, with one of those inches being taken up by the heel. The fabric lining should be enough to keep your legs and feet toasty when the temperatures plummet. On the outside, you will find a stylish buckle that can be adjusted to provide a snugger fit around the ankle. Be aware that these boots do come in a non-wide version, so make sure you order the right ones if you’re looking for that extra calf room. There are also a few different styles to choose from, which should make finding a pair to suit your preferred look much easier.

2. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Knee High Boots (Wide-Calf)

Though Dream Pairs have a wide selection of knee-high boots to offer you, their wide calf options are what we are interested in here. Fortunately, the wide calf knee-high boots use the same materials as their regular variants, so any reviews you see about the materials, appearance, or durability can be applied to the wide calf versions.

There are several different styles to choose from, from tan leather to grey suede and plenty in between. They sport a synthetic rubber outsole which, while not the grippiest of boots on this list, is fine for getting around town. The shaft features a full-length instep zipper, making them a sinch to get on and off. Inside you will find a faux-fur lining that should keep your feet and lower legs warm and comfortable. The heel of these boots sits a modest 0.5″ high, while the shaft height comes to 17.5″ tall, making them a little on the taller side, something to bear in mind if you aren’t the tallest of people.

3. Sam Edelman Women’s Penny Classic Equestrian Boot

Made from 100% leather, the Penny Classic Equestrian Boot may be intended for horse riding, but they make an excellent high boot for your everyday life as well. The manufacturers even boast that they make an ideal companion to a pair of skinny jeans. The outsole is synthetic and should provide plenty of grip. Meanwhile, a full-length zipper on the back of the calf provides you with very easy access for getting your feet in and out.

The heel is a substantial 1.25″, while the boot shaft reaches to around 18″ from the ground, making this one of the taller boots below-the-knee on the list. That being said, that chunky heel makes up a larger-than-average portion of that height, so those of you with shorter legs don’t necessarily have to write these boots off. As far as looks go, you can get the Penny Classic in brown or black leather, with both options featuring subtle detailing to make them a great addition to any wardrobe.

4. RF ROOM OF FASHION Women’s Wide Calf Stretchy Over The Knee Riding Boots

Sam Edelman may recommend you wear a pair of skinny jeans with their boots, but what if you’re more of a bare legs kind of person? Room of Fashion’s over the knee boots has you covered. At least, they have you covered just past the knee.

These are a flexible boot with stretchy fabric making up the shaft, which reaches an impressive 23.5″ from the arch. Granted, the shaft of these boots offers much less protection than many of the other boots in this list, but we’re not recommending you go wading through alligator-infested water in them! Naturally, a boot like this is designed to fit snugly against your leg, so you’re not likely to be wearing them with jeans or trousers.

There is a partial internal zipper to ease the process of getting these boots on and off. That being said, you will still have to squeeze your legs into the stretchy material. These boots are also made from 100% vegan material, if that is something you look out for.

5. Brinley Co Women’s Jimmi Engineer Boot Regular & Wide Calf

If you are looking for something with a little more emphasis, the Jimmi Engineer Boot might be the boot for you. Available in black, gray, and tan faux leather, the shaft of this boot sports a full-length side zipper to make sliding your feet in and out a simple affair. The subtle design of the stitching and the ankle buckle is a fashion statement in and of itself, but where this boot really makes a statement is with the heel.

At 1.5″, this heel means business. And with a 17″ stretch from arch to cuff, you should be good to go whether you are exceptionally tall already or a little on the shorter side. The cuff is a little wide, so you will probably be looking to wear these with a pair of jeans or something similar, rather than bare-legged, but you should have no problem with discomfort due to a narrow cuff. And, as an added mark of quality, all Jimmi Engineer boots are 100% made by hand—no automated manufacturing.

6. Frye Women’s Melissa Button 2 Riding Boot

If you enjoy well-executed simplicity, you should definitely take a look at the Melissa Button 2 Riding Boot. Again, though it may be designed for riding, this boot is stylish, well-made, and available in a range of different colors, making it a perfect everyday boot.

Externally, the boot is made from 100% leather, including the outsole. Inside, you will find more leather, along with a cushioned leather insole for added comfort. This boot is a singular celebration of leather.

There are no zippers or buckles to help with getting your legs into the boot, and leather is not a particularly pliable material, so you’ll want to make sure you get a comfortable size to avoid putting on and taking off your boots being a big ordeal.

