10 Best Work Boots for Women (The Ultimate List)

Last Updated on April 7, 2022

I remember the first time I ever tried to do some home renovations. And then, when I went to get a bed of tiles from the hardware store, I nearly dropped them on my feet with my toes exposed from the sandals. That’s when I went down my usual shopping rabbit hole and found the best work boots for women.

Women have always been a big part of the workforce, but finding the right workwear has always been a challenge. While there are plenty of options for men, women often have to settle for ill-fitting or less than ideal work boots, which is quite honestly a major safety hazard.

You see, work boots are an essential part of any trade woman’s wardrobe. They provide support and stability when walking, working or standing for long periods of time. However, not all work boots are created equal. When choosing a pair of work boots, it is important to consider the specific needs of your job.

But remember, NOT ALL WORK BOOTS ARE CREATED EQUAL (like that gender pay gap, deep sigh.)

For example, if you are working in a restaurant kitchen, you will need a boot that is slip-resistant and can withstand exposure to heat and water. If you work in a warehouse or on a construction site, you will need a boot that is durable and can protect your feet from falling objects.

If you need more information about the type of toe, material, or height you may need, scroll down for more information.

What are the Best Work Boots for Women?

Now, I can’t just choose one, because it really depends on what type of work you do and what type of boot you need. This post is meant to tackle the best work boots for women for all different lines of trade, and I’m happy to report that women are finally closing the gender gaps across various industries.

Best Work Boots for Women in 2022

Are you looking for something specific like steel toe shoes? Check out the Comparison Table where all the specifications are easy to compare side by side.

Low-Rise Work Boots

Mid-Rise Work Boots

High-Rise Work Boots

Time to hit the full length reviews:

Best Low-Rise Work Boots for Women

This list is going to be for the women that are looking for the best work boots that are needed for long hours on your feet and don’t necessarily need a safety toe. This is going to be best for jobs that don’t present a high safety risk.

Sometimes, these are referred to as “hiking” boots or you will see some overlap, but typically that’s because hiking and working have a lot in common: being on your feet for extended periods of time.

1. Sketchers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit: Max Cushioning Elite SR

Best for Long Hours on Your Feet

The Sketchers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit: Max Cushioning Elite are a crowd favorite if you’re in a field that has you working long shifts on your feet all day. They have a two-inch heal and come in both a medium and wide size option. With breathable mesh outer and air-cooled memory foam, hopefully you’re feet won’t be a sweaty mess by the end of your shift. And BONUS, they’re machine-washable.

  • Comfort: MAX Cushioning Elite design for maximum comfort.
  • Style: Low-Rise
  • Protection: No Steel Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Slip-resistance sole with oil resistance
  • Water: None

Price: $100 (Moderate)

Here are some of the best features of Sketchers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit:

  • These are ULTRA comfortable. They’re made to give you feet the comfort you need if you’re on your feet for 8, even 12 hour shifts.
  • They come in both a medium and wide size, so you’re likely to find a shoe that will be a perfect fit for you.
  • If you work in a messy location, it’s great that you can throw these in the wash to clean them off quickly.

Verdict

These are the ultimate work boots for women that are looking for maximal comfort. These boots are great for women who are their feet for long periods of time.

Check Out Sketcher’s Work Boots Here

2. Keen Women’s Sparta XT (Aluminum Toe)

Best Low Rise with Toe Protection For Warehouse Workers

If you’re looking for a low-rise work boot that is both comfortable, but also offers more toe protection and anti-slip features, than the Keen Women’s Sparta XT is your work boot. This is meant for all women who work long hours on hard surfaces such as in a warehouse, transportation, or delivery fields. With an aluminum toe, you are offered some toe protection without the weight that comes from steel toe work boots.

  • Comfort: Cushioning Mid-Sole
  • Style: Low-Rise
  • Protection: Aluminum Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Oil and Slip Resistance Rubber Outsoles
  • Water: None

Price: $125 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of Keen’s Sparta XT Work Boots

  • These boots have an aluminum toe (as they say, good for kicking pallets into place) with some extra safety such as electrical hazard protections.
  • There’s a breathable mesh and odor technology to prevent stinky feet at the end of the day.
  • They’ve considered lots of details when it comes to comfort, which is critical if you’re pulling 12 hour shifts.

Verdict

These are the ultimate work boots for women that are on their feet for long hours of the day and want that added toe protection, but still maintain a lightweight feel.

