Top 10 Best Wedge Sole Work Boots – Reviews for 2022

If you work in conditions that need footwear with great traction – what you simply need are the best wedge sole work boots. Wedge sole work boots may not seem to be as heavy duty as traditional work boots. Yet, they deliver incredible functionality over a cross section of working conditions.

best wedge sole work boots

Wedge sole work boots are designed with a large contact surface area; giving them stability and traction even on uneven surfaces. Additionally, wedge sole boots feature a heel design that runs the entire outsole length to provide even more contact with the ground and other surfaces.

Furthermore, this design helps to prevent shock to the feet when walking on hard surfaces. You can find an increasing amount of different wedge sole boot styles in the market. So, to make the task less cumbersome and time-consuming for you – we’ve selected our top picks. Below, you will find our list of the 10 best wedge sole work boots to aid in selecting the perfect pair.

See also: Top 10 Best Work Boots For Welders In 2021.

Editors Top Picks & Comparison

Image

Product

Feature

Rating

Price

Best Overall

Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Wedge Soft Toe Work Boots

Dual-density rubber sole, soft toe protection, removeable insole & waterproof.

4.6/5

Runners Up

Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Toe 6″ Work Boots

Slip-resistant outsole, moc toe protection, ortholite footbed & steel shank support.

4.5/5

Also Good

Timberland PRO Men’s Barstow Wedge Work Boots

Moc toe protection, speed lacing sysytem, mesh lining & EVA midsole.

4.7/5

Budget Friendly

Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole Boots

Rugged rubber outsole, EVA midsole & waterproof.

4.4/5

Review of 10 Best Wedge Sole Work Boots

1. Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Wedge Soft Toe Work Boots


Featuring a soft toe design, the Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Waterproof Wedge Soft Toe Work boots are adept at protecting your feet from bloodborne pathogens, microbes, and chemicals. Furthermore, these soft toe wedge work boots keep your feet safe during accidental slips or falls.

Their full waterproof construction ensures your feet are dry all day long. In fact, these wedge sole work boots integrate a patented Storm Defender technology that features a waterproof and breathable membrane; allowing moisture and sweat to escape without letting rain and water penetrate the interior.

For added breathability, the interior features a proprietary FastDry lining which wicks sweat away and prevents odor-causing bacteria. A cushioned polyurethane insole on the other end offers extra support and shock absorption.

Pros

  • Meets OSHA electrical hazards requirements
  • Soft toe curbs bloodborne pathogen, and chemicals
  • Breathable and waterproof membrane to keep feet dry
  • Rubber outsole for increased traction and durability
  • Protection against electrical circuits of up to 18,000V
  • A thick insole offers extra cushioning

Cons

  • Outsole doesn’t offer very effective traction
  • Laces don’t hold up very well

2. Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Toe 6″ Work Boots


Boasting a handcrafted and hand-stitched leather fabrication, the Danner Men’s Bull Run Moc Toe 6” Work Boots reflect the brand’s attention to quality and artistic workmanship. However, whilst the work boots boast a stylish and modern look, they offer more than just style.

The work boots come in handy in most working conditions – whether you are an electrician, handyman, or factory worker. The handcrafted and stitchdown construction provides the boots with added strength and stability. To complement this function is the Moc toe design with contrasting stitching – which helps to protect your feet from impact and shock.

The non-marking oil- and slip-resistant outsole on the other end provides superior traction. Additionally, for extra underfoot protection from electric circuits and shock, the boots feature electrical hazard protection with an ASTM F2892-11 certification.

Pros

  • Unlined leather upper for a lighter finish and cool comfort
  • Leather upper molds to the shape of your feet
  • Electrical hazard certification
  • Stitchdown construction for underfoot stability
  • 503 last for casual and true to size fit
  • Water-resistant full grain leather upper

Cons

  • No toe box for extra impact protection
  • Slightly uncomfortable around the plain toe area

3. Timberland PRO Men’s Barstow Wedge Work Boots


The anti-fatigue technology of the Timberland PRO Men’s Barstow Wedge Work Boots combines a comfort system and geometrical technology. Combined, the two designs deliver all-day support and comfort.

