The 6 Best Cold Weather Work Boots for Winter

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Last Updated on February 9, 2024 by Azad Asf

Winter is hard, working outdoors is even harder, which is why people that do both have to deal with issues such as:

  • Getting a cold or worst illnesses like trench foot or frostbite
  • Feet numbed by the cold or even frozen (in some extreme cases) by the cold
  • Being constantly stressed because of the cold which hinders productivity. (I mean, you just can’t think… it’s crippling)

In other words, using the required winter work boots is highly important because if not taken seriously, you can get badly ill, injured or you could just suck at what you do.

So, to help you guys to deal with this, I made this article. I hope it helps.

The 6 Best Cold Weather Work Boots For Winter

Given these issues, I took the time to search and review 6 work boots that completely solve these problems letting you work comfortably in cold weather.

1) Timberland Pro Direct Attach 8″ Insulated Work Boots For Winter


I despise the feeling of my feet wet during winter times which is why I loved the seam-sealed waterproof leather uppers and the 400 grams of insulation material that come with this Timberland PRO Direct Attach work boots.

Moreover, the oil-resistant and non-marking rubber lug outsoles gave me the confidence to walk on any surface knowing that I would never slip and fall into the hard cold concrete.

The best way to avoid having your feet wet and cold in winter times is getting insulated work boots with proper breathability.

These Timberland boots were exactly right for that as they come with a mesh lining that kept my feet warm and dry during the time I tested them.

Having open-cell PU footbeds that cushioned my feet when working all day on concrete, was another great addition that convinced me to have these Timberland work boots listed as one of the best cold-weather work boots.

Pros

  • Seam-Sealed Waterproof Leather Uppers.
  • 400 Grams Of Insulation For Warmth.
  • Oil-Resistant, Non-Marking Rubber Lug Outsole For Traction.
  • Mesh Linings And Open-Cell Polyurethane Comfort Footbeds Treated With Antimicrobial Treatment To Resist Odors.
  • Nylon Shock Diffusion Plates To Keep Your Foot Rigid Where You Need The Most Support

Cons

  • A Bit Hard To Put Them On

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 743 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.5 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

2) Timberland Pro Boondock Insulated Work Boots For Winter


Working long hours outside in the cold winter without proper footwear is the worst.

Luckily, these Timberland Pro Boondock work boots came with 600gr of insulation material that kept my feet warm and dry throughout the workday.

A composite safety toe work boot is the way to go when working in the cold. Why? Because if you pick a steel-toed boot, it would transfer it directly to your feet.

The good news?

The Timberland Pro Boondock Waterproof work boots have that feature multiplied by 10. I mean, these safety toes are so good that it not only will protect your feet from the cold but also the level of safety offered by them is great!

These Timberland Boondock boots came with fiberglass shanks meaning they didn’t transfer exterior cold to my feet but also were very good at providing stability without restricting movement.

The slip and oil resistant outsoles let me walk on any surfaces with the total confidence that I would have had the traction needed to not fall, thus avoiding serious injuries.

With the winter comes the rain and the need for workers to be able to work without the fear of getting their feet wet when in contact with water or other liquids.

On that account, these Timberland Boondock work boots came with a solid waterproof membrane that gave me the confidence to work in any environment knowing that my feet would remain dry and warm no matter what.

Being comfortable is essential for all workers exposed to the harsh winter. I mean, you don’t want to suffer the cold AND be in discomfort at the same time, right?

This is why I loved these Timberland Boondock work boots as they came with a dual-density anti-fatigue technology that combined cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles that supported my feet in every step I took.

