Work involving heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC work) is particularly difficult to plan for. The environments that HVAC professionals will work in span a wide variety. One day you might be in a hot attic, and the next you might be outside in the rain. Although the circumstances in which workers are placed fluctuate, the risks do not. When you’re working with HVAC systems, you need the best work boots for the job to protect your feet and keep you comfortable.
Studies have shown that nearly 70% of people have had some sort of foot injury in their lives. This statistic is especially relevant for HVAC professionals, who are constantly on their feet and walking around. Many of these injuries could have been prevented if the person had been wearing the right shoes.
Work boots are a very significant safety precaution for people in many different professions. For HVAC workers, the right work boots can make all the difference. The best work boots for HVAC workers need to be comfortable, durable, and slip-resistant.
As a starting point, let’s talk about what makes a good pair of HVAC work boots.
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Best Work Boots For HVAC – Our Top Picks!
We have selected 8 great work boots for HVAC, which we believe are the best on the market right now because they combine features, comfort, and durability.
We have tried to include a variety of different brands and styles to suit different needs, so there should be something here for everyone. Let’s take a look at the products that we’ve finalized.
1. Cat Footwear Men’s Steel Toe
Key Features
- It has 6 inches long shaft
- 1.25 inches heel that provides great control on a rough surface
- These shoes have rugged laces to easily put them on
- Strong and durable construction for their longevity
Our Review:
The Cat Footwear Men’s Steel Toe is an amazing pair of ac work boots. They are made from 100% leather which makes them very durable. In this way, they will last you a long time.
In addition, it offers a synthetic sole, which is also long-lasting. Synthetic soles are also known to be more comfortable than leather soles. Thus, you will be able to work for long hours without feeling any discomfort.
More, the shaft measures approximately 6″ from the arch which is responsible for the right amount of support for your feet and ankles. So, you will not have to worry about any sort of injury.
The heel measures approximately 1.25″ and the platform measures approximately 0.75″. These help to provide stability and comfort while you are working.
The ankle-cut work boot also has a steel toe which will protect your feet from any heavy objects that may fall on them. This means that you will be safe while working in dangerous conditions.
These boots also have padded ankles which makes them more comfortable to wear. The padded ankle also makes them more supportive and helps to prevent any sort of injury.
Its oil-resistant outsole is another great feature of these boots. It means that you will not have to worry about your boots slipping on any oily or slippery surfaces.
It also has rugged laces that help to keep the boots secure on your feet. This is a great feature as it means that you will not have to worry about your boots coming loose while you are working.
All in all, the Cat Footwear Men’s Steel Toe is an excellent pair of work boots that offer great features, comfort, and durability. So, if you are looking for a good pair of work boots, then these are worth considering.
Findings from our testing:
After testing we have found that the Cat Footwear Men’s Steel Toe is made from 100% leather which offers great durability for industrial users. Moreover, the synthetic sole of these shoes is also long-lasting and more comfortable.
In addition, the shaft measures 6″ from the arch which not only provides support to your feet but also helps to prevent any sort of injury. So, you can work for long hours without any discomfort.
Pros
- The padded ankle helps to prevent injuries.
- Rugged laces to keep the boots secure and tight.
- Steel toe allows you to work in dangerous conditions without any worry.
- Slippery surfaces are easier to work on thanks to the oil-resistant outsole.
Cons
- The boots may be a bit narrow for some people.
2. Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot
Key Features
- The stylish look makes them perfect for any occasion
- It has a slip-resistant sole that maintains good balance on the watery surface
- Aircooled memory foam to provide breathability to your feet
- Built to last so you won’t have to worry about their quality
Our Review:
The Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot is a great option for those who are looking for a boot that is both comfortable and stylish. It is made up of leather that is perforated to allow your feet to breathe. Thus, it is a good choice for those who often perspire.
It has a slip-resistant rubber sole. Therefore, you can wear it even on slippery surfaces without the worry of falling.
The heel measures approximately 1.5 inches. It is a moderate height that will not put a lot of strain on your feet or ankles. In this way, it will be comfortable to wear for long periods.
Also, the Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot has an Air Cooled Memory Foam insole. This means that your feet will be cushioned and supported throughout the day. So, you can wear them for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort.
Its waterproof feature is a bonus that allows you to wear it even in the rain or snow without worrying about your feet getting wet. In such a manner, it can be said that the Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot is a versatile and practical choice.
