To remain productive, we cannot underestimate the need for the right footwear. In every field, incorrect or lack of proper work gear is highly discouraged. If you are working on a construction site, you need to make sure your feet are safe. These places are full of hazards and the long hours of standing can also be a source of more problems.
A concrete surface doesn’t absorb shock. While walking or standing on it, all the impact is felt on your feet and joints. In the beginning, you may think all is fine. But the longer you keep working on these surfaces; you’ll start experiencing its full effects. Workers who spent most of their time on concrete surfaces suffer health complications. Some experience chronic joint problems, poor posture, and the likes.
Luckily, today there are several models of work boots with top-notch features. They can help you protect yourself from all dangers from above, below, front, and back. Steel toe work boots are among the best for this purpose. Besides keeping your toes safe, they have other great features.
What happens to your body when you stand all day? / What are the effects of standing for too long?
Yes, you may feel you are okay working on concrete with your regular footwear, but trust me it won’t take long. The effects will definitely catch up with you. Unfortunately, it might be too late to reverse the effects. That’s why there is every reason you should commit yourself to wear the correct concrete work boots. Without them, be ready to bear one of the following effects;
Joint and foot pains: In most cases, this is the first sign if you work on concrete without proper footwear. Remember your feet are in direct contact with the floor. So, all the force goes to the feet. The pain may not be instant but when you relax you may start experiencing it.
Fatigue: As we said earlier, concrete surfaces have no shock absorbers. It doesn’t reflex your weight when standing on it. All the shock travels back through your feet and legs. As a result, your leg muscles become strained causing fatigue.
Shin splints: Long hours of standing overwork the muscles. This can lead to muscle inflammation and stiffening. If not corrected early enough, it can cause arthritis.
Plantar Fasciitis: This is a common problem among construction workers and office staff. Inflammation of the tissue connecting the toes and the heel are the signs of this condition. It occurs when your heel and arch aren’t properly supported. To reverse the situation, you have to undergo regular treatment. If you don’t treat it early enough, it can worsen leading to complete destruction of your arch.
Back pain: After standing on a concrete surface for a long, definitely your knee, joints, and leg will hurt. To reduce the pain, you have to adopt another posture when walking or standing. Unfortunately, the new posture may deny your back the ergonomic benefits. The longer this takes, it may strain the spine causing lower back pain. Workers who don’t wear the right boots always develop serious back problems.
Advantages of wearing work boots for concrete
The top of the advantages of having the right gear is safety. For any work to be effective, manpower is a common denominator. If you sustain injuries, that translates to missing work for days or even forever. Remember some of these injuries can render you completely incapacitated. Other benefits include;
Prevent falling, tripping, or sliding
By wearing the right work boots, you reduce the risk of injuries sustained from falls and slips. If you are working on a slippery floor, the right footwear guarantees you some degree of grip. Without them, a little slip can change everything in your life.
Most concrete boots have multidirectional threads and unique soles to boosts traction. Wearing them will keep you safe throughout your standing period on the concrete.
Helps to avoid fatigue
On the unforgiving concrete surface, you need cushioning to remain effective for long. This is exactly what concrete steel toe work boots offer. They have comfortable insoles that ensure your feet aren’t in direct contact with the floor.
Today, you have the liberty to choose the kind of cushioning you want for your footwear. Different work boot models feature different cushioning materials and technology. This allows you to pick the most comfortable one to keep you productive.
Durability
Concrete steel toe work boots can endure the toughest terrains and surfaces. The materials used to make them are very durable compared to regular shoes. They are effective even in the most hostile environments. Their durability complements the efficiency.
Concrete work boots aren’t meant to last for a year. They can last for decades while maintaining the utmost protection on concrete surfaces. Your standard footwear isn’t a match to these work boots while subjected to the same environment.
Comfort
Besides all other aspects, concrete work boots aren’t sacrificing comfort. After all, it’s business. For any brand that doesn’t feel comfortable, users will avoid it. To keep themselves ahead of their competitors, all manufacturers design comfortable work boots.
