Lightweight boots are more important for workers who work all day wearing a boot; their feet must be fully protected by the boots, which can be done only when they are lightweight. If they wear heavyweight boots, they will only feel relieved once they come back home from work after hours of standing up and finally take off those heavy work boots. If this is the case for you, you must find yourself feeling uncomfortable at your workplace wearing a bulky boot, and hence you are definitely in need of some comfortable and lightweight work boots.
If you wear heavy boots overtime or days at your workplace, they can put excessive strain on your back, and they might put too much pressure on your toes, ankles, knees, or even hips, while lightweight boots strengthen your ankles and lower back.
What Are Lightweight Work Boots Made Of?
Lightweight work boots are designed with polyurethane midsoles, protective toe, high-traction rubber outsoles, upper material, lacing hardware, moisture-channeling mesh linings, and nylon diffusion shank. These construction parts contribute to designing a lightweight work boot, and these elements also help maintain structural support.
The weight of a light work boot is typically determined by the toe, midsole, and outsole materials. A composite toe cap is a key in maintaining the lightweight of the work boots. In lightweight work boots, manufacturers don’t use metal to protect the boot from a crash; instead, they use mixed materials like plastic, Kevlar, or super-light carbon fiber to satisfy the comfortability, make boots lightweight and also reach their safety requirements. The essential part of these boots is the composite toe caps used are entirely metal-free; which makes these boots lightweight and more comfortable than a steel toe.
Types of Boots
There are mainly nine types of boots, and these are discussed below.
Tall Boots
Tall boots are of your knee height, and are also known as riding boots. Tall boots ideally satisfy your casual outfits. You can also wear tall boots with sweater dresses and skirts for a stylish look. These boots are best for riding like the Ovation Flex Sport, Ovation Moorland II Highrider, TuffRider Ladies SureGrip, Ariat Heritage Contour II Boots, etc.
Wedge Boots
Wedge boots have a sole in the form of a wedge at the lower part of the boots for a comfortable fit. Wedge sole gives more comfort than other heal boots, but if you wear these boots at your workplace where you work for long hours, it causes foot pain at the end of the day. Some of the best wedge shoes are the Flex slimmer Chelsea wedge boot, Bolndo Glenda waterproof sneaker bootie, A New Day Jolie wedge sneakers, UGG classic femme mini wedge bootie, Clarks Sharon hop wedge bootie, and Toms Kala wedge bootie.
Moto Boots
Moto boots are entirely made of leather and are also known as mid-calf boots, which means a low heel is present in these boots. Motorcyclists typically wears them. Moto boots are designed with extra padding to protect your toe and cushion your legs. These boots are specifically designed with keeping safety and support in mind. Thus, some of their features include supportive metal shanks, oil-resistant outsoles, and breathable meshes. Examples of Moto boots are: Fuel Paratroops, Klim Adventure GTX boots, Alpinestars Oscar Monty v2 boots, RSD X White’s foreman boots, and Aether moto boot.
Combat Boots
Combat boots have laces and are purely made up of leather. They are worn by soldiers, and thus also known as military boots. They are designed to give a perfect grip, ankle stability, and foot protection. Some of the best combat boots are the Belleville 800 St Flight And Flight Deck Boots, Danner Tanicus 8-Inch Hot Duty Boots, Rocky C4T Tactical Boots, Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boots, and Danner Tachyon Coyote Military And Tactical Boots.
Ankle Boots/Booties
Ankle boots/booties are different in height; booties are shorter and end right at your ankle, while boots end one to four inches above your ankle. They have different designs: slip-on, lace-up, and zip-closure. They are suitable for the day wearing only. Many styles come in these boots such as you can find open toes as well as closed toes. Some of the best ankle boots/booties are the Aldo Reflow Combat Ankle Boot, Freda Salvador Ace Lace-Up Boot, Ann Taylor Zebra Print Haircalf Blade Heel Booties, Totême The Ankle Leather Chelsea Boots and Staud Lars Leather Boots, etc.
High-Heel Boots
High heel boots come with 3 inches of Heel; if you love wearing heel wedges, they are the best to go for. These high heel boots give a perfect impression in the workplace; high heel boots make the person look taller and make the wearer’s legs appear longer. Some of the best High heel boots are mentioned here: Marc Fisher LTD. Alva Bootie, Sam Edelman Codie Square Toe Bootie, Marc Fisher LTD. Jari High Heel Booties, Madewell The Regan Boot and Dolce Vita Caster H2O Booties, etc.
