Work boots

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Feb 8, 2006
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I'm in the market for a nice pair of work boots. I build fences most of the time, but work in a kitchen on the weekends so I'm hoping for something that'll be tough and comfortable with a slip resistant sole. I'd probably like some six inchers that're water-proof. I've been checkin out the basic Timberland 6" premiums, and just started lookin at Red-Wings in general. Both are on the pricey side, but I figure it'll be worth it in the long run. -Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.
 
http://www.shoesforcrews.com/ makes shoes specifically for those folks who work in the restaurant trade. I've used a pair, and they do work. Their shoes come in different styles/prices.

I haven't tried Red Wings or Timberlands, but it would seem they'd be a bit clunky for working around in a kitchen, just my opinion.
 
i am also interested in the topic. i am a Mechanic and have always worn Timberlands of various styles, but they are never exactly comfy. Snap on have since branded themselves on Costal Boots with a huge selection of styles, but i have yet to see them in person, let alone try them on. make sure u try them on.
 
I like the Thorogood 6 inch moc toe boots. I have been wearing those and a variant of that style made by the same manufacturer under the Work and Sport label for Farm & Fleet for 15 years or so.

The insole and neoprene outer sole are very comfortable. Bought the most recent pair over the web for about $100 with free shipping.

The workmanship is excellent and they are made in Wisconsin, USA.
 
I don't know if Dakota brand boots are available in the states, but the pair I have with the "tarantula" sole were very good in the quick-lube I worked at. oil on epoxy floor paint is quite slick, and while I still had to be careful, it was better than anything else I wore.
 
I just had to buy my son some workboots since he is in a shop program at school. They are 6" Redwing with a composite toe (not steel but comply with OSHA specs and won't set off a metal detector). They seem really well made. I trust the guys at the particular shoe store I go to and they say its a great boot for being on your feet all day. The nice thing about Redwing is that you can get them in wide sizes.
 
Not sure if this is what your looking for, but I've been through a number of boots in the past 5 years and so far I'm happiest with the Cabela's Woodsman steel toe boots. Fairly comfy, but not a soft 'shoe' feel. Great support, very waterproof, and the warmest uninsulated steel toes I've had.
 
Redwings are great boots, a friend of mine swears by them.

Personally, I love Rocky's. My first pair was their version of the paratrooper jump boot, and I wore those things completely out. Now I have a pair of their steel toes, and I love them. Their waterproof, sturdy, and comfortable. I recently took it on a 7 mile hike, and got the chance to test them out completely. They worked great for climbing over the rocks, and when the group I was with got to a stream with a slippery log as the only method of crossing I just walked right into the water to help the others across. I was in the water for probably 5 minutes at a time, about 3 times, and never once got wet. Normally on hikes like that my feet would be killing me the next day (I'm a big guy, so lots of weight), but with these there was no pain or soreness the next day.

I've worn them working in a warehouse, delivering parts to auto repair shops, playing paintball, hiking, clearing paths after snowfalls, working security at large events, and pretty much everything else I do on a day to day basis. So far they have yet to let me down or make me regret purchasing them. So all in all, I'd recommend the Rocky brand 100%!
 
I've been wearing a pair of Timberland Pro Titan Safety Toe boots for the better part of 2 years now. My job requires that I walk on hard tile and concrete floors all day. I also come in contact with a lot of heavy objects that I certainly wouldn't want falling on my toes.

These boots are great. I put them on at 7 am, and I generally don't take them off until I get ready for bed around 9ish. I wear them every day with the exception of a pair of Wolverine engineer boots that I like better for riding my motorcycle. The only modification that I have made is a pair of nice (maybe 12 dollar) insoles to cushion the foot a little more regarding the hard floors.
Also, my place of business had a fire a few months back. These were my go-to boots regarding the clean up. Water, sludge, soot, debris, none of it did anything to the boots beyond some scratches in the leather and a little black staining.

For about $130 bucks, i think that I have gotten my money's worth out of these boots. I'm about due for a new pair, but that only has to do with the fact that these have so many cosmetic blemishes due to the fire duty.
 
I've been very pleased with the Red wing 8" I had, are just as pleased with the Carhartt 6" (I think Redwing made 'em) and the DoubleH western 13" workboots I have now, just be sure to try 'em on.

I have a friend that doesnt wear anything but Rocky's Loggers, and my next ones are probably gonna be 8" Rocky's.

Peter
 
I have been wearing redwings for 20 years at work in tire stores, home depot, and, most recently, the railroad. They gave me the best comfort on concrete I have ever had, and the 2508 steel toe version sole has worn like iron walking on track ballast 12hrs a day. Can't say enough good things about them, but they are expensive. The lower end redwings don't hold a candle to the higher end redwings......be prepared to spend $200-$260 for the pair you really want. Everything said here is, of course, just my personal opinion.
 
Rocky boots are good, or if you have a large bank-account, go with Danners.
 
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