19 Best Steel Toe Cap Boots (Review) In 2022

- 1. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Cap Boots
- 2. Rockrooster Steel Toe Cap Work Boots
- 3. Georgia Boot Men’s Steel Toe Cap Work Boot
- 4. Westland Tomcat Men’s Work Boots
- 5. Dr. Martens Men’s Icon Industrial Strength Steel Toe Boots
- 6. Keen Utility Men’s Detroit Work Boot
- 7. Dr Martens Men’s Winch 7-Eye Cushion Safety Toe Boot
- 8. Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot
- 9. Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Work Boot
- 10. Sketchers For Work Men’s Workshire Relaxed Fit Work Boots
- 11. Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 Work Boots
- 12. Wolverine Men’s Steel Toe Boot
- 13. Condor Men’s Colorado Work Boots
- 14. GW Men’s 160ST Steel Toe Work Boots
- 16. Timberland Pro Men’s Boondock Work Boots
- 17. Condor Dakota Men’s Work Boot
- 18. Ever Boots Steel Toe Work Boots
- 19. Magnum Men’s Austin Work Boots
- 20. Jabasic Men’s Safety Work Boots
When you’re on your feet all day working, every day is a marathon. Whether you’re standing in one place for a long time or spending the day working out in the field, a pair of good work boots are sure to relieve some of the strain of your job. When it comes to manual labor, you’re fighting against fatigue from the offset, don’t fall short because you haven’t invested in a pair of great shoes. Finding the right pair of shoes for you will ensure you’re both comfortable and safe throughout the entire day. With hundreds of options on the market right now, we’re taking a look at the best steel toe cap boots so that you don’t have to. After all, after a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is sift through endless options and reviews. If you like this type of footwear, take a look at our list of engineer boots too.
The Best Steel Toe Cap Boot
1. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Cap Boots

Rugged durable leather
Oil-resistant traction outsole
Nylon mesh lining for comfort and breathability
Speed lacing system
As one of the most trusted names in the workwear and construction industry, it’s no real surprise that our top choice comes from Caterpillar. Featuring caterpillars classic design to ensure ruggedness and durability, these carefully constructed boots are made to last. Thanks to mesh linings for breathability and comfort and a speedy lacing system, starting and making it through the day will be a breeze with Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot. Make sure you also check our guide to the best gore-tex boots.
Trusted brand
Multiple colour options
Affordable
Some reviewers say sizing inaccurate
2. Rockrooster Steel Toe Cap Work Boots

Crafted with coolmax technology for breathability
Enhanced ankle and toe support
Durable slip resistant rubber sole
Long lasting waterproof material
Dating back to the 1980s, Rockrooster knows a thing or two when it comes to crafted work boots that are made to last. These particular boots from the brand might just be some of the most stylish on offer too. Equipped with a long-wearing rubber outsole for durability and grip, a comfort impact absorption system, enhanced ankle support and waterproof material, Rockrooster Work Boots are a fantastic choice.
Stylish
Affordable
8 colours and styles to choose from
Sizing runs large
3. Georgia Boot Men’s Steel Toe Cap Work Boot

Made from genuine leather
Steel shank
Durable rubber sole
Although they’re a pretty pricey option, we can see why you might be tempted by these boots from Georgia Boot. You get guaranteed waterproof protection along with Georgia Boot Men’s Work Boot made from premium leather. What’s more, you can enjoy additional arch support and a fully lined sole for warm and comfortable wear from the moment you start your day to the moment it ends. With more than 80 years in the game, Georgia Boot is a trusted supplier. You may also like to check out our guide to the best dirt bike boots.
6-month guarantee included
Fit as expected
Fully lined
Only 1 colour option
4. Westland Tomcat Men’s Work Boots

Crafted with a welt system construction for improved durability
Rubber nitrile outsole
Comfortable, breathable insole
Since 1979, Westland has been developing and producing work boots of the highest quality that are truly made to last. Tomcat blends protection, comfort and toughness to bring you are a pair of boots that are prepared for all types of environments and hard work. With water-resistant leather, comfortable inner sole, and rubber nitrile outsole for safety and durability, Westland Tomcat Men’s Work Boots will serve you well.
Affordable
Stylish
Fit as expected
Limited style options
5. Dr. Martens Men’s Icon Industrial Strength Steel Toe Boots

Durable, slip-proof PVC outsole
Made from genuine leather
Slip-on
The Dr Martens durable pull-on boot is a great choice for those that require protection at work but don’t want to spend time fussing around with laces. The water-resistant leather, cushioned lining and oil resistant sole makes for a warm and durable boot that will make discomfort a thing of the past. With 7 colour options, it’s safe to say Dr Martens Men’s Icon Industrial Strength Steel Toe Boots were made with the style conscious in mind. If you’re willing to spend this kind of cash, they’re a solid choice. You can combine this with one of the best insoles from our list.
No lacing
Multiple colour options
Stylish design
Expensive option
Sizing runs small
6. Keen Utility Men’s Detroit Work Boot