Over-the-Knee Boots
Over-the-knee boots are best for winter and fall seasons; they are typically made of stretch material that can be stretched down for a stylish look. They are also known as OTK boots or knee-high boots. Equestrians wear these boots to protect their legs from mud. The over-the-knee boots not only protect your feet but also protect your knees. Some of the best OTK boots are the Proenza Schouler Trap Stretch Faux-Leather Boots, Bottega Veneta the Tire Over-the-Knee Leather Boots, Stuart Weitzman Lift Over-the-Knee Leather Combat Boots, etc.
Rain Boots
Rain boots are manufactured from waterproof elements like rubber and polyvinyl chloride. Rubber plays the leading role in keeping the feet dry. Rain boots are usually worn on rainy days or when walking on muddy or wet ground. Gore-Tex/Thinsulate, Muck Wetland Rubber Premium, and MUCK Men’s Arctic Sport Knee High Neoprene Rain Boot are some of the well-known and in-demand rain boots.
Cold Weather/Snow Boots
The cold weather/ snow boots are the must-have boots when it’s cold or snowing. These shoes are specifically made to keep your feet dry and warm. These boots have thick synthetic soles, soft uppers, removable insulation, and thick insoles to avoid heat loss. Some of the best cold weather/snow boots are Kamik NationPlus, Sorel Caribou, Merrell Thermo Chill, etc.
Usage of Boots
Boots are usually worn by workers who work in industry, mining, military, and riders. Boots are also worn during snow by snowboarders, ice skaters, and hikers, preventing them from slipping.
Durability of Lightweight Work Boots
Every type of boot has a different lifespan. It depends on the manufacturer and what materials they use to make lightweight boots. Leather and other synthetic elements are used to construct lightweight work boots; these elements get extra touches like water-repelling or abrasion-resistant properties. On average, light work boots are durable between 12 to 24 months.
Comfort
Lightweight work boots are meant primarily for those who spend all day at work; they might regularly experience pain in their feet. Comfort is something that cannot be compromised at any cost. The boot’s upper material and inner lining play the leading role in comfortability; if these parts are soft enough, your skin will prevent blisters or grazing. The insole of the boot’s compression pads offers absorption, reduces fatigue, and makes you feel comfortable. Wearing these lightweight boots gives you more protection in terms of physical and medical conditions such as flat feet, Achilles Tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis.
The 8 Best Lightweight Work Boots
1. Dr. Martens, Men’s Winch Steel Toe Light Industry Boots
The Dr. Martens, Men’s Winch Steel Toe Light Industry Boots are durable, with reliable protection, and cushioned comfort. These are the perfect boots where comfort and safety go side by side.
This boot set lies in the combat boot type category; combat boots are made of leather and have laces. They are specially designed for the workers of industries. Soldiers wear these shoes, so they are also known as military boots. They are also known as cemented shoes because the sole is cemented to the upper; a flexible PVC outsole provides durability, cushioning, and comfort while reducing foot fatigue and increasing flexibility. They are purely made of leather, and its sole is slip-resistant, reducing the risk of falls.
2. Skechers Men’s Segment Rilar Oxford
Skechers Men’s Segment Rilar Oxford are another set of boots that are unique and popular. Skechers are a well-known brand famous for their high-quality products, affordable prices, and ability to meet customer needs.
This boot set is a type of rain boot; and is manufactured from waterproof components; in this shoe set rubber sole is used, which plays an essential role in keeping the feet dry. They are 100% leather, and the gel memory foam offers moldable support, stability, and pain relief. Additionally, the use of silicone gel in these boots makes them reusable.
3. Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Boot
Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Boots are reliable, durable, and ensure the safety of the user. These have a rugged styling and are made from quality leather that makes it easier for daily use.
This boot set is composed of 100% leather; in this boot set, a synthetic sole is used, which is slip-resistant and reduces the chances of falling. It gives electrical hazard protection and protection from open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions. The Second Shift work boot delivers safety, comfort, and durability all day and boosts your energy to work without pain. In this boot set, the shaft measures approximately 6.5″ from the arch, the heel measures about 1.5″, and the platform measures approximately 0.75″. This boot set has a hex shape and comprises a Lace-up soft-toe and logoed collar. This is a product of car earthmovers who are very well known worldwide because of their honest work, strength, and integrity.
4. Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot
Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boots are the perfect combination of comfort, protection, and traction.
These are made from waterproof leather, a padded collar, rubber, lace-up construction, a cushioned sole, and a heavy-duty lugged outsole to provide comfort, protection, and grip. The heel measures approximately 1.5 inches” in this boot set; air-cooled memory foam is also present, making this boot set breathable and durable. Additionally, the Skechers Men’s are also known as a Waterproof 6-eye padded collar boot.
