If you are the type of guy who does a lot of heavy lifting and manual labor, then chances are you know how important it is to have a good set of work boots for those long days and tough jobs.  Work boots are not just something you want to have; they are an absolute necessity that can mean the difference between safety and injury.  They are also sometimes the only thing standing between you and a tiring, painful day on the job.  So if you are in the market for a new pair of the top rated work boots for men, here are a few things you need to consider and research before you invest.

Safety

For many of us, work boots are mandated safety equipment; on some job sites, labor laws require wearing boots. Besides being waterproof, good work boots are also slip-resistant, and most have a steel toe to protect toes from being crushed. One such shoe, Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot has steel toe protection as well as protection against electrical hazards.  Some of the newer brands of steel-toed boots are also using specially designed steel inserts that give the toes more freedom of movement inside of the toe-box. These updated boots are often lighter than older safety boots, which takes wear off your legs and back; many also feature heavy tread patterns that help when you are climbing up and down ladders and platforms.

Durability

Some boots are so well constructed and durable that they can last many years when given the proper care. For instance, EVER BOOTS Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Insulated Work Boots Construction Rubber Sole are made from heavy duty leather that has also been treated to be water and oil-resistant;  this helps to keep the boot lasting longer when exposed to the elements or on-site hazards.

Comfort

Since blue-collar feet often spend long, hard work hours inside boots, comfort is an important consideration come purchase time. If you don’t have boots that fit well and provide support, the pain can go well beyond your feet, even leading to knee and joint problems as well as issues with your back.  Because of this, you want to make sure your boots have supports and good soles that provide padding. Skechers Men’s Mariner Utility Boot, for example, features a wedge heel and lugged tread for shock absorption.  Another quality that helps as well is “breathable” materials that can provide the support needed while also letting your feet air out a little more.  The Condor Men’s Wyoming boot is lightweight because of its breathable polyurethane material but still provides protection with a reinforced toe.

Style

Just because your boot is made for hard work doesn’t mean that you can’t wear it to social engagements after your shift.  If you want something that looks nice when you head out for dinner or a drink after work, then Stanley Men’s Dredge Steel-Toe Work Boot is an attractive shoe which also features moisture-wicking material to help you go home with dry feet, and in style and comfort.

Work boots don’t have to be clunky monstrosities that look fit for Frankenstein.  New work boots provide safety and durability while still offering comfort and stylish design; these are boots you will want to keep for years. If ordering online, don’t be afraid to return any work boots that simply aren’t a good fit. Since these are boots that you’ll want to wear regularly for an extended period of time, taking additional time to do research on what will work best for you is key.