They say that a warehouse job is demanding, you have to pull, push and lift heavy loads all day. This might not apply to a software developer or a writer. The point is you need the best shoes for warehouse work to protect your feet.
The problem comes when you have to find the right shoes for warehouse work all by yourself. Sure, you can do that by investing your time and money.
But wouldn’t it be great if you could find the best boots for warehouse work at one place?
These boots not only protect your feet but also avoid foot pain and other foot ailments. Not sure of how to go about buying a warehouse boot? This overview highlight is everything you need to know about good shoes for warehouse work.
Top Warehouse Shoes Comparison Table
| Image | Title | Buy |
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Top | Timberland PRO Men's Pitboss | Check on Amazon |
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Top | Caterpillar Men's Second Shift | Check on Amazon |
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Top | Skechers for Work Women's Workshire Peril | Check on Amazon |
Best Warehouse Shoes for Men
1.) Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe
Timberland is known for making high-quality safety shoes, and this shoe is no exception. It comes with an oil and slip resistant outsole, goodyear welt construction, and electronic hazard protection, all of which contribute to its sturdiness.
If you’re looking for comfortable shoes for warehouse work that can help you stand all day, look no further than the Timberland PRO Pit Boss that allows you to work well in a warehouse environment.
Another thing you’ll love about this boot is that a removable sock liner firmly prevents blisters. This gives Pit boss everything a warehouse boot should be. They do take a few days to break in but once it’s done, you never have to worry at all.
With all these exceptional features, it is no wonder that the Timberland PRO is on top of the list when it comes to warehouse boots.
On the plus side, it is not an expensive boot that can be used by professional workers. Its durability will allow you to use it for many years; hence justifying its price tag.
2.) Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
This boot comes with ASTM F2413-18 I/75 C/75 rating – the highest possible impact and compression standard for boots. This makes it ideal for intense labor and physical warehouse work.
The quality full grain 100% leather upper and Goodyear welt construction delivers the maximum long term durability.
Furthermore, the Caterpillar Second Shift is equipped with a T3 rubber outsole for optimal traction. This means you can walk on a variety of surfaces without risk of slip, trip or fall.
Regardless of weather, this footwear is comfortable all day. This is made possible by breathable insole, nylon mesh lining and removable PU footbed.
There’s just one drawback though- the breathable materials make it NOT waterproof. Though it is water resistant in small puddles. This is not the right boot if you have to work in water for the whole day.
3.) Skechers Mens Tarlac Steel Toe Work Boot
Despite all the features of the high end footwear, not everyone will be willing to spend nearly $100 to buy a warehouse work boot. So if you are tight on budget Skechers Tarlac Steel Toe is a more affordable alternative.
In addition to decent pricing, this shoe has several admirable features. One of these is light weight. Thanks to its relaxed fit design, you will have more room inside the shoe.
Plus, you can comfortably stand the whole day with memory foam cushioned insoles. This shoe has padded collar for added comfort and metal eyelets for a secure fit.
Like the Caterpillar Second shift, this steel toe boot meets the ASTM F2412/2413-2011 I/75 C/75 standard. Breaking in it will take a few days but that’s the same for other steel toe boots as well.
Another feature that sets the Skechers Tarlac apart is the fact that it is made of all terrain high traction rubber outsole that is puncture, oil and slip resistant. So you can work without worrying about any damage to your foot.
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Best Warehouse Shoes for Women
1.) Skechers Women’s Workshire Peril Steel Toe Boot
Skechers Women’s Workshire is similar to the men’s steel toe. It also meets the ASTM F2412/2413-2011 I/75 C/75, EH standards. The design of the shoe makes it suitable for women who simply have less options when it comes to steel toe boots.
With the boot true to women sizes, you don’t have to order any size bigger. These steel toe boots are durable for warehouse workers and did not last even after 2 years of everyday work. The memory foam makes it comfortable to wear all day with no sore feet.
