8 Best Electrician Work Boots to Buy

As an electrician, you have accepted that danger is part and parcel of the job. Be it inadequate wiring, exposed parts, or wet working conditions; there are several potential hazards awaiting the dedicated electrician.

Accordingly, any good electrician knows that the right attire is an integral part of doing the job properly. And an important component of that is having the right work boots.

The best electrician work boots are those that take into consideration the aforementioned hazards of the job because electricians’ boots must be specially designed to be worn in a multitude of work environments.

Confused about which boots you should buy? Don’t be! Below, we’ve put together 8 of the best ones currently available on the market.

Top 8 Best Electrical Work Boots Comparison Chart

Top 8 Best Electrical Work Boots Reviews

The right work boots are a crucial part of the electrician’s work ensemble because they can play an important role in keeping you safe. So after much research and discussion, we now present the 8 following pairs of boots for your consideration.

1. Dr. Martens – Men’s Icon 2295 Steel Toe Heavy Industry Boots

Highlighted Features

• Durable leather construction with sturdy synthetic sole
• Equipped with a steel toe cap to guard against electric shock
• Thick insulation ensures that accidental electric charges will be absorbed
• Slip-resistant soles and welted foot bed facilitate stability
• Available in shades Gaucho Volcano, Black Industrial Greasy and Tan Greenland

Who hasn’t heard of Doc Martens? You don’t have to be an electrician or a shoe expert to have heard of the iconic brand, who have been perfecting their footwear for over 7 decades now. Their shoes are renowned for their durability, functionality, and iconic style. The Icon 2295ST pull-on boot is no exception to the rule.

But as an electrician, what sort of performance can you expect from these shoes? The answer can only be positive, thanks to all the amazing features they are equipped with. It ticks all of our boxes for the essential electrician work boot, starting from the heavy insulation, which, as we know, is crucial for your safety in an electrically charged work environment.

But that’s not all. To further guard against the possibility of accidental electric shocks, these boots come with a toe cap built from high-quality, long-enduring steel. And to ensure your safety in work environments wet conditions, the shoes also come with slip-resistant soles.

When it comes to durability, Dr. Martens can be relied on, as we have established. In the case of the Icon 2295, you can depend on high-quality leather construction and synthetic soles.

Your stability while walking in these shoes is also ensured thanks to the foot bed, which features a welted construction. Furthermore, the leather uppers are also made to be water-resistant for extra protection on the job!

2. Rhino 6 inch Metatarsal Leather Work Boot

Highlighted Features

• Durable leather and rubber construction featuring an external meta-guard
• Cushioned insoles allow for comfort while on the job
• Steel toe caps make the shoes safe to be worn by electricians
• Very affordable compared to the majority of work boots out there

This pair of work boots from Rhino is ideal for those who are searching for electricians’ work boots on a budget. Constructed from leather and equipped with rubber soles, this pair is also suitable for those electricians who are looking into standard work boots for the first time.

We particularly like the soft insoles that these shoes come with because they ensure comfort while on the job. Some users have reported that the boots might fit a little tightly at first, but of course, all shoes have a break-in period.

Now, for those who are experienced in buying work boots, these shoes might appear to be somewhat low-quality. However, there’s a lot about it to love, starting from its oil-resistant body to its heat-resistant properties. We think that the books are actually of very decent quality, especially given the low price.

Ultimately, these boots are right for those who are on a lower budget or are trying out work boots for the first time. You might struggle with their weight at first, or they might not feel as comfortable, but they do shine in terms of durability.

3. Timberland Pro Mens 8 inch Met Guards Casual Work & Safety Shoes

Highlighted Features

• Equipped with EverGuard leather upper for water resistance capabilities
• Met Guard steel toes guard against metatarsal impact and compression
• High quality build with Goodyear welt construction for dependable durability
• Tight yet comfortable lacing system keeps the shoes securely on your feet

We’re back with a name brand that has successfully established its dominion in the market for high-performing and durable footwear. Yep, we’re talking about Timberland, and if you haven’t heard of them, then you need to stop living under a rock!

