Best Welding Boots and Shoes To Buy in 2020

Whether you are welding for professional or entertainment purposes, you need to have the right boots.The best welding boots are crucial in helping you achieve safe and stylish welding. As you may know, joining bars of metal together requires the use of dangerous equipment. The fumes, flame,and heat produced can harm you if you do not have the appropriate welding gear.

The rule of the thumb is to have proper training and take precautions. A pair of protective welding boots is one of the safety gear that you’d have for seamless working experience. In this review, we’re going to guide through finding the top welding work boots that the market has to offer!

Best Welding Boots Review

1. Dr. Martens Men's Ironbridge

Doc Martens is the leading work shoe brands on the market today. It offers top-class protection for your feet while giving you unmatched comfort. The 100% leather boots have a synthetic sole. Plus, they are water resistant,and they do not slip away in case petrol or oil spills on them.

They are equipped with an Iron bridge met guard. This feature is critical as it helps you stay away from the spatter or welding flame. Remember to take caution of the welding fire- it burns at a flame so high that it might burn you beyond recuperation.Thus, the Ironbridge steps in to save you from the fire, sparks and spatter.

Then, the pair of boots is slip resistant to oil, water or petrol. Plus, if any soapy, fuel or alkali spills over your shoes, it will not harm you or the boot as it is resistant. The material will not slip away either, no matter what chemical spills on you. The rubber sole provides the perfect friction you need to keep standing even when the workshop’s floor becomes slippery.

The Smartmask insole provides your feet with the perfect cushioning against pressure. It also makes the shoes to be fitting and comfortable. Comfortable boots are going to provide support to critical areas in your feet,and this keeps you working for long.

The waterproof full-grain leather material and abrasion retardant heels are sturdy and durable. It’s a shoe fashioned to last and keep your feet dry. The arch is made of a wood shank which provides heavy-duty support.It also has a breathable mesh liner which ensures your feet do not sweat or stink.

2. Timberland PRO 53530

Timberland is one of the most popular boot brands of all time. The company manufactures some of the best selections of work boots in the world. The Timberland PRO 53530 is a top class leather welding boot with a met guard and waterproof material. It’s usually black and comes in a wide range of sizes for both men and women.

These boots deserve a spot in any sensible review of the welding boots, as it has incredible features. First, it meets all the ASTM safety standards. This means that it is designed to keep welders safe and comfortable. The makers have the security of the users in mind. Neither spatter, nor sparks will hurt you.

Although the Timberland welding safety shoes sturdy, they are light. The rubber soles ensure that you get comfort, flexibility,and lightness. Rubber soles are also known to keep welders safe from sliding on slippery floors. This reduces your chances of getting injured.

Then, the boots have a steel toe that protects welder from compression and crushing. Welding equipment usually is massive,and this poses a risk to the user’s toes. The steel toe is resistant to any form of compression that may result from falling objects.

Then, the antimicrobial moisture wick lining keeps your feet dry and odorless. Most boots are known to be hot,and it’s normal for welders to sweat in them. This could easily cause the growth of bacteria and foul smells. Timberland’s lining keeps you dry,and thus, you will neither get blisters nor odors. The boots also have an extra cushioning technology that supports and keeps your feet comfortable.

3. Rocky Duty Paraboot

This is a four-star leather work boot with a rubber sole and an array of safety features. Designed for durability, resistance,and safety, Rocky Duty Paraboot has an EVA footbed for comfort. They manufacture sizes for both men and women.

Most people regard this as a ‘law enforcement’ boot. And, of the title is from the durability and performance that the footwear exhibits, then it surely deserves it! It’s made or tough black leather. Unlike most boots that only protect your feet and ankle, the Paraboot extends to the calf area too. It is a lace up boot that serves welders with both protection and comfort.

The liquid-resistant boot is tall,and it measures about 10 inches from the arch. It covers more than just the feet,and this keeps your calf and leg protected. It does not allow oil or water to penetrate.

It is non-slip,and you can wear it regardless of the floor. The rubber sole increases the friction between the floor and foot,and this reduces the chances of sliding.

Further, Rocky Duty Paraboot has a patent cap toe. The workshop has lots of heavy machines and objects that can easily crush your feet and toe. The cap toe feature protects you from external compression.