Plus, it has a padded collar that provides extra comfort. This feature makes it suitable when you are engaged in activities that require a lot of movement. It means that your ankle will not rub against the boot and cause irritation.
The heavy-duty lugged outsole of these boots provides excellent traction. So, you can wear it even on rugged terrain without worrying about losing your footing.
All things considered, we believe that the Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot is one of the best HVAC boots because it combines comfort, style, and practicality. It is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a boot that can be worn in both casual and formal settings.
Findings from our testing:
As soon as we put these boots on, we were impressed with how comfortable they were for industrial work. The leather was soft and the perforations allowed our feet to breathe.
We also liked the fact that the boot had a slip-resistant sole. This made it a good choice for those who often find themselves on tough or slippery surfaces while doing industrial work.
The Air Cooled Memory Foam insole was a welcome addition that provides cushioning and support throughout the day. We also appreciated the waterproof feature of these boots. It means that you can wear them in any weather condition without so you should get them.
Pros
- Air-cooled foam provides breathability to your feet
- The heavy-duty lugged outsole allowed you to wear them in any terrain
- The waterproof feature keeps your feet dry in any weather condition
- The price of the boot is very reasonable
Cons
- For hiking purposes, you might want higher ankle support to avoid sprains
3. Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot
Key Features
- Shoes come up with 11 inches boot opening
- These boots have high-quality construction
- They are extremely affordable
- It provides firm control on the ground
Our Review:
The Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot is a boot designed for the working man. It features a rubber sole that is durable and long-lasting. It will support your feet through the tough days and nights on the job.
The shaft measures approximately ankle from the arch and the boot opening measures approximately 11″ around. This means that the boot will fit snugly around your ankle, providing support and comfort.
More, the heel measures approximately 1.5″ which gives you just enough height to get the job done without being too cumbersome. In this way, the Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot is the perfect blend of function and form.
It also owns the composite safety toe that protects against impact and compression hazards. This is a great feature for those who work in dangerous environments.
Additionally, the electrical hazard (safety toe) protects against incidental contact with electrical circuits of 18,000 volts or less under dry conditions. Thus, you can feel confident and secure while wearing these boots.
Its fast dry technology lining wicks away sweat for comfort. So, your feet will always feel fresh, even after a long day of work.
For the price, the Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot is a great value. It is affordably priced and will last you for many years to come. This is a boot that is built to last.
In conclusion, these are the best work boots for HVAC workers as they are tough, comfortable, and provide great support and protection. They are also affordably priced, making them a great value for the money.
Findings from Our Testing:
The Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot offers great value for the money. They have a composite safety toe that provides safety against foot injuries while working in industries.
Furthermore, electrical hazard protection is an excellent feature for those who work with electricity. The fast dry technology helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable even after long hours of work.
Pros
- Composite safety toe gives great protection against foot injuries.
- Work with electricity safely by using electrical hazard protection.
- Fast-dry technology lining helps keep your feet comfortable and dry.
- You’ll get just enough height without feeling too cumbersome with its 1.5″ heel.
Cons
- People found that the boots ran a bit small.
4. Thorogood Men’s Toe Boot
Key Features
- They have composite safety toe
- You can walk for long periods
- It has various sizes to fit a wide range of feet
- These shoes provide traction lug outsole
Our Review:
The Thorogood Men’s Toe Boots are HVAC work shoes that offer a good combination of safety features, comfort, and style. The boots are made of 100% leather which ensures both durability and comfort.
They also feature a rubber sole that is slip-resistant and oil-resistant. This means that you can wear these boots in a variety of work environments without having to worry about them getting damaged or slipping.
The boots also have a composite safety toe that protects your feet from being injured by falling objects or other hazards. It allows you to work in confidence knowing that your feet are well-protected.
It also has a multi-layer cushion insole that is shock-absorbent. This makes the boots very comfortable to wear, even if you are standing or walking for long periods.
More, the boots have a multi-directional traction lug outsole. It provides good grip and traction on a variety of surfaces, making them ideal for work environments where you need to be surefooted.
Next, they are available in a wide range of sizes which means that you can find a pair that fits you well, regardless of your foot size.
Last but not least, if we talk about their looks, the boots have a classic style that will never go out of fashion. They will also look great with a pair of jeans or khakis.
Summing up, the Thorogood Men’s Toe Boots are a great choice for anyone who is looking for a durable, comfortable, and stylish ac work boot. So, if you are in the market for a new pair of HVAC work boots, we highly recommend giving these a try.