The 10 Best Steel Toe Work Boots For Standing On Concrete All Day
1. Ever Boots Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Grain Leather Work Boots
Here is a work boot that will let you look stylish while still providing the utmost protection to your feet all day. This boot exhibits the most robust qualities required by any durable shoe. In fact, it has some oil-resistant features that protect it from oil deterioration. It also ensures that the boots last even longer. Also, it has soft nubuck leather that ensures complete alienation of fatigue. Its soft interior ensures that your feet remain comfortable all day. This is irrespective of your work environment. Speed hooks are also inscribed to allow users to wear and take off the shoes more easily. Besides that, these boots combine versatility and functionality together. This is because of its stylish outlook, which allows you to wear them with anything. Whether it’s jeans or just your work attire, the latter will leave you looking stunning.
On top of that, it has a very reliable rubber outsole for excellent stability across all surfaces. So, whether you are a construction worker, an electrician, or a yard worker, you need to grab a pair of these. On the inside, you get the softest PU insoles that give you nothing but long-lasting comfort.
- Easy to wear and take off.
- Has a very comfortable interior.
- Their exterior rubber outsoles are very durable.
- They are very versatile.
- Has a padded collar.
- They are not waterproof.
2. Ever Boots Ultra Dry Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots
Get a pair of these boots and completely say goodbye to cold and wet feet. Its interior lining boasts of a seal direct attached construction style. He helps it achieve a completely weatherproof nature. So, whether your environment is very cold or wet, your feet will still remain protected. Both moisture and sweat are wicked out, through its mesh insulated liner. Thus, it allows your feet to breathe adequately.
Comfort is also not left out thanks to its flexible and lightweight nature. This is backed up by its durable polyurethane midsole. Of which the insoles are removable just in case you don’t like them on. They ensure that your feet remain comfortable even when trudging along hard surfaces. Deep tread patterns on the shoe allow it to have good traction even on wet surfaces. When it comes to sizing, the latter has big fittings that run half size bigger than most boots. So in case, you were looking for a bigger-sized boot for your feet, then this is the right one for you. Their exterior outlook is also to die for. As a matter of fact, its design allows you to wear anything. Also, the soft leather used ensures that it’s break-in-free for utmost comfort all day long.
- They are very versatile.
- Have a good sizing.
- They are very lightweight in nature.
- Exhibits a waterproof nature.
- Super comfortable.
- Have speedy hooks and back loops for easy wearing.
- Good quality for price.
- It lacks a steel safety toe for added protection against compressions.
3. Carhartt Men’s 6 Work Safety-toe Nwp Work Boot
The above shoe is designed for ultimate protection and comfort around tough environments. Firstly, it exhibits a lace up closure design, which makes wearing and taking off simpler. A cushioned collar at the top ensures that the boot is very comfortable around your leg. Moreover, it comes with a reinforced steel safety toe. This ensures that your feet are always protected against compressions and impacts. On top of that, the safety toe ensures that your feet are fully immune to any electrical hazards.
Therefore, if you work at a construction site or as an electrician, this shoe can be super helpful to you. Nevertheless, it comes with a durable rubber outsole that is very flexible. There is a PU Strobel pad on the inside for added cushion. It also comes along with a foam cushion midsole to ensure you get nothing short of utmost comfort. The leather fabric on the exterior gives them a very fine outlook that complements every outfit. Meaning, you can wear the boots to work or even on a night out with friends. The only downside with these boots is that they are quite pricey. If you want to acquire them, you will have to part ways with about 120$.
- It is very durable.
- Offers additional protection against impact.
- Easy to wear and take off.
- Has a very comfortable interior.
- It is quite pricey.
- Lacks a waterproof exterior.
4. Carhartt Men’s Cmf6366 6-Inch Composite Toe Boot
The most common downside associated with most boots is that they tend to be very rigid. Meaning, they are not very flexible hence causing you more fatigue as you walk. However, this is not the case with this boot. As a matter of fact, it exhibits a rugged flex technology that stretches very easily. Therefore, it allows you to be very comfortable as you move all day. Nevertheless, it boasts of a subtle constructed flexible rubber outsole that is designed for tough surfaces. You will also get to work in a fatigue-free style, thanks to the shoe’s lightweight EVA insole. The padded tongue and collar add more comfort to the boots as well.
Contrary to most boots, this one comes with an OrthoLite insole for extra cushioning. Therefore, it ensures that your feet’ comfort is never compromised. Extra compressions and impacts won’t be a threat to you, as it comes with a composite safety toe. This safety toe ensures that you are fully protected against any electrical hazards.
