Top Choice

When you spend hours on your feet working finding comfortable boots is a must. Whether you are military personnel, an EMT, Firefighter or Law Enforcement Officer, you want to be focusing on your job and not be hindered by uncomfortable or ill performing work boots. That is why it is important to take the time to find the best pair of work or tactical boots for your type of employment.

The issue is that there are so many options. You can quickly become overwhelmed with all the choices. Chances are that you have various questions while you are going through the selection process, including:

• What are the best work boots?
• What should you be looking for in work boots?
• Are zipper work boots better than work boots that lace up?

While there are many criteria for selecting work boots, the first question – and one way to narrow down your choices – is whether or not you want work boots that lace up or have a zipper.

So why choose zipper work boots? Zipper work boots versus boots that lace up is always a hot debate. There are pros and cons to both sides, and preference often comes down to what type or work you find yourself doing.

Boots with zippers on them are much easier to take on and off, which make them ideal for EMTS or firefighters who are called out to an emergency with little notice. It also makes them ideal for situations where you are constantly transitioning from the field to offices, so you can change into shoes and avoid tracking dirt everywhere.

Another benefit of zipper work boots is that every time you slip into your boots, they will fit you the same. Unlike boots with laces that need to be untied and snugly retied every time, zipper boots will fit you the same day in and day out.

While there are many benefits with zipper work boots, the two main concerns are that they will not fit as securely since they are not adjustable, and that if the zipper breaks, the boots are essentially useless. Those drawbacks can be avoided by taking the time to find quality zipper work boots that fit you well from the start, preferably ones with laces as an additional option, and meet the specs that you need for your job.  But what should you even be looking for in zipper work boots?

What to Look for in Zipper Work Boots

When you are looking for zipper work boots, your search criteria will be much of the same as when you look for work boots that lace up. Once you have determined that you want zipper work boots, you will eliminate many options and make your final selection process a bit easier.

Overall, there are five main things to look for in zipper work boots, including:

• Comfort & Fit
• Location of Zipper
• Traction
• Waterproof & Breathability
• Shock Absorption

One of the main concerns that deters people from zipper work boots are that they do not fit as snugly as boots that lace up and can be adjusted. That is why it is important from the start to find zipper work boots that fit you very well and are comfortable. There are also many zipper work boots that also have laces. Be sure to try them on with the type of socks you normally wear at work and be conscious of any areas that feel tight or loose.

Whether or not you want a zipper on the back, front or side of the boot is also important. This is generally a preference that people have and is something to keep in mind through the process.

Another important element of work boots is traction. You want to focus on your job and not worry about slipping and sliding about. Having boots with great traction will keep you steady and upright, which is important.

Another factor is how waterproof and breathable the work boots are.  If you are working outdoors, especially around bodies of water or where it often rains, you will want to be sure that your work boots rate well in how waterproof they are. Additionally, finding boots that are breathable will help keep your feet – and you – cooler and less sweaty.

Finally, shock absorption is another thing to keep in mind. You want to have boots with good soles that will provide long lasting comfort for the days and nights you’re on your feet.

The Top Five Zipper Work Boots

There are many different options when it comes to zipper work boots. With various brands, models and specs to consider, it is easy to become overwhelmed. That is why we took the time to sort through countless different types of zipper work boots to narrow it down to the top five.

Maelstrom Men’s TAC FORCE 8 Inch Military Tactical Work Boot with Zipper

The 8” Maelstrom Men’s TAC FORCE boots are superior tactical boots that are also affordable. They come in two colors, tan and black, so you can choose your preference, or whatever works best for your uniform requirements.

The Maelstrom Men’s TAC FORCE 8 Inch Military Tactical Work Boot with Zipper are constructed with a combination of leather and fabric. They feature a rubber sole that provides traction and comfort. There is even a shock absorbing cushion that can be removed, which provides comfort for the days you spend a majority of time on your feet.

While these are 8” work boots, the boot shaft measures 7” from the arch and they feature a side zipper as well as laces. The leather is able to be polished so you can keep them looking presentable, and they also feature a moisture-wicking lining that makes them more breathable than some other options.

Additionally, the outsole is slip resistant and can even handle surfaces that have been slicked with oil. If you are looking for tactical zipper work boots, the Maelstrom Men’s TAC FORCE 8 Inch Military Tactical Work Boot with Zipper could be a good option if they fit well.

Thorogood Men’s 8” Side Zip Jump Boot Gen Flex

Thorogood is a strong brand with quality products and the Thorogood Men’s 8” Side Zip Jump Boot Gen Flex does not stray from this notion.

For those that like the look of an all-black boot with a side zipper, the Gen Flex might be a good option. It is constructed with oil tanned leather and a high shine toe cap and heel for added protection. There are also laces so that you can make slight adjustments and ensure that you are met with a comfortable fit every time.

