Keeping your feet safe is not an option especially when the working environment is dangerous. Choosing the right pair of steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts is an uphill task. There are a number of factors you should put into consideration when looking for these types of work boots including; resilience, functionality, longevity, price and comfort. We explored the market and tested a few pieces from renowned brands that have met all the safety standards to narrow down the options for you.
A lot can happen in the construction industry in the course of the day including encountering hazardous spillage, stubbing your foot and stepping on grease or nails. Peace of mind is very important when working. Wearing the best steel toes shoes for 12-hour shifts will give you that peace you so much deserve since your feet and toes will be protected and secure. As you know, injuring or damaging your feet can typically end your career that’s why it’s always advisable to wear proper footwear when working to protect your feet from heavy falling objects and other external elements.
Best Steel Toe Shoes for 12 Hour Shifts
Safety work boots with steel toe caps are the safest option as they come in handy even in the toughest of working conditions. Here’s a roundup of some of the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts;
1. Caterpillar Men’s Steel Toe Work Boots
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Caterpillar Men’s Steel Toe Work Boots are extremely comfortable. These work boots are equally affordable which makes them the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts. They also guarantee value for money since they offer long-lasting durability and endurance under extremely tough conditions. These work boots feature rubber outsoles with better grip and great traction especially on hard and slippery surfaces. The leather uppers increase their lifespan. What’s more, the leather uppers can be reinforced with a waterproof membrane for longevity.
Caterpillar Men’s Steel Toe Work Boots additionally feature mesh lining to help wick moisture away from the feet. This helps keep your feet dry and comfortable especially in hot and humid conditions. The best thing about these work boots is that they have a perfect fit and comfortably accommodate different feet sizes. The rubber outsole is sturdy yet malleable to allow you to walk and stand for long hours without getting fatigued.
Caterpillar Men’s Stee; Toe Work Boots have slip resistant outsoles that come in handy when walking on greasy floors. These work boots are also stylish thanks to the plush collar and tongue, rugged leather and caterpillar logos. They additionally feature hex-shaped grommets for ease of lacing up. These work boots have an electrical hazard protection feature that allows you to work in high voltage environments up to a maximum of 600V.
Pros
- Feature slip resistant soles
- Have a climasphere inner lining with breathability properties to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day
- Easy and convenient to lace up
- Meet the ATSM safety and quality standards
2. Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots are not your typical steel toe shoes. These work boots are relatively expensive but guarantee value for money in the long run. They come with different impressive features in terms of safety, comfort and protection. Plus, they are sturdy which means long-lasting durability and endurance even under the toughest of working conditions. Without a doubt, they are the best steel toe shoes for 12 hour shifts on the market.
Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots are uniquely designed with a blend of fabric and leather to make them stand out from the rest. They feature slip resistant rubber outsoles with better grip and excellent traction on hard and slippery surfaces. These work boots are equally flexible which makes them ideal for those who spend long hours on their feet in line of duty. The inner soles conform to the contours of the feet to provide superior support, comfort and torsional rigidity as you go about your daily duties.
Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots, just like the name suggests, feature an even steel toe to help support your toes without making the boots feel tight. The heel lock is contoured to provide additional comfort and also makes slipping the sow ion easier and less strenuous. The EVA footbeds are removable for ease of cleaning up the work boots. They also have a lex lining to help wick moisture away from your feet to keep them dry and comfortable especially on hot and humid conditions.
In addition, the Keen Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boots have an electrical hazard protection feature to protect you from getting electrocuted. Plus, it allows you to comfortably work in high voltage environments. These are hands down the best steel toe shoes for 12 hour shifts for those who can dig deeper into their pockets.
Pros
- Have slip resistant outsoles with better grip and great traction even on slippery surfaces
- Extremely comfortable thanks to the leather and fabric combination
- These boots are ANSI approved
- Feature flatbed soles that come with different ergonomic features
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to their counterparts since they have a functional build and are equally sturdy
3. Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boots
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Timberland is a renowned brand that’s known to make quality and durable gear and these work boots are no exception. Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boots are reasonably priced which makes them an excellent choice for those working on a budget. These leather work boots are equipped with a couple of safety and protective features including slip resist synthetic outsoles with better grip ideal for walking and standing for long hours. Plus, it comes with a removable sock liner.
Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss Steel Toe Work Boots feature a 5-inch shaft with a 1.5 heel for structural support and torsional rigidity. These work boots have a padded top collar for added comfort, tongue and tonal stitching. The open-cell PU footbeds provide superior arch support while the Agion cover with antimicrobial treatment helps keep your feet odorless. The outsoles have an electrical hazard protection feature to prevent you from getting electrocuted when working on high voltage environments.
Timberland Pro Men’s Pitboss Steel Toe Work Boots meets the necessary set standards when it comes to quality and safety. These work boots are also waterproof and you can enhance this feature by using different oiling techniques for increased durability.
