If you are looking for the best work boots for electricians, the most important factors to consider are their EH rating, durability, and puncture resistance. With these features in mind, I have handpicked my favorite products below. Continue reading on to learn more about why they might matter to you.
When I think about the work of electricians, the first thing on my mind is how dangerous it must be in the worksite. They are likely to be surrounded by live wires, open circuitry, slippery floors, and other hazards that they need to be wary of. That is why it is important to invest in proper footwear to keep you safe around the workplace.
In this article, I will discuss the seven best work boots for electricians. Each pair of shoes will include a detailed review as well as a list of the pros and cons. This way, you can easily compare them with one another.
I will also walk you through the factors to consider before buying a pair of work boots. So whether you are clueless or simply want to get the most out of your money, the buying guide below got you covered.
And to sum things up, I will answer some of the frequently asked questions about work boots in general.
So, without any further ado, let us get on with the article!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
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7 Best Work Boots for Electricians
Below are my top picks for the best work boots for electricians. Each pair of safety shoes has an Electrical Hazard (EH) rating on them. That simply means that the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has tested them for their protection against an electrical shock.
1. Irish Setter Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot – Editor’s Pick
The first product on this list of the best electrician work boots is the Irish Setter Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot.
These work boots feature a full-grain leather exterior. The material ensures durability and flexibility to last you for years to come. At the same time, it can resist water and moisture, making it an ideal choice for wet working environments.
Additionally, these waterproof leather boots meet ASTM F2413-11 Safety Standards. Hence, they can protect your feet from electrically energized parts and other electrical hazards.
Moreover, this pair of work boots have a relatively tall shaft. They can keep dirt and other debris from entering the inside of the shoes easily.
There is even a non-woven nylon lining and a Texon insole. These can withstand harsh daily use while ensuring your comfort throughout the day.
Plus, these electrical work boots are relatively easy to care for. Simply wipe or spray the exterior with lukewarm water after using the boots. If necessary, add soap to clean the shoes. Then, allow them to dry naturally.
Finally, the rubber outsoles can provide a strong grip on various surfaces. They are also heat-resistant that can withstand heat up to 475° Fahrenheit.
Most customer reviews for these work boots were also positive. If there is any critique, it would be the small and narrow toe box, which might lead to discomfort over time. A few users also said that the boots require some time to break in.
But as you can see, the pros far outweigh the cons. For this reason, I deemed the Irish Setter Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot as the best work boots for electricians.
Pros:
- The exclusive full-grain leather exterior can guarantee durability and flexibility
- These work boots are safe to use around electrical hazards
- A Texon insole and non-woven nylon lining for all-day comfort and toughness
- Easy to clean boots
- Super grippy and slip-resistant rubber outsoles
Cons:
- A small and narrow toe box might not be suitable for those with wider feet
- The stiff boots require some time to break-in
2. Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6-Inch Composite Safety Toe Waterproof Boots – Runner-Up
The Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock 6-Inch Composite Safety Toe Waterproof Boots is another excellent product worth considering.
These work boots for electricians feature genuine leather material. This construction can resist abrasion, dirt, and moisture. Hence, you can expect that they can withstand harsh daily use.
Additionally, the rubber toe protectors can prevent workplace hazards from damaging your feet.
What’s more, this pair of safety toe boots come with anti-fatigue technology. This comfort system can absorb shock and return energy back to your feet. As such, it can deliver much-needed support and comfort throughout the day.
There is even a tall shaft that measures approximately 6.5 inches from the arch. It can protect your feet against falling dirt and debris that might enter the boots.
Plus, these Timberland men’s work boots include a synthetic sole with deep lugs. They can provide strong traction on various surfaces. At the same time, they are electrical-resistant, which makes them safe to use around electrical hazards.
Finally, Timberland offers a limited one-year warranty. So if the item did not meet your expectations, you can ask for a return or refund with ease.
Despite these benefits, there are still a few downsides to this pair of boots. First, they are relatively bulky and heavy to move around. Second, a few users had difficulty claiming the warranty coverage.
Overall, though, the Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock is still one of the best work boots for electricians today.
