10 Best Roofing Boots for Roofers
While many jobs require you to be wary about where you step, most pale in comparison to the roofing industry. It’s a high-risk job that puts you in precarious situations every day.
Not only do you have to worry about the common hazards associated with roofing jobs, but also that you are at least 10 feet off the ground.
One misstep can cause you to fall off the roof and experience a significant injury. If you happen to be working in inclement weather conditions, like in the rain, that risk rises exponentially.
One of your best lines of defense against possible injury is quality footwear. The right pair of roofing boots or shoes can help you stay stable and protected from a variety of hazards.
What Type of Shoes Do Roofers Wear?
With that being said, everyday work footwear simply won’t cut it. You need to invest in footwear that’s designed to target the unique obstacles you’ll be facing.
Your footwear should give you the ability to work confidently no matter what. This feature will help you find the best roofing boots that will keep you safe and protected while on the job.
10 Best Roofing Boots
Timbaland Pro Work Boots
With its unique wedge sole and strong tread design, these roofing boots from Timberland can serve you well as you work. The rubber sole is slip and oil resistant. The exterior of the boots is also resistant to abrasions.
They’re made from durable full-grain leather. On the back of the boots is a leather pull. This allows you to slip the boots on comfortably at a moment’s notice.
Inside is a rigid EVA midsole. It supports your arch as you work and helps to reduce fatigue once you get off.
Timberland set new industry standards for craftsmanship, durability, and protection when it introduced an authentic, waterproof leather boot in 1973. A global leader in the design, engineering, and marketing of premium footwear, Timberland values consumers who cherish the outdoors and their time in it.
Pros
- Seam-sealed waterproof
- Electrical hazard standards compliant
- Odor control
Cons
- The sole is not very long-lasting
Wolverine Overpass Composite-Toe Boot
The overpass fuses wolverine’s innovative technologies for the ultimate combination of comfort and performance.
Its carbon max toe-cap is lighter weight and thinner for a better fit. The contoured and motion max technologies allow the boot to bend and flex at essential points for maximum performance.
The overpass also features a waterproof plus a breathable membrane to ensure your feet stay dry in all work conditions.
The Shaft measures approximately 5″ from the arch. It is a flexible, athletic Contour Welt construction that moves with you by bending and flexing at essential points
A removable Ortholite cushioned footbed guarantees all-day comfort. The unique feature in this boot and what makes it rank alongside the best roofing boots out there is the premium waterproof leather with an abrasion-resistant toe.
Pros
- Good ankle support
- Comfortable & Flexible
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Takes a while to break-in
- Mediocre arch support
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe Work Boot
The Bull Run is a utilitarian work boot with a timeless design that stays in style when you punch out. The full-grain leather upper is the perfect blend of strong and soft. Combine that with the sturdy Danner Wedge outsole and you get all-day comfort that lasts.
On the outside, the Bull Run emulates a classic work boot. With the Bull Run, the classic design is updated with modern comfort.
The fit has been re-engineered to flow with the anatomy of the foot and to allow room for a soft and sturdy footbed, creating a fit focused on both comfort and long-lasting support.
At Danner, they are craftsmen. They pay attention to details. They forgo quantity for quality, with the knowledge that the boots they craft are no better than the hands that create them.
Among the best quality roofing boots for the price.
Pros
- Affordable
- Moisture-wicking
- Great traction
- Supportive
- Great for warm weather
Cons
- Heavy
- Small toe box
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boot
This shoe has a high-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability, and slip resistance providing convenience on your feet. Targeted heel cushioning improves overall comfort by reducing stress on your foot with each step.
The leather and mesh upper provides breathability and durability on the trail.
The Moab 2s are a softer-feeling boot, but the sole sports Vibram durability and performance, and that’s where the rubber quite literally meets the road (or trail). The TC5+ compound isn’t Vibram’s most high-performance compound, but it gripped well on granite made slick in Colorado’s soggy spring thaw.
The relatively deep (quarter-inch) lugs held their own on muddy trails and gravel alike. I thought the sole was thin enough near the forefoot to allow for some flexibility and improve the grip.
Easily one of the best roofing boots you will find out there.
Pros
- Highly protective
- Puncture-resistant
- Minimal foot fatigue
- Great traction
Cons
- Minimal arch support
- Slippery laces
- Small toe box
Caterpillar Steel-Toe Waterproof Boot
The Second Shift Steel Toe work boot delivers protection, comfort, and durability to get you through your day regardless of the work at hand. Rugged styling and quality leathers make this boot an easy everyday choice on and off the job.