The Skechers Workshire is made of 100% leather as well as durable rubber outsole. These materials contribute to its durability, especially if you have a job like a warehouse worker.
And in case you are worried about the fit, this warehouse work boot has a relaxed fit design to make it comfortable.
Unfortunately, if you have a foot condition like flat feet or aching feet, you might need an insole to support. Also to note the shaft measures 5.25 inch from arch, so the top of the boot might rub your feet.
2.) Caterpillar Women’s Echo Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot
Measuring 8 inch from the arch, Caterpillar Women’s Echo is one of the highest shafts in our view. It’s lightweight and comfortable makes it perfect to wear for warehouse work all day.
The boot is made of Nubuck leather which Is a soft leather, to enhance its sturdiness the sole is made of T1170 outsole, Nylex sockliner and metal shank to provide stability.
On the flip-side the shoe is not puncture proof and no metatarsal guard makes it unsuitable for few works like construction sites with heavy loads or welding works.
One thing to notice about this boot is slip and oil resistant making it safe to walk on all surfaces. The boots run true to size and you will experience no pain and blisters even after long hours of wearing them. What’s more, this steel toe boot comes with an ASTM F2413-11 C/75 I/75 standard, guaranteeing safety at the workplace.
Features To Look For When Buying Best Safety Shoes for Warehouse
1.) Comfortable to Wear all Day
Comfortable Warehouse shoes are needed for demanding warehouse jobs of standing all day. When deciding whether a shoe is comfortable or not for warehouse work you need to keep following things in mind.
First thing is material used in the construction of boots. Leather boots are most comfortable as it takes the shape of the foot.
However, if you have sweaty feet and want to keep your feet cool, shoes with breathable mesh is a better option.
Another point to consider is the weight of the shoe. The lighter is better. Although some shoes are lightweight, they do not protect your feet from falling objects.
2.) Protection from Foot Injury
Apart from comfort another important factor to consider in warehouse safety shoes is protection of your feet from impact and compression. The safety toe on boots should be sturdy enough to protect you from injuries.
The steel toe boots have incredible benefits as it provides the maximum protection. All steel toe boots mentioned above meet the ASTM F2413-18 I/75 C/75 which is the highest standard for safety footwear.
3.) Slip and oil Resistant
When shopping for warehouse boots, you’ll want to look for ones with Slip and oil resistant outsole. The warehouse job involves moving all day on different surfaces; thus you need a boot that prevents you from falling or slipping.
The rubber is the best material for slip resistant shoes, However you have to look at two things: First, the softer the rubber the better grip it provides.
The second thing is the tread design: a good tread design with a small, finer pattern will ensure great traction on slippery surfaces.
4.) Durable in Tough Warehouse Work
A good warehouse shoe needs to be durable, since you have to wear warehouse shoes for 8-12 hours a day and most of these shoes cost well north of $100. In general a durable work boot lasts for 12-18 months if worn daily for work.
It’s difficult to tell the exact number of days your warehouse safety shoes will last. There are so many variables that determine the life of your shoes – surface you walk on, your weight, weather condition, cleaning and care of shoes make it impossible to tell how many months a warehouse boot will last.
5.) Electrical Hazard Protection
Electrical wires, components, and tools are there on the warehouse floor which poses a threat to warehouse employees. If you want to ensure safety of employees working in warehouses you need a (EH) rated safety shoe that has been tested by ASTM standard against electric shock protection.
Though the number of injuries or deaths at warehouse workplace due to electric shock is very less as compared to slip, trip and fall, it’s recommended you wear electric hazard protected boot as it does not cost much as compared to non EH rated.
6.) Support to Prevent Foot Ache
The support of the warehouse shoe is another aspect worth considering. You’ll want to choose a shoe that provides a proper heel and arch support.
Just like comfort, support is important because it prevents foot aches and issues such as fallen arches or plantar fasciitis.
