If you're new to the construction industry, the first thing to know is that your feet are in more danger than you think. In fact, it's common for workers' feet to get severely injured by falling or rolling objects.
That's why it's important to invest in a pair of safety shoes that fits your work environment before you get on site. Not only will these shoes provide maximum protection, but they will also make you feel comfortable enough to boost performance at work.
If you're having trouble picking out the best safety shoes to work with, look no further. We've compiled our top picks as well as a complete buyer's guide to ensure your safety shoes do the most to protect your feet on site.
Top 10 Safety Shoes for Men
Here are the ten best safety shoes you can buy to ensure maximum safety and comfort while on site.
Loom Waterproof Sneakers
Loom's Lightweight Waterproof Sneakers are the ultimate pair of safety shoes to count on. Their H2-Go Layer ensures 100% water resistance and breathability in all seasons and work environments.
Other than that, the Excelcast sole absorbs shock to protect your ankles and shins from rough surfaces on site.
Lastly, the Merino wool-lined cushion minimizes foot pressure for workers who are on their feet for most of their work hours. It also helps stabilize your feet to prevent any discomfort or foot pain.
Highlights
- Waterproof H2-Go Layer to keep your feet dry
- Temperature-regulating and anti-odor wool interior
- Shock-absorbant Excelcast Sole
- Merino Wool-Lined Cushion to stabilize your feet
Ulogu Steel Toe Trainers Lightweight Work Shoes
These Steel Toe Trainers Lightweight Work Shoes by Ulogu have all the right characteristics of a good safety shoe. Firstly, their steel toe caps protect your feet from rolling or falling objects, while the midsole barrier is puncture-resistant yet cushioning.
Plus, these lightweight waterproof sneakers are available in nine different colors and styles!
The best part is that the build and material of these shoes make them ideal for every season and any kind of construction site.
Highlights
- Anti-smashing steel toe cap for maximum safety
- Non-metallic, anti-puncture midsole barrier for protection from sharp objects
- Lace-up closure for a customized fit
- Mesh inner material for maximized comfort
Skechers Workshire Men's Brown Lace Up Safety Boot
If you're looking for an affordable option, these Skechers Workshire Men's Brown Lace Up Safety Boots are the way to go. The best part is the memory foam insole which cushions your feet (especially helpful if your job has you standing up all day long).
Plus, the non-slip sole ensures total safety even in slippery or wet work environments. Lastly, these lace-up safety boots are waterproof and conform to all safety footwear standards.
Highlights
- Non-slip sole is ideal for slippery work environments
- Lightweight and breathable for increased productivity
- Memory foam insole molds to your foot size ideally
- Steel toe and arch support for added comfort
CAT Footwear Men's Argon Composite Toe Construction Shoe
Undoubtedly, CAT is one of the most reliable brands when it comes to safety boots, which is why we recommend their Men's Argon Composite Toe Construction Shoe. This shoe is everything a construction worker needs and more.
Differing from their usual style, this CAT construction is a pair of lightweight waterproof sneakers.
More importantly, it conforms to every requirement for safety footwear. In fact, it can even protect your foot from electrical hazards of 600 volts.
Highlights
- Slip-resistant sole prevents falls
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Long-wearing durability and superior flexibility
- Protects against electrical hazards of 600V open circuits
Skechers Greetah Unisex Navy Lace Up Safety Shoe
The Skechers Greetah Unisex Navy Lace Up Safety Shoe is another ideal pair of lightweight waterproof sneakers. It's made with safety ratings in mind. While the composite toe is rated ASTM F2412-2011 I/75 C/75, the electrical protection is rated ASTM F2412-2011.
Available in five different colors and styles, there's a Greetah for everyone.
Other than the lace-up closure for a customized fit, you'll also find ripstop textured panels which provide a cooling effect.
Highlights
- Composite safety toe rated ASTM F2412-2011 I/75 C/75
- Seam-sealed waterproof suede upper
- Electrical Hazard Safe rated ASTM F2412-2011
- Ripstop textured panels for cooling effect
Dr. Martens Men's Icon 2295 Steel Toe Heavy Industry Boots
Dr. Martens is known for its heavy-duty boots, so it only makes sense to turn to them for safety work shoes. Their Icon 2295 Steel Toe, Heavy Industry Boots, are a great example, as they're made from rich and water-resistant tumbled leather.
