The Best Work Boots for Framing

Framers need to tackle various construction duties on-site. These jobs range from building walls to fixing beams. Hence, they need protective gear to perform tasks safely in different scenarios. These pieces of equipment include gloves, goggles, work boots, and helmets. Wearing the correct protective equipment, especially the best work boots for framing, helps these professionals complete framing jobs efficiently and safely.

Today, several work boot manufacturers produce durable, stylish, and cheap work boots for various house framing tasks. Some of these work boots stand above the rest in different factors, such as comfort, durability, and style.

Dive deeper into this article, and you will find several excellent work boots for carpenters fit for framing.

Best Work Boot for Framing Reviews

1. KEEN Utility Alloy Toe Work Boot

The Keen Utility San Jose Work Boot is among my favorite on this list for plenty of good reasons.

First, this work boot might be the most comfortable piece of footwear I’ve tried. It has an asymmetrical design, which means both the left and right foot won’t bump into each other while walking or framing. This boot also has a contoured design, allowing it to match the contours of the feet. Hence, wearing it doesn’t suffocate the feet.

Don’t forget about its Underfoot Cushioning made with the KEEN Luftcell: Air-infused, PU midsole. It provides extra comfort without the additional weight.

However, comfort isn’t the only excellent aspect of this work boot. Its breathable leather lining ensures the feet stay nice and dry, perfect for those difficult framing jobs.

Another feature worth mentioning is this boot’s outsole. It’s made out of oil and slip-resistant rubber, ensuring stability while traversing beams and certain safety hazards at the construction site.

Next, this particular work boot also has a safety toe cap made of aluminum. This material is lighter than steel, which reduces the boot overall weight to about 26 oz. (737 g). Therefore, it doesn’t feel like lugging heavyweights wrapped around the ankles and feet.

Furthermore, aluminum tends to be cheaper than steel, allowing the boot to have a reasonable price tag. Although it might not be the cheapest work boot on the market, it’s also not the most expensive.

Perhaps the only shortcoming of this work boot is its laces. The shoelaces match the design of the boot, but they can’t seem to take much abuse. This can become an issue for some users, especially for framers that work in rough environments.

2. Golden Fox Toe Wedge Work Boot

Framers and boot enthusiasts rejoice with the Golden Fox Moc Toe Wedge work boot, thanks to its reasonable price tag and astounding features.

One of those features is its water-repellent tight grain leather. This boot also has moisture-wicking fabric for additional insulation in cold weather. Such features improve the versatility of this footwear, making it ideal for different applications like hiking, walking, and, of course, framing.

Furthermore, its steel shank helps provide extra support for the foot’s arch. This component helps remove unwanted pressure occurring when we stand or walk on uneven surfaces.

Also, its weight is about 53 oz. (1,503 g.), which means it’s a bit heavier than other items on this list. If you desire a super lightweight pair, this one might not meet your expectations. However, justifying that extra heft is a bevy of functionalities that promote extra durability.

The lining also provides the footwear with extra longevity as it shapes the shoes longer than unlined models. Hence, it’s possible to wear this boot for years and on different framing jobs.

It’s also Goodyear Welt constructed, creating a sturdy bond between its uppers and outsole. With this construction, it prevents sole separation. I can also replace the sole if I desire, and it’s all thanks to this feature.

3. Irish Setter’s 838 Upland Hunting Boot

Despite the word ‘hunting’ in its name, Irish Setter’s 838 Wingshooter Hunting Boot can also be your next pair of work boots for carpenters.

If there’s one word that can best describe this boot, it’s ‘comfortable.’ I was amazed by the comfort levels presented by this piece of footwear. In detail, it uses UltraDry Waterproofing technology and moisture-wicking nylon lining, ensuring the feet stay dry and breathable despite the rain and perspiration.

Specially designed for EVA foam midsoles deliver suitable underfoot cushioning. Hence, it’s possible to frame a house for an entire day while your feet stay comfy.

excellent comfort with a durable design. The combination of ideal comfort levels and waterproofing technology makes wearing this shoe a joy, even for extended periods. I can even use it as an everyday boot.

Furthermore, this boot has a steel support shank coupled with a heel molded counter. These features grant users extra protection, especially in moving around a busy construction site.

Like other items on this list, this boot also comes with the Goodyear Welt construction. This means that I can enjoy high-quality durability and stability, especially in construction sites.

4. Caterpillar Steel Toe Work Boot

Comfort, durability, and protection – these are the main qualities of Caterpillar’s Second Shift Work Boot. Caterpillar is known for its sturdy heavy equipment, and the same principles apply for this shoe.