A shock absorbing gel or memory foam midsole will provide the extra padding and cushioning needed to support your feet the whole day. A metal shank gives the arch support and a padded collar will enhance ankle support.
Best Warehouse Shoe Brands
Timberland
Timberland is a leading work boot company that gained popularity due to Original Waterproof Yellow Boot. This company is dedicated to making high-end outdoor products with innovative technologies and environment friendly material.
Caterpillar
CAT was started a century ago as a manufacturer of heavy equipment. One thing that sets this brand apart is their goal to create genuine, hard working boots and shoes for industrial and casual wear.
This company was established in 1992 with men’s logger boots. The company became a popular hot trending sneaker in 1995, later the company entered into casual, athletics and kids collection.
Why Need Separate Shoes for Warehouse Work?
According to OSHA the injury rate in warehouse work is more than the national average of all industries. Thus, you need a safety shoe to protect you from potential hazards.
Here is a breakdown of potential hazards in warehouse work and the qualities required in shoes to Safeguard your feet.
| Warehousing Hazards | Solution |
| Fall of Heavy Load on Feet | Steel Toe Boots (Best), Alloy Toe, Composite Toe |
| Forklifts turnovers, running over Feet | Steel Toe Boots (Best), Alloy Toe, Composite Toe |
| Musculoskeletal disorders (Foot Pain, Back Pain, Heel Pain, Plantar Fasciitis) | Gel or Memory Foam Midsole, Padded Collar, Metal Shank, Insole |
| Fall on Slippery/Wet Surfaces | Slip and Oil Resistant Outsole |
| Chemical Hazard | Chemical Hazard Protection |
| Electrical Hazard | EH rated |
Things to Avoid in Warehouse Shoes
1.) Too tight or Loose Boot
Work boots come in different widths. If you buy a tight boot your big toe can bend and cause a hammer toe. On the other hand if your boot is too loose it will rub your heels, top of feet and ankle. In addition, you can develop corns, blisters and bunions on your feet if it’s too loose or tight.
2.) Non Breathable Shoes Cause Sweaty Feet
Since you have to wear warehouse shoes for 10-12 hours daily, sweating is quite common and more prevalent among men than women.
Hence, you need a breathable shoe to prevent sweaty feet issue, because it can exacerbate into itchiness, athlete’s foot and foot fungus.
3.) Running shoes does not have Safety Toe
Although you can wear running shoes for warehouse work, it is not recommended as they will not protect you against potential hazards such as electrical, slip, trip and fall of heavy objects .
4.) High heels Result in Foot Issues
Do not wear high heels shoes for warehouse work as it can result in foot and ankle complaints such as joint pain, calluses, falling and sprained Ankles.
FAQs
How to Clean Warehouse work shoes?
We understand you have to wear warehouse shoes daily to work but to make it last long and look good you need to clean it regularly. We recommend to clean work shoes once weekly, perhaps it can vary depending on the type of work and work environment.
The process of cleaning warehouse boots is the same as any other work boot. The only thing to keep in mind is don’t soak boots with too much water as it takes time to dry up.
Are Safety Warehouse Shoes a requirement by OSHA?
As per the safety guidelines of OSHA for warehouse work, employers are responsible to provide personal protective equipment to employees as per list of potential hazards.
The warehouse work has hazards such as Impact, Compression (roll-over), electrical and chemical. Thus safety shoes are an essential protective equipment for warehouse work.
How can I Break in Warehouse boots?
The time required to break in warehouse boots is the same as any other new work boot. The simple way is to wear them as much as you can, However we recommend you check the guide on fast and effective ways to break in work boots to reduce the number of days.
Wrap Up
When it comes to choosing warehouse shoes in the market, few shoes can rival the options mentioned above.
With the best shoes for warehouse work mentioned above, you can prevent foot injuries and foot ailments, increase your productivity and also comply with OSHA guidelines.