Pros

  • 600Gr Of Thermolite Insulation
  • Composite Safety Toe For Non-Metallic Protection And A Premium Fit
  • Combination Of Goodyear Welt/Cement Heel Construction For Extreme Durability
  • Rigid External Heel Cup For Lateral Flexibility And Stability
  • Fiberglass Shank That Achieves Structural Support
  • Dual-Density Dynamic Anti-Fatigue Technology That Absorbs Shocks And Returns Energy At Key Zones
  • Dual-Density Thermal Plastic Urethane Outsole That Features Deep Lugs For Traction And Is Oil And Slip Resistant
  • Superior Waterproof Leather With Waterproof Membrane
  • Molded Timberland Pro Rubber Toe Protector For Increased Durability And Abrasion Resistance
  • Dual-Purpose Top Hardware For Awesome Lacing Customization
  • Ever-Guard Leather Heel For Abrasion Resistance And Dry Feet

Cons

  • Run A Bit Wide

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 111 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.4 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

3) Danner Vicious Insulated Work Boots For Winter


The risk of feeling how your toes slowly freeze is the worst.

This is why I love work boots such as these Danner Vicious boots as they come with 400gr of Thinsulate Ultra Insulation that kept my feet warm and dry during their testing period in the harsh winter season.

Moreover, the boots came with composite safety toes that are great for the winter as they not only protect your toes but do not transfer temperature easily.

Having the added protection of a waterproofing and breathable membrane is another great feature of these Danner Vicious work boots, as these guarantee your feet will remain dry and smelling fresh at all times.

Have you ever fell into the hard cold concrete after slipping in some spilled liquids? IT’S THE WORST.

Luckily, these Danner work boots come with oil and slip-resistant outsoles that prove successful in giving the worker the traction necessary to walk on all surfaces without any fears.

Long hours walking on hard surfaces in the blistering cold is more than common for most workers.

This is why I appreciate features such as dual-density EVA midsoles that supported the base of my feet when walking and standing on my feet for up to 10 hours on concrete without taking any rests.

Pros

  • 400G Of Thinsulate Ultra Insulation
  • Trail guard Platform Provides Lightweight, Seamless Support.
  • Abrasion-Resistant Toe Cap For Durability.
  • Composite Toe Rated Astm F2413-11 I/75 C/75.
  • Electrical Hazard Resistant.
  • Dual-Density Eva Midsole For Extra Shock Absorption And Comfort.
  • Oil And Slip Resistant Outsole Has A Low Profile 90-Degree Heel Making It Versatile.
  • Abrasion-Resistant Heel Cap.
  • Waterproof, Breathable Gore-Tex Liner.
  • Full Grain Leather Offers Comfortable Moisture Protection.
  • Speed Lace System For A Secure Fit

Cons

  • Fit Is Tight. Make Sure To Get A Wide Size.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 111 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.3 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

4) Carhartt Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boots For Winter


Knowing that you have 400gr of 3M Thinsulate insulation is the best mind-easing guarantee these Carhartt Ruggedflex work boots give you as they keep your feet warm and dry regardless of the level of cold you’re exposed to.

Moreover, these Carhartt work boots came with the so-called Storm Defender Waterproof Breathable Protection that kept my feet warm and smelling fresh when exposed to rain and snow.

When you walk around surrounded by heavy tools laying unsafely on various surfaces having the guarantee that you’re well protected is a must.

This is why I loved the composite safety toes these work boots came with as they protected my toes from getting crushed without adding too much bulk to the boots.

Finally, the boots came with cushioned insoles that were successful in supporting my feet when walking on hard surfaces.

Pros

  • 100% Leather
  • Rubber Sole
  • Composite Safety Toe
  • Secondary Protection Against Incidental Contact With Electrical Circuits Of 18,000 Volts Or Less Under Dry Conditions.
  • Storm Defender Waterproof Breathable Protection.
  • Insulation (400Gm 3M Thinsulate)
  • Cushion Comfort Insole

Cons

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 450 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.4 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

5) Carhartt Waterproof Pac Insulated Work Boots For Winter


If you don’t want to get your feet frozen when exposed to cold weathers then these Carhartt PAC work boots are for you.

Why? Well because they came with great features such as their 1000 LiteFire Insulation and waterproof membrane that maintained my feet dry and warm when exposed to cold and wet environments.

