Protective footwear is just as important as a welding helmet, gloves, and other protective equipment.
However, some welders, especially those who perform overhead welding, usually forget welding boots.
Moreover, sparks and splatter can fall anywhere and cause unpleasant accidents.
To prevent that, you have to find appropriate welding boots.
Luckily, there are plenty of excellent welding boots you can find in a reasonable price range.
The boots have been tested for industrial standards by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Therefore, the bots are safe to wear and protect your feet from acid, debris, sparks, electrical surges.
Check my list of best welding boots and pick a pair for yourself.
Highest Rated Best Welding Boots (by Customer Reviews)
- 1Dr. Martens Ironbridge MG ST Steel-Toe Boot
- 2Timberland PRO Metguard Steel-Toe Boot
- 3Delta Plus Panoply Cobra Welding Safety Boots
- 4Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Steel Toe Boot
- 5Stanley Dredge Soft-Toe Work Boot
- 6Kingshow GW Steel Toe Work Boots
- 7Rhino 6MS01 Steel Toe Metatarsal Work Boot
- 8Harley Davidson Jake Boot
- 9Ever Boots Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots
- 10Rocky IronClad 8-Inch Work Boot
1
Dr. Martens Ironbridge MG ST Steel-Toe Boot
Dr. Martens shoes are heavy-duty shoes with steel-toe.
They have an excellent and comfortable fit with an upper leather synthetic sole and ballistic mesh padded collar.
Therefore, while being protective, the boots won’t cause sweat.
Moreover, the boots handle cool and hot temperatures perfectly.
Next, the insole is comfortable, and you can remove it if you have orthotics or any foot issues.
Furthermore, the shoes are slip-resistant and rated for fuel, fats, and oil.
There is a metal toe, that protects tour toes from breaks and hazards.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Men’s and women’s numbers available
- Protection for toe
- Comfortable fit
- Don’t cause feet sweat
- Made from leather
Cons
- The sole might be too soft
Michael's TakeIf you are a full-time welder, you will like these Dr. Martens boots.
They are comfortable for wearing long hours and offer much-needed protection.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Timberland PRO Metguard Steel-Toe Boot
These Metguard steel-toe boots offer a high-top fit.
First of all, the boots are waterproof, which makes them suitable for different work settings.
Next, the boots meet ASTM standards.
There is a leather upper with a synthetic rubber sole, that is suitable for welders who work long hours or plan to wear these boots daily.
However, your feet might get a little hot because the boots have 100% leather construction, without mesh attachments, but you can help yourself with quality socks.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Waterproof boots
- Meets ASTM standards
- Slip and abrasion resistant
- Comfortable
Cons
- Feet can get sweaty
Michael's TakeThese Timberland boots are mid-cut, contoured boots that make a great piece of PPE.
The protection is outstanding, and the boots are quite comfortable.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
Delta Plus Panoply Cobra Welding Safety Boots
The Delta Plus boots are an excellent choice for people who are sick of laces and guards that move around.
These boots are also a budget-friendly alternative to some more expensive protective boots.
The boots have a Velcro-fastened metatarsal flap, which makes the boots easier to put on.
The sole is cleated and slip-resistant and sewn with Kevlar seams.
Therefore, you can expect these boots to be very durable.
Besides, there is a steel toe cap that provides crash resistance.
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Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to put on
- Available in men’s and women’s sizes
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Feet can get sweaty
Michael's TakeThe Delta Plus boots are better for people working in not so hot environment.
Overall, these boots are great for their price range.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Steel Toe Boot
Caterpillar boots guard both your shin and high-top.
These are pull-on boots with a steel toe for extra protection.
They have 100% full-grain leather construction, and durable footwear.
The design is convenient with a dual-pull zone, so you won’t struggle to put them on.
Also, it will prevent wear and tear of the boots.
The outsole is slip-resistant with tough construction.
Besides, they look great and are not as bulky as some other protective footwear.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy to put on
- Shin protection
- Durable
- Slip resistant
- Lightweight
Cons
- Smaller sizes than normal boots
Michael's TakeKeep in mind that when you are buying these shoes, you might need to go for a larger size than your normal footwear.
The Caterpillar boots are highly protective and will last you for years.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Stanley Dredge Soft-Toe Work Boot
The Stanley Dredge footwear is a low-top and has a full-grain leather construction.
The design is similar to Chelsea boots, and they reach mid-ankle for most people.
Next, the boots have front and rear pull straps, which allows you to easily put them on.
Moreover, the boots have a removable EVA insole and an additional cavity that makes it easier to customize the cushioning.