Kicking off its list of durability features is its 100% leather build. This means I can expect these boots to remain tough for decades. It also comes with a padded ankle to ensure comfort stays, regardless if it’s a framing job or casual walking.

Its heel measures about 1.25” and its platform is approximately 0.75”. This thickness translates to safe walks over various terrains, especially glass.

As for the shoe shaft, it measures about 6 inches from the arch. With this height, along with its tough leather construction, this work boot protects the ankle and heel from debris with tenacity.

The steel toe on this construction boot holds up when I kick different objects. It remains sturdy as it takes abuse from kicking brick, concrete, dirt, mud, and the occasional power tools.

5. Carhartt CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot

Carhartt brings classic work boot design with modern features with its CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot.

In this model, style meets functionality with its full-grain leather material. It provides water-resistance while ensuring my ankles stay safe and protected at all times. Couple that feature with its hard-wearing string laces that stay tied and my feet are happy with this high-level of security.

Keep in mind that this boot is water-resistant and not waterproof. Some users might this aspect to be a deal-breaker. But, a little shoe care from working in a damp environment can go a long way.

Adding to its durability-focused set of features is the use of the Rugged Flex technology. With it, the shoe moves and stretches, keeping the feet comfortable without deteriorating the footwear.

Its rubber sole absorbs shock efficiently, allowing superb traction when walking on both dry and slippery surfaces. I can walk on wet support beams at the job site or a dry sidewalk and feel safe, knowing that I won’t slip and fall. Moreover, the rubber soles also provide extra security when we walk over electrical hazards.

6. Wolverine Soft Toe Work Boot

With the Wolverine Floorhand Waterproof Soft Toe Work Boot, I may never have to buy another pair of construction shoes again.

This boot has a removable, full-cushion footbed. So, if a time comes when the footbed is no longer comfortable because of wear and tear, you can replace this part instead of purchasing another shoe.

This work boot also has a rubber sole that provides excellent traction when walking on slippery areas while on the job. Stepping on electrical equipment will no longer create worry since the rubber material is a great electrical insulator.

Adding to its list of protection-focused features is its 6″ shaft and full-grain weatherproof leather. The latter component protects your feet from becoming wet while working in the rain. It also protects these work boots for contractors from potential water damage.

Also, it only weighs about 32 oz. (907 g.), so I can wear it for the entire day without feeling weary. In comparison, it’s possible to find work boots that weigh over 50 oz. (1417 g.).

Note that these boots are good, if not great options for framing jobs. But, the durability could use some work, particularly for the soles.

7. ROCKROOSTER AK227 Work Boots

With the ROCKROOSTER AK227 Boots, I can save money from buying other expensive work footwear. Furthermore, I gain more value than the cash spent from buying these shoes.

To put things into perspective, this boot isn’t the most expensive or the cheapest work shoes on the market. But, the list of quality features it carries delivers more value than its price tag.

To start, it has a design that screams ‘busy.’ Make no mistake as this shoe is perfect for welders, heavy-industry workers, and construction staff. But, I can also wear it on a casual walk around the park with a pair of jeans to complete the ‘working man’ look.

Aside from its work-focused style, this boot also has COOLMAX technology fabric. With it, this footwear moves moisture away from its main body, keeping the feet cool and dry, Hence, it offers extreme comfort regardless of different weather conditions.

Other parts of the shoe have the PORON Xrd fabric. This material promotes several benefits, including extra comfort, breathability, endurance, and repeated impact protection.

Its outsole is a static dissipative, non-slip TPU material. This feature provides ideal levels of traction and slip-resistance, even on oily surfaces.

Looking at the inside, there’s an anti-fatigue memory foam insole for additional comfort. Then, there’s the anatomically-contoured footbed that ‘hugs’ the toes to provide optimal comfort and support.

8. Timberland PRO Steel Toe Boot

Timberland sets the standards for work boots with its Pit Boss Steel Toe Boot. This boot boasts safety, toughness, and comfort in a complete package.

These work boots have a 100% leather construction that meets ANSI safety standards. Plus, it has abrasion-, oil-, and slip-resistant outsoles. These elements promote excellent traction regardless of the surface. You can also rely on the padded top collars for extra comfort.

Speaking of comfort, this shoe is constructed with PRO 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology. This proprietary technology from the brand allows 24 hours a day, 7 days a week comfort without significant fatigue. It also has anti-fatigue insoles that can handle the most demanding environments without letting the feet gain major exhaustion.

Let’s not forget that these shoes are waterproof. Thus, I won’t have to worry about damaging the boot’s fabric if I’m walking under a torrential downpour. Plus, it keeps the feet nice and dry.

Note that this boot’s shaft measures about 5.5” and the heel is about 1.5” in height. With these figures, it provides great protection to the ankle and heel.