With a Goodyear Welt construction, a Gen EX Dual Density Rubber outsole and two Density Polyurethane Removal inserts, you can rest assured that these boots will provide the long lasting comfort you need. There is also a Dri-Lex Aero-Spacer lining that offers breathability.

These hearty zipper work boots won’t leave marks and are slip resistant. They also offer a shock absorbing midsole to give even more comfort during those long work hours. They are a bit heavier than some of the other options, but the quality is unparalleled when it comes to zipper work boots that are built to last.

Smith & Wesson Breach 2.0 Men’s Tactical Side-Zip Boots

Smith & Wesson are known for quality products and the Smith & Wesson Breach 2.0 Men’s Tactical Side-Zip Boots certainly deliver. These boots feature a side zipper and build on the already successful Breach tactical boots.

They are built to last with tough leather and nylon construction. The gusseted tongue is also great for keeping dirt and stones out of your boots. This is especially crucial if you are always on the go and won’t have time to stop and remove pesky stones or debris from your boots.

The EVA midsole also offers some shock absorption that adds a bit more comfort to the boot. They are more lightweight than some other models, which will save a bit of energy when compared to heavier boots. What they lack in weight, they don’t give up in support and protection. A steel shank is incorporated to keep your feet safe and reduce foot fatigue.

These boots are also slip resistant, which makes them great for work or tactical boots. The rubber outsole is built to increase traction. It is specifically designed to grip dirt, fences, ladders, and even waxed surfaces.

In addition, the all black tactical boots offer laces so that you can secure the perfect fit. These boots are built to last, and if you like the fit, the Smith & Wesson Breach 2.0 might be a great option for you.

Bates Men’s Velocitor Zip Waterproof Work Boot

Another option for quality work boots is the Bates Men’s Velocitor Zip Waterproof Work Boot. These boots come in a sleek all-black design, but also deliver when it comes to performance and comfort.

The leather boots feature a synthetic sole with a YKK nylon side zipper. They are built to last, with a shaft that measures 6” from the arch. If you are looking for a mid-height boot, these could be a solid option. There are also shoelaces to help you adjust the boots for maximum comfort.

The Bates Men’s Velocitor Zip Waterproof Work Boot are waterproof and breathable. This is a great feature, especially if you are working outdoors and often face hot temperatures, high humidity, and rain or bodies of water.

If you are looking for comfort, you can also find that in the Bates Men’s Velocitor Zip Waterproof Work Boot. They offer a dual density cushioned inset and vinyl acetate midsole, as well as a durable rubber outsole and strong arch support. Though these zipper boots are more costly than other options, they are built to last.

Timberland Pro Men’s Valor McClellan 6 Inch Work Boot with Side Zip

The Timberland Pro Men’s Valor McClellan 6 Inch Work Boot with Side Zip are another option when it comes to the top zipper work boots. Timberland is a brand of boots that has been around a long time and they have worked hard to create quality boots that deliver in every category.

These black leather work boots feature a side zipper, as well as laces. This is a great feature to help adjust the boot slightly to give you the best fit possible. The zipper still makes it possible to quickly remove and slip on the boots, which is essential for many lines of employment.

The premium leather uppers keep your feet dry, while the suede linings wick away moisture to keep your feet cooler and less sweaty. For hot and humid work environments, this is crucial. Additionally, these boots provide comfort with leather covered OrthoLite foot beds.

When it comes to performance, the Timberland Pro Men’s Valor McClellan 6 Inch Work Boot with Side Zip also delivers. They offer a durable rubber lug outsole that provides superior traction, even in the slipperiest of situations. If you are looking for zipper work boots that are both sleek in design and provide comfort at an affordable price, the Timberland Pro Men’s Valor McClellan 6 Inch Work Boots are an option to consider.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to remember when you are looking for the best zipper work boots that no one pair of boots is a great fit for everyone. You need to carefully consider what the most important features in a work boot for the type of work that you do are. If you are constantly on your feet then comfort and shock absorption might be most important. If you will be outdoors facing inclement weather, then having a waterproof and breathable work boot will be critical.

Take time to carefully consider different types of zipper work boots and make sure that you try them on. Boots fit differently and you cannot rely on ordering your regular shoe size. For a boot that will be on your foot for long hours almost every day, ensuring that they fit is paramount. If you take time to do the research now, you will be much happier in the long run when you’ve selected the best pair of zipper work boots for yourself.

First of all, let’s get one thing clear; safety and comfort are two factors that aren’t mutually exclusive. Why do I say this? Well, most people (including certain shoe manufacturers) tend to think that for a pair of boots to be comfortable, they need not have safety features and if you want the safety features then you’ll have to compromise on comfort. That isn’t true, people. A pair or work boots can be both very comfortable and still bear the much needed safety features. So, back to my earlier question, what is it that makes a pair of work boots comfortable?