The heal is sturdy and the sole is slip-resistant.
Also, your feet won’t get sweaty in these boots.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Flexible rubber sole
- Removable EVA footbed
Cons
- Sizing issues
Michael's TakeThe best way to choose the proper size of the shoes is to compare the length of the soil with your old boots.
Once you find your best size, you will enjoy these lightweight and durable welding boots.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Kingshow GW Steel Toe Work Boots
The Kingshow boots offer a great value for the price.
These are comfortable for wearing all day, even for people who walk a lot or weld in the standing position for long hours.
They can withstand a lot of force and abuse, and still protect your feet for several seasons before the first signs of wear and tear start to show.
The Kingshow boots are made from nubuck leather and heave a metal steel toe, as well as a great rubber sole.
Moreover, the boots are water and slip-resistant.
Also, you can order them in several colors, including black and brown.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Steel toe
- Water-resistant
- Comfortable
Cons
- Somewhat heavy
Michael's TakeThese boots are suitable for people who plan to wear them every day for years.
They are durable and offer great protection for your feet.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Rhino 6MS01 Steel Toe Metatarsal Work Boot
The Rhino boots, model 6MS01 meet all ASTM standards.
They are very comfortable and won’t cause any sweat or fatigue even if you wear them every day for the full shift.
The inside of the boot has excellent padding, which makes it even more comfortable, but the boot is breathable.
The sole is thick enough to be durable, but not heavy, and it provides a beautiful appearance.
The boots are available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Stylish design
- Optimal sole thickness
- Breathable boots
Cons
- Can be too stiff at the beginning
Michael's TakeAfter you wear these boots a couple of times, you will see how comfortable they are.
You might not even want to take them off!
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Harley Davidson Jake Boot
Harley Davidson boots look stylish, but these are heavy-duty protective boots.
You can even wear them in your regular clothes.
Next, the boots are very breathable, so your feet won’t get sweaty, even in the highest temperatures.
Despite its high price tag, the boots are well known across the welding world, due to its amazing features and comfort.
They are durable, stylish, heat resistant, and very comfortable.
Harley Davidson boots are made from leather with thick heal, steel toes, and rubber soles.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Full-length cushioning socks
- Stylish
- Heavy-duty
- Durable
Cons
- Pricier
Michael's TakeIf you want to invest in your protective gear, I recommend these Harley Davidson boots.
They will pay for themselves in the long run!
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Ever Boots Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots
The Ever Boots are a great pair of affordable heavy-duty protective footwear.
The majority of welders who have tried them to agree that these are quite comfortable and reliable boots suitable for daily use.
There are some issues with sizing that you should be aware of because the boot is half a size bigger than the standard boot.
Further, the inside of the boot has comfortable cushioning, which provides an extra layer of protection and insulation.
The slip-resistant sole with easy-to-connect hooks and back loop is just another advantage of these boots.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- High protection
- Comfortable
- Budget-friendly
- Available in two colors
Cons
- Sizing issues
Michael's TakeThe Ever Boots can often be found at a discount, and for the price you pay, you will get excellent heavy-duty boots.
You can choose the color that matches your working suit.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Rocky IronClad 8-Inch Work Boot
Rocky IronClad boots are so stylish that you can easily wear them after work.
They feature multicolored leather and rubber soles, so you can expect these boots to serve you for at least a couple of seasons.
These are water-proof boots as well.
They feature a cushioned footbed and ample padding, to provide extra comfort and make them suitable for wearing long hours.
Moreover, these are slip-resistant protective boots, available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Stylish
- Waterproof
- Slip-resistant
- Protect shin
Cons
- Pricier
Michael's TakeThese Rocky IronClad boots are one of the toughest boots you can find on the market.
The durability and protection justify the price tag.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Best Welding Boots Buying Guide
The first thing to have in mind when choosing your welding boots is your work environment.
You might be welding metal indoors, outdoors, or both, so the conditions can change, and your boots need to be able to support you in all conditions.
Safety Considerations for Welding Boots
First of all, the boots need to be slip-resistant.
It is equally important for both indoor and outdoor welders.
Work footwear sometimes has a thin sole, they can wear and tear quickly, and become slippery on wet surfaces.
The sole needs to provide traction to prevent accidental injuries.
Another thing to consider in your work environment is stray objects on the floor.
Therefore, the sole quality and slip-resistant features alongside thickness and material are some of the most important things to consider.
Rubber soles can be great if they are thick enough and equipped with an anti-slip design.
Boot Height
If you are welding in unusual positions, you might need to consider the overall height of your protective boots.