Additionally, the work boots came with composite toes and slip-resistant outsoles that, in combination, kept me safe from dangerous accidents that could have injured me very seriously.

When you work all day exposed to the cold, the last thing you want to worry about is discomfort.

This is why I loved these Carhartt Waterproof PAC work boots as they came with Ortholite midsoles that cushioned every step I took at the construction site where I work.

Pros

  • Brown Oil Tanned Leather With Abrasion Resistant
  • Cordura And Black Abrasion Resistant Leather
  • Waterproof Membrane
  • 1000 Litefire Insulation
  • Pu Midsole With Carhartt Rubber Outsole
  • Ortholite Insoles
  • Molded Tpu Heel Guard
  • Oil, Chemical And Slip Resistant
  • Composite-Toes Astm 2413-11 Eh Rated

Cons

  • Sizes Run Wide.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 342 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.4 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

6) Wolverine Waterproof 8″ Work Boots For Winter


It’s very hard to pick up a work boot for winter that has it all.

The good news is that these Wolverine work boots come pretty close to the ideal as they have thermal foam insulation and a waterproof membrane that kept my feet dry and warm during the testing period and when exposed to really cold temperatures.

In terms of comfort, these work boots came with removable full-cushion footbeds and PU midsoles that gave my joints the much-needed rest they deserved.

Pros

  • Thermal Foam Insulation Adds Intense Warmth
  • Permanent Direct-Attach Molding Seals Out Water
  • Breathable Fabric Lining
  • Removable Full-Cushion Footbed Molds To Your Foot
  • Tough, Lightweight Polyurethane Midsole
  • Lightweight Nylon Shank Fights Fatigue
  • Waterproof Wolverine Performance Leather

Cons

  • Fit Is On The Larger Side.
  • Tricky Lace Hooks.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are a bit more than 340 reviews in Amazon.com about this product at the time of writing and they have given it, on average, a 4.5 out of 5 rating, approximately. These reviews are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

My Verdict: The Best Cold Weather Work Boots For Winter Are…

Carhartt Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boots For Winter

Would you like to know why I chose these Carhartt work boots as the best for winter? Then click the button down below!

Review

Quick Comparison Table

Boots
Insulation & WaterproofingComfortProtection & Durability

1) Timberland PRO Direct Attach 8" Insulated Work Boots for Winter






5






5






4.9



2) Timberland Pro Boondock Insulated Work Boots for Winter





4.9






5






4.9



3) Danner Vicious Insulated Work Boots for Winter





4.8






5






4.9



4) Carhartt Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boots for Winter





5






5






5



5) Carhartt Waterproof PAC Insulated Work Boots for Winter





5






4.9






5



6) Wolverine Waterproof 8" Work Boots for Winter





5






5






4.9


Must-Have Features For The Best Work Boots For Winter

Best Cold Weather Work Boots For Winter Must-Have Features for The Best Work Boots For Winter

There are a lot of things to consider when looking around for the best cold weather work boots.

That’s why I made this clear list of those features you should look for, enjoy…

1. Insulation

For those who don’t know, a pair of insulated work boots are composed of a certain quantity (grams) of insulation material.

This material is responsible for keeping away the cold from your feet by securing them tightly.

The more insulation a work boot has the better insulation from the cold it provides.

There are a lot of people who don’t know what level of insulation they might need. To help you guys, I made the following guide:

You should get a work boot that has around 200gr of insulation material if you’re exposed to normal winter temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F.

You should get a work boot that has around 400gr to 600gr of insulation material if you are exposed to the previous temperatures BUT don’t have to do a lot of movement when working.

You should get a work boot that has around 800gr to 1000gr of insulation material if you’re regularly exposed to extreme cases of low temperatures.

2. Composite Safety Toes

Composite toes are essential to get a good level of protection while working in the cold.

Seriously.