Rocky boots have the reputation of being some of the most comfortable boots in the market. They have a light rubber lug outsole and an EVA footbed for a cozy experience.                                        

It is easy to clean,and you can use shoe polish on Rocky Duty Paraboot. The logo is embossed on the tongue, to confirm that it is original.

4. Caterpillar Revolver Pull On

Caterpillar is a household name in the manufacture of work boots. Their Revolver Pull-On has a simple design that makes it comfortable and affordable. Made of full grain leather, the pair of boots is durable, elegant and clean. Apart from being comfortable, the welding boot has a shock absorbing PVC midsole which also protects your feet.You can buy your size regardless of whether it’s for men or women (adults). Literally, as the features of this boot keep the feet happy!

A metalwork workshop is likely to have several spillages of oil, alkalis and other liquids. If you do not have the right boots, you might slide and break your leg. The Revolver Pull-on’s designers understand this. So, they have a slip resistant outsole. The serrated rubber increases friction and reduces the chances of slipping off.

The pull-on boot has dual handles which make it easy to wear. Notably, wearing and removing pull on boots can be hectic. The double pull handles make it easy. Each handle has a contrast logo patch.

In a bid to protect your feet- especially the toe, the Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On has a steel-toe feature. This protects you from stumbling or crushing your toes on the heavy workshop equipment.

Do not let the modest design of the Caterpillar Revolver boot deceive you. The designers have your safety and comfort in mind.The Goodyear welt, steel toe, non-slide rubber sole,and comfortable inner construction will keep you working.

5. Stanley Dredge Steel

Stanley is a company that manufactures top-class work boots. The Stanley Dredge Steel is one of their best products. This 4.3-star footwear is a pure full grain leather and synthetic sole which features elastic gores on the side. It also as a sturdy toe cap for your protection. It comes in two colors- the brown and black varieties. The sizes include 7,8,11 and 13 for both men and women. Anyway, below is an in-depth review of its features.

The longevity or ruggedness of a work boot depends mainly on the material used to make it. Stanley Dredge steel is made of pure full grain leather. This material is neat, long lasting and above all, protective. No sparks or spatter from your welding activities will penetrate to your feet or toes.

Another crucial feature that this work boot has is the slip resistant outsole. The synthetic sole protects you from skidding or slipping on smooth floors. The oil-resistant bottom ensures that you are safe even when working on a wet floor.

Stanley Dredge Steel meets all the ASTM - f2413-11 safety standards. The synthetic nonslip sole and full grain leather plus all the safety features work together to give you a safe welding experience.

The welding boots are also comfortable. They have removable EVA insoles with extra support which provides first-rate cushioning.

In short, if you are working on a tight budget and you need a pair of welding boots for the money, the Stanley Dredge Steel is your go-to option!

6. GW 1606ST Steel

GW 1606ST Steel ranks among the best boots for welding on the market today. The genuine full-grainNubuck leather has a rubber sole and steel toe for your protection. The 5” shaft height protects your ankle too. There’s no worry about safety or longevity. The boots are both oil and water resistant. The heel measures 1.5” and the platform 0.75”. It comes in a variety of colors including black, wheat, charcoal and brown variants. Also, you can purchase your size from 6 to 13 for both men and women.

GW will serve you for several years as it is robust and durable. It consists of a water-resistant upper part that neither sips in liquids nor crack. This protects the leather from damaging and thus boosts its lifespan.

The GW boots have a full-protection feature package. The steel toe, for instance, ensures that your feet aren’t hurt in the case of stumbling or compression in the workshop. The full grain leather is ideal for guarding you against sparks and spatter- or even the welding fire.

The Good Year welt design and slip resistant sole provide the performance you need in a busy workshop. It doesn’t slide off. This means that you can walk on spilled oil or water without falling onto the ground. The rubbers sole increases the magnitude of contact between the shoe and floor. This improves the slip-resistance.

In brief, GW 1606ST Steel is one of the cheap welding boots. It is comfortable, durable and a great performer. The lightweight boots will not only encourage you to keep working but also protect you.

7. Rocky FQ0005693

Rocky Iron Clad, as the name suggests, is a top class work boot made for performance. It is tough, durable and protective. The pair of boots come with a cushioned footbed and maintainable leather.The shoes have a padded collar and light outsole to keep your feet comfortable and working! You can buy the harness or brown variety of different sizes from 8-12.5 for both men and women.