Waterproof nubuck leather
KEEN.DRY breathable membrane
Durable rubber sole
These surprisingly light and versatile boots from Keen Utility are just as durable as the rest of them. The mid-height work boot works with you as you move to offer the support, stability and protection you need to get through each day safely. Offering the fit and comfort of a hiking boot with the protection for a work boot, you can rest assured that Keen Utility Men’s Detroit Work Boot is a good choice for those looking for a shoe that is good for your feet. Check out our buying guide with best welding boots for more versatile heavy-looking footwear.
Fit as expected
Hiking-inspired fit
Simple lacing system
Limited colour options
Some choices are pricey
7. Dr Martens Men’s Winch 7-Eye Cushion Safety Toe Boot

Genuine leather
Removable EVA soles
Air cushioned heavy-duty PVC oil and slip resistant outsole
Offering a blend of durability, reliable protection and cushioned comfort that is sure to get you through the working day, the Winch boot from Dr Martens are well worth their price tag. Complete with traditional lacing, removable EVA insoles for extra comfort and a lightweight feel, we don’t imagine you’ll tire of wearing these, day in, day out. The glowing reviews would certainly suggest they don’t only look the part, but feel it too! Our handy guide to the best boot dryers features more great products like this.
Lightweight
Multiple colour options
Affordable
Sizing inaccurate
8. Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot

Metatomical footbed design for ultimate comfort
Genuine nubuck leather
Contoured heel lock
Dry-lex lining
Crafted from leather that is expected to last, the Pittsburgh work boots from Keen Utility are worth of their price tag. As with all Keen Utility work boots, they’ve been created to mirror hiking inspired fit for ultimate comfort with a meotatomical footbed design and keen.dry waterproofing technology for a warm and dry wear. Adaptable yet sturdy, these boots are bursting with features that will make your life easier.
Hiking boot inspired fit
Fit as expected
Multiple colour options
Some colours are pricey
9. Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Work Boot

ERGO comfort system
Removable EVA sole with gel technology
Thermal insulation
Remain on top of your day with the protection and comfort you need with the Diagnostic boots from Caterpillar. As a trusted brand in the industry, Caterpillar knows a thing or two about creating boots that are made to last without compromising on comfort. Using Cat Footwears ERGO comfort system, these boots are specifically designed to support your feet as your hard at work offering the stability and comfort that you want and need. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best insoles for plantar fasciitis.
Lightweight yet durable
Trusted brand
Stylish
Only 1 colour option
Pricey
10. Sketchers For Work Men’s Workshire Relaxed Fit Work Boots

Genuine leather
Cushioned sole with shock absorbing arch support
Soft, breathable lining
Just in case you missed it, sketchers do in fact manufacturer work boots. The Workshires are built to withstand serious labour whilst offering a relaxed fit to accommodating your feet throughout the day. Complete with additional padding where you’ll need it most, a breathable lining, a traction rubber sole and shock absorbing arch support, these lightweight yet durable boots are as good as the rest of them.
Very affordable
Fit as expected
Multiple colour options
Could use lace hooks
11. Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 Work Boots

Leather
Rugged flex outsole for durability and comfort
EVA midsole & Ortholite insole
Since way back in 1889, Carhartt has been manufacturing premium workwear, earning their stripes amongst the best when it comes to exceptional durability. Perfectly combining comfort, style and functionality, Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 Work Boots have all bases covered. With rugged flex features, shock absorbing soles, a lightweight EVA midsole and OrtholLite insole offering multiple layers of cushioning, these feel as good as they look.
Stylish
Affordable
Fit as expected
Only 1 colour option
12. Wolverine Men’s Steel Toe Boot

Full grain leather
Removable steel toe
Comfortably padded insoles
If you’re in and out of a warehouse or switching from site to office, these Wolverine Men’s Steel Toe Boots offer the perfect blend of functionality with customer-facing look for a seamless transition between the tow. Built to be lightweight, these are a comfortable and stress-free solution to protection when you need it most. Completed with breathable lining and reinforcement where required, these very fashionable, equally functional boots are a great option for those shopping for the best of both worlds. To keep all your footwear fresh and clean, check out our guide to the best UV shoe sanitizers.
Stylish
Multiple colour options
Good for the office and on site
Not the safest option on the market
Sizing runs large
13. Condor Men’s Colorado Work Boots