These types of safety toes are composed of non-metallic materials that don’t transfer the cold to your feet when working in cold environments.

Awesome, right?

3. Nylon / Fiberglass Shanks

By getting a pair of work boots that has nylon or fiberglass shanks instead of steel shanks you’ll be in your way to preventing the transition of low temperatures to your feet.

And you know what? According to the published studies of the NCBI website, non-metallic work clothes and accessories even help to prevent electrocution accidents!

4. Waterproofing

If there is something I don’t wish to my worst enemy, is getting their feet wet when working in the cold.

Man… that’s bad. You can get ill if that happens.

A waterproof work boot will keep you safe from getting your toes and feet wet which will prevent you from dealing with any illnesses.

5. Breathability

The thing with waterproof work boots for winter though, is that most of them don’t let the feet breathe.

This prevents the sweat from evaporating which keeps your feet wet and promotes the fungus growth.

Thus, getting waterproofed work boots with breathable membranes is your best bet!

6. Traction

Moreover, getting work boots with oil and slip-resistant outsoles is a must-have for all workers that don’t want to slip and fall when walking around their work sites.

7. Cushioned Footbeds & Shock Absorption Midsoles

These two work boot attributes will make sure that you’ll have the support and cushioning you need to be comfortable at all times while walking on hard surfaces.

8. Good Construction Methods & Durable Materials

No one likes wasting money.

This is why I can swear that getting work boots for winter with great quality materials manufactured following great construction methods is the best way to make sure that your investment is gonna last for at least a few years!

Special Mention: Thinsulate

What Is Thinsulate?

Thinsulate is an insulation material made by 3M, a global brand known for manufacturing a wide variety of reliable products.

As to the specifics, Thinsulate insulation is composed of insulating fibers that are only 15 micrometers thick, which makes this material the most advanced in the market.

The benefit of this attribute is that you’ll get more insulation in the fraction of the space than other insulation materials provide.

Why Is Thinsulate So Great?

Given its technology, Thinsulate insulation can fit more insulation material in less space than other brands which make its insulation the best and most lightweight in the market.

Moreover, it is 1.5 times warmer than down and it even lets your body heat to flow out of the boots, keeping your feet dry, warm, and smelling fresh.

Durability is another great feature as you can wash and dry boots that have Thinsulate insulation without any issues.

What Are The Types Of Thinsulate Insulation?

You’ll be able to get water-resistant Thinsulate insulation which will prevent water from coming into your work boots.

Also, there’s the featherless Thinsulate insulation which achieves great insulation without the need for feathers, which is perfect for the animal lovers.

And finally, flame-resistant Thinsulate insulation which is perfect for workers that have to work near flames.

How Did I Test The Boots

Best Cold Weather Work Boots For Winter How Did I Test The Boots

There are a few specific tests I did to select the boots for this article.

For those who are curious or just want to have the guarantee the work boots I listed are perfect for winter, I’m gonna explain those tests…

Insulation Test

To test the insulation capabilities of a given pair of work boots I made sure to work in really cold temperatures (under 30 degrees Fahrenheit) and using thin socks.

Waterproofing Test

For this test, I made sure to walk on surfaces that had water to test the water-resistant and waterproofing capabilities of each pair of boots.

Protection Test

In this test, I made sure to walk on the slippery surfaces to see whether the boots gave me the traction needed to walk comfortably and confidently on those sketchy surfaces.

Also, I purposely let heavyweights fall on my feet to see whether the safety toes of a given boot would protect my toes from being crushed.

3 Benefits Of The Best Work Boots For Winter

There are a good number of benefits related to getting a pair of well-insulated work boots for winter, such as:

1) Feel Protected From Sickness

The biggest risk of low temperatures is that they lower your immunological defenses which means that, during this season, you’ll get easily sick.

The great thing about any of the books reviewed in this article is that they will keep your body temperature warm which will substantially lower the chances of sickness.