Check Out keens sparta Work Boots Here

3. Timberland’s Nellie Waterproof Chukka Work Boots

Best Ankle Waterproof Work Boots

These boots were made for working, and that’s just what they’ll do.

Timberland’s Nellie Waterproof Chukka work boots are tough, comfortable, and stylish – everything you need in a boot to get the job done. The leather upper is tough and durable, while the waterproof construction will keep your feet dry no matter what the job throws at you. The EVA footbed provides cushioning and support for all-day comfort, and the rubber outsole is slip-resistant to help keep you safe on your feet. Plus, they look great with a pair of jeans or khakis.

  • Comfort: Anti-fatigue solebeds
  • Style: Low-Rise
  • Protection: Aluminum Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Rubber lug outsoles
  • Water: Waterproof

Price: $135 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Nellie Waterproof Chukka’s

  • These boots are comfortable enough to be standing on your feet all day, and stylish enough that you’ll want to wear them off hours.
  • Durable and fantastic leather, these boots were made to last.
  • The shoe laces are made from 100% recycled plastic containers, I love the eco-friendly addition.

Verdict

If you’re looking for stylish, waterproof ankle boots that are comfortable on the job or on the go, these are the ones for you.

Check Out timberland’s nellie chukka Boots Here

Best Mid-Rise Work Boots for Women

If you’re looking for work boots that are high enough to cover the ankle, but not super high like cowboy boots, then mid-rise is perfect for you. It gives you the benefits of having a lighter weight shoe that’s more flexible, without compromising ankle safety.

1. Timberland Pro’s Direct Attach 6″ Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot

Best Overall

Timberland is a great brand many people have learned to know and love, and it’s easy to see why: they make quality products that place a huge emphasis on comfort, safety, and durability. This 6″ steel toe and waterproof boot gives you everything with it’s steel toe, electrical hazard protection, and waterproof leather. This work boot is meant for women in tough jobs whether its at a construction site or working on electrician or HVAC. Not to mention, they’re extremely stylish and keep your feet warm, so many women love wearing these both on and off the job site!

  • Comfort: 30-day comfort guarantee
  • Style: Mid-Rise
  • Protection: Steel Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Heat-, oil-, slip, and abrasion-resistant.
  • Water: Waterproof

Price: $135 (Moderate)

Here are some of the best features of the Timberland’s 6″ Steel Toe & Waterproof Boots:

  • These are super safe if you’re working on a job site that carries some risks. The steel toe, multi-slip resistance, and electrical hazard protection are top notch for safety.
  • They’re extremely comfortable and stylish.
  • The leather is tough and durable, so this pair will last you a long time.

Verdict

These are the ultimate work boots for women that need high safety features, without compromising style. Not to mention, they’ll last you a while so worth the money.

Check Out timberland’s 6″ steel toe boots here

2. Safety Girl II Steel Toe Work Boots

Best Affordable Steel Toe

Safety Girl is a company devoted to making work boots for women. Their Light Pink Safety Work Boots are among the most popular. They are made with a lighter Nuback leather with an ATSM-compliant steel toe that will protect you from up to 2500 pound pressure. They are available in many sizes, as well as a medium and wide size.

  • Comfort: No additional comfort features
  • Style: Mid-Rise 6″
  • Protection: Steel Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Oil resistant outsoles
  • Water: Water-Resistant

Price: $54.79 (Affordable)

Here are some of the best features of the Safety Girl II’s Work Boots:

  • These are made with a nubak leather and ATSM steel toe to keep you protected.
  • With many different colors available, you don’t have to be stuck with the same old brown and black leather options.
  • They are water-resistant, so if you’re not in a highly wet environment, these should be sufficient.

Verdict

The Safety Girl’s work boots are a good option if you’re looking for an affordable pair of boots with a steel toe. I wouldn’t recommend these in a major construction zone, but they’ll do the trick if you’re in a less hazardous work environment but want the added toe protection.

Check Out safety girl II Steel toe boots here

3. Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Tactical Boots

Best Tactical Boots

Under Armour may be very popular with their athletic attire, but did you know they also make a popular brand of tactical boots? If you’re wondering what tactical boots are, these are the preferred work boots for women in military, law enforcement, or general public safety. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be used by many other professions.

These Under Armour Micro G Valsetz are the ultimate work boots for women that are looking for a breathable, ultra-comfort walking boot with some protection.

