The 10 Best Steel Toe Shoes of 2022

Steel toe shoes are essential if you are someone who works heavy labor jobs or in an environment where you might be at risk of having something heavy dropped on your feet. Steel toes will protect some of your foot if in the event something heavy is dropped on it.

Many labor jobs require their workers to wear steel toe shoes when on the job site. If you are already working a hard labor job, the last thing you want to be bothered with is wearing uncomfortable shoes all day. That is why it is important to find the most comfortable steel toe shoes for your job.

Reebok Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Industrial & Construction Shoe is one of the most comfortable steel toe shoes on the market. They allow for the consumer to feel less like they are wearing a heavy work boot and more like they are wearing a sneaker while providing the same protection. They ranked as one of the highest-rated steel toe shoes on the market with hard-working men.

What to Consider Before Buying Steel Toe Work Shoes

Material

Steel toe work shoes are made out of lots of different materials. If you want a truly lightweight steel toe, you should consider the materials that the steel toe is made out of. Alloy makes for one of the lightest weight steel toes while still being strong enough to protect your feet. It is also important to know what the outside of your shoe is made out of. Highly quality materials, like leather and rip resistance nylon, might cost more but will make sure that your shoes last longer over time.

Toe protection

Toe protection is a major thing when it comes to buying steel toe work shoes. It is important to know just how much protection you need. An alloy might be lightweight and offer great protection, but if you are working with heavier materials, you might want to pick stronger steel. Know your work environment and the steel used to make the toe in your steel toe work shoes.

Lightweight

Having lightweight materials make up your steel toe shoe is important if you want a lightweight steel toe work shoe. Lightweight steel is better for work shoes as it won’t weight down the consumer and will allow them to go longer throughout their day before getting fatigued.

Comfort

All work shoes need to provide some comfort to the consumer. If you work on your feet for long periods of time, you might want a steel toe work shoe that has an extra foam insole to take off the stress from your arch. If you are someone who works more in an office and sits down more at the job site, extra foam padding might not be necessary for you.

Durability

If you are someone who hates replacing your work shoes, you might consider a steel toe that is more durability than others. By knowing the materials that are used in the shoe, you can ensure that you by a steel toe work shoe that will hold up to heavy use. Shoes made out of high-quality leather and with thick rubber soles tend to hold up better than other work shoes.

Best Steel Toe Shoes

NamePriceMade ofSole
Reebok Work Men’s Athletic Oxford ShoeCheck PriceMeshSynthetic
KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work ShoeCheck PriceLeather and MeshRubber
New Balance Men’s 412v1 Work Industrial ShoeCheck PriceLeatherRubber
Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work ShoeCheck PriceLeather and SyntheticRubber
Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial ShoeCheck PriceLeatherRubber
Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial ShoeCheck PriceRip stop nylonSynthetic
KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work ShoeCheck PriceNubuck leatherRubber
Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial ShoeCheck PriceLeatherSynthetic
Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe ShoeCheck PriceLeatherRubber
TICCOON Work Steel Toe Shoes Safety ShoesCheck PriceFabricRubber

1. Reebok Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Industrial & Construction Shoe

Reebok Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Shoe

The Reebox Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Industrial & Construction Shoe is a lightweight steel toe work shoe that is made out of breathable mesh materials that allow for the consumer to feel comfortable and cool throughout the entire day. Having a lightweight steel toe shoe can allow for the consumer to not feel weighed down or tired for the extra weight when working a longer or heavier shift.

It also has full-foot flex grooves that allow the consumer to move more freely and enjoy the comforts of a regular sneaker with the protection of a steel toe work shoe. The memory tech materials used in the insole gives the consumer a comfortable bed for their feet that will help relieve any stress on their arch.

There are no nonslip resistant materials with the Reebok Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Industrial & Construction Shoe. This means it probably isn’t the best shoe for a place that has any slick floors. If you work outside this shoe would better suit you. It is important to make sure you are protected no matter what environment you work in.

Pros

  • It is lightweight.
  • It is made out breathable materials.
  • It has full-foot flex grooves that allow the consumer to move more freely.
  • It has a memory foam insole for extra comfort.

Cons

  • It does not have any nonslip resistance materials.

The Reebox Work Men’s Athletic Oxford Industrial & Construction Shoe is great for anyone who works outside and wants a little extra comfort in the steel toe work shoe. It will allow for the consumer to be comfortable and protected as they work. Comfort is just as important as protection when working heavy labor jobs.

2. KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe

KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe

The KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe is ranked as one of the most popular steel toe work shoes with hard-working men. It is lightweight as far as steel toe shoes go, and provides top protection against any worksite hazards. It is also 100% waterproof with a rubber sole. This allows the consumer to stay dry and comfortable throughout the day.

It is a low top shoe; however, which means it doesn’t provide much ankle support. If you are someone who needs ankle support throughout the day, you might want to look into a few other options, but if you enjoy having a low top shoe over something that resembles more of a boot, then this could be perfect for you.

Another great feature of this steel toe shoe is its oil and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole. This is a must for all worksite safety. It is also made out of a breathable mesh liner so that your feet will always stay cool when working a long day.

Pros

  • It is made out of a breathable mesh.
  • It is made with reflective webbing for extra safety.
  • It is a lightweight, steel toe shoe.
  • It is more comfortable than a work boot.
  • It is slip-resistant and non-marking.
  • It is waterproof.

Cons

  • It provides no ankle support.
  • It is on the wider side and won’t fit slimmer feet well.

The KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe is a great option for someone who wants a lighter steel toe shoe and has a wider foot. Because it is a wider shoe, it might not be the most comfortable for you, but there are other options on this list that will get the job done.

3. New Balance Men’s 412v1 Work Industrial Shoe

New Balance Men’s 412v1 Work Industrial Shoe

The New Balance Men’s 412v1 Work Industrial Show is a great steel toe work shoe if you value comfort over all else. It does provide the extra protection that all steel toe work shoes have, but it also has an EVA insert that provides the consumer with extra comfort that will last all day even though the longest of work shifts.

The rubber sole gives the consumer a slip-resistant grip on all surfaces so that the consumer can make sure they are always safe even on slick surfaces. It also has ripstop nylon that will prevent the shoe from ripping and fraying after heavy use. The materials are breathable as well and will keep the consumer’s feet cool throughout the day.

Pros

  • It is made out of breathable materials.
  • It has a slip-resistant grip.
  • It has ripstop nylon that will prevent it from fraying.
  • It has an EVA insert that will provide the consumer with extra comfort throughout the day.
  • It is lightweight.

Cons

  • It doesn’t provide any ankle support for anyone who might need it.

If you just need a steel toe work shoe that can provide you with comfort and protection, this would be a great work shoe. It will allow you to be comfortable and not have to worry about any damages on the worksite that might hurt your feet.

4. Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe

Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe

The Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe is a simple and cost-efficient design that is perfect for anyone looking a lightweight steel toe work shoe that won’t break the bank. It comes in a black and gray design that makes it great for any work environment, but not for someone who wants more color in their work outfit.

It has a rubber sole, but it doesn’t provide much in the way of slip-resistance. This might not be a problem if you are doing labor jobs outside, but if you are working somewhere that might have slick floors, this could be a problem. It does have a memory foam insole that will provide comfort for anyone who has to be on their feet for long periods of time.

Pros

  • It is cost-efficient.
  • It has a simple design.
  • It has a memory foam insole for extra comfort.

Cons

  • It is not slip-resistant.
  • It isn’t made of the highest quality of materials.

If you are looking for a cost-efficient steel toe work shoe and don’t do a lot of hard labor, this would be a great work shoe for you. It will keep you comfortable and provide any protection that might be needed in the work environment.

5. Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe

Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe

The Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe comes in four different causal colors that make it perfect for any work that might require a steel toe work shoe. Not all work environments require that the steel toe shoes worn are boots. For those of us that rather wear a shoe that looks more like a sneaker, this is an excellent option.

It is made from high-quality leather that makes it harder to wear down over time. It also has a rubber sole that is slip resistance, but it is known to leave marks on some flooring surfaces. This is important to know, depending on where it is exactly you plan on wearing the shoe. The foam insole does allow it to absorb some shock, making it more comfortable throughout the day.

There are a few issues with this steel toe work shoe, however. It is not waterproof or breathable. This is something to take into account before buying if you are someone who works outside in hot environments or a place that might cause your shoes to get wet a lot. Click through to see our review about shoes for walking on concrete all day.

Pros

  • It is lightweight.
  • It has a casual design.
  • It is made of high-quality leather.
  • It has a slip-resistant sole.
  • It has a foam insole that makes it more comfortable to wear

Cons

  • The sole can make marks on the floor.
  • It is not waterproof.
  • It is not made out of breathable materials.

The Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe is great if you are someone who works on the site, but spends most of your time in the office. The steel toe design will protect your feet, but since it is not breathable, it might not be the best shoe for hot outdoor environments.

6. Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial & Construction Shoe

Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial Shoe

The Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial & Construction Shoe is made from 100% ripstop nylon. This means that your steel toe work shoes will be harder to rip, and if they do get a rip in them, they won’t grow very easily. This means it will ensure that your steel toe work shoe will hold up longer over time.

Since the steel toe is made out of alloy, it is a lighter weight than more traditional steel toe shoes, and it is made out of breathable mesh lining so that it will stay cool even on the hottest of workdays. It is also safe to wear around electrical hazards.

These steel toe shoes don’t provide as much traction or slip-resistance as others, though. This means that if you work in an environment that might have a slick ground, then you might need another work shoe.

Pros

  • It is made with alloy, making it more lightweight.
  • It is made with 100% ripstop nylon.
  • It is made out of breathable mesh materials to keep the consumer’s feet cool.
  • It is safe to wear around electrical hazards.

Cons

  • It does not provide any extra support in the sole.
  • It is not slip-resistant.

The Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial & Construction Shoe is a great lightweight option for someone who needs a shoe that will hold up to heavy wear and ear. If you work in a place that might cause your shoes to rip and run often, this could be a solution for you.

7. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe

KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe

The Keen Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe is another lightweight steel toe shoe option for men who work hard labor jobs. It is 100% Nubuck leather, which means it will stand up to heavy wear. This is ideal for someone who works hard labor jobs. No one wants to have to replace their work shoes too often.

Being another low top shoe, it doesn’t offer any ankle support as a steel toe work boot would, but if this is not something you are looking for, it shouldn’t be a problem. It does offer midfoot support that allows you to be comfortable throughout the day no matter how hard of a workday you might have.

Just like most KEEN work shoes, it is also oil and slip-resistant and won’t mark any surfaces as another non-slip shoe might. The contoured heel also makes it fit better and provide less slipping on the heel as the day goes on. This makes it more comfortable to wear throughout the day, as well.

Pros

  • It is waterproof.
  • It is made out of materials that are made to last.
  • It is lightweight.
  • It is slip-resistant and won’t leave marks.
  • It is made with extra support for more comfort throughout the day.

Cons

The KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe is a great lightweight option for someone who wants comfort and protection while at work. It’s one flaw that it has no ankle support, but not everyone needs ankle support throughout the day. If this described you, this might be a great solution to your steel toe work shoe needs.

8. Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe

Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe

The Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe is another steel toe work shoe that looks more like a casual day shoe and less like a work shoe. If this something that is important to you, you might be happy with the suede and mesh upper, and the low top feels.

It is made from leather and has a removable compression-molded EVA insole as well. The compression EVA insole provides the consumer with extra support and comfort throughout the day, which is great if you work on your feet for long periods of time.

It is also slip-resistant, which can be great for you if you work somewhere that might have a slick ground. The inside is breathable and moisture-wicking performance fabric, which will keep the consumer’s feet cool and dry when working, allowing them to be as comfortable as possible while working.

Pros

  • It has a compression insole for extra comfort.
  • It has breathable materials which keep the consumer’s feet cool.
  • It has moisture-wicking materials that keep the feet dry.
  • It looks more like a casual shoe than a steel toe work shoe.
  • It is slip-resistant.

Cons

  • The suede upper doesn’t hold up well over time.

If you want a comfortable but casual looking steel toe shoe, the Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe might be a great work shoe for you. It will provide you with comfort and protection while you work.

9. Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe

Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe

The Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe is a steel toe work shoe that does provide a little more ankle support than others on this list. It is still considered a low top shoe, but it does rise up a little higher than others. This will give minimal ankle support to those who need it, but won’t provide any real relief for someone who might need a lot of ankle support.

This steel toe work shoe is also made of high-quality leather. This means it will hold up longer than most other steel toe work shoes and save the consumer more money when it comes to having to replace their work shoe too often. The rubber sole provides extra comfort throughout the day, and the suede upper makes it look less like a work shoe and more like a casual day shoe.

Pros

  • It has extra support.
  • It provides some ankle support.
  • It is made of high-quality leather.
  • It looks more like a casual shoe and less like a work shoe.

Cons

  • They fit on the smaller side.

If you are someone who doesn’t mind sizing up a half or whole size, then the Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe could be right for you. It provides a lot of comforts and even some ankle support to the consumer. The suede top makes it look like a casual shoe, so you would be able to wear it out even after the workday is done.