The Climasphere breathable insole keeps your foot comfortable. Engineered nylon mesh lining optimizes breathability and comfort. A removable PU footbed provides all-day comfort.
A quality oiled full-grain or nubuck leather uppers deliver long-term durability and protection.EH – Electrical Hazard, the Electrical Hazard footwear is rated ASTM F2413-18 1/75EH.
Special EH construction protects the wearer against open circuits up to 14,000 volts in dry conditions.
These Steel Toe roofing boots are rated ASTM F2413-18 1/75 C/75 – the highest available strength for impact and compression.
The Second Shift Steel Toe work boot delivers protection, comfort, and durability to get you through your day regardless of the work at hand. Rugged styling and quality leathers make this boot an easy everyday choice on and off the job.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Light
- Great traction
- Anti-microbial
Cons
- Medium life for the sole
- Short laces
Ariat Terrain Leather Outdoor Hiking Boots
If a rainy forecast never stops you from getting your roofing work done, you want the Ariat terrain hiking and roofing boots. Their oiled, waterproof coating and rubber soles will keep your feet dry.
You’ll also be comfy on your climb thanks to padding throughout the interior and a gel-cushioned footbed with a heel stabilizer. If you wear them down, all you have to do is order replacement insoles to extend the life of the shoe.
Some reviewers say the full-grain leather cracks over time, but one could argue it just adds character. These roofing boots come in sizes 5.5-11 and note that “B” means medium and “C” means wide.
Pros
- Great ankle support
- Comfortable
- Thick soles
Cons
- Poor arch support
- Narrow fit
Skechers Holdredge Rebem Work Boot
The Holdredge Rebem work boot from Skechers Work offers a sporty type with tough protection to keep you performing at your best in difficult work environments.
Scuff-resistant smooth leather upper. Hiker-style work boot with a steel toe design. Synthetic overlays and ripstop mesh fabric panels for added breathability. Contrast-colored side overlay detail with contrast stitching accents.
Durable toe and heel bumper overlay panels. Traditional lace-up design with metal top eyelet for a more secure fit. Pull-on rear loop for easy entry. The padded collar and tongue added extra comfort while in motion.
Soft fabric boot lining offers breathable comfort. Relaxed Fit® design for a roomy comfortable fit. Gel Infused Memory Foam cushioned comfort insole. Shock-absorbing midsole for added support. The flexible rubber outsole is slip-resistant and provides excellent traction.
Easily one of the best roofing shoes on the market today.
Pros
- Light
- Comfortable
- Great traction
- Supportive
Cons
- Short laces
- Medium-life for the sole
- Mediocre boot opening
Carhartt Composite Toe Boot
These Carhartt boots are ideal for men that work roofing jobs with electrical hazards. With their composite toe that’s mildly protective against less vigorous impacts, they’re also ASTM 2413-11 EH rated.
Besides, they’re resistant to oil, slips, as well as chemicals, which wins them a lot of points on the versatility scale.
Even though these roofing boots are in the affordable price range, they have a pretty sturdy, reliable construction. Their brown oil-tanned leather uppers are puncture and water-resistant, while the rubber soles provide good traction.
These roofing boots are light, crafted with the Rugged Flex technology that entails adding multiple polyurethane layers beneath the insoles for maximum cushioning. The string tie boot laces are very secure, just like the 6-inch shaft that provides optimal ankle support.
However, the cement welt construction isn’t that great for rugged environments, nor for extended use, although it’s really flexible and it’s among the best for walking on concrete. Still, remember that these boots aren’t for very cold weather either, and they’re also not waterproof.
Definitely a contender for the best roofing boots.
Pros
- Light and sturdy
- Affordable
- Good traction
- Good ankle support
Cons
- Not for very rugged environments
- Unsuitable for cold weather
- Not waterproof
Larnmern Steel Toe Boots
The Static Dissipative Moisture Wicking Insole – This pair of safety steel toe roofing boots have anti-static wires sewn on the insole to prevent static electricity.
The insole has a moisture-wicking function and arch support for more comfortable wear. The upper is designed with reflective strips to improve the safety of working roofing jobs at night.
These steel toe work boots are made of leather+TPU+mesh. Improve wear resistance while avoiding boots that are too heavy and reducing the burden of work.