Finding from our testing:
We found that the Thorogood Men’s Toe Boots offer great safety features, comfort, and style for those workers who are on their feet all day. The boot’s 100% leather material and construction are durable and comfortable for extended wear.
Also, the multi-layer cushion insole provides shock absorption and comfort for HVAC workers standing or walking for long periods. They also have slip-resistant and oil-resistant rubber soles that can grip a variety of surfaces.
Pros
- 100% leather construction that is durable and comfortable
- Multi-layer cushion insole for shock absorption and comfort.
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Composite safety toe protects against hazards
Cons
- Small safety toes might not provide enough protection for some workers
5. Red Wing Men’s Boot
Key Features
- It has 6.5 inches long shaft
- The 1-inch heel of these shoes offers maximum control for industry wor
- These shoes have Premium leather material
- They are reliable
Our Review:
The Red Wing Men’s Boot is the best boot for HVAC technicians. They are made up of durable materials, which makes them last longer. Thus, it is a good investment.
Its welt construction is top-notch and the quality of the leather is premium. This means that the boots will protect your feet in the best way possible. So, you can work without any worries.
More, this pair has an oil-resistant sole. It is an important feature because you will often have to work with chemicals and other liquids. In this way, your feet will be protected from any accidents.
They have a nitrile cork sole that is soft and cushioning. Therefore, you will be able to work all day long without any discomfort.
The boots also have a high polish. It will give you a smart look while working and can impress your clients and customers.
Its shaft measures 6.5 inches from the arch which ensures a perfect fit. The heel is 1 inch high and the platform is 0.5 inches. These measurements make the boots extremely comfortable.
It also has a cap toe design, which is trendy and stylish. The contrast stitching makes the boots look even more attractive. It will offer an eye-catching look that is perfect for any HVAC technician.
Lastly, the hooks and eyelets are of high quality. They are easy to use and provide a secure fit.
To conclude, the Red Wing Men’s Boot is our top pick for HVAC shoes. They are made of high-quality materials, have a great design, and are extremely comfortable. All of these factors make them the perfect choice for any HVAC technician.
Findings From Our Testing:
The Red Wing Men’s Boot is our top pick for the best work boots for HVAC technicians. They are made of high-quality premium leather materials which not only make them durable but also extremely comfortable to wear.
The cork sole is soft and cushioning, making them perfect for long days on the job. High polish and contrast stitching give these boots a stylish look that’s perfect for HVAC technicians. A high-quality hook and eyelet system ensures a secure fit. A sturdy hook and eyelet system ensures a secure fit.
Pros
- Stitch-down welt construction ensures durability
- Nitrile Cork sole is soft and provides better cushioning
- High polish and contrast stitching give these boots a stylish look
- The Hook and eyelet system ensures a secure fit
Cons
- These shoes are not waterproof so they are not ideal to be used in wet conditions.
6. Wolverine Men’s Raiders Steel-Toe
Key Features
- It has compression pads to relieve pressure on the feet
- They are resistant to wear and tear
- These shoes prevent foot injuries
- The reasonable price of these shoes makes them an ideal choice
Our Review:
The Wolverine Men’s Raiders Steel-Toe work boot is a great choice for those in the construction or industrial field. It features 100% leather that is durable and will withstand the everyday wear and tear that comes with these types of jobs.
The rubber sole is also slip-resistant, providing you with the traction you need to stay safe on your feet. Thus, preventing any accidents from happening.
While using it, we found that the multi-shock absorbing compression pads are molded in the outsole to provide you with extra comfort and support.
Surprisingly, its moisture-managing mesh linings are also a great addition as it helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Its nylon shank provides extra support to your feet and helps to reduce fatigue. So, if you’re looking for a durable and comfortable work boot then the Wolverine Men’s Raiders Steel-Toe is the perfect choice for you.
It also has a removable full-cushion footbed for your convenience. You can easily take it out and clean it.
The steel toe is also an impressive feature of the boots as it protects your feet from any falling objects or debris. In such a manner, you can avoid any nasty injuries.
Overall, the Wolverine Men’s Raiders Steel-Toe is an excellent work boot that ticks all the boxes. It’s durable, comfortable, and slip-resistant and most importantly, it will keep your feet safe.
Findings From Our Testing:
The Wolverine boots have an impressive feature of compression pads to relieve pressure on the feet while doing heavy-duty construction work. However, our testing found that the boots were not very comfortable. The main reason for this was that the steel toe was quite rigid and hard. It caused some discomfort to our toes, especially after wearing the boots for a long time.