Pros:
- Premium waterproof leather work boots can offer durability and flexibility
- Anti-fatigue technology can return energy back to the foot for all-day support and comfort
- Abrasion-, oil-, and slip-resistant TPU outsole
- A tall shaft can keep dirt and debris from entering the boots
- The boots meet ASTM standards
Cons:
- The boots were relatively bulky
- Some users had trouble claiming the warranty of their boots
3. Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance 6-Inch Steel Safety Toe Work Boot
If you like the previous product but prefer a rubber outsole, consider getting the Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance 6-Inch Steel Safety Toe Work Boot.
This pair of work boots use 100% leather material with a waterproof membrane. Together with cement construction, they can offer flexibility, durability, and comfort.
There is also an anti-fatigue technology comfort system to further ensure comfortable wear throughout the day. It uses a shock-absorbing polyurethane footbed that can effectively return energy to your foot.
Furthermore, these electrical work boots feature a mesh antimicrobial lining to prevent foul odors.
Plus, the asymmetrical steel safety toe can offer reliable electrical hazard protection. At the same time, it can ensure a superior fit that can adjust to the contours of your foot.
There are even a puncture-resistant plate and a fiberglass shank for structural support.
Finally, these safety toe work boots also come with a rubber outsole. It can provide a strong grip on various terrains. Thus, there is no need to worry about falling or slipping when you are wearing these shoes.
But before buying this particular product, it is best to consider its downsides. First, some users noticed that the sole started to crack after a few months of use. Second, a few customers also said that the toe box was narrow, which might not fit those with wider feet.
With that said, the Timberland PRO Endurance series includes a 30-Day Comfort Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the boots, feel free to return them.
Pros:
- Premium full-grain leather with a waterproof membrane
- Anti-fatigue technology can relieve pressure off your foot for all-day comfort
- Antimicrobial lining to prevent foul odors
- Asymmetrical steel safety toe with electrical hazard protection
- Slip-resistant rubber outsoles
- A 30-day comfort guarantee allows you to return the boots
Cons:
- The toe box tend to be narrow, which might not fit those with wider feet
- A few users said that the sole started to crack after a few months of use
4. WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6-Inch Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot
The WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6-Inch Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot features both leather and textile material. The former offers durability and waterproofing to keep your feet dry. Meanwhile, the latter ensures breathability. And when paired with the Contour Welt construction, these work boots can bend and flex at the essential points.
Additionally, this pair of work boots for electricians include a removable Ortholite cushioned footbed. It provides much-needed comfort when working long shifts.
Moreover, the composite toecap meets ASTM standards, making the boots safe around electrical hazards. At the same time, it is lighter and thinner to ensure a better fit.
Plus, the tall five-inch shaft can keep dirt and debris from entering the inside of the shoes.
Finally, these work boots for electricians come with a rubber sole. It can deliver a strong grip on slippery surfaces.
There are still a few downsides to this product, though. First, the boots tend to be clunky when moving around. Second, a few users were also disappointed with the plastic build of the eyelets and hooks.
Nevertheless, I think the WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6-Inch Composite Toe Boot is among the best work boots for electricians today.
Pros:
- 100% leather and textile boots offer breathability, durability, and waterproofing
- A flexible Contour Welt can move with you by bending at essential points
- A removable Ortholite cushioned footbed to ensure all-day comfort
- Composite safety toe meets ASTM standards to ensure electrical hazard protection
- Abrasion-, chemical-, oil-, and slip-resistant rubber sole
Cons:
- The boots were clunky when moving around
- The eyelets and hooks use plastic construction, which made them prone to breaking easily
5. Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe Work Boots
Do you want a pair of boots ideal for both outdoor and industrial applications? Then, the Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe Work Boots might be the right product for your needs.
These working boots for electricians boast an oil-tanned and full-grain leather exterior. This material can offer durability and waterproofing to keep your feet dry.
Additionally, this pair of boots meet ASTM F3445-21 slip-resistance standards and ASTM F2892-18 electrical hazard safety standards. Hence, they can ensure your safety around the workplace.
Furthermore, the removable footbed uses dual-density polyurethane concentrated under the heel and various ball-strike zones. It can help absorb shock and impact to maintain the shape of the boots under heavy use.
There is even six-inch flexible ankle support to keep debris and dirt from entering the shoes.
Plus, the Goodyear Storm Welt construction provides superior wear-resistant to ensure long-lasting men’s work boots.