In this case, you will need more ankle protection and support.
For example, boots that are at least nine inches high can be suitable for plenty of welders.
Also, the boots need to be able to support you during your movements and allow you to move on the ladders.
Therefore, the boots need to have a heal with at least 0.75 inches in size and a 45-degree bevel.
Thus, you will have all the footing needed while ascending or descending.
On the other hand, if you get boots with too much bevel, your foot can slip off or catch a metal stair improperly.
Also, the wrong heel design may cause you to trip over some of the objects on the floor.
In general, welders face too many safety issues in their work environment and need to pay a lot of attention to choosing proper protective equipment.
Water-Resistance
Next, the water-resistant feature is highly useful when choosing work footwear.
The majority of welding boots are leather-made, so they can be waterproof to some level.
However, if there is a specific coating added, the boots can withstand more water and keep your feet dry and warm in all conditions.
Besides, if the shoes have a specific coating, it can prevent wear and tear, mold and make your boots more durable.
However, the water-resistance shouldn’t affect the heat-resistance.
How to Choose the Best Welding Boots
The best welding boots are comfortable, protective, and durable.
If you get the wrong pair of footwear, you can make your job more complicated and put yourself at risk of injuries.
Modern welding boots are also stylish and have additional protective elements to keep your toes safe from crashes and sparks.
Boot Construction
The most suitable boots for welding have a “welt” construction.
For example, double stitching makes the boot rugged and flexible, so that it can withstand every welding position.
Also, Goodyear welt improves durability.
Another thing to inspect is how the sole is attached to the rest of the boot.
For example, using hot rubber makes the boot comfortable, but not very durable.
You can always check the reviews to see how boots withstand through long periods of use, and the condition of the sole after a long period of use.
Additional Features for Welding Boots
Some additional protective features can improve every welding boot.
Steel Toe
Even though steel toe isn’t required for welders, this feature can significantly improve protection in a variety of work settings.
It keeps your toes safe from impacts and different objects that can fall on your feet and cause severe injuries.
You can also go for composite toes, as they are lighter and more comfortable, but still, meet OSHA standards.
Shock Resistance
Welding can produce sparks so working around the electrical equipment can be dangerous.
Statistic discharges and conductive objects can pose a threat to your welding project.
Therefore, you should choose footwear that resists electrical conductivity, and dissipate any shock.
That way, the boots prevent electrocution and some other electrical hazards.
However, the boots can be shock-resistant or able to dissipate static, but you will hardly find both features in one pair of boots.
Padding
Padding around the ankle provides additional support and make the boots more comfortable.
However, extra padding can cause your feet to get sweaty, so you should check if the boots with extra paddings are breathable.
Moreover, the padding needs to allow shoes to be flexible and support you during all movements.
Another support you can look for is the shank.
It is a simple piece of hard, inflexible material that is placed underneath the arch of the boot.
The shank serves to help the pressure become evenly distributed and to prevent puncture damage.
Heat Resistance
The majority of welding boots are heat-resistant.
However, make sure to check the technical specifications and find out the exact temperature ratings for the boots.
Welders whose work provides a lot of sparks, molten material, and hot surfaces need to get more quality shoes.
These can come with a higher price tag but will be more durable than cheaper alternatives.
Compression
How much the boot clasps around the foot is usually considered as boot compression.
Compression provides additional support and contour your foot, but ensures the proper blood circulation.
The best way to check if the compression is suitable for you, check the tips of your toes.
The toes need to feel secured, but not squeezed too much.
Weight
Because of all features and protective attachments, welding boots can get heavy.
Therefore, you should find boots that will be lightweight enough to allow you to easily move around.
If you have developed strong fewer muscles you can wear heavy boots easier, but you will still experience leg fatigue sooner than if you have chosen lightweight boots.
Welding Boots Price Range
Usually, work boots cost around $100.
Welding boots with less additional features can be more affordable, while those heavy-duty boots made from premium materials can cost you more than $150.
Every additional feature including steel toe, waterproof coating, shank, etc. adds to the final price tag.
The construction materials are also important when buying welding shoes, and premium leather boots are the most expensive you can find on the market.
However, basic work boots suitable for hobbyists and light welding work can be priced at $50.
Keep in mind that these cheap boots are not suitable for professionals and that they provide limited protection.
Conclusion
The best welding shoes will provide a full-day of comfortable wearing while giving you needed protection.
There are plenty of good options on the market, priced differently, and suitable for both professional and hobbyist welders.
Have you tried any of the models from my list?
What are your top picks, share your thoughts in the comments section, and send the list to your co-workers who might find it useful.