Versatility is also not left out as it comes with a very stylish outlook. This allows the boots to go well with most outfits.
- Has a very versatile outlook.
- Has a safety toe for additional protection against compressions.
- It is very flexible.
- Exhibits a tough durable exterior.
- Very comfortable.
- It is very expensive to acquire.
- Lacks any waterproof properties.
5. Irish Setter Men’s 6” 83605 Work Boot
The setter brand is one of the most reliable brands in today’s boots industry. In fact, the leather used undergoes a very exclusive scrutiny before its application on the boots. Usually, it is handcrafted by the S.B Foot Tanning Company. Besides that, it exhibits a lace up closure, which makes the shoe quite easy to wear and take off. The shoe’s exterior outsole comes in a distinct color Therefore this adds nothing but absolute beauty to the shoe. In fact, it makes the boots very versatile blending very well with most outfits.
Nonetheless, its rubber-Eva outsole exhibits quite a number of features as well. To begin with, it is heat resistant, thus efficient around high heat environs. Actually, it is resistant to melting at a minimum of 475 Fahrenheit. Its treads are also quite steep to ensure maximum traction across all types of surfaces. Acquiring the latter will leave you about 140 dollars short
- Heat resistant outsole.
- Has a stylish versatile outlook.
- Very comfortable interior.
- Lacks waterproof properties.
- It is quite expensive to acquire it.
6. Timberland Pro Men’s Titan 6-Inch Safety Boot
Although these boots might look quite humongous, they are very light in nature. Basically, this is to ensure you get maximum comfort in your shoes all day. To be more precise, it boasts of a power-fit comfort system that is very amiable to your feet. The boot comes with a lace-up closure that has a quilted padded collar. This ensures you are more comfortable even when you tie your shoes tightly. Furthermore, it is subtle spacer mesh lining ensures that the shoe is very breathable.
The lining also wicks away moisture promoting a better environment for your feet. On the exterior part of the boot, there is a rich leather fabric. This ensures that the shoes serve you for long without wearing out. Also, it has a tough rubber outsole to protect your feet against hard surfaces while at work. In addition to that, this outsole is both oil and slip-resistant. This guarantees users maximum safety even when walking on smooth surfaces. Lastly, its interior boasts of a super soft nature to keep your feet comfortable all through.
- Very light in nature.
- Has a very comfortable interior.
- It is a very durable shoe.
- It is a very versatile boot.
- Lacks a steel safety toe for added protection.
- It lacks a waterproof exterior.
- Bad quality for price.
7. Wolverine Men’s Raider 6” Work Boot
The exterior outlook of this boot alone confirms that the latter is convenient enough for a tough environment. Albeit it looks quite sturdy, the shoe itself is very comfortable in nature. As a matter of fact, it comes with a specially cushioned wolverine multishox insole. This insole is finely cushioned for extra comfort and it can be removed just in case you prefer your shoe without the insole. Additionally, it comes with a firm comfortable rubber outsole that is very durable. This outsole has fine threads that deliver a very firm grip across all surfaces. And, it’s resistant to both oil and abrasion.
As if not enough, they have a rich leather exterior that brings style and functionality together. This is achieved through its very versatile and durable nature. Therefore you can wear it on any occasion whether it’s work or something else. Last but not the least, this shoe exhibits a very breathable CK mesh lining. This wicks away moisture and sweat giving your feet a very ample environment all day long.
- Has a rich durable leather exterior.
- Its rubber outsole is very reliable and durable.
- It exhibits a very versatile outlook.
- Very comfortable shoe.
- It has a padded collar.
- They have a contour welt construction.
- It is quite pricey.
- It is not resist to water.
8. Wolverine Men’s Overman Nano Toe 6 Inch Wpf Contour Welt Work Boot
Just like most boots from Wolverine, this one also comes with a removable multishox cushion footbed. The great cushioning gives you ultimate comfort even when standing on tough surfaces all day. In case you don’t like its original footbed, the latter gives you the room to remove it. Once you remove it, you can replace it with orthotics. However, you will have to buy your own orthotics as the boots don’t come with a separate one.