Breathability

This is exactly as it sounds. It’s the ability of a pair of boots to allow the free circulation of air into and out of the boots. And it is one feature that you really need if you’re going to be on your feet all day. Without breathability, our feet tend to sweat a lot due to the heat trapped inside the boots. Then, as a result, our feet will swell causing us untoward discomfort not to mention the ghastly odor that will come wafting out of your boot when you take it off. So, yes, breathability is a factor you should look out for in your work boots. The fabric used is what endows the boot with this quality.

Waterproof

When your work boots are waterproof, you’re assured of your feet remaining dry under wet situations. Moisture inside work boots can cause build up of bacteria that cause foot infections. If you’re working in an area laden with water then a waterproof pair of boots should be the way to go. Again, breathability and being waterproof are not mutually exclusive. Breathability doesn’t necessarily mean pores on the boot’s upper; it just means a build that allows for proper airflow within the boot. Waterproofing, on the other hand, is use of a material and build that keeps water from entering the work boots. Both these feature can be and are found in a single pair.

Shock Absorbing

For greater comfort inside your work boots, there has to be a shock absorbing mechanism built into them. This is usually provided by the outer sole and midsole collaboration. The material used for these needs to be flexible and lightweight, able to provide a cushioning for the feet. Materials like EVA- Ethylene Vinyl Acetate- are known to be quite flexible. It easily compresses to absorb a lot of the shock from a rugged terrain. A rubber material such as Vibram provides maximum traction and bolsters a pair of boots’ shock absorbing quality by giving an excellent grip. With this, you remain stable while your feet sit comfortably in the boots.

Ankle Support

We all know that your ankles are an integral part of your feet. With the right support, they help you maintain proper standing and walking posture, stabilizing your movement with each step. And without the right support, the ankles can feel a huge amount of strain and give in long before you want to. The right work boots take this into account. They ensure your ankles have the required support. Manufacturers design the shafts to provide this much needed support. This also gives the boots an anti-fatigue feature.

Safety Features

The best work boots must have well thought out safety features as well. There’s no point in wearing a pair of comfortable and cuddly pair of boots that are too flimsy to protect your feet inside. You need boots that are rugged and durable. You want boots that remain graceful in the face of perils that threaten the safety of your feet. And you want the boots to provide utmost comfort in the process.

A prime feature is the safety toe protective guards. These are placed on the inside, at the tip of the boot to keep your toes safe. Materials used are steel, aluminum or a composite material. All these have their pros and cons.

Steel is known to be a tough metal that presents a no nonsense aura. It provides prime protection to your feet but tends to be a little bit on the heavy side. In effect, the boots become heavy and thus comfort is compromised. Aluminum, however, is a lightweight material that offers the same level of protection as steel. This would be ideal for those interested in a more comfortable and flexible pair of boots. But for the ultimate comfort and protection, composite materials such as carbon fiber or even Kevlar material are used. These are as rugged and hard wearing as steel but are utterly lightweight.

Protection could extend to the metatarsal area of your foot. This is the top portion of your foot that curves from your toes and rises to your shin. They are found in premium safety boots, for those who are in highly risky work places.

But wait…………

To answer the question, what do we look for in the most comfortable work boots; we look for a hardwearing build. We look for a well thought out design. We look for uncompromised safety. And as we’ve seen, all these can be found in a single pair of boots. The breathability, waterproofing, shock absorbing plus the safety features can all be coalesced into the ultimate pair of work boots. These are the boots that you’ll love to sink your feet into.

Where do you find such work boots, you ask? We’ve done the sifting for you. After scouring the market for the most comfortable work boots, we’ve come up with a list of five of our favorite. Take a look.

Here our top 5 comfortable boots for 2017:

1) TIMBERLAND PRO MEN’S 26078 TITAN 6” WATERPROOF WORK BOOTS

They’re rugged and muscular. They are the true definition of power and strength. From their very look, their mien, everything about them screams assertiveness. There is no doubt that these shoes are made for the tough grind. Perhaps it’s the Timberland brand that creates an air of reassurance. Maybe it’s the way the shoes are designed. Perhaps it’s less of the superficial and more of the intrinsic qualities. I think it’s a combination of all of these. The Timberland Pro work boots are made of premium leather that’s soft and supple to your feet. And the leather comes with its waterproof quality, one that will ensure your feet remain dry inside the Titans.

Your toes are secured by an alloy that is tough yet flexible enough to provide comfort while you’re in motion. This safety toe is also lightweight. See, the Titan’s are both safe and comfortable.

For enhanced breathability, the Titans have moisture channeling spacer mesh linings which provide proper airflow within while maintaining odor control.