Pros
- Have slip resistant outsoles with better grip and great traction on hard and slippery surfaces
- Come with a removable sock liner for ease of clean up and ventilation as it helps regulate temperatures throughout the day for your feet to breathe easily
- Budget-friendly
- Meet the ANSI standardization approval on quality
- The rubber outsoles and leather uppers guarantee long-lasting durability and endurance even on the toughest of working conditions
4. Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift Steel Toe Work Boots
This is the second work boots from this brand on our list. Caterpillar is a renowned company that makes top-quality boots and the Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift Steel Toe Work Boots are no different. These work boots are reasonably priced for steel toe work boots. They feature 1.25-inch heels and a 0.75 platform which makes them the best teel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts. They also meet the ANSI standardization approval in terms of quality while the genuine leather increases their durability.
Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift Steel Toe Work Boots additionally feature rubber outsoles with better grip and excellent traction especially on slippery surfaces. Plus, it also helps handle high impact when walking on hard surfaces. The best thing about these work boots is that they have an electrical hazard protection feature to prevent you from getting electrocuted when walking on high voltage environments. The feature also comes in handy for those who have to deal with electrical stuff and machinery.
Caterpillar Men’s 2nd Shift Steel Toe Work Boots is an excellent choice for those who spend long hours on their feet. The soft lining wicks moisture away from the feet to keep them dry and comfortable throughout the day especially in hot and humid conditions. The lining also helps regulate temperature and lock out sweat and water. These work boots are true to size, have a perfect fit and are extremely comfortable, ideal for everyday wear.
Pros
- Is ANSI approved in terms of quality
- Have an extremely comfortable inner sole
- Reasonably priced and have impressive features, ideal for those working on a budget
- Feature anti-slip outsoles with better grip and great traction on slippery and greasy surfaces
5. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage Steel Toe Work Boots
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage Steel Toe Work Boots are not your typical steel toe boots. These work boots feature crepe outsoles with better grip and excellent traction especially on greasy and slippery surfaces. Plus, you can easily maneuver through sharp objects and uneven grounds. These work boots feature dual density footbeds to provide superior support, comfort while absorbing shock and reducing impact when walking on hard surfaces. The shaft provides structural support and torsional rigidity.
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage Steel Toe Work Boots will protect your feet and toes from heavy falling objects and other external elements. These are one of the most budget-friendly work boots on our list ideal for those looking for the best steel toe shoes for 12 hour shifts on a budget. The rubber midsoles will keep your feet comfortable as you go about your duties especially if it involves standing for long hours. The rubber midsoles help prevent strain and fatigue. Plus, it allows the work boots to bend effortlessly when you are walking to ensure your steps are quite natural.
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage Steel Toe Work Boots are your best bet if you are looking for the best shoes for 12 hour shifts with long-lasting durability and endurance. What’s more, they are durable without compromising on comfort and safety.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Extremely comfortable
- Feature a sweat lining that helps wick moisture away from the feet to keep them dry and comfortable when the temperatures run high
- Have non-slip rubber outsoles with better grip and excellent traction especially when walking on slippery surfaces and other terrains
- Meet the ANSI quality standardization approval
How To Choose the Best Steel Toe Shoes for 12 Hour Shifts
You won’t just stumble on the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts. Getting hold of one is almost a near miracle since there’s a wide variety in different designs on the market. Those who spend long hours on their feet when working will tell you how a feet injury can ruin their entire career. That’s why they are always advised to wear the right gear when reporting for duty and this includes wearing proper foot wear with protective and safety features.
Brand
When looking for the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts, you should also consider the brand. Some companies have been around for decades and are known to make top quality and long-lasting footwear. Those are the ones you should try out. Remember, the price tag doesn’t usually translate to perfection in terms of quality and safety. One thing you need to know about steel toe shoes is that they don’t require a break-in period. This means that you don’t have to go up or down a size since the steel helps the shoes retain their shape.
Waterproof
The best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts should also be waterproof and have outsoles with great traction on slippery surfaces and other terrains. They should do all that without compromising on comfort especially for those who spend long hours on their feet in line of duty. However, work boots with steel toe caps are usually a bit heavier compared to their counterparts with alloy and composite toes. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that the shoes have to be bulky. In this case, most people prefer compact shoes.
Design
The last thing you want to consider when shopping for the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts is looks. You cannot compromise safety for style. Safety is very important especially for those working with heavy equipment and machinery in areas that are usually danger-prone. You’ll also need to check on the durability of the shoes which typically translates to how long the shoes will serve its intended purpose.
The best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts are the best on the market with impressive features when it comes to protection, safety and comfort. Plus, they are reasonably priced so you get the best for the best price.
Price
Price is everything when looking for the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts. This is because these work boots are usually relatively expensive as compared to other conventional shoes. And that is why some workers compromise their safety and it can result in hazardous incidents and accidents. Choose the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts that strikes a balance between impressive protective features and reasonable pricing. However, when it comes to working on dangerous environments, you can’t put a price on your feet. This typically means that you have to dig deeper into your pockets to get what you want.
