10 Best Work Shoes for Icy Pavements in 2023

Last Updated on February 8, 2024 by Azad Asf

There are a lot of negative consequences related to walking on icy pavement when at work during cold weather conditions.

You can slip and fall on a very hard surface (such as concrete is) and get seriously injured. 

This is why I usually advise tradesmen to get work shoes with unique qualities that make them ideal for walking on ice-covered surfaces.

This article aims to show you the best work shoes for icy pavements that I identified after conducting significant research.

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Best Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

These are the work shoes I found to perform the best for walking on icy surfaces:

1. New Balance Men’s 412 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
2. Timberland PRO Powertrain Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
3. New Balance Composite Toe 589 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
4. Cat Footwear Men’s Threshold Work Shoes for Icy Pavement
5. KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool Low Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
6. Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
7. Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Shoes for Icy Pavement
8. Reebok Men’s Rb4041 Work Shoes for Icy Pavement
9. Skechers for Work Soft Stride Canopy Work Shoes for Icy Pavements
10. Timberland PRO Pit Boss Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

1. New Balance Men’s 412 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

The 412 V1 model from New Balance is one of the most comfortable and protective work shoes on the market.

They feature slip-resistant outsoles that are ideal for walking on ice covered roads thanks to their exceptional grip, as well as alloy safety toe caps that prevent painful toe injuries.

They also have EVA inserts and shock-absorbing midsoles, making them highly comfortable to wear all day while preventing significant foot pain.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 4,501 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

2. Timberland PRO Powertrain Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

If you’re looking for a pair of work shoes that’s both comfortable and protective for a cold weather setting, then you might like these Timberland Powertrain work shoes.

For once, they’ve got impressive safety features like their alloy safety toe caps which provide total toe protection without adding bulk to the shoes.

Also, they’re manufactured with an oil, slip, and heat-resistant rubber outsole to provide good traction on wet and icy surfaces (i.e. icy driveways).

Lastly, to guarantee maximum comfort, the guys at Timberland added features such as cushioned footbeds and antimicrobial mesh lining that maximizes breathability when exposed to hot and humid conditions.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 13,132 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

3. New Balance Composite Toe 589 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

When wearing these New Balance 589 work shoes, the first thing you’ll notice is that they come with a combination of ergonomic and safety features that blow other work shoes in the same category out of the water.

Their composite safety toe caps, which guarantee you won’t face nasty toe injuries, and their slip-resistant outsoles, which are perfect for walking on icy floors, stand as the ideal combination to ensure total safety at the workplace.

To make things even better, they have electrical hazard protection, which is essential if you work near live wires (or if you’re an electrician).

Lastly, they come with cushioned footbeds which is an excellent addition for those workers that want to enjoy comfort after 12 hours of standing on hard surfaces.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 2,460 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

4. Cat Footwear Men’s Threshold Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

These Cat Threshold work shoes are a superior version when you compare them to similar work shoes, especially if you’re thinking of wearing them to walk on icy and slippery surfaces.

Their slip resistant rubber high traction outsoles are a critical feature that guarantees traction for walking on ice covered surfaces which, as everyone knows, is fundamental to avoid serious injuries that could keep you for weeks at the hospital.

These work boots also come with steel toe caps that maximize toe protection, which is very important if you’re surrounded by heavy tools that could fall at any time and crush your toes.

The leather is not only beautiful but also winter conditions resistant, which is essential to keep the feet warm during the workday.

By adding cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles, the designers at Cat wanted to make sure the owners of these winter shoes were guaranteed a comfortable and ergonomic experience, which is vital when you work at, for instance, a construction site.

Even though they are a bit difficult to break in, they have features that make them worth it, such as their waterproofing membrane that keeps the feet dry when working exposed to liquids, thanks to their water-resistant capabilities.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 7,181 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

5. KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool Low Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

These Atlanta Cool low work shoes are probably one of the best versions of work shoes made by Keen Utility. I mean, they’ve got everything a worker that usually walks on ice wants.

First, I’ve got to mention the oil and slip resistant rubber outsole, which provides perfect traction when walking on icy pavement. I mean, they are perfect for outdoor winter activities and jobs.

Then, you’ve got the steel toe caps that deliver impact and compression resistance to make sure no workers deal with traumatic toe injuries.

Top all of that off with their dual-density EVA footbeds responsible for bringing the feet the rest and relaxation they need, even after spending most of your workday on hard and icy roads.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 5,335 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

6. Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

Most people believe work shoes are either protective or comfortable, as it’s tough to find a work shoe that is both at the same time. So let me tell you about these Timberland Pro Mudsill work shoes, then.

With their slip resistant outsoles, they are an excellent solution for workers who spend most of their workdays walking on ice covered pavemented roads as they provide them with perfect traction.

Moreover, they have steel toe caps, which are a seal of safety for winter shoes, as they deliver total toe protection when you need it the most.

Even though they are low cut, they are made with rugged leather that makes these boots very durable and perfect for dealing with cold conditions as it keeps the feet warm (especially if you couple them with good winter socks).

