Last Updated on February 9, 2024 by Boots Guru
Getting your feet wet in the middle of the workday sucks.
Luckily, this can easily be prevented with a pair of waterproof work boots. However, those aren’t easy to find.
This leads us to ask the question: what are the best waterproof work boots?
This is why I tested lots of work boots with solid waterproof membranes to arrive at a list of the ones I liked the most.
Let’s begin.
The Best Waterproof Work Boots
As I mentioned, I’ll share with you the list of those waterproofed work boots I liked the most after extensive research:
- The Original MuckBoots Adult Chore Hi-Cut Waterproof Work Boots
- Merrell Work Moab Vertex Waterproof Work Boots
- The Original MuckBoots Adult Chore Waterproof Work Boots
- Timberland PRO 26078 Titan Waterproof Work Boots
- Timberland Pro Men’s Direct Attach Waterproof Work Boots
- Wolverine Men’s Gold Insulated Waterproof Work Boots
- Irish Setter Men’s 83606 Waterproof Work Boots
- Timberland Men’s Boondock Waterproof Work Boots
- Carhartt Energy CME6351 Waterproof Work Boots
- KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Waterproof Work Boots
1. The Original MuckBoots Adult Chore Hi-Cut Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Made of fully waterproof rubber and neoprene
- Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: None
These MuckBoots boots are very protective waterproof rubber work boots without disregarding comfort features.
Their cushioned footbeds guarantee comfort, which is crucial if you’re used to long workdays standing on your feet.
Moreover, they come manufactured with a top-quality waterproof membrane that keeps away any liquids from coming in contact with the feet.
The boots have reinforced heels and toes and slip-resistant outsoles to guarantee durability and protection.
Lastly, they have breathable mesh linings to improve airflow to keep the feet dry and free of sweat and odors.
Pros
- Made of fully waterproof rubber and neoprene
- Breathable mesh lining maximizes perspiration
- Reinforced heels and toes
- Slip-resistant outsoles that provide superior traction on slippery surfaces
Cons
- Runs a bit big
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 5,345 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.6 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
2. Merrell Work Moab Vertex Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Waterproof membrane
- Outsoles: Heat, oil and slip resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Composite safety toe caps
These Merrell Work Moab Vertex boots are a very reliable pair of work boots to use at any work site.
Besides being comfortable thanks to their cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles that provide superior arch support, the boots come with a waterproof membrane that maintains the feet totally dry when exposed to exterior liquids.
Additionally, their composite safety toe caps are responsible for keeping the toes safe, which is very valuable for workers like me that frequently work surrounded by heavy tools.
Last but not least, they have slip, heat, and oil-resistant outsoles that provide excellent traction, which is essential for walking on slippery surfaces.
Pros
- Manufactured with full grain leather
- Waterproof membrane seals out water
- Cushioned footbeds with breathable foam that provide excellent arch support
- Shock absorbing rubberized EVA midsole
- Composite safety toe caps that provide excellent toe protection without adding much weight
- Heat, oil and slip resistant outsoles with 5mm lugs keep workers safe from slipping and falling
- Breathable mesh uppers allow for easy airflow
Cons
- No cons over here
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 497 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.
3. The Original MuckBoots Adult Chore Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof
- Outsoles: Quick cleaning rubber slip resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: None
These MuckBoots Adult Chore work boots have fantastic features that shame other competing waterproofed rubber work boots.
First, they come manufactured with a 100% waterproof mixture of neoprene and rubber, which is highly effective for maintaining the feet dry, even when exposed to exterior liquids (e.g., rain).
On top of that, I loved the breathable air mesh linings that guarantee enhanced airflow to prevent the feet from sweating and nasty odors.
To guarantee perfect traction, they come with slip-resistant outsoles that are very easy to clean, an essential feature for rubber work boots.
Last but not least, the boots have rubber heel reinforcements to make the boots even more durable.
Pros
- Breathable mesh lining wicks moisture to keep the feet dry
- Quick cleaning rubber outsoles provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces
- Quadruple rubber heel reinforcement for maximum durability
- Made with 5mm of waterproof, shock absorbing neoprene and rubber
- Traps heat inside the boots to maintain the feet warm
Cons
- The elastic is a bit tight
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 182 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.
4. Timberland PRO 26078 Titan Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof
- Outsoles: Timberland PRO oil, slip and abrasion resistant rubber outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Alloy safety toe caps
When selecting the best waterproof work boots, comfort must be a priority.
In that context, these Timberland PRO Titan work boots come manufactured with a very flexible full-grain leather that minimizes the break-in period and enhances durability.