The sturdy sole is constructed with air-cushion PVC to ensure comfort and protection at the same time. Inside, you'll find an EVA footbed and padded ankle support for even more comfort while on-site.
Highlights
- Rich and water-resistant tumbled leather
- Constructed with durable air-cushioned PVC sole
- Fitted with an EVA footbed and padded ankle support
- Offers protection against electrical hazards
Amblers Safety Men's FS9 Steel Toe Cap Leather Safety Boots
The Amblers Safety Men's FS9 Steel Toe Cap Leather Safety Boots have all the right features of the ideal work boot.
Most importantly, its toe protection is tested for an impact of 200 joules. Meanwhile, the penetration-resistant midsole can withstand up to 1100 newtons.
Simply put, these boots pass all SRA slip-resistant standards and conform to ISO20345 safety standards. Plus, the padded collar and tongue ensure a comfortable and relaxed fit for construction workers.
Highlights
- Padded collar and tongue for comfort
- Conforms to ISO20345 Safety Footwear Standards
- Welted rubber sole for a premium fit
- Penetration resistant steel midsole tested 1100 newtons
As we mentioned, you can never go wrong with CAT footwear when you're looking for long-lasting safety shoes. Their Second Shift Steel Toe Boots feature a Climasphere™ breathable insole for maximum comfort.
In terms of durability, quality oiled full-grain leather or nubuck has got your back.
If you work in a slippery environment and want to avoid accidents, the T3 Rubber Outsole has a great, optimal-traction grip to provide stability no matter where you are.
Highlights
- Ankle-cut work boot with steel toe
- Padded ankle and oil-resistant outsole
- Quality leather ensure maximum comfort
- Lace-up closure provides a customized fit
Also read: The Best Cruelty-Free Men’s Shoes 2022 According to Experts
EarthWorks Blue & Yellow Lace Up Safety Shoe
The Earth Works Blue & Yellow Lace Up Safety Shoes are another great option if you're looking for something cheap yet reliable to keep you going. While the cushioned collar gives added comfort, the lace-up closure ensures a customized fit.
As these shoes have a steel toe cap to protect your feet, they comply with the BS EN ISO 20345 Safety Regulations SB SRA.
Overall, these shoes are a reliable pick for those that want to buy lightweight waterproof sneakers on a budget.
Highlights
- Affordable
- Lightweight and breathable
- Lace-up closure for a customized fit
Montell Men's Work Boots
Of course, our list wouldn't be complete without Montwell Men's Work Boots. This pair provides the ideal level of protection with a KEVLAR penetration-resistant midsole. Plus, it also features anti-fatigue ankle support, which absorbs shock and reenergizes your feet.
The best part is these shoes are resistant to just about everything: acid, oil, alkali, water, and slips. Simply put, these work boots are some of the best lightweight waterproof sneakers you can get on the market.
Highlights
- Slip and puncture-resistant sole
- Composite cap to protect your toes
- Made from breathable, full-grain leather
- Reinforced toe and abrasion-resistant outsole
Buyer's Guide to Safety Shoes
Here are a few qualities that your safety shoes should have.
Protective
Of course, the first thing you should look for in safety shoes is protection. If you work in wet or damp conditions, your safety shoes should be waterproof. Loom's lightweight waterproof sneakers are a great example of that.
Other than that, non-slip soles and midsole barriers will also help in slippery work environments with sharp objects. More importantly, steel or composite toe caps will prevent your toes from getting crushed by falling or rolling objects.
Comfortable
After protection, your safety shoes should undoubtedly offer you maximum comfort. Finding the right fit is essential to prevent sores, blisters, ingrown nails, and other foot ailments. Steel-toe boots don't mold to your feet the way leather shoes do, so you must ensure that they're a comfortable fit when you buy them.
Affordable
Lastly, but most importantly, your safety shoes should be comfortable. Since you'll be changing your safety shoes every six to twelve months, it's important that you decide on a go-to that's reliable without breaking your bank.
Conclusion
No matter what role you have on-site, it's important to ensure your work uniform does everything possible to ensure your safety. One of the most important aspects of your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a pair of safety shoes.
You can find the best pair for yourself from our list of the top 10 safety shoes to work with. Make sure that they provide adequate comfort while keeping your feet safe at all times. We hope our buyer's guide helps you make the right decision.
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