Lastly, even though their plastic eyelet hooks are not the best, they have some outstanding ergonomic features to compensate.

For instance, their molded EVA midsoles and open-cell PU footbeds are essential to fully support the feet to avoid unbearable consequences such as sore feet.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 4,184 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

7. Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

Though not the most famous brand for work shoes, Cat has offered us some excellent options for the last few decades. A perfect example of this is these Cat Second Shift work shoes.

They are made with slip resistant outsoles that prevent workers from slipping and getting injured when walking on ice-covered pavement.

Additionally, they are made with steel toe caps that, as we all know, are essential for workers wanting to avoid serious toe injuries caused by heavy falling tools.

Thanks to its top quality leather, the boots are very durable and key in keeping the feet toasty warm.

Regarding comfort, these shoes have footbeds that provide the feet a layer of pillowy cushion that allows them to rest, even when walking all day.

Lastly, they are made with a mesh lining that allows maximum airflow to reduce the chances of you dealing with smelly feet.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 14,430 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

8. Reebok Men’s Rb4041 Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

The go-to feature of brands to make sure their work shoes offer good traction of icy roads are slip resistant outsoles. Well, that’s precisely what the guys at Reebok added to these Rb4041 winter shoes: slip resistant rubber outsoles.

Another impressive feature is their alloy safety toe caps which are as safe as steel toe caps but don’t add as much weight or bulk to the boots, which is perfect if you’re looking for a lightweight pair of work shoes.

To cover things on the “comfort front”, Sublite foam midsoles and MemotyTech Massage footbeds were added. Together, they work to fully cushion the feet to avoid foot fatigue and other painful consequences that might hinder your productivity.

Although the footbeds are not the most breathable, they have a low cut design that compensates for this as it improves airflow and makes the boots light almost enough not to feel them during your workday.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 6,819 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

9. Skechers for Work Soft Stride Canopy Work Shoes for Icy Pavements

When it comes to work shoes, there is a difference between what workers need and what they get offered, especially if they have to walk on icy pavement every day.

The guys at Skechers took notice of this and decided to build a work shoe that is both comfortable and protective and suitable for walking on icy surfaces. As a result, the Skechers Soft Stride Canopy work shoes were born.

They come with an anti slip rubber outsole and composite safety toe caps, which are key to avoiding nasty injuries.

They also include cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles, which are crucial in any work shoe that will be worn for more than a few hours.

Last but not least, they feature breathable leather uppers that wick moisture away from the foot, allowing them to breathe and stay fresh.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 2,924 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.

Check price at Amazon.com

10. Timberland PRO Pit Boss Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

These Timberlands PRO Pitboss winter shoes are exceptionally safe, especially when comparing them with other models in the winter footwear category.

They include an oil, abrasion, and slip-resistant rubber outsole that gives great traction on slippery surfaces, which is essential to prevent slipping and falling on frozen asphalt.

Their steel toe caps are included to provide optimum protection to the toe box area of the boots, which is critical for workers who are continuously surrounded by heavy equipment.

The boots contain open-cell PU footbeds and PU midsoles for great comfort, as well as shock absorption to prevent foot fatigue and other concerns.

Even though they take a little longer than two weeks to break in, they offer key features like top cushioned collars and breathable linings that make wearing these shoes much more enjoyable.

Customer Reviews and Scores

There are more than 21,495 reviews on Amazon.com about these work boots at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work boots are positive overall.

Check price at Amazon.com

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What Kind of Shoes Work Best on Ice Overall?

Cat Footwear Men’s Threshold Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

I found these Cat Threshold work shoes to be the best for icy surfaces due to their specific features, such as their slip-resistant rubber outsoles and waterproof membrane that guarantees superior traction and dryness in these kinds of icy conditions.

If you’d like to read the rest of their review, simply click the button below.

Read Review

What Are The Most Comfortable Work Shoes for Icy Pavement?

KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool Low Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

I chose the Keen Utility Atlanta work shoes for the most comfortable work shoes on icy pavement.

Because of their dual density EVA footbeds and breathable water resistant membrane, these shoes are the most comfortable in this article. When you combine this with the fact that they have oil and slip-resistant rubber outsoles, you’ve got yourself a terrific work shoe for icy surfaces.

Read the full review by clicking the button down below.

Read Review

What Are The Best Women’s Work Shoes for Icy Pavement?

Reebok Women’s Fusion Flexweave Safety Toe Athletic Work Shoe

What about the women?

Ladies, don’t worry; I haven’t forgotten about you!

Allow me to introduce these Reebok Fusion work shoes, which I have chosen as the best women’s work shoes for icy pavements.

Why?

They come, for once, with safety features like composite toe caps and slip-resistant outsoles, which create an excellent safety combination for preventing terrible accidents on the job.

In terms of comfort, the boots use the so-called “Floatride Energy” foam in the midsoles and footbeds, which provide exceptional cushioning and shock absorption while reducing foot pain and fatigue.