Built from premium quality leather and featuring a sturdy rubber sole, you can tell from the build quality of these boots that are clearly built for the serious electrician. The EverGuard leather upper ensures resistance to water and moisture while the Goodyear welt construction for durability that you can depend on.

But these shoes wouldn’t be given a place on our list if they didn’t come with electric resistance properties. On that front, these boots deliver beautifully, as they are equipped with Timberland’s Met Guard steel toes. They not only meet but exceed ASTM standards, meaning they will keep you safe from compression resistance and metatarsal impact.

You’re also going to appreciate the unique and efficient lacing system of the boots, which will allow them to stay on securely while you’re on the job. And if we do say so ourselves, this is one extremely stylish pair of work boots. The lace-up design is unique, and of course, black is a timeless choice for the color of shoes.

4. Timberland PRO Men’s 53522 Powerwelt Wellington Boot

Highlighted Features

• Constructed from high quality waxed full-grain leather with rubber soles
• Nylon mesh lining enhances breathability and overall comfort and freshness
• Steel toe caps and steel shank allow for a sturdier, protective shoe
• Fully resistant to oil and water spills in a hazardous working environment
• Integrates a two finger-grip pull-on design to make the shoes easier to take off

Our next pick is also from Timberland, and it’s one of the most popular electrician work boots out there, for a number of reasons. These boots are built for reliable performance in all kinds of working environments, and it shines in terms of its performance as an electrician work boot.

Durability is never a concern when you choose Timberland boots, and that’s reflected in this pair as well. It’s equipped with a sturdy upper made from the heat-resistant Ever-Guard leather, which the brand claims are 10 times stronger than other types of leather, a notion that has been proven.

Your safety and security while on the job are of crucial importance, and this is a brand that never fails to take that into account. These boots come with steel toes, which will keep you protected from hazardous compression and impact in the dedicated electrician’s work environment.

Furthermore, we love the tread on these boots’ soles. With a dedicated tread type enabling a secure grip, these boots are committed to helping you keep your balance; meanwhile, the oil- and water-resistant body ensures you can work safely in wet conditions.

All of that being said, it’s true that this might not be the most comfortable pair of boots out there. At any rate, work boots take a little more time to break in; more importantly, given the important safety features this boot offers you, we think it’s definitely worth your consideration.

5. KEEN Utility Men’s Davenport 6″ 400g Ct Waterproof Work Boot

Highlighted Features

• Equipped with 400 grams of non-metallic insulation
• Resistant to water, oil and slipping for safety on the job
• Provides great traction thanks to the micro-cleat tread design
• Meets or exceeds two ASTM EH rating guidelines

Next up on our list is a highly-rated electrician work boot packed with all the most essential features and then some. Constructed entirely from durable synthetic material and sporting a sturdy rubber sole, this boot meets or exceeds two ASTM electronic hazard proof standards.

Firstly we’d love to focus on the toe, which has been made from composite materials instead of steel or any other kind of metal. The composite material is greatly preferred by those who feel that steel toes are too heavy, or might be paranoid about its conductivity.

And speaking of electric hazards, these boots are also equipped with oil-resistant properties, so you don’t have to worry about accidents while on the job. Plus, you’ll be able to stay dry thanks to the breathable waterproof lining. Furthermore, the rubber outsoles on the boots guard against slipping, while micro-glass fibers on its surface combine to create a cleat-like effect. Long story short, you can expect reliable traction from these boots.

Now, the most important component of these boots: their insulation. As you know, heavy insulation is extremely important for electricians’ work boots, and this pair delivers amazingly in that regard: you’ll thank the 400 grams of convenient non-metallic insulation when you have to work in the cold.

Most important is the boots’ electric hazard rating. Compliant with ASTM standards, these boots actually exceed the F2412 and F2413 guidelines. What’s more, the heel is designed at a right-angle, which facilitates stability. Overall, it’s quite easy to see how these boots get their high rating.

6. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot

Highlighted Features

• Padded ankle and steel toe combine to give ultimate protection
• Provides effective resistance to slipping
• Compliant with EH standards for on-job safety
• Integrates breathable and comfortable Climasphere insole
• Features Goodyear Welt construction for greater flexibility and durability
• Available in tan, dark brown, black and honey shades

We all know CAT as the construction machinery manufacturing giant. The name and prominent yellow logo are ubiquitous, and the company has earned its reputation as an integral part of the global construction industry. It was only a matter of time before they also came out with a hard-wearing, high-performing pair of work boots like this one.

Constructed with a nubuck leather upper (or full-grain leather in some iterations), these boots are rated for ASTM F2413-18 1/75EH. This EH rating ensures that the user will be protected from up to 14,000 volts in one minute.

The build of the boot is commendable, as well. It comes with a strong and sturdy steel toe, which is designed to help you tackle compression and impact. Furthermore, the integrated Goodyear Welt construction adds to the boot’s overall durability, traction, and flexibility.

But it doesn’t stop there. You’re bound to appreciate the steel shank, which only enhances your stability. Add to that the sturdy T3 rubber outsole and slip resistance, and you end up with a pair of boots that will never let you down when you most need traction.

Now, as we all know, no one enjoys dealing with sweaty feet while on the job. Not only is it uncomfortable and oftentimes stinky, but it can also impair the ability to concentrate. The Second Shift work boot has been designed to fight this, with a breathable insole and nylon mesh lining, to boot!

7. Timberland PRO Men’s Gridworks 8 Inch Waterproof Industrial Work Boot

Highlighted Features

• Fiberglass shank facilitates structural stability
• Comes with an antimicrobial treated mesh lining for fresh and dry feet
• TPU outsoles are weather-resistant with the low-temperature formation
• Integrated with anti-fatigue technology for the committed electrician

If you couldn’t already tell, we love Timberland around here. If our previous reviews on the brand wasn’t an indication of why it is that we adore it so much, then maybe this review will make it clear.

This is, without a doubt, one of the most heavy-duty work boots out there. Accordingly, it’s important to note right off the bat that it’s also quite an expensive pair; however, when you hear about the features, it’ll be clear why that is.

Let’s start with the boots’ overall stability and comfort, which are manifested primarily in the fiberglass shank. Furthermore, integrated with special anti-fatigue technology, these boots come furnished with TPU outsoles that can resist any type of weather.

Adding to the boots’ weather resistance is their waterproof capabilities, which combine with the flat wedge design to give you ultimate traction even in wet conditions. The boots also offer superior resistance to oil and other abrasions.

All of that being said, it’s important to note that these boots don’t come with an electric hazard resistance rating. That might understandably be a deal-breaker for some, but if you’re an electrician who mostly works in dry conditions, you can still consider it.

8. SAFETOE Water-Resistant Leather Mens Safety Boots

Highlighted Features

• Wide steel toe guards against impact and compression
• PU outsole is oil-, heat- and slip-resistant
• Midsoles are made from shock-absorbing memory foam
• The breathable mesh lining keeps feet dry and comfortable
• Available in 3 different shades: brown, black, and yellow

The final pair of boots on our list is a budget pick for those of you who are looking for reliable electrician work boots without breaking the bank. And indeed, this pair from Safetoe is here to prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune on a good pair.

Built fully from genuine cow leather, these boots come equipped with a number of important features for the committed electrician. Let’s start with the insoles, which are built from memory foam of 0.59″ thickness. The breathable mesh lining ensures your feet will be relaxed and fresh as you walk.

But how do the boots perform in terms of safety and security? Let’s ask the wide steel toe, which, as we know, is a staple for the best electrician’s work boots. Furthermore, the boot’s midsole is built to be resistant to punctures, which can make a world of difference in a hazardous working environment.

It doesn’t stop there, of course. The PU outsole on this boot is built for resistance against oil and slippage, while also offering heat resistance. And finally, the boots also come in 3 different shades: black, brown and yellow. We know what you’re thinking. Performance, durability, and style all for such a low price? Well, you’d better believe it, because Safetoe has made it.

Electrician Work Boots Buying Guide

A good pair of work boots is a crucial component of your electrician gear, so you have to be careful before you choose a pair. Remember to keep the following factors in mind before making your decision.

