Non super truckers… what work boots do you wear??
Posted by POWERISMOMMY@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 109 comments
Hi for all those not wearing flip flops(I’m jealous) just curious as to what boots y’all wear for work! Weather it be logs, sand, concrete, oil you haul… what do you protect your feet with and how comfy are they!?
Currently I deliver bulk motor oil to a variety of places including a lot of waste management and the like. So the more protection from hydraulic oil I have the better. Currently I’m wearing 11” square toe wellingtons from thorogood and I like them just fine. Before that I was wearing ariat boots and I can feel the difference.
What y’all got. ?
matthewxman79@reddit
Redback. Super comfy slip on boots.
TheLittleGodlyMan@reddit
Crocs
missingducks@reddit
I got a pair of whites from online. Expensive but great quality and long lasting. Tough to break in though
AnomalousSquid@reddit
Danner Vicious, for lace ups. Ariat for slip ons. Composite toe all around.
Bamfurlough@reddit
How do you like those Danners? If I ever get anything other than Thorogoods I'll likely go with them.
AnomalousSquid@reddit
Love them, only lace up boots I’ve gotten for the past ten years. They make my feet feel better than pretty much anything else I’ve ever worn for work. For me, these boots and Smartwool socks are like a cheat code for life. Huge difference in how I feel at the end of the day versus others I’ve tried.
Bamfurlough@reddit
I get it dude. Good socks and footwear make a big difference in difficult environments.
Eastern_Succotash_64@reddit
Carolina 8" laceups
Green-Estimate-1255@reddit
I just threw my logger boots in the garbage and bought a pair of Reeboks. Safety toe, waterproof, internal met guards, look like and are as comfortable as high tops.
Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit
I'm a truck driver that actually works for a living and go through a pair of boots about every six months and I've found out that all those expensive boots aren't really that much more comfortable or last any longer than the cheaper pairs
gimm3nicotin3@reddit
I drive for a Toromont owned CAT rental yard in Canada, union hourly position. I get a $200 CAD credit annually for work boots, it doesn't accumulate if I don't use it though.
Being that in Canada it gets to -40 celcius in wintertime, I need something with a high thermal rating that is also waterproof, since I'm always slinging chains on muddy or frozen jobsites.
I find the boots in the 130-200 CAD range, don't quite cut it through 4 seasons in my line of work. I end up buying a 280 dollar pair yearly at an 80 dollar cost to myself.
OneHoneydew3661@reddit
What do you buy?
gimm3nicotin3@reddit
Timberland Boondocks typically. Sometimes Helly Hansen if I can't find my size, which saves like 30 or so dollars when that happens.
POWERISMOMMY@reddit (OP)
Well let’s talk…. What is “expensive” for you?
I tend to disagree. I don’t cheap out on crap that goes between me and the ground, but there are diminishing returns when it comes to how much you pay for how much you get. I’m not walking around for 6 months in some Walmart boots
Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit
A nice pair of Wolverine boots are just as good as a $375 pair of Redwings in my opinion. Didn't used to be that way but most of those high priced boots have gone down in quality but get more expensive. I try to stay around $150-$175.
Bamfurlough@reddit
That hasn't been my experience at all, and I wear my boots hard. I often go hiking in them to get in exercise when I'm out on the road.
I used to wear Wolverines and they would fall apart after one year. Now I wear Thorogoods and I've had a pair last 5+ years with a resole.
rk2298@reddit
I get irish setter boots from red wing. 165$ and i’ve had my current pair for 4 years. I can easily wear them another 1-2 years before replacing them and i walk a lot.
Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit
Those aren't really work boots though, more of bunny boots
rk2298@reddit
What are bunny boots? I’ve been buying these for years. I was buying them as a landscaper a cable guy and an alarm tech. Very solid pair of boots.
OneHoneydew3661@reddit
Bunny Boots are white and meant for Arctic weather. I think there's an air valve on them too..
Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit
Idk I'm just bored. Bet those work well
rk2298@reddit
Lol i’m bored too so i’m scrolling reddit lol
DWPAW-victim@reddit
Why don’t you try a Pacific Northwest boot by nicks, JK, franks or whites? Seems like you’ve just bought a bunch of cement constructed boots that are throw away
Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit
Used to buy exclusively Redwings and had nothing but issues with them.
Placer142@reddit
Redwings are flimsy junk in comparison.