2) Work On Any Surface

Working in the cold means that you’ll have to work on slippery surfaces as you’ll be exposed to rain, snow, and frost.

Getting any of the boots reviewed here will give you the traction necessary to walk confidently as you know you won’t slip and fall no matter what!

3) Avoid Suffering Of Cold Weather

We all know the pains of winter.

Numb extremities and unbearable pain are among the consequences of working under tough cold temperatures.

Now, if you get the best work boots for winter you’ll have the needed features to maintain a healthy and comfortable body temperature to avoid these consequences which will boost your confidence and productivity a lot.

Frequent Questions About The Best Cold Weather Work Boots

What Are The Recommended Heights For The Best Work Boots For Winter?

You have work boots which are 6″, 8″, 10″ and 12″ high. Of course, the taller the boot, the more protection from the cold you’ll get. However, additional weight comes with added protection.

That’s why I’d recommend 8″ or 10″ work boots if you’re working in regular cold environments, and a 12″ work boots if you’re exposed to more “extreme” levels of cold.

What Types Of Safety Toes Should I Use In Cold Weathers?

As explained before, getting work boots with composite safety toes is your best bet there.

Why? Because you’ll be able to protect your toes with safety toes made with a non-metallic material known for preventing temperatures from easily passing through it. Thus, preventing the cold from the outside from being transferred to your feet.

How Do I Take Care Of The Boots?

There is a simple process you can follow to make sure that your insulated work boots will always be maintained:

First, clean your boots with soap and water. Then, dry them with a towel and let them rest in a dry and warm environment for 1 – 2 hours. After that, make sure to apply a thin layer of leather conditioner massaging it with a microfiber towel. After a few hours letting them sit and absorb, remove the excess conditioner with a clean towel. Done, you’ll work boots will look good as new!

Author: Joe Strong

20 thoughts on “The 6 Best Cold Weather Work Boots for Winter”

    • Yeah, probably.

      But really, if you’d take into consideration comfort and durability you’ll see why the #1 takes that place.

      Im gonna think your comment for a future update of the article though.

      Thanks for the comment!

      Reply
  1. So what will you recommend is the right boot for open pit mining in Armenia.
    Standard PPE required on mine sote is:
    Ankle protection
    Steel cap toe

    Reply
    • Hi,

      I think that anything from Red Wing, Danner or Thorogood might be great.

      My favorites are the red wings heritage though.

      Thanks for commenting!

      Reply
      • Hi Jack I saw your post on work boots and I was wondering. What work boot would you suggest for a person that welds in temperatures up to -40 degrees Fahrenheit? I am an ironworker.

        Reply
  2. Need help findi g women’s boots! I am a mail carrier in Michigan and do a lot of in and out of mail truck walking threw snow. Feet keep getting cold. Thanks for any help!

    Reply
  3. I am a female working for a large gas utility company for almost 30 years outside of Chicago. I work in extreme winter conditions day and night making gas repairs. I have spent hours every year to see if any company will ever make insulated waterproof safety toe boots for women. There are a few out there that have the high of only 400 gram. I have even tried mens boots in a size 6. Nothing. Red Wing discontinued there women’s boots. Why do we forget that there are women out there working that would like to stay warm also.

    Reply
  4. Great article. What is your recommendation for someone working on the railway track as a conductor in Canadian winter?

    Reply
  5. Hello there,

    I am contacting you from Mongolia, which located in Central Asia.

    There are a lot of small to big miners companies by state own and private.

    I am looking for quality with flexible winter and summer safety shoes and Boots.

    What types of brand or safety shoes recommend to me?

    Reply
  6. Hi Jack what a great site name thanks. Hey what I’m looking for is yes a work boot with warmth and dry as well, but what I really need is a work boot that I can walk on ice please.

    Thanks,

    Bill

    Reply
  7. I sit on a forklift all day. Open docks without heat. I also suffer from neuropathy in my feet. I am a size 15.
    What is your best recommendation for my situation?

    Reply

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