The midsoles are made of polyurethane. This is a soft and flexible material which provides cozy cushioning for your feet to rest on. It compresses easily with each step, taking in the rugged nature of the terrain, absorbing shock. It works in tandem with the Timberland PRO rubber outsoles which are not only abrasion and slip resistant but they also provide extra shock absorption.

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2) RED WING HERITAGE MEN’S CLASSIC WORK 6 INCH MOC TOE BOOTS

These are elegant looking boots. They have a beautiful aesthetic and a calm demeanor. But don’t let this fool you. The Red Wings are an excellent pair of tough and durable work boots. They don’t, however,   believe in compromising on looks for strength. With these works of art you get both. And your feet will love you for choosing them. They are made of what Red Wing call copper rough and tough leather. This is the kind of leather that can withstand total punishment that’s characteristic of your day to day work life. The leather also presents the shoes with the perfect level of water proofing, meaning your feet will remain dry inside no matter the situation.

The outsole is made of a rubber material. This isn’t any kind of rubber; it’s Red Wing’s Traction Tred kind. This provides a tremendous amount of grip on whatever surface. And to make it even more comfortable, it has a Good Year Norwegian welt construction. This gives it flexibility together with strength and durability. And we all know how amazing it is to walk in boots that have the Goodyear welt build. Built with ergonomics in mind, the heel is raised to a mere 1 inch. This keeps your foot at the perfect position for comfort while standing up, making these boots great for the workplace.

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3) WOLVERINE MEN’S RAIDER 6” CONTOUR WELT BOOTS

Just like their name, Wolverine, these boots have grit. They are boots with a personality. And it’s a personality that comes off as self assured. When you put them on, you feel that confidence. You immediately know they’ll support you. They have a way of reassuring you of their strength. Still, putting them on and resting your feet on the inner sole, a feeling of comfort transcends from your heel to your toes. They welcome you with warmth and gentleness. Their rugged and tough look certainly belies their ability to snugly embrace your feet. This isn’t an exaggeration. The insole is made of what they call a full cushion Wolverine Multishox material. It is this that gives your foot a supple positioning in the boots giving you the much needed all day comfort.

The upper is made of full grain leather that looks good and acts tough. The leather, as we know, is strong enough to withstand the daily abuse at the action packed work place. On the inside, there’s a mesh lining that provides breathability. Air freely circulates in the boots, keeping your feet cool and dry all day.

Underneath, the Wolverine Raiders have their trademark Multishox lugged rubber outsoles. These provide an excellent level of grip to keep you stably upright even in the face of oil. They are also abrasion resistant and so should stay in good shape for a long time.

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4) THOROGOOD AMERICAN HERITAGE SAFETY TOE BOOTS

Just like the Wolverine boots, these well crafted work boots from Thorogood Company stand tall and confident. They are manly boots made for the man with a desire for comfort and style combined with safety. The American Heritage boots present these qualities that are the hallmarks of excellent work boots. And you’ll certainly love owning this pair. They stand out with their looks. Because of this, you too will stand out. And if standing is your thing, then you’ll find yourself on your feet for a prolonged period without feeling the strain on your feet and ankles. Why is that? Thorogood have built into them, dual density shock absorption insoles. They hug your feet, flexibly taking their shape to give ultimate ergonomics. The midsole is made of PORON 4000, a comfortable cushion rubber which flexibly compresses to provide shock absorption with each step. Then underneath, it has slip resistant outsoles which are made of polyurethane. The 6 inch shaft provides support for your ankles.

For protection and as the cherry on top of these wonderful boots, the tips are reinforced with steel safety toe guards. You need not worry about foot injuries when in the impressive Thorogood American Heritage boots.

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5) CATERPILLAR MEN’S SECOND SHIFT ST WORK BOOTS

Caterpillar has built a reputation of designing and building strong, long lasting, rugged footwear. And the Second Shift work boots are no exception. They proudly bear the CAT brand, wearing the badge with confidence. Seeing this mark of quality, you’re assured of a wonderfully built pair of work boots. And they certainly are. Clad in leather, the material endows the boots with an appealing aesthetic and a durable quality. The leather is capable of withstanding battering from a hectic work life without flinching. The Second Shifts do a good job of keeping your feet protected. With the super strong Steel Toe safety feature, not even a saw will penetrate to your toes. They’re safe inside these boots.

The outsole is made of rubber. They are thus able to resist slips and retain an excellent grip. And working with the insole, the boots provide excellent shock absorption to ensure total comfort while on your feet.

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And so……..

There you have it, the 5 top most comfortable work boots. And they don’t compromise on safety either. Finally, of course cost is always an issue and in this case, cheaper isn’t always expensive. Depending on your work life, choose the right work boots for you. Perhaps you don’t really need the assortment of safety features offered in certain boots. Perhaps your line of work requires you to put safety first. Whatever your budget is, our list above has boots with different levels of safety. What we are certain of is that they all present impeccable levels of comfort.