Material
Standard shoes and composite shoes fitted with steel toe caps can serve you for a while but they tear when the going gets tough. Work boots with steel toes are specially designed to prevent you from getting electrocuted and reduce impact when walking on hard surfaces. There are different types of steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts on the market but the most expensive option are those fitted with titanium steel toes.
Work boots with titanium steel toes are typically an overkill as they are just as good as those with steel toe caps. Don’t be in hurry when shopping for the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts, take your time and compare all the options before settling on one. Plus, don’t be afraid to dig deeper into your pockets if value is guaranteed.
Outsole
The outsoles usually play a significant role when it comes to the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts. This is because they are constantly in use. The outsole tells you how far in terms of grip the shoes can support you on slippery surfaces and other different terrains. Go for work boots or shoes with impressive traction and grip features. For instance, a rubber outsole would be great as it strikes a perfect balance between sturdiness and flexibility.
Flexibility
Flexible work shoes or boots will allow you to stand or walk for long hours on hard surfaces with ease. What’s more, it allows your movement to be as natural as possible. Ensure the rubber outsole is thick enough to protect your feet from sharp objects. In this case, the outsoles should be piercing resistant. Some soles usually have an additional middle plate for extra safety especially for those who work in environments with sharp objects laying around. The sole should also be able to withstand the pressure that comes with constantly being on the move when working.
The outsole should have an excellent grip on oily or greasy floors and surfaces. This typically means that the best outsole for work boots or shoes should be resistant to any of these elements to allow them to grip on the floor effortlessly. Slipping can cause severe injuries resulting in surgeries and sometimes death. A great outsole should take friction as well, to prevent them from wearing out prematurely. The outsole should also have the electrical hazard protection feature that comes in handy for those working in high voltage environments and dealing with electrical machinery and equipment.
The best outsoles can handle up to a maximum of 600 volts without causing any harm to the wearer.
Insoles
The insoles have to be incredibly comfortable since they are usually in direct contact with the feet. They also help with shock absorption as the foot presses on the ground. You can easily get blisters and bruises if the insoles are either uncomfortable or abrasive. Inner soles play a great role in determining the comfort level of you work boots or shoes especially around the toe area.
The best insoles should fit the feet snuggly while allowing them to rest in all the right places ergonomically. The outsoles should be equally comfortable and soft enough to help absorb shock and pressure from the body. There are different steel toe shoes for 12-hours on the market and they come with different soles to accommodate different feet sizes and widths. It’s important to try out work boots or shoes with different types of insoles before settling on one with a perfect fit.
Shoe Lining
Most people get blisters and bruises when their boots are uncomfortable or lack shoe lining. Poor lining can also result in blisters and bruises since all the pressure that comes from constantly walking and lifting heavy objects will makes it wear out fast. When choosing the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts, always go for those with a sturdy yet comfortable lining. The lining can easily damage your feet if it wears out.
You need to choose steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts with a comfortable, hardy lining that can withstand wearing for long hours without getting worn out. A sturdy lining will come in handy in this case. The lining should be equally breathable to regulate temperatures and keep your feet dry and fresh throughout the day. Wear the shoes with a pair of socks to test the fit. Alternatively, go for steel toe shoes with a removable lining for ease of clean up and maintaining freshness.
Longevity
The type of materials used and manufacturing method determine the longevity of steel toe shoes. The best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts are made of leather. A perfect balance between tough fabric and genuine leather will increases the comfort level of the shoes. The materials used should be tough and sturdy to resist chemical spillages, abrasions, ripping and corrosion. They should also keep the feet and toes intact and secure from heavy falling objects and other external elements.
The outsole should be equally tough and provide long-lasting durability without wearing out. The best steel toe shoes for 12 hours should not show any signs of falling apart within a few months.
Standardization
Standardization usually confirms the authenticity of steel toe shoes in terms of quality. The mark of standardization shows that the shoe has gone through quality and safety based tests. This helps ensure that the shoes guarantee a certain level of safety, ideal for use by different workers depending on the worksite. However, we must agree that you can’t find a perfect pair of shoes but there are set standards maintained by different safety regulatory bodies that they should meet.
You Should Trust This Review Because…
Construction workers are exposed to a lot of risks when out working on the field. I’ve been a construction worker over the years and that’s how I know that some working environments are hazardous. Investing in a great pair of steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts is important to protect your feet and toes as you go about your daily duties. What’s more, wearing the right pair of shoes will give you the peace of mind you deserve when working.
You should also be conversant with different features that make a great steel toe shoe to avoid making any compromises. There’s a wide variety of protective work boots including those fitted with titanium toe caps but are very costly. Remember, you can’t put a price on your feet when it comes to safety and protection that’s why it doesn’t hurt to dig deeper into your pockets to get the best.
Conclusion
According to this article, it’s evident that the best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts are not the most expensive. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that cheaper ones will serve you better. It’s important to look at different protective and safety features when shopping for steel toe shoes to protect your feet and toes from heavy falling objects and other external elements. However, the protective features should not get in the way of comfort especially for those who spend long hours on their feet.
The best steel toe shoes for 12-hour shifts should strike a perfect balance between comfort, support, safety and protective features.