An integrated tongue design prevents sand or foreign objects from falling into your safety roofing boots. The ankle part is filled with cotton material to fully protect your ankle while keeping warm.
The outsole is made of rubber and phylon with special lines, and meet ASTM2413-18 safety standards and the demand of those who work in demanding environments. Relax and work confidently even on smooth ground with these slip-resistant safety shoes.
Pros
- Anti-fatigue and Anti-slip
- Good ankle support
- Waterproof
- Anti-microbial and Fast lacing
Cons
- Not for cold weather
- Run a bit large
Ever Boots Leather Work Boots
This roofing boot is designed with premium 2.0MM Nubuck leather to provide a comfortable fit with durability. Each boot comes built with insulated mesh lining that consistently keeps your foot warm and comfortable, even during the longest workdays.
Designed with the toughest construction, Goodyear Welt provides an affordable and dependable all-around boot.
These roofing boots are more traditional, but with extra features that make them a strong contender for outdoor work in relatively dry conditions.
The insulated mesh lining features just enough insulation for warmth without adding extra weight where it’s not needed. For cooler climates, the boots are made to run large to accommodate sock layers.
If you’re a construction worker, take note of the steel shank that decreases pressure against the arch of the foot when climbing up and down ladders.
The only downside with these roofing boots is they’re not waterproof, but the leather construction is naturally water-resistant and durable.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Great traction
- Moisture-wicking
- Great for warm weather
Cons
- Not great for cold weather
What to look for Before Buying Roofing Boots
Durability
When it comes to choosing the best roofing boots, durability is one factor that is a must check. While working, your boots are prone to significant abrasive damage caused by rough shingles, which will eat away your boots. As such, cheap roofing boots will not last you long.
To ensure that your roofing boots will hold up to the test of time, we advise choosing roofing boots that are made of a durable material like leather.
This is due to the fact that leather is naturally a resilient material. Due to its thickness, leather provides protection from dangerous obstacles, ensuring that your feet stay protected.
Overall, it’s important to invest in high-quality uppers that are built to keep you safe from all types of injuries.
Traction
Falls are the biggest danger you’ll face while working as a roofer. In fact, approximately 39% of fatalities in the construction industry are a result of falling according to OSHA.
It’s in your best interest to invest in roofing boots that have a solid grip wherever you go. Also, remember to invest in a good tool belt for roofers.
The quality of the outsole plays a significant role. The best roofing boots have a thick outsole, made from quality materials like rubber.
You should also pay attention to the treads on the outsole. Thin treads are normally good for roofing boots.
There shouldn’t be any deep lugs or cutouts. This unique design maximizes the contact between the roofing material and the sole.
Avoid roofing boots that are too smooth or include prominent lugs that can cause you to lose your balance.
Shock Resistance
Although you might not be dealing with electrical equipment, risks may still be present. Certain homes might contain live wires on the roof, while some have electrical connections to the local power grids on the roof as well.
Shock-resistant roofing boots can help you stay safe. They utilize a thick rubber sole. Rubber will not conduct electricity and this can effectively reduce the flow of electricity if you get shocked. They help to keep you grounded.
Fit
Pull-on roofing boots aren’t a good idea when you’re navigating a sloped roof. Laced roofing boots are better because they can provide you with a snug fit every time and at various points on your foot.
The lacing system should start on the top of your foot and extend up to the top of the tongue. Another essential feature to look out for is how secure the laces are. Tripping on loose shoelaces is common among roofers. If that happens on a roof, the results can be severe.
Comfort
Comfort is an important feature to consider when looking for the best roofing boots. Roofing boots are worn for hours at a time and are often used when you’re performing strenuous physical activities.
To ensure that you’re comfortable enough to work all day long, look for built-in features like cushioning and support.
The soles of your feet should be guarded against blisters with a soft and comfortable lining. The best roofing boots are designed to absorb some of the force of impact and spread it evenly across your feet, hence preventing common foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
You should also choose the right roofing boots depending on your work environment. For instance, if you work under the blazing sun, it’s important to choose roofing boots with great ventilation and sweat control features. This will enhance the comfortability of your roofing boots.
Roofing boots made for hot environments have small holes or mesh fabric to promote air circulation.
If you work in a colder environment, it’s a good idea to get insulated footwear. Insulation can help regulate your body temperature by creating a thick barrier around your foot.
With the right roofing boots, you can work guaranteed that all the bases are covered. You’ll be able to work confidently and focus on the job at hand. We hope this guide will help you choose the best roofing boots.