5. Timberland Men’s 6 Inch Premium Waterproof Boot Fashion
Timberland Men’s 6 Inch Premium are high-quality shoes ideal for outdoors. These boots offer excellent insulation to keep you warm in cool weather.
These Timberland boots are best for rain, slush, or snow; when you think of Timberland boots, you’re also thinking of these. In this boot set, 100% leather and rubber sole are used, which provide tireless waterproof performance. The perfect air ventilation makes this boot set excellent for winter. Moreover, in this shoe, cushioned padding is provided in the insole, midsole, and heel, giving comfort in walking, which is great for city life and working conditions. Timberland has been an industry leader in using both sustainable and recycled materials in its shoes and footwear packaging.
6. Skechers Men’s Burgin-Tarlac Industrial Boot
The Skechers Men’s Burgin-Tarlac Industrial Boot are stylish, comfortable, and ensures protection against electrical hazards. Features include shock absorbing midsole and steel safety toe front.
These boots are Padded collar steel toe boots composed of a rubber sole, and memory foam. In this boot set, leather is used upper on a lace-up ankle with a full grain finish and is padded cushioned, due to which this boot set is extra comfortable. The rubber sole used in this boot set makes this set waterproof because rubber completely rejects liquid and gives strong protection against it. Furthermore, these have gusset tongue front, puncture resistant insole, and high traction rubber outsole.
7. Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boot
Skechers Men‘s Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boot is made up of 100% pure leather. In this shoe, a synthetic sole is used, and its shaft measures approximately ankle-high from the arch, and the Boot opening measures about ten around.
These boots are made of rubber which makes them waterproof. As we know rubber absorbs liquid and keeps the product dry and durable. Furthermore, in this Boot set, memory foam is also used as an insole for shoes made with high-density polyurethane material commonly used in sofas and mattresses. This memory foam is very well known because it provides protection, support, and excellent pressure relief. They are also known as a Lace-up Waterproof Boot.
8. EVER BOOTS “Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots Construction Rubber Sole
Providing tough protection, great fit, comfort, and durability, these boots are an excellent choice especially for workers having tough, heavy duty jobs.
EVER BOOTS “Tank” Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots are made of 100% pure leather, and rubber sole, which makes them waterproof. Its shaft measures approximately 7″ from the arch. This is a perfect boot set for support and mobility. It is an excellent choice for workers and those who work day and night, and is perfect for everyday use. A soft toe and a padded collar are provided in this shoe set which offer support and protection to their feet, those who work on construction, and any other physical jobs; this is best for them. EVER BOOTS “Tank” Men’s gives stability and arch support and helps prevent them from slipping or falling. You can also easily remove insoles if you need custom orthotics. Enjoy your leather boots’ superior comfort and durability; they’re an excellent choice for walks or construction.
How To Make Your Work Boots Last Longer
Taking care of your work boots is crucial, as you would want them to last for a longer time. This can be done in several ways. One such way is to place your boots in a dry environment after wearing them. However, they should not be exposed to high heating volumes as this can damage the shoe stitching, glue, and other components that make it comfortable and lightweight.
Moreover, for cleaning, you can use a soft cloth or brush, dip it in dishwashing soap, and gently scrub your boots. Make sure to unlace them before doing so.
Work Boots are built for performance, and boots are a significant investment for workers and constructors as they have to wear boots regularly; they have to switch between two to three pairs of boots for best results, as boots also require rest.
Additionally, to keep your lightweight work boots in the best condition, providing them good storage is essential. Keep your boots in proper storage at home. Never leave them just anywhere; keep a place for boots where the air is ventilated correctly, as lack of air contributes to odor which can cause fungus on your feet. Lastly, the most important part is the socks you wear; always select moisturizing socks such as polyester or a bamboo wool/synthetic bland than cotton that remove wetness from your skin and release it into the air. This keeps your feet and your boots comfortable, even during long work hours, and increases the boot’s life span.
How to Make Boots Slip Resistant
To make boots slip-resistant, soles play a vital role, and every manufacturer must use at least one slip-resistant sole. Due to the absence of slip-resistant sole in the shoes or any footwear, slipping, falling, and tripping are the most common incidents in the playground and on workplaces which may often cause severe injuries to the workers and players. The manufacturer’s typical slip resistance sole used for footwear is the NR outsole; this outsole has the best slip-resistance on the dry floor, whereas NBR and PU have the best slip resistance performance on the wet and oily floor.
Final Thoughts
Lightweight work boots keep your feet safe from risk at the workplace, they not only protect your feet, but they will also make you feel comfortable and help you boost your work speed without any fear or pain, even if you are wearing boots all day.
Therefore selecting the right boot also protects your foot health and makes you feel comfortable at the same time.