10. TICCOON Work Steel Toe Shoes Safety Shoes

TICCOON Work Steel Toe Shoes Safety Shoes

The TICCOON Work Steel Toe Shoes Safety Shoes comes in a variety of options and is great for both men and women. It is made out of fabric that is breathable and allows for the shoes to breathe throughout the workday. This will keep the consumer comfortable while they work and prevent foot odor for building up in the shoe.

It is also slip and wear-resistant. Steel toe work shoes are not the most cost-effective shoe, and it is great when the consumer can get a great pair that will hold up to heavy use so they can replace it less often. Since it comes in a variety of colors, it can also be stylish by providing the protection need in a steel toe work shoe.

Since they are lightweight, they also will keep the consumer from feeling weighted down as the day goes on. Wearing a steel toe that is too heavy can make you feel fatigued even on the lightest of workdays. The TICCOON Work Steel Toe Safety Shoe will prevent this from happening and allow you to work throughout the day without worrying about how heavy your shoes are.

Pros

  • It is lightweight.
  • It is made out of materials that will last.
  • It is slip-resistant.
  • It comes in a variety of colors.
  • It is unisex and works great for males and females.
  • It is breathable.

Cons

  • It does not provide any extra support.
  • The consumer should size down for a better fit.

The TICCOON Work Steel Toe Safety Shoe is great for both men and women. Sometimes it can be hard to find a lightweight but stylish steel toe work shoe. If this important to you, this might be one of the few options out there for you. It is stylish and functional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the KEEN Utility Atlanta Steel Toe Work Shoe weight?

A. The KEEN Utility Atlanta Steel Toe Work Shoe weights about a 1.5 pounds depending on size. This can vary about .2 – .5 pounds depending on the size. They are considered a lightweight steel toe work shoe. It is important to make sure that your work allows lightweight steel toe work shoes before purchasing them for the worksite.

Q. Are the KEEN Utility Atlanta Steel Toe Work Shoe ESD?

A. The only color that is ESD for the KEEN Utility Atlanta Steel Toe Work Shoe is the gargoyle color. The other colors available are not. This information can be found on the KEEN website in case you need to double-check for your work environment. ESD materials allow them to be safe around electrical hazards and will prevent the flow of electricity through the shoe and from harming the consumer.

Q. How does the Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe fit for women?

A. The Harley-Davidson Men’s Static Steel Toe Shoe can fit a little on the smaller side, and it might be needed to size up a whole size for men and a half size for women. This is to make sure the shoe fits comfortably, and the consumer will be as comfortable as possible while they work. It is important to feel comfortable when working so that you can perform at your highest.

Q. Does the Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe come in a wide size?

A. Yes. The Dickies Men’s Shredder Steel Toe Eh Industrial Shoe do come in wide sizes. It is important to know if you will need a wide or slim size. By getting the right size shoe, you will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. Being comfortable when working will allow you to perform at your best all day.

Q. Do the Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy-Toe EH industrial & Construction Shoe really hold up to rips?

A. Yes. The materials make it harder to rip and harder for rips to run in case they do occur. They are no need to worry about constantly replacing your steel toe work shoe if you work in an environment that might cause materials to snag your shoes often and create runs. This will ensure that the consumer can replace their shoes less often and save more money in the long haul. This can be ideal for anyone who hates having to replace their work shoes too often.

Q. Are the Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe waterproof?

A. The Sketchers for Work Men’s Holdredge Steel Toe Work Shoe does provide some waterproofing but not much. It will keep your feet dry when raining and through a shallow puddle, but it is not recommended to get the shoe too wet as it will soak through to your feet. It also doesn’t provide any moist wicking fabric, so once it is wet, it will take some time to dry. The materials also won’t hold up well if it gets wet often.

Conclusion

Steel toe work shoes are important when it comes to working in an environment that needs for your feet to be more protected than a regular sneaker might provide. By having a shoe with a steel toe, you can ensure that your feet will be protected from any hazards on the worksite. Just make sure you follow your companies policy for steel toe shoes before deciding on the ones you light best.

Knowing that you are protected at work will allow you to have focused more on the work you are doing and less your footwear. By buying a lightweight steel toe shoe that also has an insert for extra comfort, there isn’t anything you can’t do at work while wearing your protective footwear.

With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what you need and what you don’t need in a work shoe. It is important to always consider your personal needs and the requirements of your work before making your purchase. Once you know what you need, you can make an informed decision and be happy with your purchase.

Related Resources:

Leave a Comment