Though an exercise in minimalism, the Melissa Button 2 does have some aesthetic additions to boast, such as the Frye logo embossed by the heel and a metal stud up by the cuff. Overall, however, the visual appeal of the Melissa Button 2 comes from its understated style.

7. Comfortview Women’s Wide Width The Heather Wide Calf Boot

For something considerably less understated, the Heather Wide Calf Boot is an elegant choice that would be perfect for those less-than-casual evenings out. Made from faux-leather, the Heather Wide Calf Boot features a scrunch-style shaft complete with a faux-leather bow.

There is a full-length inside zipper to make your life a little easier, while the flexible outsoles should make moving around in these boots as natural as can be. These outsoles are also skid-resistant and accompanied by a padded insole. In short, plenty of thought has gone into the comfort of this boot.

The heel measures a respectable 1″, while the cuff sits at a proud 17″ above the arch. There are a few different colors to choose from, including the very popular cognac, along with the usual black and brown offerings. Or, if you like to stand out, you could choose to get them in white. Just don’t go trudging through any muddy fields in them, or they won’t stay white for long!

8. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Flat Knee High Boots

Our second pick from Dream Pairs on this list is a more casual affair. Gone are the ankle buckles to be replaced with simple, understated quality. Available in a huge range of colors, with synthetic suede or leather-like materials to choose from, these boots will go great with any day-to-day outfit.

They feature an elasticated section in the cuff to make getting them on and off easier, while there is an instep zipper for even more convenience. Inside, you will find a lightly padded faux-fur lining, as well as insole, which should be enough to keep you warm and comfortable in most situations. These are a typical slouch boot design, so make sure you size them up correctly so as to avoid having them slipping halfway down your calves as you walk!

9. Naturalizer Women’s Kamora High Shaft Knee Boot

For boots that mean business, we present to you the Naturalizer Women’s Kamora High Shaft Knee Boot. These boots are made from leather and sport 2 3/4″ heels. The addition of an ankle buckle adds a nice touch of detail to a boot that would otherwise be relying entirely on its solid quality and comfort.

Speaking of comfort, a full-length inside zipper is there for your convenience; flexible soles and breathable linings should make sure you don’t find yourself wanting to take them off mere hours after putting them on. The Kamora is available in a wide range of colors.

10. Naturalizer Women’s Jessie Wide Calf Knee High Boot

Sticking with Naturalizer for our last pick, the Jessie Wide Calf Knee High Boot is a little more showy than the Kamora. With ankle and cuff buckles, as well as flexible sections in the cuff, this boot is a little busier and a little more grounded with a quarter inch heel.

That being said, it still boasts those breathable linings and flexible soles that the Kamora has. The boot itself is made from leather, while the outsole is synthetic. You can get a pair of these in black, chocolate, or banana bread… which is another way of saying black, brown, and tan.

The flexible nature of the cuff on these boots makes them ideal for winter wear, as you can easily couple them with a pair of thick socks to keep you warm.

Working in the law enforcement industry, such as a correctional officer, entails a unique set of challenges. The general notion is that protective equipment is a must. While this is important, protection is often focused solely on the upper body – arms and torso. It is equally important to protect your feet as part of your job in the correctional department facility. Not only do you spend most of your time on your feet, but you must also protect your feet from injury. It goes without saying that choosing quality footwear that can withstand the challenges of your job is something that must be given attention to. 

How to Choose Correctional Officer Boots

When shopping around for shoes to wear as a correctional officer, there are a few considerations to make to ensure you have the right pair. To put it simply, you need a pair that is both durable and practical given the challenges of this work environment. At the same time, it should be comfortable to wear, especially if you work on longer shifts.

The first thing you need to look for is a boot with a steel toe on the forefront. This feature is vital because you want to protect your toes from injuries at the workplace. In addition to the steel toe feature, you must also look at the outsole area of the boots. It needs to have a good grip so you can get good traction on slippery surfaces.

Another important consideration when buying boots as a correctional officer is the heel and foot curve area. Make sure you get adequate protection in these parts of your foot. Since you will be standing for several hours or walking down the correctional isles throughout the day, the right pair of shoes can keep your feet comfortable and protected.

Finally, select a pair of shoes that is suited for your unique arch type. Whether you have arched or flat soles, the right pair will ensure you are comfortable and have the right amount of cushion as support. On top of that, durability should not be compromised. Just like any other work boots, a durable pair can give you more longevity with its use and more value out of your money.

