Last Updated on February 8, 2024 by Boots Guru
Getting a good pair of low top work boots nowadays is pretty difficult. I mean, most low top work boots are:
- Manufactured with cheap materials and low-quality constructions
- Very bulky and uncomfortable
- Missing essential protective features to keep workers from getting injured
This is why I took it upon myself to review and find a group of low-top work boots that are comfortable, protective, and durable (yeah, I know, I want everything!).
The Best Low Top Work Boots
This is the list of the best low top work boots I arrived at after extensive research:
- KEEN Utility Flint Steel Toe Low Top Work Shoe
- Skechers 77055 Cankton Athletic Low Top Work Boots
- KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool-M Low Top Work Boots
- Danner Vicious 4.5 Inch Low Top Work Boots
- Timberland PRO Men’s Titan Oxford Low Top Work Boots
- Carhartt Oxford Black Lightweight Hiker Steel Toe CMO3251 Low Top Work Boots
- KEEN Utility Detroit XT Waterproof Low Top Work Boots
- Reebok Work Sublite Work RB4443 Low Top Work Boots
- Timberland PRO Powertrain Sport Low Top Work Boots
- Timberland PRO 40008 Mudsill Low Top Work Boots
1. KEEN Utility Flint Steel Toe Low Top Work Shoe
Features
- Toe caps: Steel toes
- Footbeds: Dual-density EVA footbed
- Outsoles: Oil and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole
A great way to make sure your low top work boots are comfortable is by checking their footbeds.
Talking about that, these Keen Utility Flint low top work boots come with dual density EVA footbeds that cushion the feet in every step.
Regarding their protective features, the boots have:
- Safety steel toes that keep the toes safe from getting crushed by heavy falling objects
- Oil and slip-resistant rubber outsoles that offer excellent traction on slippery surfaces
Last but not least, these Keen Utility boots are manufactured with a water-resistant nubuck leather responsible for maintaining the feet dry and fresh when walking on wet surfaces.
Pros
- Keen patented steel toes offer superior toe protection
- Rubber outsoles with oil and slip-resistant capabilities prevent slips and serious injuries
- Metatomical dual-density EVA footbeds cushion the feet in every step
- Water-resistant nubuck leather uppers keep the feet dry when exposed to exterior liquids
Cons
- A bit heavier than other low top work boots
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 3,242 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.5 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
2. Skechers 77055 Cankton Athletic Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Safety steel toes
- Footbeds: Memory foam cushioned footbeds
- Outsoles: Rubber outsoles with lug patterned to maximize traction
Waking all day on hard surfaces is a very common thing for most workers.
This is why I fell in love with these Skechers 77055 low top work boots, as they come with solid ergonomic features.
For once, they have memory foam footbeds. These insoles are responsible for cushioning the base of the feet which is essential to avoid any unwanted foot pains.
Additionally, their shock-absorbing midsoles keep the feet safe from having to deal with the impact generated by standing all day on hard surfaces (which is what most workers do, sadly).
Regarding their protective features, these Skechers boots surpassed my expectations man.
I mean, they come with steel safety toes which keep workers safe from dealing with nasty toe injuries.
Lastly, their slip-resistant outsoles are manufactured with lug patterns that dig deep into the floor providing almost-perfect traction. This is great for workers used to walking on slippery and uneven surfaces.
Pros
- Safety steel toes offer superior toe protection
- Electrical hazard protection
- Abrasion-resistant leather with nubuck overlays
- Breathable mesh panels keep the feet fresh when exposed to humidity
- Padded collar and tongues make the experience of using the boots a very comfortable one
- Relaxed fit design
- Memory foam footbeds cushion the base of the feet
- Shock absorbing midsoles dissipate the impact generated by walking on hard and rocky surfaces
- Slip-resistant outsoles with lug patterns provide superior traction on difficult surfaces
Cons
- Can be a bit expensive
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 8,695 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
3. KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool-M Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Steel safety toes
- Footbeds: Dual-density EVA footbed
- Outsoles: Oil and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsoles
Isn’t it the best when you spend your hard-earned money on some comfortable pair of work boots?
Well, that’s the exact feeling you’re gonna get if you buy these Keen Utility Atlanta low top work boots as they come with:
- Dual-density EVA footbeds with ergonomic designs that cushion the feet when walking all day on hard surfaces which is key to prevent foot pain
- Hydrophobic mesh linings that let the air flow freely through the inside of the boots keeping the feet fresh when working outdoors on hot summer days
Regarding their protective features, these boots didn’t stay behind. In fact, they surpassed my expectations as they come with patented steel toe caps that cover the toes preventing them from getting crushed by heavy falling tools.