  • Comfort: Synthetic leather that’s breathable with shock absorbing foam.
  • Style: Mid-Rise 6″
  • Protection: Welded foot overlay with TPU toe cap
  • Slip-Resistance: Oil and slip resistant rubber outsole
  • Water: None

Price: $125.00 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Under Armour Tactical Boots:

  • With anti-fatigue footbeds and comfort soles, these will keep your feet happy for entire shift.
  • The pull loops on the heal make this much easier to take on and off.
  • They’re incredibly light weight, which adds to the comfort of these work boots. Nothing is worse than having heavy shoes to lift all day long.

Verdict

If your a woman in a job that requires tons of time on your feet such as public safety, law enforcement, medical transport, or more, then these are a great option for you.

Check Out under armour’s tactical boots here

4. Carhatt’s Rugged Flex 6″ Composite Toe

Best Composite Toe Work Boot

If you’re looking for a mid-rise boot, but don’t want weight that often comes with it, then a composite toe can do wonders in both giving you protection and keeping light on your feet. Where the Carhatt Rugged Flex Work Boots really shine is when you need comfortable shoes on hard flooring like concrete or uneven terrain. They also meet a wide spectrum of safety features against electrical circuits and other hazards, which is hard to find among women’s work boots.

  • Comfort: Oil-tanned leather and EVA midsole for comfort and shock absorbance.
  • Style: Mid-Rise 6″
  • Protection: Composite toe for certain ASTM standards
  • Slip-Resistance: Rubber outsoles for grip
  • Water: Water-resistant

Price: $129.99 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Carhatt Rugged Flex 6″Composite Toe:

  • If you’re in a hazardous workplace, particularly electrical, these boots offer secondary protection of up to 18,000 volts in dry conditions, keeping you safe.
  • The FastDry lining on the inside will help your feet stay dry and prevent odors.
  • These are work boots made for women WHO WORK. They’re comfortable and meant to last.

Verdict

If you’re a woman that’s on your feet in a physical work environment looking for a composite toe, than these are the boots for you. People rave over the comfort and how long these last.

Check Out calhatt’s rugged flax work boots here

5. Sketcher’s Workshire Peril ST Steel Toe Work Boots

Best Relaxed Fit Steel Toe Work Boots

Sketchers’ Women’s Peril ST Work Boots are the perfect choice for the modern working woman. With a steel toe and a slip-resistant sole, they’re designed to keep you safe on the job. But they’re also stylish and comfortable, with a soft leather upper and nice lace-up. So whether you’re working in the office or the factory, you can rest assured that your feet will be well protected.

  • Comfort: Memory Foam Gel-Infused Insole
  • Style: Mid-Rise 5″
  • Protection: Steel toe cap
  • Slip-Resistance: Rubber outsoles for grip
  • Water: Water-resistant

Price: $110 (Moderate)

Here are some of the best features of the Sketcher’s Workshire Steel Toe Boots:

  • The soft leather is unique among the others on this list, giving you a soft and lightweight work boots.
  • You still get many of the important safety features such as a steel safety toe, electrical hazard safety, and slip resistance.
  • They’re meant to keep your feet pain level to minimum, which is great for working on hard concrete for hours on end.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a soft leather, comfortable work boot with a steel toe, these are a great option for you.

Check Out Sketchers workshire peril st work boots here

6. Danner Bull Run Moc Toe

Best For Luxury Steel Toe

Danner Bull Run Moc Toe Work Boots for Women are the perfect choice for ladies who need a tough, durable boot that can withstand any job. These boots features a steel toe that meets ATSM standards to keep you safe on the job. Danner really prides itself on craftsmanship, which is apparent with the high quality leather and intricate stitching. Whether you’re on the job or adventuring in the great outdoors, these boots will keep you comfortable and safe all day long.

  • Comfort: Ortholight footbed for comfort and air circulation
  • Style: Mid-Rise 6″
  • Protection: Steel toe cap
  • Slip-Resistance: Oil and slip resistant
  • Water: Water-resistant

Price: $220 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Danner Bull Run Steel Toe Work Boots:

  • These are valued for their high attention detail which includes a full-grained oiled leather to give you the most stylish boots on the market.
  • Included with each purchase is a 1 year warranty and recrafting services if your boots get worn down. This is a great option instead of paying for a new set of boots.
  • For those long days, these steel toe work boots have tons of comfort.

Verdict

If you’re looking for the best work boot where both style meets safety and comfort and money is no object, this is the best work boot for you.