Top 10 Best Correctional Officer Boots of 2020

To help you find the right pair of boots to wear as a correctional officer, check out this list of the top 10 models that are available in the market for you to choose from. Take note of the features, as well as the pros and cons, for your consideration before making a decision.

1. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS Side Zip Military and Tactical Boot

The Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS Boot is one of the best options in the market for correctional officers. Made from synthetic leather and textile upper, this boot is constructed with abrasion-resistant film that is attached to the entire perimeter of the foot. Therefore, you can expect that the boot is not only durable but that it can keep your feet protected from outdoor elements.

One of the most distinctive features of this Under Armour boot is the use of UA ClutchFit technology. This particular technology is designed so that the boots will wrap around the ankle and you will feel comfortable wearing the shoes like a “second skin”. It will feel incredible and you can get an adequate amount of support. This also allows you to focus on your job and let the shoes do its job.

Also an interesting feature that is worth mentioning is the full-length Micro Gfoam cushion that is integrated into this boot. This cushion provides a tremendous amount of support so that it can absorb even the most explosive takeoffs. As a bonus, you can get the right amount of rigidity, thanks to the lightweight TPU shank. The memory foam top and the PU base provide the right balance of sturdy construction and comfort for your feet. Meanwhile, the TPU toe cap ensures that your toes are protected from injuries.

2. Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Boot

Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Boots make the cut for the best boots in the market for correctional officers. This boot is made from 70% leather and 30% nylon along with a rubber sole. This combination of materials was designed so that the boot is built for durability and performance – exactly what you need in a boot used for this type of workplace.

Aside from being waterproof, the Bates GX-8 Boot is also breathable, thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane. This material guarantees that your feet stay dry and warm at the same time. It can stand up to any weather so you can use it all throughout the year. It is complemented with a moisture wicking lining that ensures no moisture can accumulate on your feet for all-day comfort.

The side zip on/off closure type is another interesting feature for this boot. It makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of the day. This is a signature style that is available on all GX-8 models. Meanwhile, the outsole is durable, tactical, and slip-resistant. It also comes with deep lugs so you can use it on any surface or environment without compromising protection on your feet. The cement construction is just a bonus that gives it added durability and longevity, giving more bang for your buck.

3. Original S.W.A.T. Men’s Metro Air 9-Inch Side-Zip Tactical Boot

The Original S.W.A.T. Men’s Metro Air Boot is another option available for those in search of the best correctional officer boots in the market. The brand takes pride in its ability to deliver shoes that can meet the level of performance required in your line of work. You do not have to compromise because this boot understands the level of excellence that you require and so they have chosen the best materials for this. At the same time, the shoe model has undergone years of testing from professionals to ensure that it is the best pair for the job.

As part of the Metro series, this boots is designed for the urban jungle and can survive the toughest work surfaces. It features the series’ unique ‘air’ technology that serves as a cushioning support system for your feet. The Original SWAT is a family of uniform boots that are recommended for use by correctional officers, as well as airport and security personnel. For this reason, the shoes are built with non-metallic components so you can focus on the task at hand with much ease.

The boot is made with full grain leather and nylon construction. It has also received the ASTM F2913-11 Slip Resistance Certification; thus, you can ensure that this boot has the right amount of traction and grip to keep you safe. At the same time, the YKK side zipper closure makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of your shift.

Whether you are looking for a boot that delivers performance on the job or one that can keep your feet comfortable and well-supported, you got all bases covered with this one.

4. Danner Men’s Acadia 8″ Boot

When shopping for the best correctional officer boots, add this to your list: Danner Men’s Acadia boot. This boot is made with 100% leather and cordura materials so you can get durability and a textural detail on them. This is a tall boot so you can also get adequate protection on your ankles. As for the platform itself, it measures at about ¾ of an inch so you can get enough cushion from the surface.

Speaking of cushion, this boot comes with a Vibram sole that is noted for its support and quality. You can lessen the impact on every step with this type of sole material, allowing you to wear this without feeling any pain whatsoever even if you spend hours on your feet. The boot also comes with a breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex lining. This is an industry standard for those looking for a pair of boots that are comfortable and that will keep your feet dry.

On top of the great features that make it a high performance boot, Danner Men’s Acadia boots is also stylish. It boasts of a sleek and slender profile and comes with a narrow fit. This is by design so that the boot offers a snug fit so you won’t have to worry about it coming off loose when doing intense activities. Since the boots are constructed by a trusted name in Danner, you can guarantee that it has been tested for quality.