DWPAW-victim@reddit
The redwing heritage lines are solid for the price not as good but half the price of a pnw boot. A red wing moc toe is a great looking boot imo
Placer142@reddit
When the PNW boot lasts more than twice as long and is better for your feet, the Redwing costs more in the long run.
I don't understand moc toe at all, I think they're ugly and less functional. That said Nicks does a lot of moc toe boots.
DWPAW-victim@reddit
The brands I just listed are more expensive BUT handmade and they’re made in America so they’re TOUGH. A BRUTAL break in but they last a long time then you get em resoled by a cobbler
clairered27@reddit
I have these slip on ankle high boots idk what they called but they are slip and water proof also
rememberleapinglanny@reddit
Redwings
flem246@reddit
Rock rooster , composite toe side zip . They are are warm in the summer but water proof. Order mine from Amazon
UOLZEPHYR@reddit
Bates
cCueBasE@reddit
Ariat workhogs
clarobert@reddit
Fuel hauler - RockRooster. Hands down the best boots I've ever worn. Used to wear RedWings and can't believe thaat I waited so long to try RockRooster.
82ToyotaFarmin@reddit
8" Carolina Loggers
throwra_sd2ba40858@reddit
I got a pair of Wolverines that are almost 2 years old now. Don’t remember which one, but steel toe/waterproof. I liked them when I was pulling pneumatic and belly dump trailers but the tongue of the boot started getting all flimsy and now the tongue on the right boot keeps sliding to the side and I just replaced the laces. I haul fuel now so I’m thinking of just getting some slip on boots pretty soon.
jordanka161@reddit
I wear a pair of georgia boot company boots, steel toe but not too tall to make it easier to drive.
The real secret is good socks though, do yourself a favor and get some merino wool socks, Darn Tough is my personal preference but there are other good ones.
Bamfurlough@reddit
I wear merino wool socks exclusively in summer and winter. Really keeps my feet in better shape.
I even wear merino wool t-shirts and long sleeves, with a merino wool hoody as well! 🤣
They're expensive, but they are comfortable as hell to me and don't need to be washed nearly as often.
Ich_mag_Kartoffeln@reddit
Totally agree that good socks are key, though I prefer bamboo to wool (and my family raises merino cross sheep!).
Allemaengel@reddit
The merino wool socks are a game changer.
Bamfurlough@reddit
I wear Thorogoods too. Can't remember the name of the style, but they are 8" on the ankles. Composite toe. I'm a tanker driver, so lots of time on chemical plants. I have an insulated pair for winter too.
They rock. Durable and comfortable. I think I'm working on 3 years with the pair I have on right now. I had another pair resoled and got 5+ years out of them. I used to wear Wolverines, but they would wear out after 1 year or so.
UlthredEmbry@reddit
Flip flops when in the cab. I carry steel toe work boots for ppe sites.
WastedOwll@reddit
Same here lol helps keep my truck clean, either slippers or flipflops so I never step foot in my sleeper with shoes on
Apprehensive_Many214@reddit
I just leave the shoes by the seat. No need for extras
Big-rooster84@reddit
JC water walkers ;)
TruckerBiscuit@reddit
OTR. I wear Lucchese all-weather cowboy boots in summer; Red Wing work boots in winter.
scubvadiver@reddit
Steel toe cowboy boots. Any brand as long as it’s 100+ dollars. They’ll last you ages.
wealwaysdo@reddit
I wear nicks boots
inebriateddandhated@reddit
Timberland pro rexaion mid height boot.
Comes in a dark tan or black.
Waterproof, ice / snow rated.
Normal, composite and steel toe options.
Personally there was no break in period, straight put the box they were very comfortable and did not cause any foot fatigue.
Ok_Judgment3871@reddit
Steel toed rain boots lol
mantequilla373@reddit
Twisted x mocassins
CartographerWest2705@reddit
I got a pair on Dan Post composite toe that were oil/gas resistant for hauling fuel. Still use them. Everyone I know has Red Wings. You can’t get them made for your feet. My boss where’s his to bed and gets 3 years out of a pair
No_Control3566@reddit
Red wing, whichever works for you
Defiant_Network_3069@reddit
Depends on what I am doing that day at work. It's either Irish Setters or 6 inch Tarmac Wolverine's. They are very comfortable.