On top of all these benefits, the moc toe work boots are available in five different colors and designs. Feel free to choose one that best suits your personal style.
Lastly, these Thorogood boots include slip-resistant outsoles. They can deliver stability on flat, wet, and oily surfaces.
Despite these advantages, there are still a few downsides to consider. First, some users said that the boots were painful to break in. Second, a few customers also noticed a squeaking sound when walking on some surfaces.
Overall, though, the Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe is among the best work boots for electricians.
Pros:
- Durable and waterproof full-grain leather work boots
- Slip-resistant and electrical hazard safe shoes
- Fiberglass shank construction can absorb shock and impact
- Goodyear welt construction provides superior wear resistance
- Slip-resistant outsoles give you much-needed stability on various surfaces
Cons:
- Some users said that the boots were painful to break in
- A few customers also noticed squeaking when walking on some surfaces
6. KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
Those who prefer a lightweight pair of work boots can invest in the KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot.
They use 100% textile material to deliver breathability and flexibility. Together with the waterproof membrane liner, these boots can keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Additionally, this pair of waterproof men’s boots include a mesh liner. It can let vapor out without letting moisture in. Hence, it can help the boots dry quickly.
Moreover, there is a full-length thermoplastic polyurethane shank that gives much-needed stability and support. At the same time, it is electrical hazard-rated to protect you from live electrical circuits.
Plus, the anatomically correct steel-toe delivers a roomier toe box. It can guarantee maximum comfort and unobtrusive fit. There is even the benefit of added protection from falling dirt and debris.
Finally, these men’s work boots feature a slip-resistant rubber sole. It can improve traction on various surfaces.
But before finalizing your purchasing decision, it is best to consider the downsides of these boots. First, the laces use lower quality materials, which make them easy to break. Second, a few users said that the boots were uncomfortable for those with flat feet.
Regardless of these, the KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing is among the best steel toe work boots for electricians.
Pros:
- Waterproof men’s work boots use 100% textile
- The breathable liner provides comfort and natural odor protection
- TPU shank gives additional stability and support
- A durable steel-toe design can keep your feet safe from electrical hazards and falling debris
- Slip-resistant and non-marking rubber outsoles for improved traction
Cons:
- The laces are made of low-quality materials, which make them prone to breaking
- A few users said that the boots were uncomfortable for those with flat feet
7. Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Boot
The last product on this list of the best work boots for electricians is the Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Boot.
These men’s work boots use a high-quality full-grain leather exterior. This material offer durability and waterproofing to keep your feet dry.
Additionally, the engineered nylon mesh lining offers breathability and comfort throughout the day.
What’s more, this pair of work boots for electricians feature a steel shank. It delivers additional support and stability around the workplace. At the same time, it provides protection against live electrical circuits.
Plus, these boots include a lace-up closure, hex-shaped grommets, and plush collar. Together with the tall shaft, they can prevent falling dirt and debris from entering the inside of the shoes.
Finally, the slip-resistant rubber outsole ensures a strong grip on low-traction surfaces. So whether you are walking on slippery surfaces or rough terrains, these work boots can keep you stable.
There are still a few downsides to this product, though. First, the tongue width tends to be narrow, which makes it hard to get on and off the boots. Second, a few users said that the grip of the soles was not as strong on loose ground.
Nevertheless, the Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Work Boot is still one of the best men’s work boots for electricians today.
Pros:
- Genuine leather material can ensure durability and waterproofing
- Engineered nylon mesh lining delivers breathability and comfort
- Goodyear welt construction for flexibility and electrical hazard protection
- A lace-up closure system can keep falling dirt and debris from entering the boots
- A slip-resistant rubber outsole ensures a strong grip on low traction surfaces
Cons:
- The tongue width was narrow, which make it hard to get on and off the boots
- The grip of the soles was not as strong on loose surfaces
How to Choose the Best Electrician Work Boots
If you are still clueless about which pair of electrician work boots to purchase, do not worry!
Below, I will discuss the factors you need to consider before buying a pair of work boots. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you can now be more confident in making a purchasing decision.
EH Rating
The electrical hazard or EH rating is perhaps the most important factor to consider before buying a pair of work boots for electricians.
You need to ensure the boots comply with OSHA standards. That means the boots can withstand 8,000 volts for at least a minute without transferring the shock to your body.