Electric Hazard Rating

In our opinion, the electric hazard rating of a pair of boots should be the first thing you look into when searching for the right electrician work boots. The electric protection rating of a boot indicates how long the boot will be able to withstand a large electricity voltage before letting it get to your feet.

The way the boot achieves this resistance to electricity is if it is properly insulated. This insulation ensures the boots won’t respond to accidental contact with potential hazards, such as live circuits.

Look out for boots that are advertised as being compliant with the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) standards. If your boots are OSHA compliant, that means that they can handle up to 18,000 volts of electricity for at least one minute. ASTM International (formerly, American Society for Testing and Materials) compliance is another way to check your boots’ electric resistance.

Shock Absorption

As any serious electrician will be able to tell you, it’s a job that requires one to stay on one’s feet constantly. From scaling innumerable ladders to climbing uncountable staircases, the arches of an electricians’ feet are subjected to much strain.

The best work boots for men who are electricians are those that come with strong shock absorption capabilities, and this is usually focused in the sole region. A shock-absorbing sole can be the difference between tired and healthy feet.

When shopping for your electrician work boots, look out for pairs that have soft midsoles and foot beds on top of thick outsoles. A steel or wooden shank is also preferable. Also, prioritize breathable and comfortable uppers!

Static Dissipation

Boots that are equipped with the ability to dissipate static are able to allow the free flow of current. This might sound unfavorable, but in reality, it can make a huge difference for those electricians who work in environments sensitive to static electricity.

A pair of static dissipating boots work by allowing the static electricity to dissipate (hence the name) into the sole via the inner lining. From there, it passes safely into the ground, instead of harming you.

Anti-Slipping / Anti-Puncturing

Wet working conditions, or oil spills, are some of the most common scenes in the life of an electrician’s career. Accordingly, it’s of utmost importance to select a pair of boots that guard against slipping.

To this effect, look out for boots that have soles constructed from Vibram or rubber. Even better would be to go for a pair that is described as having anti-slip properties. The tread style/pattern is also an important concern: you want traction.

Puncture resistance is another crucial part of choosing the right electricians’ boots. As you well know, construction sites are filled with sharp objects, such as nails or broken glass. Shoes that come with a metal plate positioned between the sole layers are effective against puncturing.

Protective Steel Toe

Boots that come with an EH rating tend to have a specially designed steel toe cap. This works to protect your feet from the hazards of heavy falling objects or compression while on the job.

Some people think that toe caps made from metal might actually make it easier to receive an electric shock. However, non-conductive materials are usually integrated into the surrounding of the steel toe caps. If you’re still unconvinced, why not look into composite toes?

FAQ’s about Electrical Work Boots

Q: What sets electricians’ work boots apart from other types of work boots?

Ans: Work boots designed for use by electricians tend to have a much thicker sole (typically made from rubber). This works to insulate your body from electricity. If you mistakenly step on a live wire, the heavy insulation ceases the dangerous electricity flow.

Q: Do steel toe caps make it easier to get an electric shock?

Ans: This is a common misconception. Don’t worry—such steel/metal toes have non-conductive materials incorporated into them. If you’re unconvinced, however, consider toe caps made from composite materials.

Q: What are OSHA standards for a boot?

Ans: OSHA stands for the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Act. If your chosen boots are compliant with OSHA standards, that’s a good indicator that they are safe for the job.

Q: How do I know if my boots are resistant to electric hazards?

Ans: Look for the “EH” label, which is stamped, stitched or printed on the shoe.

Q: How do work boots absorb shock?

Ans: Shock absorption is achieved with the help of thickly insulated rubber outsoles. Soft EVA midsoles thickly cushioned footbeds and a sturdy shank (made from steel/wood) are important markers of adequate shock absorption.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve had a look at some of the top work boots for electrician out there, it’ll hopefully be easy for you to decide which ones suit you best.

That said, we do have a soft spot for the Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot. If you’re on a budget, though, the SAFETOE Mens Safety Boots Work Shoes are definitely worth looking into.

Remember, safety is always the first priority. Good luck!