Moreover, the boots have cushioned footbeds and shock absorbing midsoles, which I believe are essential for making them so comfortable.
Even though the laces are a bit short, their waterproof membrane and mesh antimicrobial lining compensate for it, keeping the feet dry and fresh-smelling for longer.
Pros
- Made of 100% genuine leather
- Nylon diffusion shank for structural support
- Minimum break in time
- Open cell PU footbed with Outlast Adaptive Comfort technology to avoid foot fatigue
- PU cushioned shock absorbing midsoles
- Timberland PRO oil, slip and abrasion resistant rubber outsoles to keep traction on slippery surfaces
- TiTAN alloy safety toe caps that provide great toe protection without adding bulkiness to the boots
- Manufactured with waterproof membrane
Cons
- The laces are a bit too short
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 497 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.
5. Timberland Pro Men’s Direct Attach Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Waterproof leather
- Outsoles: Oil-resistant lug outsoles
- Safety toe caps: None
When it comes to comfort, these Timberland Pro Direct Attach work boots come with excellent features, such as:
- Nylon shock diffusion plates which provide excellent support and torsional rigidity
- Lightweight plastic midsoles for enhanced shock absorption
- Fully cushioned open-cell polyurethane footbeds with antimicrobial treatment
They keep the feet dry thanks to their waterproofing membrane and warm thanks to their 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation.
Even though they aren’t the most breathable, features such as their slip-resistant outsoles that provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces make up for it.
Pros
- Manufactured with waterproof leather
- Lace-up closure that guarantees perfect fit
- 400g Thinsulate insulation to keep the feet warm when exposed to winter temperatures
- Oil-resistant lug outsoles which provide excellent traction on uneven and slippery surfaces
- Cushioned footbeds and shock absorbing midsoles
Cons
- Not the most breathable
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 968 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.8 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
6. Wolverine Men’s Gold Insulated Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof
- Outsoles: Slip resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Steel toe caps
Honestly, I fell in love with these Wolverine Gold work boots when I heard they came with 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation, which is critical to maintaining the feet warm when exposed to winter temperatures.
Moreover, their waterproofing membrane allows workers to maintain their feet completely dry, even when accidentally walking into puddles.
Regarding comfort, the boots have fully cushioned footbeds which provide superior arch support to the feet, thus avoiding foot soreness and other issues.
I must say that they take about two weeks to break in, yet they come with steel toe caps and slip-resistant outsoles, which work together to avoid most of the accidents blue-collar workers must deal with very frequently.
Pros
- 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep the feet warm during winter times
- Direct attach construction is both flexible and very durable
- Fully cushioned footbeds keep the feet relaxed thanks to the superior arch support provided
- Waterproofing membrane keeps the feet dry at all times
- Steel toe caps
Cons
- They take about two weeks to break in
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 109 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.8 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
7. Irish Setter Men’s 83606 Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Waterproof full grain leather
- Outsoles: Heat resistant slip resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Aluminum toe caps
Waterproof work boots tend to be a bit more uncomfortable than the rest.
This is why I love these Irish Setter 83606 work boots, as they come with solid ergonomic features such as their EVA footbeds and EVA shock absorbing midsoles that keep my feet well supported during the workday.
Moreover, they are manufactured with a waterproof full-grain leather that looks good and is responsible for keeping all liquids out of the work boots.
Their heat and slip resistant outsoles are included to provide solid traction on slippery and uneven surfaces, frequently found at many construction sites.
Lastly, they got aluminum toe caps that provide excellent impact and compression resistance to the toe box area of the boots, which is a feature I like as I usually work surrounded by heavy tools.
Pros
- American made
- Waterproof full grain leather avoids exterior liquids from touching the feet
- Moisture-wicking nylon lining allows for air flow and keeps the feet dry
- EVA midsole absorb shocks generated by standing all day on hard surfaces
- Fully cushioned EVA footbeds
- Goodyear welt construction guarantees durability without sacrificing breathability
- Heat resistant outsoles with excellent slip resistant attribute
- Aluminum toe caps provide excellent protection without adding extra weight
Cons
- No cons over here!
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 1,665 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing and they have given them a 4.6 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
8. Timberland Men’s Boondock Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof
- Outsoles: Slip, oil and abrasion-resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Composite safety toe caps
With their slip-resistant outsoles that provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces, these Timberland Boondocks work boots assure workers they won’t deal with nasty injuries anytime soon.
Their composite safety toe caps provide even more protection without adding much bulk or weight, as they are made with lightweight nonmetallic materials.