Genuine leather
Am-tech direct soling technology for an inseparable bond
Lightweight cushioning for ultimate support
Sitting at the cheaper end of the scale, these wallet-friendly Condor Men’s Colorado Work Boots are a fantastic choice. Receiving glowing reviews thanks to their makeup of genuine leather, breathable mesh and cushioned linings, these boots are not only good for the wallet but for your feet too. With slip-resistant outsoles to meet industry standards and ultra-cushioning for support, these boots perform just as well as the big dogs.
Very affordable
Multiple colour options
Fit as expected
Could use comfier insoles
14. GW Men’s 160ST Steel Toe Work Boots

Genuine leather
Enforced grip rubber sole
Premium water-resistant upper
GW Men’s 160ST Steel Toe Work Boots perform pretty well considering their super low price tag. Crafted from full-grain nubuck leather, a durable rubber outsole complete with slip resistance and comfort insoles, these boots are more than worth the money. With six colour options and an aesthetically pleasing design, it’s hard to find fault in these boots considering they’re less than $50. If you like taking care of your shoes, check out our guides to the shoe shine kits. If you need new laces for your boots, check out our guide to the best boot laces.
Genuine leather
Enforced grip rubber sole
Premium water-resistant upper
Sizing inaccurate
16. Timberland Pro Men’s Boondock Work Boots

Anti-fatigue technology
Ever-Guard waterproofing
Genuine leather
TPU outsoles for anti-slip and abrasion
You’ve probably been wondering when Timberland would make it onto our list of top picks. Low and behold, it’s here and their Boondock boots make for a very good choice indeed. If you’ve got this kind of cash to spare, Timberland Pro Men’s Boondock Work Boots are a great investment. With a waterproof upper and Ever-Guard technology, a moulded Timberland PRO rubber toe protection and premium padding, these are sure to keep you both dry and warm for months to come. The dual-density technology absorbs shocks and returns energy to the key zones of the foot ensuring anti-fatigue when you need it most. If you’re a lover of Timberland craftmanship, you won’t be disappointed with these. Our selection of the best mountaineering boots offers some great footwear so check it out.
Trusted brand
Fit as expected
Stylish design
Only one colour option
Don’t come cheap
17. Condor Dakota Men’s Work Boot

Genuine nubuck leather
AM-tech on sole creating an inseparable bond
Ultra-cushioned insole and midsole
As one of the cheapest brands on our list, it’s no surprise that Condor is amongst the best of the bunch once again. This time, it’s the 8” Condor work boots offering the extra support and warm should you need it. Complete with a durable TPU outsole for non-slip, an ultra-cushioned insole and midsole and a simple yet sturdy lacing system, these wallet-friendly boots give even our top picks a run for their money.
Affordable
Taller than most options
Fit as expected
Durability could be improved
18. Ever Boots Steel Toe Work Boots

Genuine leather
Steel shank for added stability
PU midsole for improved comfort
Built for the ultimate protection, the steel shank Ever Boots Steel Toe Work Boats are both affordable and stable. Complete with PU midsole for extra comfort, a slip and oil resistant outsole, and EH protection that passes industry standards, there’s no reason why these won’t be as good as the rest. Granted, they’re not the most stylish design on offer, but, if you favour functionality over fashion, these will likely tick all the boxes for you. Check out our review of the best horseback riding boots for our top picks.
Affordable
Durable rubber outsole
Electrical hazard safe
Only 1 colour option
Sizing runs large
19. Magnum Men’s Austin Work Boots

Genuine leather
Enforced rubber sole
EVA footbed and shock absorbing midsole
Get the job done without dropping a pretty penny thanks to these affordable boots from Magnum. These Austin mid-height work boots are waterproof and flexible to offer the movement and protection you need. Pair that with the removable EVA footbed, shock-absorbing midsole and resistant rubber outsole and these are a pretty good pair of shoes. What’s more, they look pretty good too. Magnum Men’s Austin Work Boots is a solid choice if you’re not too concerned with colour options.
Affordable
Lightweight
Fit as expected
Limited colour options
20. Jabasic Men’s Safety Work Boots