Also, they have oil and slip-resistant outsoles that don’t leave marks, which is perfect for workers (i.e. asphalt workers) used to walk on slippery surfaces.
Pros
- Patented steel safety toes provide perfect toe impact resistance
- Nubuck leather has water-resistant properties
- Metatomical dual-density EVA footbeds
- Oil and slip-resistant rubber outsoles great traction on slippery surfaces
- Hydrophobic mesh lining keeps the feet fresh when exposed to humid temperatures
- Reflective webbing for additional safety
Cons
- They can get loose during the day and you might have to readjust them once in a while (not a big deal)
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 4,605 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
4. Danner Vicious 4.5 Inch Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Composite safety toes
- Footbeds: PU cushioned footbeds
- Outsoles: Vibram Vicious oil & slip-resistant outsoles
Long hours standing on hard surfaces put serious stress on the feet and joints. Usually, this ends in unbearable foot pain for the worker.
Luckily, these Danner Vicious low top work boots come with PU footbeds that cushion the base of the feet. This not only lets the feet rest but also dissipates the impact that comes from walking all day on uneven and rocky surfaces.
Regarding protection, the boots have the so-called “Vibram Vicious” outsoles with solid oil and slip-resistant capabilities. These soles are perfect for workers that frequently walk on slippery surfaces and don’t want to slip and get injured.
Their composite safety toes protect the worker’s toes from getting crushed by heavy tools falling which is very common to see on construction sites. They’re lighter than steel toe caps, which is another big advantage.
Last but not least, the electrical hazard protection might be a bit extra but it’s essential for workers exposed to unsafe electrical currents.
Pros
- Composite safety toes keep the toes from getting squashed
- Vibram Vicious oil and slip-resistant outsoles offer superior traction on all surfaces
- PU footbeds cushion the feet on every step
- Electrical hazard protection
- Waterproofing lining keeps the feet from getting wet when exposed to exterior liquids
Cons
- They can be a bit squeaky
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 763 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.5 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
5. Timberland PRO Men’s Titan Oxford Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Alloy safety toes
- Footbeds: Contoured open-cell polyurethane footbeds
- Outsoles: Rubber outsoles with slip, oil, and abrasion-resistant capabilities
The best low top work boots must be comfortable yet very protective. I mean, they are safety work boots at the end of the day, right?
Regarding this, these Timberland Titan Oxford boots come with solid safety features such as:
- Alloy safety toe caps that protect the toes from getting crushed by heavy falling tools
- Rubber outsoles with slip, oil, and abrasion resistance keep workers safe from slipping when walking on slippery surfaces
Additionally, the boots have open-cell PU footbeds which cushion the feet and PU midsoles that provide superior shock absorption. This, of course, is essential for those workers used to spend the better part of their workdays standing on hard surfaces.
Lastly, these Timberland boots are manufactured with full-grain leather in a Cement construction which makes the boots both flexible and very reliable.
Pros
- Alloy safety toes offer solid toe impact and compression resistance
- Rubber outsoles with slip, oil, and abrasion resistance provide solid traction on slippery surfaces to prevent nasty injuries from happening
- Premium full-grain leather
- Cement construction is both flexible and very durable
- Contoured open-cell PU footbeds cushion the feet
- PU midsoles provide the shock absorption necessary to prevent impacts from affecting the feet and other joints
- Mesh lining wicks away moisture to maintain the feet dry and fresh on humid summer days
Cons
- Can get a bit hot during summer
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 1,299 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.5 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
6. Carhartt Oxford Black Lightweight Hiker Steel Toe CMO3251 Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Safety steel toes
- Footbeds: Double-foamed footbeds
- Outsoles: Oil, chemical, abrasion, heat, and slip-resistant rubber outsoles
Nothing will make you happier with the recent purchase of your low top work boots that feeling perfectly comfortable when using them.
This is why I like to see low top work boots like these Carhartt boots that come with superior comfort features such as their double foamed footbeds and compression injected molded EVA midsoles. Both attributes are responsible for supporting and cushioning the base of the feet preventing foot pain and other more serious issues (i.e. plantar fasciitis) from happening.