Placer142@reddit
Nicks
SufficientOnestar@reddit
Tenny shoes only.You don't want people to know you might be a truckdriver
Opposite-Swim6040@reddit
Georgia Romeo’s, Also just about any Keen although they aren’t exactly budget friendly.
Jmglasell@reddit
Timberlands are my go-to! Always get some with the thick cushiony sole. Feet have never ever been sore even with jobs being on my feet 12 hours.
kakarota@reddit
My Boot camp boots lol
DWPAW-victim@reddit
Thorogood 6in moc toe or whatever sneakers I decide to wear that day. I’m a local milk run driver and my freights no touch so I can wear whatever close toed footwear I choose
harveyfirelane@reddit
Keen safety shoes.
DCHammer69@reddit
I wear Blundstones. I prefer not to wear them at all so these make it way easier to get on and off. And they’re crazy comfortable on top of it. I’ve worn them all day on my feet out of the cab too.
commandough@reddit
Nick builder pros and some cheap wal mart steel toe sneakers
BigRigTrav@reddit
I haul precast concrete, I wear Twisted X steel toes, cowboy style square toe boot. Wicked comfortable, a little pricey, but they last. I wear those in the spring/summer/fall and in winter I wear Chippewas with good insulation.
No_Walk5765@reddit
Steel toe semen surfers
shorties_with_mp40s@reddit
Jim Green Razorback Steel Cap. I like having lots of toe room. Plus they’re super high quality boots that are hand made. Can get re soled when the time comes.
ate2for@reddit
I wear ariat slip on steel toes, I come from construction though and I’ve always loved ariat boots
Zeon_Pilot83@reddit
Red wings baby!!!
bloodsoed@reddit
Right now I am wearing JK Forefronts.
StarGundamFormer@reddit
Timberland Pro. Forgot the model, but they’re super comfy. Come in a wide size. Steel toe. Anti slip. All that good stuff.
Expensive_Middle8271@reddit
Wolverines, Can't remember the exact model off the top of my head. 6 inch, steel toe, waterproof leather. They have been very good so far.
yoloyeet420@reddit
I push hand trucks of soda around all day, use my toes to steer and open doors, etc. My Danners have more than a year of daily use and have held up great, are mega comfortable, and have protected my toes more than a few times. Not the cheapest, not the most expensive, but perfect for me.
Crunkn8r@reddit
Haul heavy equipment for a local construction company. So needless to say another of mud, dirt, grease and oil. I were redwing loggers, after I broke them in they are great I can wear them all day.
NJPokerJ@reddit
Timberland Pro Boondock 6 inch. I'm in my 40s, so I've worn Timberland all my life. These are the most comfortable Timberlands I've ever owned
QuietRightSlick@reddit
Adidas trainers
Panteraca@reddit
What does non super truckers mean?
The Ariat WorkHog is the best work boot I’ve ever had. I’ve been buying them since 2011 or ‘12 and unless something better comes along I’ll continue to do so. They’re comfy as fk as long as you find the right size for you and I’d say they do fit fairly true to size if that helps. They break in nicely, super comfy once they do and they’re tough as hell. I weighed almost 420lbs when I got my first pair and I noticed it was like I didn’t “walk right” if I wasn’t wearing them. I was hauling broken bullet proof and large pane glass at the time which I was constantly walking on/in/over/across. My fat ass was putting them through hell and they lasted me 18 months. Can’t even say they went to shit on me it was just time for new boots and I bought the same pair. I’ve lost 165lbs since then, have a much different body and I’d still say I don’t feel right walking unless I’m barefoot or wearing these boots. They’re a solid fkn boot and I wish you luck on your search.
Doppleganger1064@reddit
Caterpillar short lace up boots.
ItsTheBreadman92@reddit
I like my thourougood 8 inch logger style. I like ankle support though ever since service boots
COVFEFE-4U@reddit
I have a pair of Keens I wear on delivery days. Waterproof and comfortable. Can be a little warm in the summer, but not a bad boot. When I was a welder I loved Carolina's.
Defiant-Fuel3898@reddit
I second the keens. They have a rounded heel which for long drives I find them more comfortable. I’m a bigger fella (6’4” 270lbs) and have decided good boots are worth the price. I only drive occasionally now, but I have a rotation. Some Keen high tops hiking boots, slip on ariats, just got the Irish setters from redwing, mucks for gettin in water, insulated bogs for cold water lol. It’s my one fairly high maintenance trait I suppose lol
EVOChi@reddit
My el cheapo Walmart steel toes are pretty good actually. I only do dry van but the times I needed them they’ve been solid. They got good reviews online too.