To keep the feet dry, even when exposed to exterior liquids, the boots come with a solid waterproof membrane responsible for keeping all liquids out.
Regarding comfort, they got cushioned footbeds that cradle the feet to provide excellent arch support and avoid foot fatigue.
And their shock absorbing midsoles absorb all the shocks generated by walking on hard surfaces, dissipating them, thus, saving the joints and feet from soreness and fatigue.
Pros
- Manufactured with genuine leather
- Waterproof membrane maintains the feet dry when accidentally walking into puddles
- Rubber toe protectors for increased protection
- Composite safety toe caps protect the toe box area without adding much weight to the boots
- Slip, oil and abrasion-resistant outsoles
- Shock absorbing midsoles take on the shocks, returning energy to the feet without hurting them
- Fully cushioned footbeds that cradle the feet to maximize comfort
Cons
- They’re a bit squeaky
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 286 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.6 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.
9. Carhartt Energy CME6351 Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: STORM DEFENDER waterproofing membrane
- Outsoles: Slip resistant outsoles
- Safety toe caps: None
These CME6351 work boots from Carhartt are perfect for workers looking for both protection and ergonomics.
Their Storm Defender waterproofing membranes allow workers to do their jobs confidently, knowing their feet won’t get wet, which is vital to boost productivity.
Moreover, the boots have slip-resistant outsoles with deep lugs that deliver excellent traction on rocky and uneven surfaces.
They feel stiff for the first few weeks, but they have ergonomic features that make the boots really comfortable in the long term, such as their EVA shock-absorbing midsoles and their Insite engineered fully cushioned footbeds.
Last but not least, they provide electrical hazard resistance, an essential feature for workers constantly working next to live wires (e.g. electricians).
Pros
- STORM DEFENDER waterproofing membrane keeps the feet dry without making the boots unbreathable
- Insite engineered footbeds provide excellent arch support to avoid foot fatigue
- Electrical hazard protection
- Manufactured with oil resistant, chemical resistant, abrasion resistant, heat resistant leather
- Slip resistant outsoles that prevent nasty injuries
- Lightweight EVA shock absorbing midsoles
Cons
- They take a few weeks to break in
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 1,930 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. KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY waterproofing
- Outsoles: Oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking, rubber outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Steel toe caps
Loaded with protective and ergonomic features, these Keen Utility Lansing work boots are a great safety footwear choice for workers seeking protection and comfort.
Their steel toe caps allow workers to walk around their workplaces knowing that their toes won’t get crushed by heavy tools falling in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Moreover, they got oil and slip resistant outsoles that provide superior traction when walking on those slippery surfaces most workers find at their worksites.
To keep the feet dry, the boots come with the so-called “Keen.Dry” waterproofing membrane that maintain all liquids out of the inside of the boots so the feet can remain dry and never come in contact with any liquids.
Pros
- Steel toe caps provide superior toe protection
- Oil and slip-resistant, non-marking, rubber outsoles provide enough traction to confidently walk on slippery surfaces
- KEEN.DRY waterproofing membrane allows workers to avoid dealing with wet feet
- Mesh liner that keeps the feet dry thanks to its moisture wicking capabilities
- Electrical hazard resistance
- TPU stability shank provides additional structural support
Cons
- Low quality laces
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 4,814 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.
The Best Waterproof Work Boots Overall
Timberland PRO Men’s Titan Waterproof Work Boots
I chose these Timberland Titan work boots as the best waterproof work boots for this article due to features such as their:
- Fully waterproof leather that keeps the feet dry at all times
- Open cell PU fully cushioned footbeds and shock absorbing midsoles
- Alloy toe caps that protect the toes from getting injured without adding bulk or weight to the boots
If you’d like to read the full review, you can click the button below.
The Best Women’s Waterproof Work Boots
Timberland PRO Women’s Waterproof Work Boots
Features
- Waterproofing: Waterproof membrane
- Outsoles: Oil, slip and abrasion resistant rubber outsoles
- Safety toe caps: Alloy toe caps
Like all the work boots reviewed in this article, these Timberland women’s work boots come with excellent features, such as their waterproof membrane that maintains the feet dry.
Additionally, they have oil and slip resistant outsoles that provide superior traction to confidently walk on slippery surfaces without fearing getting injured.
Their aluminum toe caps are included to provide total safety to the toe box area of the boots.
They take about two weeks to break in, but other features, such as their cushioned footbeds and shock absorbing midsoles, make these boots quite comfortable in the long term.