Despite this, these boots have proven to be quite durable. A lot of abuse can be taken out of the leather without it wearing out.
Pros
- Multishot shock absorbing helps to ease pressure on feet.
- Made with 100% leather which is resistant to wear and tear.
- Rubber soles are slip-resistant Steel toe that protects feet from falling objects.
- The reasonable price is ideal for budget shoppers
Cons
- The steel toe can be quite uncomfortable
7. Dr. Martens unisex-adult Icon
Key Features
- A versatile solution for industry workers
- These shoes have Industrial full grain leather
- They added support and comfort to your feet
- It has a compact and lightweight design
Our Review:
The Dr. Martens Work Icon boots are an impressive collection because of their stylish looks and durability. The uppers are made of industrial full-grain leather which means that they will withstand any wear and tear in the long run.
The seven-eyelet lacing system ensures a secure fit while the back pull loop makes it easy to put on and take off. This will come in handy when you’re in a hurry.
It has welt construction makes these boots extremely durable because the upper and sole are heat-sealed and stitched together. This also makes them resistant to oil, fat, petrol, and alkali.
In addition, its air-cushioned outsole is slip-resistant and assured to provide excellent traction on any surface. In this way, you’ll be able to move around easily without worrying about slipping and hurting yourself.
Also, it owns a breathable textile lining that will keep your feet fresh and comfortable all day long. This feature is responsible for the moisture-wicking capabilities of the boots.
The memory foam footbed will give you added support and underfoot comfort. It contours to the shape of your feet and provides a custom fit.
Plus, the boots are available in different sizes and widths to ensure that you’ll find the perfect fit. You can also choose from various colors including black, brown, and tan.
To sum up, the Dr. Martens Work Icon boots are an excellent choice for those who are looking for stylish and durable work boots. It has all the features that you need in a boot and more. It’s also very affordable considering its quality. We highly recommend it.
Findings From Our Testing:
We found that the Dr. Martens Work Icon boots have a soft upper that is made of industrial full-grain leather. that is resistant to wear and tear, making the boots last longer.
With the seven-eyelet lacing system, these boots offer a secure fit, while the back pull loop makes them easy to put on and take off.
To prevent the boots from coming apart easily, the soles are heat-sealed and stitched together. Footbed with memory foam provides additional support and comfort.
Pros
- Rugged and durable construction allowed the boots to withstand heavy use.
- The seven-eyelet lacing system provided a secure fit
- The back pull loop made the boots easy to put on.
- Air-cushioned outsole is slip-resistant and provided excellent traction.
- Moisture-wicking textile lining kept feet fresh and comfortable.
Cons
- Users found that the boots ran small and suggested ordering a size up.
8. Thorogood Toe Work Boots
Key Features
- Boots can easily absorb impacts on road
- It has job fitted design
- They are suitable for heavy use
- Single-density footbed to provide maximum comfort to feet
Our Review:
The Thorogood Toe Work Boots are the best to work boots for HVAC techs. They are comfortable and have good support. The slip-resistant feature is great for working on wet or dry surfaces. In this way, you can stay safe and avoid accidents.
More, the Goodyear welt construction makes the boots more durable and resistant to moisture. This is ideal for those who work in construction or other jobs that require tough, dirty work.
The reflective material is a nice feature for night jobs. It helps keep you visible and safe while working. In this way, you can prevent unwanted disasters.
On top of that, the Thorogood boots are designed to be “job-fitted.” This means that they are perfect for construction workers, carpenters, mechanics, welders, electricians, or anyone with a tough job.
Additionally, these non-metallic boots are electrical hazard resistant. It will keep your feet protected from electric shocks. So, if you work with electricity, these boots are perfect for you.
Its composite shank construction also gives the strength and flexibility of the boot. The composite building is responsible to maintain the shape of the boots under heavy use.
These boots also have removable single-density footbeds. The footbed is made of strategic concentrations of polyurethane. It helps to absorb impacts and wicks away moisture that will keep your feet feeling comfortable even after long hours of wearing these boots.
The shaft measures approximately 7 inches from the arch. This is a standard size for most boots which means it will fit most people.
Overall, the Thorogood Toe Work Boots are tough, durable, and slip-resistant boots that are perfect for those who have tough jobs. They are also comfortable and have good support. So, if you are looking for a good pair of work boots, these are the perfect choice for you.