5. 5.11 Tactical ATAC Men’s 8″ Leather Jungle Combat Military Coyote Boots

The 5.11 Tactical men’s boots is one of the most affordable boots in the market that are recommended for correctional officers. The boots’ exterior material is a combination of leather and fabric. Therefore, you can expect the durability of leather and the resiliency of fabric. It comes with a synthetic sole and a tall boot design that measures 8 inches from the shaft.

This boot is engineered specifically to meet the demands of a law enforcement job. Hence, it is not just suited for correctional officers but can also be relied on by tactical operators and military personnel. This boot comes with a side zip closure for easy wearability. It also features a military look with its design that boasts of a full leather grain toe, nylon upper, and a high-shine polish.

This boot is engineered with the 5.11 shock mitigation system and a cushioned insole. These features combine to ensure that there is less pressure and impact on your feet when wearing these boots on any surface. It also comes with toe reinforcement for additional protection from injuries on the job. Indeed, you cannot find a better pair of boots within this price range that combines reliability, comfort, and ruggedness in one package.

6. Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series 8″ Tactical Side Zip Jump Boot

The Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series Boots is a 100% leather boot with a rubber outsole. It is recommended by experts as one of the best correctional officer boots because it is designed with tactical operators and law enforcers in mind. This pair is sold at a mid-range budget so it gives more value for your money, especially when you are looking for quality and performance.

Available in black, the Gen-flex2 Series Tactical Boots is integrated with high-shine polished toe cap for protection from injuries. It is also equipped with a heel counter for added support and protection. The removable single-density polyurethane footbed delivers comfort all day. Hence, you won’t have to worry about hurting your feet even when you have to stand for long hours during your shift. The composite shank and GEN-flex2 outsole are bonus features that deliver better traction and slip-resistant capabilities. If you want more value for your money, this boot is made with a Goodyear welt construction so it is extremely durable.

The brand has been around since 1892 when it was known as Weinbrenner Shoe Company. Since then, the brand has evolved and yet one thing remains: it is a pioneering force in the industry and is noted as one of the top shoe manufacturers in the world.

7. Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Size Zip Boots

The Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach Tactical Boots is another budget-friendly option for those shopping for a correctional officer boot. Available at less than $100, this tactical boot is made with a leather material and rubber outsole. It is no surprise why this pair has made this list as the Smith & Wesson Footwear Company is noted for delivering outstanding quality and attention to detail when it comes to shoes manufacturing. They have set the standard when it comes to integrating price, quality, and durability in one.

The leather and nylon construction on the Breach 2.0 Tactical Boots ensure that it is tough enough to handle any type of work environment. The choice of materials guarantees that your feet are protected while also bringing comfort as you do your job. Speaking of comfort, there are more features available on this pair that can deliver that. An example of that is the EVA midsole that act as a cradle for your feet. It is complemented with the steel shank that provides added support so you won’t suffer from foot fatigue due to the rigidity of the shoes.

Another excellent feature of this boots that makes it ideal for use by a correctional officer is the slip resistant outsole. Made from rubber materials, it is designed to minimize traction loss so you can expect a good grip no matter what surface you are treading on. And finally, and as already pointed out above, it is affordable. The budget-friendly price belies the fact that it is made with premium materials and a solid construction that you can depend on.

8. Rocky Men’s Rkc050 Military and Tactical Boot

In your search for the best correctional officer boots, make sure to include the Rocky Men’s Rkc050 boot among your list of options. While this one is a bit on the higher end of the price range, it has plenty to offer to make it a worthwhile choice. These boots are made in the US and uses 100% leather materials. It is available in coyote brown color.

This tall boot is built for tough work environments so you can expect it to get the job done when you wear it on site as a correctional officer. Even when it is engineered for tough conditions, it is comfortable to wear all day long. This is one of few boots in the market that are uniform-compliant; this means that it has been approved for use in tactical and military environments.

The construction of Rocky Men’s Rkc050 boots is made with water-resistant leather and 1,000-denier CORDURA. It is also constructed with nylon so you can expect it to be flame-resistant, as well. There are drainage vents integrated into the design so that it allows adequate air circulation making your feet dry and comfortable at all times. These boots are triple-stitched so you can be confident that it is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of your job. As it comes with a Vibram sole and the patented Rocky Air-Port footbed cushion, you can expect superior support and comfort.

9. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot

Are you looking for a correctional officer boot that combines affordability with reliable performance? Look no further than Bates Men’s Ultralite Boots. Available in black and coyote, this is one of the best options available for those who want to squeeze more value out of their money.

The boots’ upper and exterior materials are a blend of 70% leather and 30% nylon. The leather gives it superior performance so that it can stand even the toughest work conditions. On the other hand, the nylon makes it extra resilient so that it can withstand wear and tear of your work environment. One of the most notable features of the Bates Men’s Ultralite Boot is the DRYGUARD waterproof technology. This proprietary technology provides your boots with a waterproof membrane that is breathable at the same time. For this reason, you can be confident that your feet will stay dry and at the same time comfortable enough as it allows adequate air circulation.

For practical purposes, the side zip is an intuitive feature that makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of the day. And as the name implies, the boots are lightweight so that you can expect all-day comfort. It also comes with a rubber outsole that is slip-resistant. This gives you better traction on any kind of surface. The addition of a non-metallic composite toe delivers added protection and safety.

10. Corcoran Men’s 10 Inch PR Marauder Work Boot

Be confident to face what’s ahead when you have the Corcoran Men’s PR Marauder Work Boot. It is recognized as one of the top correctional officer boots in the market since it is packed with features that can keep up with the demand of your job.

Made with 100% leather, this pair of work boots features a 3 ribbed shank and synthetic sole. It is also lined with moisture-wicking materials so your feet can stay comfortable and well-ventilated. The stainless steel bottom plate ensures that your feet are protected against any form of punctures, which is a risk entailed with the job of correctional officers. At the same time, it comes with a leather toe cap so your toes are protected from injuries due to impact.

It also comes with a superior fit and a lace system for ease when putting them on or taking them off.

If you need work boots, you will understand how important it is that they do the job properly. Work boots are one of those things that are really not worth scrimping on to save a bit of money. They protect your feet from the hazards of your job, keep your feet comfortable during long workdays, and, if they are of high quality, can even ensure the long term health of your feet.

Winter work boots are no different; they have to protect your feet from the environment, just like regular work boots. It just so happens to be the case that the environment that they are protecting you from is much colder.

winter work boots Buying Guide

When buying any kind of work boot, it is essential to know what you need from your boots in order to ensure you get the right pair. But with winter work boots, it can be especially important, since being underprepared for winter temperatures can cause serious injury. So, with that in mind, what should you look for when buying winter work boots?

Adequate Insulation

The natural place to start when looking at winter work boots is insulation. If you are specifically in the market for winter boots, it likely means you are going to be working in some cold conditions. Not all winter work boots are rated for the same temperatures, and there is no point buying a pair of winter boots that are rated for as low as 10ºF if you expect to be working in -10ºF.

If you are working outdoors, do a little research on the climate in the area you will be working in, and find out what kinds of temperatures you are likely to encounter. Remember, if you are uncertain, it is better to over-prepare than under-prepare. Your feet being a little too warm can be uncomfortable, but them being too cold could result in difficulty working and even severe injury.

Moisture Defense

Another crucial area to look at is protection against moisture, but don’t fall into the trap of looking for “waterproof” in the features list and stopping there.

Being able to keep your feet dry from outside moisture is undoubtedly important—especially if you are working in wet or snowy conditions—but protecting yourself against moisture on the inside should not be overlooked. Winter work boots are designed to keep your feet warm, so it stands to reason that you may experience toasty toes on occasion, causing your feet to sweat. This is less than ideal for working, so be on the lookout for breathable materials and moisture-wicking properties that can help keep your feet dry, regardless of where the moisture comes from.

Protection Against Injury

One area that, while not specific to winter work booths, is nevertheless critical to any good work boot is protection against injuries. The most obvious thing to look for is toe protection, but also be on the lookout for additional support around the heel, thick, durable material used in the construction, and sufficient height around the cuff. You should aim to strike a balance between support for your ankle from a higher cuff, and freedom of movement from a lower cuff. The right balance will be determined by the type of work you do.

Traction

Sufficient grip from your tread is obviously important, but in winter conditions, where you may face icy conditions, it is even more crucial to make sure your work boots have good gripping ability. Of course, if you will be working almost exclusively indoors on a flat, dry surface, you can probably stick with a standard tread on your boots. If you are outside, however, and particularly if it gets to freezing temperatures where you work, you should definitely look for something with extra gripping ability.