Significant-Voice-39@reddit
Timberland Pros. Fit like a glove and are super comfy.
Frenchie1001@reddit
Crocs when I'm on the road, mongrel lace ups when I'm working.
Savagemocha@reddit
I wear fucking cloth tops lol
Kr4zy01@reddit
P&D, tactical steel toe sneakers
gimm3nicotin3@reddit
Timberland Boondocks. Heavy equipment hauling in Canada.
Ich_mag_Kartoffeln@reddit
Depends on the work. If I just need steelcaps, I wear lightweight runners with steelcaps. If I need more protection, then I pull on the Steel Blues.
JustLTL@reddit
Red wing. They are Irish something I believe, forget the exact type but waterproof steel toed. They are crazy comfortable I love em. Dropped a good bit of money on them but after over a year they are still in great shape.
nastyzoot@reddit
Redwing Big Toe. The newer model has slip resistant soles. I deliver beer and am in and out of shitty kitchens constantly. Work like a charm.
JGRACEFAN95@reddit
I have a pair of hoka hiking boots I wear everyday and I love them. Give me tons of grip and are super comfortable outside or driving
driver_dylan@reddit
Georgia Boot Company. Lasted two years of constant hard work.
BL24L@reddit
Bro, if you wear flip flops you don't have to worry about your feet getting as stinky meaning you can go even longer between showers and spend that time pushing loads.
ElectronicGarden5536@reddit
Try the bates steeltoes. Pretty comfortable and theyre thick enough to stud for ice. 7 inch side zip so theyre easy to get on.
Baconated-Coffee@reddit
Twisted X alloy toes, comfortable after being broken in
texalmighty@reddit
Same here. Mine are now black from a mixture of diesel and asphalt.
EddyMcMac@reddit
Timberland Pro 6in composite toe
Standard issue 🅱️im🅱️s
steveteeg1@reddit
Wolverine durashock oxfords
guard3rd@reddit
Keen composite toe slip ons
mzc36@reddit
LTL P&D driver, I’m in and out of truck and trailer dozens of times per day and have to deal with walking on all kinds of terrain. Thorogood is my favorite brand of boots by far. Currently wearing 804-3366 model.
They are extremely comfortable, high quality, lightweight, and made in the U.S. This brand is pretty pricey but they last, my pair before these made it 6 years of daily use and one round of being resoled and seams mended before they were too far gone.
Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit
I do car hauling, lots of climbing, lots of metal decks with serrated traction plates.
I use Timberland low-rise composite work shoes. They're a good mix of protection and flexibility for my climbing.
Wildwildleft@reddit
Same! This is the way, truly.
msstatelp@reddit
I wear Herman Survivor Bison steel toe boots. They are cheap but they are one of the few wide boots I've found where the toe box is wide also. Most wide boots I've had, whether expensive or cheap, have a standard size toe box so I nearly always have to go a size or two larger. This usually resulted in the steel toe being beyond my toes and providing little protection.
FWIW, I don't do a lot of walking or standing.
IBringTheHeat1@reddit
Timberland Hiking boots, comfortable, waterproof, and feels like any other shoe.
Cold-Chef1714@reddit
Irish Setter Marshall boots or Ridgecut steel toed work boots (Tractor Supply)
Both amazingly comfortable both for driving and working outside.
randoredditusingdouc@reddit
Merrell Mocs
And yes, I kick them off when I get rolling and they stay off until a mile or so from the terminal.
imprezv@reddit
Flatbed chews up soles, and I walk funny so I go through boots fast. I try to buy American made steel toes. I used to buy Justin's, but I switched to Carolinas recently and I like them just as much. Keens fell apart too quickly and Red Wing are just too expensive. I have skinny feet with a high arch so I'm particular about boots.
TheBootyHolePatrol@reddit
Red Wing Dynaforce. Waterproof, comfortable, and I can get them resoled. Soles wearing out are the big thing for my boots. The steel toes is good enough I can climb up on loads if need be.
w3stvirginia@reddit
I drive in Sketchers Slip-ins. I change to Redwing Cooltechs when I’m unloading the trailer. I only wear over-the-ankle boots when I’m doing something outside in the winter.
coldafsteel@reddit
Red Wing LoggerMax