Their “FastDry” technology is perfect for keeping the feet cool and dry when working on humid summer days outdoors as it efficiently wicks away the moisture from the inside of the boots.
Regarding their protective features, the boots have electrical hazard protection of up to 18,000 volts which might seem “extra” for some people but could be life-saving for others.
Their steel toe caps are the perfect guarantee that the toes are gonna remain untouched even if heavy falling tools were to fall in the toe box area.
Lastly, their rubber outsoles with oil, chemical, abrasion, heat, and slip-resistant capabilities are there to provide superior traction on literally ALL SURFACES. This is perfect for workers used to deal with slippery surfaces that want to avoid slips and nasty injuries.
Pros
- Double foamed footbeds keep the feet safe from fatiguing
- Compression and injection-molded EVA midsoles offer excellent shock absorption
- “FastDry Technology” wicks away moisture keeping the feet cool and dry when exposed to humid conditions
- Electrical hazard protection (up to 18,000 volts)
- Oil, chemical, abrasion, heat, and slip-resistant rubber outsoles
- Steel toe caps allow the worker to work without worrying about their toes getting squashed by heavy falling tools
Cons
- They run a bit narrow
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 341 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
7. KEEN Utility Detroit XT Waterproof Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Soft toe caps
- Footbeds: Metatomical PU footbeds
- Outsoles: Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsoles
Seeing how your hard-earned money is wasted on a pair of lousy low top work boots that lacks safety features is the worst.
These Keen Utility Detroit low top work boots are the exact opposite as they come with solid safety features such as their “Keen.Grip” slip and oil-resistant outsoles. These soles provide superior traction on slippery surfaces which is great if you wanna avoid serious injuries.
Moreover, the boots have a waterproof membrane that not only keeps the feet dry when exposed to exterior liquids but also wicks away moisture. Of course, this is essential to avoid odor build-up.
Regarding their comfort features they come with two essential features:
- Metatomical footbeds which are anatomically engineered to cradle and cushion the feet enhancing the user experience
- Dual-density compression-molded EVA midsoles that take on the shocks generated when walking on hard surfaces
Pros
- “Keen.Dry” waterproof membrane keeps the feet dry while wicking away moisture
- “Keep.Grip” oil and slip-resistant outsoles offer superior traction on slippery surfaces
- Metatomical footbeds are anatomically designed to provide superior arch support
- Dual-density compression-molded EVA midsoles dissipate the impact generated by walking all day on hard surfaces
- Reflective webbing for additional safety and visibility
Cons
- They run narrow
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 965 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
8. Reebok Work Sublite Work RB4443 Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Steel safety toes
- Footbeds: EVA removable cushion footbeds
- Outsoles: Rubber slip-resistant outsoles
Getting low top work boots with safety features is essential for workers as they’re exposed to lots of risks.
This is why I like these Reebok RB4443 low top work boots as they come with:
- Safety toe caps that deliver superior toe protection
- Slip-resistant outsoles that prevent workers from slipping when walking on slippery surfaces
Their comfort features are also impressive.
For instance, they have the so-called “FootFuel” Eva-injected footbeds that cushion the base of the feet for a much better experience when walking on hard floors.
Finally, their EVA midsoles support the feet and provide great shock absorption to avoid serious foot and knee pain
Pros
- Safety toe caps provide superior compression and impact resistance to the toe box area
- Slip-resistant outsoles provide superior traction on all surfaces
- Nylon mesh wicks away moisture
- Uppers that dissipate static
- “FootFuel” Eva-Injected cushioned footbeds
- Eva cushion midsoles offer perfect shock absorption
Cons
- They run larger than regular work boots
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 216 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
9. Timberland PRO Powertrain Sport Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Alloy safety toes
- Footbeds: Cushioned footbeds
- Outsoles: Dual-density polyurethane oil resistant outsoles
The right low top work boots must have solid protection features to help workers deal with the hazards they face daily.
To do this, these Timberland Powertrain boots come with alloy safety toes and dual-density PU outsoles. Both of these keep the toes safe from getting crushed and provide perfect traction when walking on slippery surfaces.
In terms of durability, the boots are manufactured with a Cement construction that guarantees both solid durability and athletic flexibility, which is a good combination to offer workers looking for the best low top work boots. Besides, their premium ripstop nylon uppers are very resistant to scratches and tears.
Lastly, they have mesh linings that wick away moisture and prevent odor from building up, which is a vital feature for workers that work outdoors exposed to hot and humid temperatures.