9. KEEN 1018937 Voyageur

The 1018937 Voyageur from KEEN is living a hybrid life. Treks from beaches, mountains, concrete, and busy construction sites become a breeze with this boot.

Unlike other shoes on this list, particularly those made with 100% leather, this boot has a 100% leather AND textile construction. This choice of materials promotes usage versatility while delivering ideal levels of comfort and durability.

This mix of materials, however, isn’t the best in terms of durability. In other words, this boot isn’t as sturdy as some items on this list. Its toe might even be comparable to some Red Wing boots. Additionally, users constantly walking over rough terrain might find the tread falling apart quickly.

Nonetheless, its vented design promotes breathability, a feature that’s not present in many work boots out there. Air can easily pass through the shoe, preventing smelly feet because of lingering sweat. It might be 2 PM as I walk under the hot sun, and my feet remain nice and dry.

Its rubber sole and metatomical EVA footbed present extra layers of comfort. Furthermore, the contoured heel lock ensures that the back of the shoe conforms to the ankle area. This design choice reduces the risks of potential blisters.

10. LARNMERN Steel Toe Boots

What do you get when you combine dust-, puncture, slip-, and static-resistance? The LARNMERN Steel Toe Boots.

Its steel toe cap and midsole are puncture-proof that meet the European ASTM F2413 Puncture Resistant Standards. The former element is also smash-resistant, which means a large-enough rock won’t hurt the toes if it comes smashing down the shoe.

This boot also passed the ASTM F2413 Protective Toe Classification, ensuring safety when kick things ranging from soccer balls to sharp nails. It also means that it’s perfect for kicking things aside for clutter-free framing jobs.

Next, the breathable design not only keeps the feet sweat-free, but also keeps dust at bay. As such, a quick tap on the shoe will remove layers of dust without the need for a cloth or rag.

One element that’s not present in other boots on this list is the presence of reflective strips. These components illuminate when struck with light, which makes working at night safer than before. Plus, these strips dissipate static, making traversal through electrical equipment safe.

Moving forward, this boot’s outsole is abrasion-, oil-, and slip-resistant. It even meets the EN ISO 20345:201 safety standards.

As for the insole, it has a breathable cotton fabric with a sweat-absorbing function. Couple this feature with the breathable design, and the feet stay comfortable and dry, even while working under the intense summer sun.

11. EVER BOOTS Leather Work Boots

Many work boot enthusiasts believe that waterproof shoe technology equates to the EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry” Work Boots.

The company is sure about its boot’s waterproof claims. If this boot obtains natural damages from water hazards, the brand can help in resolving the issue.

The “Ultra Dry” claim is no joke, as its uppers, lining, laces, and stitching are all waterproof. The outsole, on the other hand, isn’t waterproof. But, it still promotes an excellent degree of water resistance.

Piecing together these different waterproof materials is the polyester lining, delivering excellent insulation. It might be snowing outside, but I’ll know that my feet stay warm inside these shoes.

This piece of footwear is also sufficiently lightweight. Despite the various waterproofing features, EVER BOOTS managed to keep the weight of its boot to about 50 oz. (1,417 g.).

Its construction is also quite flexible. Walking with this shoe creates flex points to conform to the foot’s natural bends while walking.

Then, there’s the anti-fatigue, durable polyurethane midsoles. This features combats foot fatigue. So, walking around construction sites or the neighborhood is still quite comfortable for the feet.

The midsoles are also shock-absorbent, and it does what it’s supposed to do. In detail, it provides proper support for the foot during climbs, walks, and other activities.

12. Thorogood Moc Safety Toe Boot

Since 1892, Thorogood provided the world with quality footwear. Generations of expertise in the shoe-making industry gathered into the American Heritage MAXWear 90 Safety Toe Boot.

Its construction comes with electricity-resisting heels and soles. These elements can even withstand electrical applications up to 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for about a minute under dry conditions.

Continuing its electricity-resisting features is its removable Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed. This component also has the Poron material, allowing the foot to stay comfortable for extended periods.

This Class I/75 footwear has a half-inch clearance at its steel toe, creating sufficient resistance against heavy objects. Thus, if a 50-pound object falls on the shoe near the toe area, the boot will hold strong. It preserves the integrity of the footwear and, most importantly, the foot.

As for its MAXWear 90 moniker, it comes from the slip-resistant outsole. Made with a proprietary single-density polyurethane MAXWear 90 material, this element provides excellent traction on various surfaces.

Additionally, this boot has a reliable fiberglass shank, which prevents the shoe from losing structure and support. In turn, this construction boot has excellent longevity.