Check Out danner bull run work boots here

Best High-Rise Work Boots for Women

High-rise work boots are essential for anyone who spending a lot of time outdoors or on their feet. They provide support and stability, as well as protection from the elements. Steel toe models are especially useful for those working in construction or other industries where there is a risk of injury from falling objects.

ANDDD high-rise work boots can also help to prevent ankle injuries. The extra height provides added support and helps to keep the foot in a neutral position, which reduces the risk of twisting or turning the ankle. As an added bonus, high-rise work boots also make it easier to tuck in pants and keep them from getting caught on objects. Whether you’re working on a construction site or hiking through the woods, high-rise

1. Caterpillars Women Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot

Best Steel Toe & Waterproof High-Rise Work Boot

Caterpillar has been making quality work boots for decades, and this model is no exception, inserting itself as one of the company’s top best-sellers. The Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot is a high-rise boot that comes in three colors: black, frost gray, and marlin. If your a woman working in tough conditions be it water, heavy machinery, or dangerous landscapes like a construction zone, than these are the shoes for you.

  • Comfort: Foam footbed and midsole cushioning support
  • Style: High-Rise
  • Protection: Steel Toe meeting ASTM F2413-18, Electrical hazard protection up to 600 volts in dry condition
  • Slip-Resistance: Slip-Resistant rubber outsole is abrasion, oil, and water resistant.
  • Water: Waterproof with premium nubuck leather

Price: $155 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Cat’s Echo Work Boots

  • If you work in a hazardous job site, or just want that extra protection, these boots go above and beyond keeping your safe. The steel toe boots has you covered.
  • Many people rave about the surprising comfort, which isn’t always easy to get in protective work boots.
  • Not only are they practical, but many women love the look and color options and find they’re light enough to wear casually.

Verdict

The Caterpillar Echo Work Boots for Women are meant for women that are breaking down the gender barriers in rugged, physical jobs. It’s the ultimate boot with a steel toe to keep your feet safe no matter what conditions you’re working in.

Check Out caterpillar echo work boots here

2. Ariat Fatbaby Saddle Western Boot Work Boot

Best Cowboy Work Boot

If you’re in any trade, that there’s no doubt that you’ve heard the Ariat brand once or twice. That’s why Ariat’s Fatbaby Saddle Western Boots are such a great option. They’re designed specifically for women so that each boot better conforms a woman’s foot. But they don’t sacrifice on quality or durability. Fatbaby Western Boots are made with full-grain leather and are lightweight.

  • Comfort: Features Pro Crepe Sole for long lasting comfort
  • Style: High-Rise, Cowboy Style
  • Protection: No Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Duratread heal
  • Water: Unclear (although they do made a Waterproof version)

Price: $99.95 (Moderate)

Here are some of the best features of the Ariat Fatbaby Western Boots:

  • Comfort comfort comfort. Everyone raves about how you don’t even need to wear these ones in, they’re ready to go.
  • They have a riding-approved sole, so if you’re working on a farm or working with horses these are a go-to.
  • They’re very durable, and should last you for several years depending on how you use them.

Verdict

The Ariat Fatbaby Work Boots are a go-to for anyone that rides. They’re phenomenally stylish, and will last you years if properly taken care of. If you’re needing something waterproof, then they also make a version to fit your needs.

Check Out ariat fatbaby western saddle boots here

3. Muck’s Arctic Sport II Tall Work Boots

Best for Women Winter Workers

Are you looking for a boot that will keep your feet warm during the winter days? Maybe you do farm work during the winter months. Look no further than the Mucks Women’s Arctic Sport II boot. This boot is specifically designed to keep your feet warm in extremely cold conditions, with a waterproof exterior and a snug fit that traps in heat. The soles are also made of a special material that grip the ice, so you won’t have to worry about slipping and falling.

  • Comfort: EVA footbed with soft fleece lining
  • Style: High-Rise
  • Protection: No Toe
  • Slip-Resistance: Rubber outsole for traction surfaces.
  • Water: Waterproof

Price: $185 (Expensive)

Here are some of the best features of the Mucks Arctic Sport II Boots

  • If you do any job that requires a lot of walking in cold weather and snow, then these boots are the one for you as they will keep your feet warm down to -40 degrees and keep them nice and dry.
  • The shock absorbent, heat-retaining qualities, and soles will keep your feet comfortable while you’re using them.
  • The rubber outsole will help you stay on your feet to prevent from slipping.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a boot that will keep you warm, dry, and safe in the most extreme conditions, the women’s Arctic Sport II boot from Mucks is the perfect choice.