At the same time, you need to look for a stamp of approval from the ASTM. That simply indicates the boots meet electrical safety standards. So if you ever walk on live wires by mistake or come close to areas with a buildup of static electricity, the boots can keep you safe.
Durability and Build Quality
Another important factor to consider is the durability of the work boots. Check the material used carefully. Most manufacturers can use different techniques to lower costs without compromising the quality of the shoes.
If possible, invest in a pair of boots with Goodyear welt construction. It can offer durability and shock-absorption properties that can last you for many years to come.
Slip and Puncture Resistance
You might also want to think about the sole of the boots. Go for thick outsoles made from rubber or Vibram. These are usually slip-resistant, so you do not have to worry about falling on slick or hard surfaces on the worksite.
You should also look for boots that can withstand punctures. That is because you are likely to come across broken glass, stray nails, and other sharp objects on construction sites. Hence, you will need a pair of shoes that can protect your feet. Consider work boots with thin metal or composite plates to prevent punctures from making their way through.
Toe Protection
If you want to ensure further protection, invest in work boots with durable toe caps. Look for those with steel or composite material to protect your toes from falling objects and crushing injuries.
You can also go with metal toe caps. Just make sure to check that the material is not touching the toes or the outside of the boot. It is best if the toe caps are sandwiched between two layers of rubber to keep electricians safe.
Comfort and Fit
It is also best to ensure that the work boots fit you perfectly. Make sure to choose the right size for comfortable wear throughout the day.
Try on the boots in-store before buying them. But if you are shopping online, it is best to check the sizing chart of the manufacturer. You might also want to read some customer reviews to determine if the sizes run large or small. Doing so ultimately helps you choose the most secure fit for your foot.
Shaft Height
The shaft height is another essential factor to consider before buying work boots for electricians.
If you tend to move around a lot on your worksite, it is best to get low-cut boots. They tend to be lightweight, so it is easy to traverse from one place to another.
However, those who will encounter falling debris or varying wetness can benefit more from boots with a tall shaft. They usually have a mesh tongue and adjustable laces that give you support and protection. They can even prevent dirt from entering the inside of the boots.
Warranty
Finally, consider buying a pair of work boots for electricians with a warranty. Go for a longer coverage period because it usually indicates higher quality materials. It also tells you how much confidence the manufacturer has over their products. Most importantly, it allows you to request a refund or return if the boots did not meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my boots be waterproof?
You will likely encounter wet surfaces, regardless of how dry the climate is where you are working. And even if you stay solely indoors for your work, you should still consider a pair of waterproof work boots. These can keep your feet dry and comfortable. They can also prevent foul odors from forming.
With that said, you might still want to use a good waterproofing product every few months to further seal out moisture.
Should I buy insulated work boots?
If you work outdoors in very cold climates, you might want to invest in a pair of insulated work boots. Check the insulation weight of the shoes. It usually varies from 200 to 1,000 grams of weight. The higher the number, the warmer the boots can be. For instance, 200 grams of insulation might be enough for cold, windy days. But for freezing conditions, it is best to get the highest possible insulation.
Do note that insulated boots also have a few downsides. For one, they can get pretty warm when you are working indoors.
How to take care of leather work boots?
Leather work boots can last you for years as long as you take care of them properly.
Always make sure to remove stubborn dirt from the exterior by wiping them off after every use. Get a soft-bristled brush and warm water to get rid of any stuck-on debris. Then, apply a leather cleaner by following the directions of the manufacturer. Finally, use a leather conditioner to preserve the material. But if you are concerned with color changes, you can test it first in an inconspicuous area.
Conclusion
There you have it—my top picks for the best work boots for electricians! I highly recommend each pair because they meet electrical hazard safety standards while having a durable and comfortable
But if I can only pick one, it would be the Irish Setter Men’s 6-Inch Work Boot. The full-grain leather material can resist water, moisture, and heavy use. Additionally, these work boots come with a non-woven nylon lining and a Texon insole for all-day comfort. Furthermore, they use slip-resistant rubber soles that can provide a strong grip on various terrains. At the same time, they can withstand heat up to 475° Fahrenheit. Finally, they pass electrical hazard safety standards to keep you safe around the workplace.