This excellent technology employed on the footbed ensures you get an easy time with the shoes on. Its collar is conveniently padded to ensure more comfort at all times. To spice up things way further, these boots come with carbonMax toe caps. This gives you added protection against all sorts of pressure and impacts. Removing and wearing the shoe is quite simple thanks to its lace-up closure design.
The shoe is very flexible allowing bending whenever necessary so as to keep your get protected. Additionally, these boots are lightweight in nature. This is because they lack steel toe caps which often add on weight. Thus, they allow you to walk very comfortably. Lastly, these boots are very stylish complementing most outfits.
- They are super comfortable.
- Are lightweight in nature.
- They are very durable.
- Exhibit a padded collar.
- Offer additional protection against compressions and impacts.
- They are very stylish and versatile.
- Have a contour welt construction.
- They are not waterproof.
- They are expensive to acquire.
9. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6 Moc Toe Boots
Even though these shoes come with a steep price tag, their good functionality is literally worth it. Firstly, they come with a polyurethane MAXwear wedge sole. This sole exhibits electrical resistant properties as well as a slip resistant nature. Based on several experiments, it is certified that the shoes can withstand up to 18000 volts. Now, how gorgeous is that.
Moreover, these American boots exhibit a very rich leather exterior. This gives it a more sense of style. Actually, their leather is from tobacco gladiator leather hence they are very cute. You can even wear them with other attires let alone your work attire. Just like most boots, this one also has a cushioned midsole for more comfort. A gel heel insert is also available for a comfortable feel all day long. Unlike other boots, this one features normal sizing. Hence, it allows you to buy your normal size.
Nonetheless, their MaxWear outsole ensures the shoe lasts for several years before wearing out. Although it lacks a padded collar, this shoe has a very comfortable interior. On the downside, most buyers have complained that these boots are a bit heavy.
- They are very comfortable.
- Made of genuine tobacco gladiator leather.
- Very durable.
- Exhibit a reliable welt construction.
- They are very expensive to acquire.
- Lack a padded collar.
- They are not waterproof.
10. Medear 6 Men’s Work Boots
If you were looking for a reliable yet affordable work boot, here is the answer for you. With only as little as 89$ you can get yourself a pair of these boots on retail sites such as Amazon. Apart from that, they are equipped with a very tough anti-puncture midsole. This gives you comfort while still protecting your legs from any hazards at work. Additionally, they have a dual-density PU outsole. They are both slip-resistant and abrasion-resistant. Their full-grain tumbled leather found on the exterior ensures the boots are completely water-resistant.
You can wear the boots very easily thanks to their lace-up closure with a padded collar. Besides, its fabric boasts of a Coolmax technology, which wicks away moisture. Therefore, It ensures that your feet remain dry at all times. On top of that, it has a very sturdy construction that keeps your feet protected against impacts. This shoe runs from size one to size 14. However, it is advisable to buy a size half smaller than your normal size. The boots are quite stylish allowing you to rock them with most outfits.
- It has good quality for price.
- Waterproof nature.
- Comes with an anti puncture mid sole.
- Offers additional protection against impacts and compressions.
- Exhibits a padded collar.
- They are very versatile.
- Easy to wear and remove.
- They exhibit a big sizing.
Key Features to Look Before Buying Steel Toe Work Boots for Standing on Concrete All Day
When shopping for the best steel toe work boots, you don’t pick any model bearing the tag. Besides, there are several counterfeit brands in the market. So, you should strictly be guided by specific factors and features. This way, you’ll be sure to get the best pair of boots that keep you safe while standing on concrete all day. These features include;
Slip Resistance
Concrete floors can be rather slippery especially in case of water or oil spillage. To make sure you are always safe no matter the grit, consider the boots with a slip-resistant tread.
Such boots have special mechanisms to redirect the fluids from various points on the sole. This way, it doesn’t percolate on underneath thus you remain in contact with the ground.
Cushioning
Extra cushioning is necessary to ensure little or no shock reaches your body. When shopping, look for the manufacturer’s labeling on whether they offer shock-absorbing cushioning. Additionally, you may consider removable insoles. They are the best for breathability purposes and cleaning.
The level of your work boot cushioning determines the hours you can work comfortably. If your shoe isn’t well-cushioned, you may end up experiencing some effects on your feet. So, make sure you get the model with the best cushioning.