What to Look for When Buying Work Boots for Framing

It’s critical to think about essential factors while choosing work boots for framing. These elements include fit, toe protection, price, toughness, comfort, and support. Continue reading to take a deeper dive into each essential factor:

Toughness and Durability

Perhaps the last thing you’d want is to waste money on work boots that’ll only last for a few weeks. So, the first feature that you should look into is the footwear’s overall life span.

Keep in mind that several work shoes on the market aren’t cheap. Some options might even put a large hole in your wallet.

So, aim to purchase an excellent pair of boots that can last at least two to three years. If you can make the investment, consider buying work footwear that can last for decades.

Still, you can extend the life of your shoes with the right maintenance procedures. You may also buy multiple boots and alternate between these shoes on different days to extend their lifespans.

Fit

It’s almost impossible to wear sturdy boots if they don’t fit properly. A proper fit is critical for taking advantage of comfort and safety. Ensure that you pick the correct size before finalizing your purchase. Otherwise, you’re going to waste money on what could be your next paperweight.

If you’re purchasing from a physical store, take the shoes for a test. Walk around the store for a few minutes to ensure you’re not experiencing any discomfort.

But, read the product description first if you’re buying from an online shop. Additionally, read buyer reviews, as some online retailers might post inaccurate sizes.

Don’t forget to take your socks into account during your search for correctly-fitting work boots. Socks tend to add to the size of the foot, making the fit tighter than usual. Hence, it’s a good idea to buy shoes about half-a-size larger than your foot’s size.

Toe Protection

If you were to take my advice, always go for boots with steel toes. This component should provide you with several safety benefits. For instance, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing that your toes are safe if an object falls on your feet.

Comfort and Support

Framing and other construction jobs tend to take days to complete. Hence, you need a pair of work boots that won’t give you discomfort and fatigue while wearing them for lengthy periods.

Consider buying footwear with components made from materials that offer excellent cushioning. The shoe should also conform to the foot with optimal flexibility. If not, you’ll be at higher-than-average risk of falls at the job site because of the imbalance caused by your inflexible boots.

Price

Finally, you need to consider the boot’s price. It might also be the determining factor if you’re going to purchase a certain shoe or not.

Keep in mind that the most expensive shoes don’t always translate to having the best features. On the other hand, the cheapest footwear might offer more value than more expensive options.

Check your budget while shopping for your ideal work boots. But, don’t forget to consider the other essential factors as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this for?

Work boots are excellent footwear for different scenarios. Users can wear these shoes for casual strolls or while working at construction sites.

However, specific shoes tend to be better options for certain environments. Some work boots might be better selections for professionals near electrical hazards. Conversely, some people might want to wear better-fitting shoes when working near sharp objects.

It’s best to study the working environment while selecting the right footwear. Otherwise, various consequences might surfaces, including wasting money on what could otherwise be a good pair of boots.

Who makes the best work boots for framing?

Several work boot manufacturers create excellent boots. Some of these pieces of footwear are the best in comfort, whereas others have top-notch durability.

At the end of the day, the most favorite work boots for framing experts depend on the job site. If you take my word for it, each manufacturer on the list above promotes unique qualities.

Take, for example, Thorogood; this brand, and its American Heritage MAXWear 90 Boot, is ideal for framing jobs with several electrical pieces of equipment nearby. On the other hand, if the framing job demands to be done in the winter, consider EVER BOOTS and its Ultra Dry boot.

How to care and clean?

Caring for work boots isn’t as daunting as it may initially seem. But, it requires dedication and perseverance to ensure the footwear stays fashionable and functional for years.

Here are the steps to care and clean for your work boots for construction:

• If your shoes are new, start by wearing them inside the house. Use these boots for about a week before you wear them on a construction site. This procedure will prevent unnecessary blisters and hot spots.
• Use a nylon brush and a water-based cleaning agent to clean the boots. Don’t roughly brush the material, or it might cause irreparable damage. Brush until all the dirt is gone from the shoe’s fabric.
• Apply a water-based waterproofing agent after cleaning, particularly if the shoes aren’t waterproof.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article showed you the best work boots for framing. You should also learn new things about what to look for when buying footwear for construction sites.

Note that the right work shoes should provide quality features. These functionalities should meld into a cohesive framework, delivering benefits that fall under the categories of comfort, durability, longevity, convenience, and value.

If you want to go with my choice, then perhaps choosing the KEEN Utility Work Boot is the best ‘bang for your buck.’ This piece of footwear provides the right features at a reasonable price.

Daniel Rocha

Our PPE expert, Daniel Rocha, has been working in the industry for 23 years. He provides guidance to our content editor and writers so they may provide well-informed suggestions and tips for machinery and equipment.