Findings From Our Testing:
The Thorogood Toe Work Boots were comfortable and had good support. Working on wet or dry surfaces is easy with the slip-resistant feature. This will keep you safe and prevent accidents.
More, Goodyear welt construction enhances the durability of the boots and reduces moisture absorption. People who work in construction or other jobs requiring tough, dirty work will benefit from this.
Reflective material is a nice feature for night jobs. By wearing it, you will be able to remain visible and safe while working. By doing so, you will be able to prevent unwanted disasters.
Pros
- The slip-resistant feature is great for working on wet or dry surfaces.
- The Goodyear welt construction makes the boots more durable and resistant to moisture.
- 7 inches shaft provides a good fit for most people.
- The non metallic feature makes these boots electrical hazard resistant.
Cons
- The boots may be a little bit heavy for some people.
Key Points To Consider While Buying Best Work Boots For HVAC
When buying work boots for your HVAC job you should consider the following key points to make sure you make the best purchase:
1. Shock Absorbing sole
When working in the HVAC field you will be on your feet a lot and doing a lot of walking, so it is important to have a boot that can provide a good shock-absorbing sole. This will help to prevent any injuries to your feet or legs and will also make working more comfortable. People who have to work in the HVAC field know that it can be very tiring to stand for long hours, so shock absorption sole is a must.
2. Waterproofing and Breathability
Waterproofing is important to keep your feet dry and comfortable while working in wet or humid conditions. Workers in the HVAC industry often have to work in crawl spaces and attics which can be quite damp. The breathability of the boot is also important to prevent your feet from getting too sweaty. If your feet sweat a lot, you are more susceptible to developing blisters and other foot
So, it is important to buy work boots that are waterproof and have good breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
3. Air-cooled foam
Air-cooled foam is a type of foam that is used in some work boots to keep your feet cool and comfortable. This type of foam is often used in athletic shoes and is designed to wick away sweat and keep your feet cool. If you often work in hot conditions, this type of foam can help keep your feet cool and comfortable.
4. Composite safety toe
In some work boots, a composite safety toe is used instead of a steel toe. A composite safety toe is made from materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar and is designed to be lighter than a steel toe. Some people prefer composite safety toes because they feel they are more comfortable. When choosing a work boot for HVAC with a composite safety toe, make sure the toe meets ASTM standards for impact and compression.
5. Slip-resistant
Another important factor to consider is slip-resistant. This is especially important for HVAC workers who often work on wet or icy surfaces. Slip-resistant boots will help you stay safe and prevent accidents.
You can identify this feature by checking the specification of the product in detail. There are different types of slip-resistant boots available on the market. Some have special tread patterns that help grip the floor, while others have soles that are made from slip-resistant materials.
The boots that we have mentioned above offer a slip-resistant feature, you can select one of them as they are tried and tested.
6. Electrical hazards safety
Electrical hazards safety means that the boot can protect you from electric shocks. So, if you work with electricity, and need boots suitable for your profession then make sure to choose a boot that has this feature.
Some have special insulation that protects you from shocks, while others are made from conductive materials that help dissipate the electrical current. You have to select accordingly.
FAQs
Final Verdict
Having the best work boots for your HVAC job can make a big difference in your comfort and safety while working. You should consider the key points including waterproofing, breathability, and air-cooled foam to make sure you buy the best boot for your needs.
You should also look for a boot that offers electrical hazard protection if you work with electrical equipment.
In this article, we have reviewed the top 8 best work boots for HVAC workers in 2020. After testing each product we came to know that the Thorogood Toe Work Boots are the best overall These boots are made of high-quality leather and offer excellent waterproofing and breathability They also offer slip resistance, electrical hazard safety, and comfortable insoles. So, if you are looking for the best work boots for your HVAC job, we recommend you to buy the Thorogood Toe Work Boots.
We are hoping that this guide will help you to choose the best work boots for your HVAC job. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. Thanks for reading!
I’m Richard Gravener, founder and editor of Bootzine. I have 19 plus years as Safety Officer in the construction industry. I have been qualified as a Safety Inspector since December of 2000, and have been a Workplace Safety Coordinator/Advisor since September of 2008.
Workplace safety First – Therefore, it’s crucial for workers to have good footwear to protect their feet from different dangers at work! On this blog, I aim to share all my knowledge and expertise in dealing with workplace safety, especially in choosing the right footwear for different jobs and foot care, hopefully, you can get something out of it. Enjoy!