Comfort

We probably don’t need to tell you of the importance of comfort in a work boot. Many people who need this kind of workwear will be on their feet for most of the day and will be fully aware of the miserable time an uncomfortable work boot can cause.

Look for things like padded insoles, cushioned cuffs, and the breathable materials we mentioned above. Adequate support in the midsole also makes a huge difference to your overall comfort. If you can try a work boot on before buying, that will undoubtedly help. Another way to ensure you don’t have a bad experience with your boots is to make sure you get the right kind of size. If you have wide feet, don’t buy boots that are on the narrow side.

so after we understand what we need to look for when searching for the best winter work boots, here are the

– Top 10 Best  Winter Work Boots for 2020 –

1. Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Insulated PAC Composite Toe Boot

This offering from Carharrt is one of the most comprehensively protective boots you will find. From the waterproof exterior to the composite toecap, from the ten-inch high cuff to the electrical hazard protection, this boot covers all of the bases.

It is both waterproof and breathable, keeping your feet dry from both external and internal sources of moisture—a feature that will no doubt be welcomed by people who work hard for long hours. The high cuff offers supreme ankle support, while the reinforced heel provides extra protection for the back of your foot. LiteFire insulation will keep your feet warm to a degree that would typically require more weight and bulk, while the deep tread should keep you on your feet if things get a little slippy. The design also features lacing that runs the full height of the boot, allowing for a lot of adjustment in terms of how snug a fit you get.

Pros

• The high cuff offers excellent ankle support
• Electrical hazard protection
• Lightweight insulation

Cons

• May need insoles for better arch support

2. Timberland PRO Men’s 8″ Rigmaster XT Steel-Toe Waterproof Work Boot

Timberland’ Rigmaster XT work boot is another offering with a high cuff for added ankle support. The exterior sports 100% genuine leather, which is waterproof, while extra protection for your toes is available in the form of a round steel toe cap that meets ASTM standards for protecting against compression. The boot itself is also rated for protection against electrical hazards.

Internally, the Rigmaster sports an anti-microbial footbed to cut down on odor, while anti-fatigue technology works to reduce the tiring effects of walking on your feet using clever shock-absorbing methods that “bounce” back the energy of each step.

The full-length laces let you adjust the fit of the boot to suit your needs, while the padded cuff can be tightened or loosened as needed. Given that one of the stated use-cases for the Rigmaster is working on oil rigs, it should come as no surprise that the outsole boasts superb grip.

Pros

• Anti-microbial footbed
• Anti-fatigue shock absorbing technology
• Electrical hazard protection

Cons

• Can be a little too warm in moderate conditions

3. EVER BOOTS “Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots Construction Rubber Sole

This work boot from Ever Boots is a surprisingly stylish offering in the realm of winter work boots. With the option of tan or dark brown leather and black rubber, these boots could easily pass for casualwear. That is, of course, if you haven’t gotten them dirty, which you almost certainly will because as good as they look, these boots are made for work.

They feature a six-inch-high cuff, which may not be the most ankle support you will find on this list, but it does offer a greater degree of flexibility. For comfort, there is anti-fatigue technology and a removable cushioned insole.

The boots are oil resistant and, while not explicitly waterproof, will keep your feet dry in generally wet conditions. We wouldn’t recommend wading through water in them, however.

Pros

• Oil resistant
• Anti-fatigue technology
• Stylish

Cons

• Not much ankle support due to low cuff

4. Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6 Inch Composite Safety Toe Waterproof Work Boo

The Timberland Pro Boondock work boot makes a strong case for best winter boots with a solid combination of full-grain leather and reinforced rubber. Your toes will be protected by an abrasion-resistant rubber toe cap, while the boot itself is rated for protection against electrical hazards.

The tread is abrasion and slip-resistant, while the insole is anti-microbial.

Pros

• Abrasion and slip-resistant tread
• Durable full-grain leather
• Rated for electrical hazards

Cons

• A bit on the heavy side

5. Muck Boots Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions Tall Rubber Men’s Winter Boot With Arctic Grip Outsole

One of the more agricultural boots you’ll find on this list, Muck Boots offering is a tall boot constructed from neoprene and rubber to ensure complete protection from the elements.