Check price at Amazon.com

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Quick Comparison

Name	Outsoles	Safety toe Caps	Footbeds
1. New Balance Men’s 412 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavement Review	Slip-resistant outsoles	Alloy toe safety toe caps	Full cushioned EVA inserts
2. Timberland PRO Powertrain Work Shoes for Icy Pavements Review	Outsoles made of dual-density PU with oil, slip and heat resistance	Alloy safety toe caps	Cushioned footbeds
3. New Balance Composite Toe 589 V1 Work Shoes for Icy Pavement Review	Slip resistant outsoles	Composite safety toe caps	Cushioned footbeds
4. Cat Footwear Men’s Threshold Work Shoes for Icy Pavements Review	Slip-resistant rubber outsoles	Steel toe caps	Cushioned footbeds
5. KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool Low Work Shoes for Icy Pavements Review	Oil and slip-resistant rubber outsoles	Steel safety toe	Dual-density EVA footbeds
6. Timberland PRO Men’s Mudsill Work Shoes for Icy Pavements Review	Timberland PRO rubber outsoles with slip, heat, abrasion, and oil resistance	Safety steel toe caps	Open-cell PU footbeds
7. Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Shoes for Icy Pavement Review	Slip resistant outsoles	Steel toe caps	Cushioned footbeds
8. Reebok Men’s Rb4041 Work Shoes for Icy Pavement Review	Rubber outsoles provide excellent traction	Alloy toe caps	Full cushioned MemoryTech Massage footbed
9. Skechers for Work Soft Stride Canopy Work Shoes for Icy Pavements Review	Slip resistant outsoles	Composite safety toe caps	Cushioned footbeds
10. Timberland PRO Pit Boss Work Shoes for Icy Pavement Review	Oil, abrasion, and slip resistance rubber outsoles	Steel toe caps	Footbeds are made of open-cell PU and have an antibacterial treatment

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Must Have Features of The Best Work Shoes for Icy Pavement

Certain features must be available in work shoes to be suitable for walking on icy pavement.

Let’s discuss them.

Slip Resistant Outsoles

If you want a pair of work shoes that will give you the best traction on icy roads, you should look for ones with slip-resistant outsoles.

If you do this, you’ll know your shoes will grip the ice and keep you from slipping and falling, thanks to its guaranteed high traction.

Safety Toe Caps

By owning work shoes with safety toe caps, you will have the peace of mind that you will be safe while working near heavy tools or machine parts that could fall and crush your toes.

The question now is, what kind of safety toe cap should I get?

The answer is the most exasperating: it depends on your needs.

However, I’ll give you a quick rundown of your choices so you can get a sense of what might be best for you:

• Steel toe caps are by far the most popular option among workers. They offer complete toe protection at a low cost, but they add weight and bulk to the boots
• Composite toe caps are lighter than steel toe caps and do not conduct electricity (which is a huge pro if you work near live wires). However, they are not as protective as steel toe caps.
• Alloy toe caps: They are as light as composite safety toe caps and as protective as steel toe caps. They are, however, slightly more expensive than these two.

Insulation & Waterproofing

If you’re looking for the best work shoe for icy pavement, chances are you’ll also need some waterproofing and insulation, especially when exposed to icy weather conditions.

How are you going to keep your feet warm and dry in cold weather?

This is why I recommend getting a work shoe with a waterproofing membrane and insulation material (Thinsulate is the best, in my opinion).

Reliable Construction Methods

Are you the type of guy who doesn’t mind squandering hundreds of dollars of his hard-earned cash on a lousy pair of work shoes?

I, for one, do not.

That is why I always emphasize that your next pair of work shoes should be manufactured using reliable construction methods that will extend the life of your work shoes by years.

If you were to ask me, the best construction method is the Goodyear Welt, but others are equally as good, such as cement construction. All you have to do is choose a good one.

Cushioned Footbeds & Shock Absorbing Midsoles

Comfort is essential at the workplace.

I mean, who are you going to keep your productivity performing at high levels if you’re not comfortable in your own shoes?

To make sure your next work shoes are comfortable to be worn all day long on hard surfaces, I’d say you should get a pair with cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles.

That way, your feet will get the support and cushioning they need for you to avoid foot fatigue and unbearable foot pain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

There are some unanswered questions regarding the best work shoes for wet and icy surfaces. This is my attempt to address the majority of them.

What can you put on the bottom of shoes to make them less slippery?

Well, there are a few ways to make your work shoes less slippery.

One of my favorites is using hex screws. Yeah, I know, it sounds crazy, but hear me for a bit.

You just need to pick 8 to 10 contact points all across the rubber outsoles of your shoes and just screw them in.

This will allow you to enjoy high traction on icy pavement and wet ice. If you want to watch a video that shows you how to do this step by step, I’d say you should watch this video:

How to maintan the best work shoes for icy pavement?

Well, there is a straightforward step by step guide to follow to make sure your work shoes are adequately taken care of:

• Be sure to brush them off of dust
• Wash and rinse them with saddle soap
• Apply a thin layer of leather conditioner and let it work for 15 minutes
• Remove excess conditioner with a clean cloth
• Brush the boots and done!