Comparison Table
Must-Have Features of The Best Waterproof Work Boots
By the way, we made a list of the features we think all waterproof work boots must have to be considered good.
Waterproofing Membrane
If you’re frequently exposed to getting your feet wet by exterior liquids, I’d recommend investing in a pair of work boots with a solid waterproof membrane.
Why?
A waterproofing membrane will be in charge of keeping all liquids out of your work boots. This ensures that no liquids come into contact with your feet, which is essential for keeping them dry.
Read More:
Slip Resistant Outsoles
Have you ever slipped and fallen while walking on a hard surface (e.g., concrete)?
No? Well, I have, and it stinks!
This is why, in my opinion, looking for a work boot with slip resistant outsoles is a great way to work confidently, knowing that, even if you have to walk on slippery surfaces, you won’t slip and fall due to the solid traction provided.
Safety Toe Caps
The best way to avoid having your toes crushed by heavy objects is to wear work boots with safety toe caps.
There are lots of options regarding toe caps:
- Steel toe caps: are by far the most popular choice. Yet, they are known for being a bit heavy and bulky
- Composite toe caps: are lighter than steel toe caps and also nonmetallic. However, they aren’t as protective as steel toe caps
- Aluminum toe caps: are metallic toe caps that are very protective and lighter than steel toe caps. However, they are a bit hard to find and tend to be more expensive
- Carbon toe caps: are by far the lighter choice of all safety toe caps available. They are nonmetallic and very strong, yet they can be expensive and pretty hard to find
Anyway, I wouldn’t say it matters which type of safety toe cap you choose.
The important thing is that you get a work boot with one of the safety toe caps shown above so that you can work confidently, knowing your toes will not be squashed by heavy tools.
Read More:
Insulation
Insulation is another important feature in a pair of work boots, at least for some, as it can save you from the discomfort caused by working in cold temperatures.
There are numerous insulation materials available (e.g., Thinsulate insulation) that insulate the feet from exterior cold temperatures, allowing you to work without the discomfort that coldness brings.
If you are exposed to average cold temperatures, I would recommend getting a work boot with 200 grams to 400 grams of insulation.
Otherwise, a work boot with more than 600 grams of insulation is recommended if you work in even lower temperatures.
Read more:
Cushioned Footbeds & Shock Absorbing Midsoles
Workers despise working 10- to 12-hour shifts on their feet because they know they’ll end up with sore feet and knees.
They don’t realize, however, that by purchasing work boots with cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles, they will receive premium arch support and shock absorption.
This is essential for dissipating the shocks generated when walking on hard surfaces and preventing them from being transferred to your feet and joints, which is essential for avoiding short and long term physical pains.
Flexible & Reliable Construction Methods
Last but not least, I recommend that you look for work boots made with high-quality materials and sturdy construction methods.
With low-quality materials, you risk your work boots falling apart at inopportune times or failing to provide the necessary level of protection for specific work environments.
On the other hand, work boots made with high-quality materials and construction methods will last for years, which is important for workers looking to get their money’s worth.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequent questions that come up when talking about the best waterproof work boots.
What is the difference between water resistant and waterproof boots?
The main distinction between water resistant and waterproof work boots is how differently leather reacts to water.
The leather in water-resistant work boots is moisture resistant. That is, it can keep the feet dry when the work boots are subjected to unexpected water splashes. When submerged in water, the leather will not keep the liquid out of the boots, though.
On the other hand, waterproof work boots are crafted with water-resistant leather. This means that even if you submerge your work boots in water, no liquids will come into contact with your feet.
Do work boots need to be waterproof?
Work boots must be waterproof if you intend to wear them in an environment where liquids may come into contact with your feet.
Waterproof work boots are made with membranes that keep all liquids out of the work boots, keeping your feet dry.
That’s why I’d say you’d only need waterproof work boots if you’re going to be working in areas where you’ll be exposed to outside liquids, where a waterproof membrane is required to keep your feet completely dry.
How much do waterproof work boots cost?
Waterproof work boots are unquestionably expensive.
In fact, I’d say waterproof work boots could cost around $200, making them very expensive when standard work boots start at around 120 dollars.
So, if you intend to purchase waterproof work boots, you should prepare to spend more than you anticipated.
I wear my waterproof boots all day, on a daily basis most of the time, these boots are comfortable from day one and have delayed better than far more expensive brands I’ve bought. And my two favorites are expensive and therefore the only boot I’ve owned in 35 years that’s truly waterproof. No more wet feet, some brands I won’t mention should learn from Everboot.