High heel
Having a raised heel on your work boot can bring all the difference in positioning your feet. When standing and walking around the concrete, your heel hits the ground first. So, most of the shock accumulates here before spreading to the other parts of your feet. This ensures that there is little impact on your feet. The remaining effect spreads on the sole keeping your feet safe.
Support
To be safe while working on a concrete surface, you need all the support you can get. The effects of walking on a hard surface can live on for years. You’ll find workers who never took proper precautions developing serious health issues.
You need to ensure that you get the type of boots that supports your arch, heel, and toes. Out there, there can be all manner of hazards. You need to be sure you are safe when stepping on anywhere. Otherwise, you may end up with a burden in your collection. A work boot that doesn’t support the feet properly is a burden itself. Thus, you should avoid it.
Sole
Your work boot sole is an important part that you should pay close attention to. It is the first line of defense that protects you against the hard concrete surface. Therefore, to create an effective barrier for your feet against shock, go for a thick sole.
The thicker the sole and perhaps spongy, the better it distributes the shock. So, instead of traveling up your feet, the impact ends on the sole of the boots.
Moreover, a thick sole is more durable than a slim one. Soles constantly undergo intense wear and tear on the concrete. Thus, work boots with thicker soles will last longer.
Size
Buying the wrong shoe size is the worst decision you can make when shopping for your concrete work boots. To be effective, you must ensure that you get a snug fit shoe. Otherwise, it won’t be effective as it should be.
On a similar note, avoid boots using Velcro and zippers. The Velcro isn’t durable and also doesn’t have the best grip. The zippers may also get stuck after a short while considering the environment. Laced-up boots covering all up above the ankle are your best bet. This is because they are protecting your entire foot by covering it. They also don’t strain your feet as they conform to the feet’ contours.
Waterproof
It’s near impossible trying to keep your work boots dry when working on concrete surfaces. After all, water is one of the essentials there. It’s a requirement to keep concrete in the best shape. For that reason, waterproof boots are a plus to avoid getting your feet wet. Can you imagine working with wet feet and being constrained inside the boots? It can be hurting.
Waterproof boots will help keep you dry and comfortable. Even in the event, it is wet, the process of washing is simple.
Materials
The materials used for the construction of work boots are vital features to consider. They determine its durability, weight, and efficiency. Two materials are common on work boots and these are leather and nylon.
Whatever type of material you choose, make sure your shoe is both durable and lightweight. These boots are not cheap. You cannot afford to buy a new pair every year. In terms of lightweight, of course, nobody wants to work with a loaded kind of shoe on their feet.
Tips for Walking on Concrete
The effect of standing on concrete for a long is intense. At times, it can even create severe health complications. Unfortunately, some have no choice. They have to work and stand on these unforgiving grounds for hours. If you are that person, we have a few tips to help you minimize the effects of your environment;
Change positions: If what you are doing doesn’t demand walking around, you may want to remain standing. Don’t try that. You need to switch positions and posture so that you don’t exert your weight at the same point.
Have the right footwear: Wearing the correct footwear is enough justice to you. Additionally, have at least two pairs to change. A single pair isn’t enough to work with every day for days. Wearing proper footwear when standing on concrete makes all the difference. Considering their customization, all the effect goes to the work boots. Your feet remain safe.
Keep the pressure off your feet: If you can access a stool or any place you can place your feet momentary, do it. Those periodic resting of the feet works magic. If that’s not possible, you can occasionally place your feet on the foot bar. These resting moments keep the pressure off the concrete. That helps to lower the impact.
Use anti-fatigue mats: Though this may not be possible always, consider it when you can. They offer your feet relief from the hard concrete pain. So, when applicable, rest your feet on these mats for as long as it takes.
Orthopedic Inserts: If you’ve borne the brunt of standing on concrete, you may need to add orthopedic inserts in your shoes. These are helpful in increasing the padding and support on your feet.
Final Recap
You don’t have to suffer while standing on a hard concrete surface. Choosing the right footwear can help you minimize or evade the adverse effects it may have on your body. Specifically, Steel toe work boots provide incredible protection for your feet. If you spent a lot of time standing on concrete surfaces, maybe it’s time to care about your health. We’ve scoured everything you need for this article. You have the guide that can lead you to your best pick.