The comfort system is designed to effectively absorb shock whilst its geometrical technology accounts for the high energy return with every step you take. Inside the boots, the insoles integrate an antimicrobial treatment which helps to prevent and control odors. At the bottom, the work boots feature a proprietary PRO rubber outsole which offers a heat-, oil-, slip-, and abrasion-resistant performance.

Furthermore, the boots boast electrical hazard protection which meets ASTM F2412-11, ASTM F2413-11, and ASTM F2892-11 standards for reliable secondary underfoot protection against live electrical circuits, electrically energized conductors, parts, and apparatus.

Pros

  • Unlined full grain leather for comfort, and personalized fit
  • Goodyear Welt construction for durable mechanical bond
  • Anti-fatigue technology for shock absorption and high energy return
  • Mesh tongue lining for a snug fit and to prevent odors
  • The EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning
  • TITAN last construction for a superior fit

Cons

  • Cracks develop under the outsole overtime
  • Uncomfortable on the heel area

4. Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole Boots


Constructed from full grain leather, the Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole Boots deliver increased ruggedness and flexibility to facilitate a comfortable performance all day long. Their patented Goodyear welt construction on the other end offers a durable mechanical bond.

Inside the boots, an open cell polyurethane footbed improves breathability and comfort whilst its antimicrobial treatment helps to prevent the build up of odor-causing bacteria. Furthermore, the interior integrates an EVA molded midsole for lightweight comfort.

However, this is not all the comfort features the boots offer. A padded top collar also adds cushioning whilst the lightweight build, at just 1.58 lbs. per boot, makes them comfortable to walk in all day long.

Pros

  • Electrical hazard protection
  • 24/7 comfort system to foot fatigue
  • Thick heat resistant rubber outsole offers slip and abrasion resistance
  • Antimicrobial treatment to curb the odor-causing bacteria
  • Offers a perfect true to size fit
  • Brown style like style for a modern look

Cons

  • Outsoles come apart after some time
  • Some issues with the gusseted tongue staying aligned

5. Red Wing Heritage Men’s Classic Moc 6″ Boots


Whether you are a farmer or factory worker, the Red Wing Heritage Men’s Classic Moc 6″ Boots offer protection and flexibility thanks to the high quality leather fabrication and steady traction. A Moc toe construction and iconic rubber outsole improve their slip resistance even on uneven and wet surfaces.

Additionally, the work boots feature a Norwegian Welt construction for increased mechanical durability. The work boots are further designed with Puritan triple stitching. This triple stitching design helps to enhance the ruggedness of the boots.

To make the boots comfortable and flexible to walk on for longer periods, they integrate a full grain leather upper. The cork midsole on the other end offers extra support whilst offering a personalized fit. For added cushioning, a molded insole is inserted into each boot.

Pros

  • Extra room in the forefoot and instep to fit different foot shapes
  • Nickel eyelets for a neat look
  • Iconic rubber outsole offer great traction
  • Copper rough leather upper for increased durability
  • Norwegian welt construction adds extra strength
  • True to size fit

Cons

  • Somewhat rigid during the beginning
  • A little expensive

6. Carhartt Men’s 4” Soft Moc Toe Wedge Sole Boots


If you want to enjoy maximum flexibility and maneuverability, the Carhartt Men’s 4” Soft Moc Toe Wedge Sole Work Boots are what you need to invest in. These 4-inch work boots offer just the right amount of coverage and protection whilst promoting freedom of movement and flexibility.

But, this is not all you will enjoy from these work boots. Integrating a cement constructed and thick rubber outsole, the work boots deliver incredible traction and slip-resistant performance. Whilst the outsoles are super reliable on any terrain, they are still lightweight thus, preventing the boots from weighing you down.