Pros
- Alloy safety toe caps
- Cement construction guarantees durability and flexibility
- Premium ripstop nylon uppers improve the ruggedness of the boots
- Dual-density PU outsoles with oil and heat resistant attributes
- Mesh lining with antimicrobial treatment wicks away moisture when you need it the most
- Anti-fatigue technology
Cons
- No complaints over here!
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 274 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.5 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
10. Timberland PRO 40008 Mudsill Low Top Work Boots
Features
- Toe caps: Steel safety toes
- Footbeds: Open-cell polyurethane footbeds
- Outsoles: Slip-, heat-, oil- and abrasion-resistant rubber outsole
Rather than using cheap materials, these Timberland Mudsill low top work boots are manufactured with solid durable features. For instance, they have:
- Abrasion-resistant toes that keep the boots safe from breaking when exposed to abrasive chemicals in the toe box area
- Rugged leather with mesh uppers that keep the feet both safe and fresh during hot summer days
- A “Cement construction” which is a staple of durability and comfort among work boot manufacturers
Regarding their protection, these work boots are manufactured with safety toe caps and slip heat, oil, and abrasion-resistant outsoles. Both of these attributes provide perfect traction on slippery surfaces and keep the toes safe from serious injuries.
Last but not least, the boots come with open-cell PU midsoles and molded EVA footbeds which dissipate the shock generated by walking on hard surfaces all day (i.e. concrete).
Pros
- Rugged leather with mesh uppers keeps the feet dry and fresh at all times
- Abrasion-resistant toe enhances durability when exposed to abrasive substances
- Cement construction makes the boots’ structure both flexible and rugged
- Safety steel toe caps
- Timberland PRO rubber outsoles with slip, heat, abrasion, and oil resistant capabilities offer great traction on slippery surfaces
- Molded EVA midsoles provide superior shock absorption
- Open-cell PU footbeds deliver great cushioning to the feet
- Nylon shanks substantially improve structural support
Cons
- The plastic eyelet hook are not of the best quality (not a big deal though)
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 123 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
What Is the Best Low Top Work Boot Overall?
KEEN Utility Flint Steel Toe Low Top Work Shoe
I chose these Keen Utility Flint as the best low top work boots because of the following features:
- Safety steel toe caps that protect the toes from getting crushed by heavy falling objects (which is a common issue for workers nowadays)
- Oil and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsoles that provide superior traction on sketchy surfaces avoiding slips and serious injuries
- Water-resistant nubuck leather uppers that maintain the feet dry when liquids touch the boots
- Dual-density EVA footbeds that cushion the feet when walking on hard surfaces
If you’d like to read the entire review be sure to click the button down below.
What is the Most Comfortable Low Top Work Boot?
Carhartt Oxford Black Lightweight Hiker Steel Toe CMO3251 Low Top Work Boots
I selected these Carhartt Oxford CMO3251 low top work boots as the most comfortable mainly due to their:
- Cushioned footbeds with double foam that support the base of the feet when walking on hard and rocky surfaces
- Compression and injection-molded EVA midsoles dissipate the shocks generated when wearing the boots to walk on hard surfaces for extended periods of time
You can read the complete review by clicking the button down below.
Quick Comparison Table
Must-Have Features of the Best Low Top Work Boots
There’re a certain group of features the best low top work boots must-have. Let me share them with you so you don’t have to find them by yourself.
Cushioned Footbeds and Shock Absorbing Midsoles
A huge priority for the best low top work boots is comfort. I mean, who wants to suffer unbearable foot pain during their workday? Nobody.
That’s why I recommend people to get low top work boots with cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles.
That way, you’ll make sure the impact generated by walking on hard surfaces all day is dissipated and not directly put on your feet.
Lightweight
Most workers looking for low top work boots are seeking comfort. They don’t want to carry around heavy and bulky work boots.
I think that the best way to avoid that is by getting low top work boots with lightweight constructions. This is the only way to make sure your feet and knees won’t end up tired and sore at the end of a hard day of work.
Slip Resistant Outsoles
Have you ever slipped when walking on a slippery surface? It’s the worst! I mean, you could get seriously injured.
This is why the best low top work boots must have slip-resistant outsoles manufactured with deep lugs that provide perfect traction on those surfaces. I mean, it’s the only way to work with the mental peace of knowing that you won’t suffer nasty injuries.
