HOW TO PICK THE BEST LEATHER WORK BOOT: A BUYER’S GUIDE TO INSULATED LEATHER WORK BOOTS

Selecting the best leather work boots for frozen or extreme-cold environments can seem like a daunting task, but RefrigiWear has the expertise to guide you. First, remember that an insulated leather work boot being worn on -30°F freezer floors needs to be constructed differently than a boot used to walk through snow or a hiking boot for cold-weather trailblazing.

The main reason for this specialized construction is because of conduction. Conduction is essentially heat lost through contact with a cold surface. As you can imagine, walking on freezing floors all day requires special soles, insulation and other features that you may not find in a regular insulated hiking boot.

Here are 5 important things to look for when you’re looking for the best leather work boots:

Insulation

RefrigiWear boots offer a variety of insulation packages from non-insulated to 1,000g insulation. Each boot is assigned a Comfort Rating that serves as a guide to choosing the insulated work boot that best matches your working conditions. You should also consider the comfort and moisture-wicking abilities of the lining, because moisture is a natural enemy of warmth.

Slip-Resistant Soles

Slip-resistant leather work boots offer increased resistance to sliding or skidding on slick surfaces, so soles should be a major consideration if you work in cold temperatures. All RefrigiWear boots are tested against the ASTM F1677 slip-resistance standard. Soles, mid-soles and the insulation layers on the bottom of the boot also play a key role in keeping feet warm and protected. Our outsoles are formulated not to crack from the exposure to extreme cold temps – something other work boots can't handle.

Composite Safety Toes

RefrigiWear leather work boots have ASTM composite safety toes. These safety toes meet the ASTM F2413-05 Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Foot Protection. Composite-toed work boots use materials like carbon fiber, plastic, Kevlar or fiberglass and are ideal for people who must go through metal detectors. In addition, composite toes are up to 30% lighter, resulting in less foot fatigue. Plus, they don't conduct cold like metal, so your feet stay warmer.

Construction

The construction of your leather work boots can help determine whether they are waterproof, resistant to chemicals or even more durable than other boots. A boot's upper half can be attached to the sole by adhesive, through stitching or by welting.

Ankle Support & Padding

Ankle support improves stability and helps reduce fatigue when you’re on your feet all day. A taller boot provides more support, but a snug fit is also important. Lace-up styles often are more supportive if you are very active. Padded ankle collars also add greater stability.

There are also many other features such as rubber toe guards, electrical shock resistance and waterproof barriers that you should keep in mind when choosing footwear.

Size Matters

Choosing the correct size for your insulated leather work boots is important to getting footwear that is comfortable and safe. Footwear should fit appropriately, be supportive for your activity and not cause damage or pain to your feet in any way.

Follow these quick tips when trying on insulated leather work boots:

• Try on your boots with the type of socks or insoles you’ll wear on the job
• Your feet should have plenty of room in the boot and your toes should not touch the end of your shoes (toes should be about 1/2" from the front)
• Shoes should be broad enough to allow a little wiggle room, but fit securely enough that your foot doesn't slide around
• They should be comfortable immediately without feeling any need for "breaking in"

For more information on getting the right fit, check out this guide to selecting the right size work boot.

Get Moisture-Wicking Socks

In order to wick away moisture and keep your feet dry and comfortable, you need to wear the right socks. Cotton is one of the worst fibers to use to keep feet warm in cold environments because they will absorb and retain moisture, like sweat. That moisture against your foot will cause friction and create blisters on your feet in addition to losing warmth. RefrigiWear socks are blends with materials such as wool, nylon, acrylic and polyester, which will wick moisture away from your feet.

Shop Insulated Leather Work Boots

Now that you know what to look for in the best leather work boots, check out these popular insulated boots from RefrigiWear:

Shopping for a Team?

Shopping for a team? If you need help selecting work boots or insulated workwear for your employees, please contact RefrigiWear Customer Service.