Check Out MUCKS Arctic sport ii boots here

Comparison Table: Women’s Work Boots Side by Side Comparison

ShoeType Water ResistanceSlip-ResistanceToe
Sketcher’s Relaxed FitLow-RiseNoneOil resistanceNone
Keen’s Sparta XT Low-RiseNoneOil & Slip ResistanceAluminum
Timberland’s Nellie Chukka WaterproofLow-RiseWaterproofRubber outsolesNone
Timberland’s Direct Attach 6″ Steel Toe WaterproofMid-RiseWaterproofHeat-, oil-, slip, and abrasion-resistant.Steel Toe
Safety Girl II Steel Toe Work BootsMid-RiseWater-ResistantOil ResistanceSteel Toe
Under Armour Valsetz Tactical BootsMid-RiseNoneOil & Slip resistanceTPU
Calhatt’s Rugged Flex Composite ToeMid-RiseWater ResistantRubber OutsoleComposite Toe
Sketchers Workshire Peril STMid-RiseUnclearRubber OutsoleSteel Toe
Danner Bull Run Moc ToeMid-RiseWater ResistantOil and Slip ResistantSteel Toe
Caterpillar Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work BootsHigh-RiseWaterproofHeat, oil, slip, and abrasion resistantSteel Toe
Ariat Fatbaby Saddle Western BootsHigh-RiseOptionalSoleNone
Muck’s Arctic Sport II TallHigh-RiseWaterproofRubber OutsolesNone

What are Women’s Work Boots?

Work boots for women are boots that are designed to protect your feet while you’re working. They’re usually made with water-resistant leather and have a steel toe to protect your feet from falling objects or being stepped on. They also have a slip-resistant sole, so you can wear them in slippery conditions without worry.

Types of Work Boots Explained- The Work Boot “Boot Camp”

When you’re shopping for work boots, there are so many types. And it makes sense. A construction worker is likely going to need very different boots than say a fisherman (or should I say fisher woman). Let me break down the top features you need to look at when buying work boots.

Toe Composition

Toe caps are typically some sort of metal used to protect your toes in case something fell on them. There are three different types of toe caps that you’ll find in work boots: steel, composite, and aluminum.

  • Steel is the most durable and will protect your toes from being squished by heavy objects or machinery. However, they’re also the heaviest type of toe cap, which can make your whole boot feel heavier.
  • Composite and aluminum toe caps are lighter than steel but still provide good protection for your toes. They’re a good middle ground if you want something that’s not too heavy but will still keep your feet safe.

Water Resistance

There’s a difference between water-resistant, waterproof, and weather resistant.

  • Water-resistant: The boots can resist water for a short period of time, but it’s not made to be submerged in water.
  • Waterproof: The boot is completely impermeable to water and will keep your feet dry even if you’re standing in a puddle or walking through a stream.
  • Weather-resistant: The boots can withstand different types of weather conditions like rain, snow, and sleet.

Boot Height

The height you choose should be based on what kind of work you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be working in an area where there’s a lot of debris or you need extra protection for your ankles, you’ll want to choose a higher boot.

On the other hand, if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking or standing, a lower boot might be more comfortable.

There are three main heights of work boots:

  • Low (ankle-height)
  • Mid (mid-calf)
  • High (above the calf).

Boot Material

The most common materials for work boots are leather and synthetic materials. Leather is more durable and will last longer, but it’s also more expensive. Synthetic materials are less expensive and usually lighter, but they’re not as durable as leather.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do you need work boots?

If you work in a job that requires you to be on your feet all day, then you know how important it is to have comfortable shoes. But comfort isn’t the only reason to invest in a good pair of work boots. Work boots will also protect your feet from falling objects, sharp edges, and other hazards that you might encounter at work.

What brand of work boots are best for women?

There are many great brands out there for women, but some of the most popular are Sketchers, Catepillar, Timberland, Keen, and Safety Girl.

What are the most comfortable work boots for women?

This is a tough question to answer because everyone’s feet are different and what one person finds comfortable may not be comfortable for another. However, some of the most popular brands for comfort are sketchers, catepillar, and timberland.

Do I need steel toe boots?

This depends on your job and what type of hazards you’ll be exposed to. If you work in a construction zone or around heavy machinery, then you’ll definitely need a steel toe boot to protect your feet. However, if you have an office job, then you probably don’t need a steel toe boot.

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