Safety Toe Caps
Maintaining your toes safe is priority number one when it comes to work boots.
That’s why the best low top work boots need to have safety toe caps as it’s the only known way to keep toes safe from getting crushed by heavy tools that may fall at any time.
There are various safety toe caps to choose from:
- steel safety toe caps: these are the most protective yet the bulkiest and heaviest
- composite safety toe caps: they are nonmetallic which is perfect for workers that work near live wires as these caps don’t transfer electricity. They aren’t as protective as steel toe caps though
- alloy safety toe caps: These are as protective as steel toe caps yet a little lighter, which can be perfect for those workers that prioritize comfort. They are a little pricier though
Waterproofing and Insulation
Working outdoors can be a pain. Rain, snow, wind… the elements can be tough on the body.
This is why I think that the best low top work boots must have some level of water resistance or insulation, especially if your job is located outdoors where you’re exposed to extreme weathers.
A solid waterproofing membrane and enough insulation material definitely boost the price of the boots, but they give you the peace of mind of knowing that your feet are gonna be warm and dry even when exposed to rain, snow, or whatever external condition.
Quality Construction
The best way to make sure you’re not gonna deeply regret spending hundreds of dollars on a pair of low top work boots is by making sure they’re not gonna break apart after a few months of light use.
The question is.. who do you do that? right?
To do this there’re two things you’re gonna have to focus your attention:
- Solid construction method: If you get a low top work boot manufactured with an excellent construction method, you’re gonna have the guarantee the boots aren’t breaking anytime soon. I recommend getting boots manufactured with a Goodyear Welt construction or a Cement Welt construction as both are very flexible yet resistant enough to take a beating
- Top-quality materials: Getting low top work boots manufactured with good materials (i.e. full-grain leather) is a smart way to be sure your expensive boots aren’t going down the toilet after a couple of months of intensive use at the construction site
Frequently Asked Questions
There’re frequent questions asked around the topic of the best low top work boots. Next, you’ll find my best attempt to answer most of these questions.
What are low top work boots good for?
There’s one thing that sets low top work boots apart, and that is… comfort.
I mean, there are hundreds (thousands some may say) of work boots with long shafts made with unnecessary materials which make them very bulky. These might be targeted at workers that prioritize protection over comfort.
However, there’re workers out there that don’t want to carry heavy boots around all day. For those, low top work boots are the better option. They offer solid safety features (i.e. safety toe caps, slip-resistant outsoles, abrasion-resistant leather, etc…) without sacrificing comfort.
Can I use low top work boots for construction?
Definitely. You’ll find construction workers that will sware by their 8-inch work boots or even steel toe logger boots.
However, there’s still space for low top work boots at the construction site.
I mean, low top work boots come with features that make them perfect for construction, such as:
- Safety toe caps that keep the toes safe from getting squashed by heavy construction tools falling
- Slip-resistant outsoles that stop slips from happening when walking on slippery surfaces commonly found at construction sites
- Waterproofing and insulation materials (included in some of them) that keep the construction worker’s feet dry and warm when exposed to the elements
What safety toes should I choose for my low top work boots?
As we all know, safety toe caps are essential for preventing nasty toe injuries from happening. However, there’re different safety toe caps to choose from which might make things a bit difficult. These are the options:
- Steel toe caps: these are heavier than the rest, yet the most protective which is why safety steel toe caps are the most common choice for low top work boots
- Composite toe caps: even though they aren’t as dense as steel toe caps, composite toe caps are very resistant and are nonmetallic, which means they don’t conduct electricity
- Alloy toe caps: these caps are as resistant as steel toe caps yet lighter which is perfect for workers that prioritize comfort over protection. One disadvantage is the price though.
How do I maintain low top work boots?
The process of maintaining low top work boots is essential to make sure they don’t break down sooner than they should.
The good news is that it’s pretty easy to follow:
- Take a brush and brush off as much dirt and dust as you can
- Take another brush, dip it in water, mix it with saddle soap until bubbles appear, and brush the boots with the soap (be thoroughly in this step)
- Wipe the saddle soap off with a clean cloth
- Massage a light layer of leather conditioner with your fingers and let the conditioner nourish the boots for about 15 minutes
- Clean the conditioner residue with a clean cloth
- (Optional) Apply a leather wax on the boots (with your fingers) and lightly buff with a brush
- Done! Your low top work boots will look as good as new!