Build to last; the work boots have a genuine leather construction. The full grain leather and full-length tongue are easy to clean and maintain. The tongue prevents particles or metal debris from finding their way into the boot. For maintenance, apply silicone spray.

The waterproof breathable feature and thermoplastic polyurethane shank will protect your feet from both water and heat.Your feet stay cool and dry inside the shoe,and this prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. Plus, it prevents any odors.

Apart from a formidable Goodyear welt construction, the boots have a 7-layer outsole. This makes the welding boots durable while protecting your feet. The full grain leather ensures that no spatter, sparks or flame can burn your feet.The shaft is about 8 inches from the arch,and this covers your ankle.

The seven-layer outsole, sturdy construction,and high shank shouldn’t deceive you- the boots are lightweight and comfortable! With a rubber sole, they are not only flexible but also weigh less than 1 pound each.

While the Rocky Iron Clad is not the cheapest work boot, it is a great performer. The flexible seven layer sole and long tongue will protect your feet while providing extra support.

How to choose the Best Boots For Welding

No doubt, high-quality boots are part of any successful welding activity. If you decide to buy quality welding boots, check out for those that have features fashioned to protect you. And, when you are placing the order, consider the hazards of welding.

The boots protect you from cuts, burns or any other injuries that the metals you are cutting or welding can cause to your feet.Further, the shoes insulate your legs from hot sparks and spatter. Using electric equipment means that you need insulation you from the current. Again, the boots shield your feet and toes from being crushed by the heavy metals you are dealing with.

Besides, the shoe should be comfortable, durable and affordable. The following are features necessary for welding boots.

Heat resistance

Welding means using machines that produce intense heat to smelt metals. Some of the metals may melt at a temperature that is too high – 1000C+, and this is dangerous. So, you should always wear welding boots that can withstand a standard of 300 degrees Celsius. However, it is essential to find out the kind of welding that you do. If you are a heavy duty professional welder, then you will need denser boots.

Safety Toe

Toe-crushing is common among metal workers. The objects involved in the work are usually heavy,and this puts a worker’s feet at risk. So, the shoes should have a steel feature at the toe area to ensure they don’t get crushed easily. Plus, make sure that the boots also meet the Osho standards of welding safety.

Flame resistant

Apart from heat resistance, the boots should be able to withstand the welding flames. Leather, cotton, Kevlar, denim,and canvas are some of the materials that can fight fires.

Comfortable

Find welding boots that are well designed. Welding boots should be comfortable,and the design offers good support. Welding involves standing for long,and this could get boring and strenuous. Get boots that have padding material around the ankle and calf area. Plus, seek for those that have an insole as it enhances comfort.Comfortable boots will keep you energized throughout the welding session.

Insulation material

Working with any electrical equipment requires you to have the right gear to protect you from the shock. Since the boots may be fortified with metallic frames, the metal should be insulated. Most metals conduct electricity,and this can be dangerous in a case where you are using electric welding equipment. Be sure to have denim, canvas or Kevlar boots on as they act as insulators.

Slip-On versus Lace-Up boots

Lace-up boots are usually more comfortable,and you can alter the tightness to suit you. But, they also come with a disadvantage in that it is not easy to remove them. Noteworthy, if the laces catch fire or something absurd happens and you need to remove your shoes, you’ll be in trouble. The best bet is to have boots that have a leather guard to protect the laces.

Slip-on boots are not as comfortable as they have an unalterable size. They are easy to remove,and they work just like gumboots. For a good bet, get boots that have zippers which will allow quick removal.

Winding up

Any time you want to have seamless welding, be sure to have the right boots on. The feet and legs are the most prone to the hazards of welding. For instance, you may get your toes crushed by the heavy equipment that you use. Also, the flames, sparks and spatter can burn you if you do not take the right precautions.

Ideally, the best welding boots are comfortable, fitting and protective. The boots are made of flame-retardant materials to keep your feet safe from flames, spatter as well as electric shock. Further, such boots are strong enough to withstand pressure. Among the most crucial features of welding, boots are the steel toe. This is a fortified feature at the toe area that protects your toes from getting crushed by the metals.

Anyway, it doesn’t matter whether you work as a professional welder or a once-in-a-while metal worker. As long as you want to stay safe and get comfortable with welding, you will need the right boots. Which is your best pick from our review?