Crafted from synthetic suede leather
Midsole plate for added safety
Durable outsole with improved grip
Last but most definitely not least on our list are these suede leather work boots from Jabasic. As the cheapest on our list, these are great for those looking to bag a bargain. Although shoes at this price point won’t last if you’re putting them through their paces every day, these will certainly do the job to some extent. With insulated mesh lining, flexible constructed and a rigged rubber sole, Jabasic Men’s Safety Work Boots aren’t a bad choice at all.
Cheap
Stylish design
Lightproof
Not waterproof
Sizing inaccurate
Only 1 colour option
Steel Toe Cap Boots Buying Guide & FAQ
From shopping around at the many, many options on the market right now we found that in order to get yourself a really great pair of work boots that will keep you safe and comfortable whilst lasting a long time, you’ll be spending around $100, if not more. Sure, there are plenty of options on the market that are priced lower, but after going through reviews we found that it might just pay to spend a little more from the offset. Furthermore, if you’re concerned with brand and style options, it’s likely that you’ll be spending even more with work boots from Caterpillar, Timberland and Carhartt retailing between $120-$200.
How We Chose Our Selection Of Steel Toe Cap Boots
If you’ve already been looking at new work boots, you won’t be surprised to hear that there are a lot of brands on the market right now. In order to narrow down our search, we set out to find the most reputable, some being industry leaders others being small fish that are creating great products. Once we narrowed down the brands, we took a closer look at the price, bringing you a whole range of work boots at different price points, from as low as $35 up to $200+.
Lastly, as with all shoes, no matter how good they look, they might not feel good. As always, we looked through hundreds of tried and tested reviews so that we could bring you a complete overview of all our top picks. When looking at reviews, we made our final selection based on overall comfort, durability and sizing. Of course, there’s more to finding the work boots to suit you than this, some of which come down to personal preference and purpose. Leading us onto our next point.
Features To Look For In Steel Toe Cap Boots
If you’d prefer to try work boots on in-store rather than buying them online, there are a number of features you should look out for in your search for the perfect pair.
Protection - The primary purpose of work boots is to protect your feet. So this needs to be your first consideration. As well as a hardened steel toe cap, you’ll want boots with a shank for added stability, a sturdy lacing system and extra support in place where you need it most. Enforced heels and ankles can be useful when it comes to avoiding any injuries on site. If the support you get from your boots is inadequate, it can cause you a whole lot of pain in your feet and beyond. A good pair of work boots will not only ensure your protection but your stability.
Durability - It goes without saying that you’ll want your work boots to stand the test of time as you navigate the hazards at work. No one can afford to shell out $100 on a pair of work boots just for them to start showing serious wear and tear within a matter of weeks. When considering how durable a pair of boots will be, it goes beyond the brand. You need to look at the material and construction. You should first check the material of the boot, ideally, you’ll want leather. Next, you’ll want to look into how the sole is attached to the shoe, the direct technique or cementing method is most likely to leave you with a pair of long-lasting work boots.
Comfort - The overall comfort of your work boots comes down to a number of features, the size, fitting, type of materials, the insole and the outsole. In regard to the break-in period of your boot, you should opt for a quality leather so that it will take to the shape of your foot nice and quickly. Once you’ve worn them in, if you find your work boots are a little uncomfortable on the soles or heel, you can always try inserts although it’s good to get a comfortable pair from the offset.
Another consideration to make when it comes to comfort is the weight of your boots. If you’re walking around a lot, the weight is going to make a big difference. If your boots are too heavy, it will be like carrying around an extra, unnecessary load with each step. A lot of the models on the market today are surprisingly lightweight thanks to modern technology so be sure to take a look.
Maintenance - When you’ve finished a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend a long time cleaning your boots in order to preserve them. Instead, opt for materials that require minimal maintenance to make your life easier. With boots constructed from mostly leather and rubber, you’ll find leaving them out to dry before using a soft brush to clean them is adequate.
Sole - The final consideration is the soles of your work boots. While you might think the types of soles will only affect the grip of your shoe, it can also play a vital part in their comfort. If you’re in constant motion, you won’t want a highly cushioned sole. Instead, opt for a flexible sole that’s complete with EVA midsoles for shock absorption to fight fatigue as you go about your working day.
Steel Toe Cap Boots FAQ
Q: What is the difference between composite toe and steel toe cap boots?
A: Both steel toe cap work boots and composite work boots serve the same purpose, to protect your feet. However, they’re different. Although both meet the same ANSI standards, in composite toe work boots the protective cap is crafted from a composite material opposed to steel.
Q: Is sizing the same for steel toe cap boots compared to other shoes?
A: No two feet are exactly the same, the same goes for sizing work boots. Sizing can vary from brand to brand, with some brands sizing running small and others running large. For each brand and even particular shoe, you need to pay close attention to the sizing guide and fit reviews to ensure you order the size that is best matched to your regular shoe size.
Q: Why should I wear a steel toe?
A: There are plenty of benefits to investing in a pair of steel toe work boots. Beyond keeping your safety on the job, they are also great for reducing stress, increasing productivity and offering the support and stability your feet and ankles really need. Although they don’t exactly come cheap, by investing in a pair of great work boots, you’re investing in both your health and your craft.
Now we're done telling you everything and anything you need to know about the best steel toe cap boots on the market right now, you can go out and buy the perfect pair to suit your needs. As mentioned above, there’s no doubt that investing your hard-earned dollar into a good pair of boots that will last you a long time is worth it. If you can’t stretch to $100, you’ll still be able to snap up a decent pair of boots for around $60, although if you want them to last, it’s worth spending a little extra from the off.