As you would expect from this kind of boot, it is completely waterproof. Thanks to the neoprene material and stretch-fit cuff, this boot keeps your feet well insulated against the cold outside, and the height of the cuff makes it perfect for situations where you may be working in and around shallow water. It features a rugged outsole that should keep you from slipping in most situations, and a fleece lining creates incredible comfort on the inside.

Pros

• Protects much of lower leg
• Fleece-lined for added comfort
• Completely waterproof up to the cuff of the boot

Cons

• Less flexibility than shorter boots

6. Ariat Men’s Conquest Round Toe H2O 400g Western Cowboy Boot

The first thing you’ll notice about the Ariat Men’s Conquest work boot is the distinctive appearance. This boot looks like something straight out of a western—as you might expect from a boot with “cowboy” in the name. It is made from 100% leather and has a high cuff that will protect a large portion of your lower leg from snake bites and other dangers.

Of course, this boot is most well suited to farm and ranch work, though it could certainly be applied in other fields. They are well insulated to keep your feet warm, and they are waterproof. That being said, the cuff does not form a seal around your leg, which reduces its suitability in the more extreme cold weather. There is no steal toecap protection or electrical hazard rating, so treat this boot as a strictly agricultural affair. Still, that doesn’t mean this boot is no good. It is okay to specialize, and for what this boot is intended for, it does a spectacular job.

Pros

• Very well insulated
• Easy to put on and take off
• Fully waterproof

Cons

• No toe protection

7. Bogs Men’s Classic Ultra High Insulated Waterproof Winter Boots

Sticking with taller work boots, Bog’s Ultra High winter boots offering is exactly what the name suggests. Once again, we are looking at a rubber and neoprene combination that provides complete protection against water, while the neoprene upper section offers a bit of flexibility of movement that isn’t always found in this kind of boot.

With a cuff height of just over twelve inches, the Classic Ultra High provides plenty of protection for your ankle and lower leg. At the same time, the insulation should keep your toes from falling off in temperatures as low as minus forty degrees (Celsius or Fahrenheit). The non-slip rubber outsoles should keep you from slipping in most situations, while the anti-microbial insoles will keep your feet odor-free.

One unique feature of these boots is the holes that are stitched into the neoprene upper sections. While they make the boots easier to carry around, they do lower the effective level at which you can wade through water in these boots, so bear that in mind if you’re expecting to be trudging through deep water.

Pros

• Anti-microbial insoles
• Anti-slip outsoles
• Well insulated to keep your feet warm in extremely low temperatures

Cons

• Carry holes reduce the depth of water that you can wade through

8. Georgia Boot Lace-To-Toe Gore-Tex Waterproof Insulated Work Boot

With a look that is well-suited to an auto shop environment, it’s not surprising that this boot boasts many features that make it ideal for working in that kind of environment. Features like oil and slip-resistant outsoles, waterproof full-grain leather construction, and breathable GORE-TEX lining.

You will also benefit from additional ankle protection from the eight-inch cuff, as well as additional support in the form of a steel shank. Full-length lacing will allow you to get the fit just right, perfect for those long workdays.

Pros

• Slip and oil-resistant outsoles
• Steel shank
• High cuff for additional ankle support

Cons

• No additional to protection

9. Kamik Men’s Icebreaker Work Boot

The Kamik Icebreaker work boot is a tall rubber and nylon construction with a synthetic sole providing excellent grip for those slippy winter conditions. The cuff is thirteen inches high, and the opening is adjustable thanks to a simple lace and knot system, meaning you can take advantage of a well-fitting cuff without having to worry about not being able to get the boot off.

Inside there is a removable liner that should keep you warm in the colder temperatures, but can be taken out if the weather starts to heat up. That being said, the liner is quite thick, and you may find your feet rattling around in all the extra space if you remove the liner.

Pros

• High adjustable cuff
• Removable lining

Cons

• Boots can feel too big when the removable liner is taken out

10. AP Men’s Winter Heavy-Duty Water-Resistant Snow Boots

Though this list is detailing the best winter boots, it is not necessarily the case that you will be trudging through the snow. However, if you are going to be walking around in a winter wonderland, AP Men’s snow boots are a great option.

Thick insulation and waterproof rubber and leather construction mean your feet will be dry and warm, despite the cold, wet world outside. The tread provides excellent grip—essential for any work boot being used in the snow—and the tall cuff offers excellent ankle support. It’s not the most flexible boot, but it will keep you warm and dry.

Pros

• Very well insulated
• Excellent traction thanks to heavy sole

Cons

• Not a particularly flexible work boot