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.
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
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.
Pros
- These boots are durable, lightweight and comfortable to wear all day.
- They are well-built and fit nicely
- These boots provide electrical hazard protection important for HVAC technicians
- Easy to get on and take off
- Cat steel toes are 100% waterproof so you can wear them in damp or moist working environments.
- Slip-resistant soles of these boots grip the ground perfectly and prevent slipping.
- Steel toe protect the toes against serious workplace injuries
- Leather of these boots break-in easily and nicely.
- Toe box is roomy.
- Insulation of the boots keeps your feet dry and warm in snowy weather.
Cons
- Poor arch support
- Tough and narrow fit may cause discomfort and pain
2. Skechers Men’s Verdict Men’s Boot
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.
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
- They are waterproof and sturdy
- The toe box is spacious and they fit well
- The design is elegant and stylish
- Memory foam insoles keep feet relaxed
Cons
- Boots have steel or composite toes
- They are stiff and require break-in time
- The sole of the boots can start to fall apart
3. Carhartt Men’s Toe Boot
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.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable and lightweight boots
- Provides good arch and ankle support
- Waterproof with inner lining for warmth and dryness
- Slip-resistant soles prevent slipping and falling
- Electric hazard protection for HVAC Work
- Roomy and tough-toe box
- Short break-in period
Cons
- These boots are not completely waterproof
- They are a bit stiff and offer poor flexibility
- Sometimes the bottom starts coming apart
4. Thorogood Men’s Toe Boot
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.
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
- Short break-in period
- Great protection against electrical shock hazards for HVAC work
- Well-insulated to keep feet warm and dry
- Super comfy insoles
Cons
- They are a bit difficult to put on.
5. Red Wing Men’s Boot
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.
Pros
- High polish and contrast stitching give these boots a stylish look
- Durable and comfortable boots
- Wide and roomy toe box
- Well-constructed with good-smelling leather
- Nice fit with excellent arch support
- Smooth soles and rubber heels for perfect grip
Cons
- The break-in period is a little rough
- These boots are not waterproof
6. Wolverine Men’s Raiders Steel-Toe
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.
Pros
- Multishot shock absorbing helps to ease pressure on feet.
- The reasonable price is ideal for budget shoppers
- Super comfy, lightweight, and durable Wolverine work boots
- Easy to put on and take off
- Well-made with a nice fit
- Excellent arch support and ease back pain
- Steel toe provides extra protection
- Short break-in period
Cons
- Sometimes the sole of the boots start coming off.
- Leather of the boots rubs feet and causes a little discomfort.
7. Dr. Martens unisex-adult Icon
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.
Pros
- Rugged and durable construction withstands heavy use
- It has seven eyelet lacing system for a secure fit
- Back pull loop for easy on and off
- Slip-resistant air-cushioned outsole provides excellent traction
- Moisture-wicking textile lining keeps feet fresh and comfortable
- Comfortable and super lightweight boots for all-day wear
- Wide and roomy toe box
- Classic and unique design of Martens boots
Cons
- Users found that the boots ran small and suggested ordering a size up.
- Some discomfort may be caused by stiffness and narrowness of the boots
8. Thorogood Toe Work Boots
The Thorogood Toe Work Boots are the best 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.
Pros
- The slip-resistant feature is great for working on wet or dry surfaces.
- 7 inches shaft provides a good fit for most people.
- The non metallic feature makes these boots electrical hazard resistant.
- Composite toe provides extra protection in harsh environments
- Beautifully designed boots that look awesome
- Good support and easy walking
Cons
- The boots may be a little bit heavy for some people.
- Composite toes are tough and make toes sore.
- Bottom of the boots starts coming apart after time
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!