To keep the interior equally comfortable and supportive, the wedge sole work boots are cushioned with a polyurethane insole that absorbs shock. The FastDry interior lining on the other end effectively wicks sweat away and prevents odor build up.

Pros

  • 4-inch height promote flexibility
  • Lightweight construction reduces bulkiness
  • Stitched leather upper for added style and ruggedness
  • Sweat-wicking interior lining
  • Available in regular and wide fit
  • Soft toe for protection from impact, chemicals, and pathogens

Cons

  • Soft toe can easily rip off
  • Width runs a little large

7. Carhartt Men’s 6 Inch Waterproof Wedge Steel Toe Work Boots


Fitted with a steel toe box, the Carhartt Men’s 6-Inch Waterproof Wedge Steel Toe Work Boots offers incredible protection. The platform work boots are built to withstand up to 75 pounds of falling pressure from up to 3 yards.

A steel toe helps to protect you against impact and compression hazards; meeting ASTM 2413-18 standards. Additionally, the work boots boast secondary electrical hazard protection against incidental contact with electrical circuits of up to 18,000 volts or less under dry conditions.

A dual density rubber outsole underneath combined with a Goodyear welt construction delivers superb traction and protection against sharp objects and rough terrains. Furthermore, a cushioned polyurethane insole offers more support with incredible shock-absorbing performance.

Pros

  • Steel toe protects against impact and compression hazards
  • Electrical hazard protection
  • Storm Defender membrane for sweat wicking and water resistance
  • Rubber outsole for superior traction
  • Thick polyurethane insole for extra support and shock absorption
  • FastDry lining wicks sweat away and fight odors

Cons

  • Fabric lining doesn’t hold up to heavy duty use
  • Size runs a little large

8. Danner Men’s Bull Run 8-Inch BRN Cristy Work Boots


A steel shank integrated into the Danner Men’s Bull Run 8-Inch BRN Cristy Work Boots protects your feet against hazardous conditions whilst also maintaining the shape of the boot. This design also protects the underside of your feet from puncture wounds.

Whilst the steel shanks add significant protection and functionality to your boots, they don’t bear any significant weight; preventing your boots from being bulky. For added underfoot support and stability, the work boots feature a handcrafted stitchdown construction.

At the bottom, the boots integrate non-marking, oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles which offer increased cushioning, traction, and lightweight support. The outsole provides excellent performance whether you are walking on rough surfaces or soft indoor surfaces such as concrete or wood.

Pros

  • Steel shank for added foot protection and support
  • Lightweight unlined full grain leather upper for added ventilation
  • Stitchdown construction for added stability
  • Best for both indoor and outdoor job sites
  • Water-resistant full grain leather fabrication
  • Open cell Ortholite footbed for added cushioning

Cons

  • Not the best footwear if you are working on asphalt
  • Rubber outsole is a little soft

9. Georgia Boot Men’s Wedge Wellington Work Shoes


If you are looking for extra coverage and protection, the Georgia Boot Men’s Wedge Wellington Work Shoes are what you need. These boots boast a mid-calf length design which helps to provide extra coverage. Yet, wearing these boots, you will also enjoy added protection thanks to its superior choice of material.

Featuring an SPR leather construction with a special tanning process, the work boots are three times stronger and two and a half times more abrasion resistant than normal leather boots. Thanks to this construction, you can comfortably work around barnyard chemicals, caustic alkali, strong acids, and even pasture without worrying about ruining your boots.

Furthermore, the boots incorporate a Goodyear welt construction which offers a strong and durable bond without affecting the flexibility of your boots. In the future, you can even resole your boots without compromising the upper structure.

Pros

  • Distressed cowboy style work boots
  • Flex notched quarter design for increased flexibility
  • Cushioned insole provides superior shock absorption
  • Mid-calf length for increased coverage
  • Available in regular and wide fit
  • Goodyear welt construction for a stronger outsole bond

Cons

  • Size runs a little large
  • Outsoles don’t offer as much traction

10. Georgia Boot Men’s 10″ Wedge Wellington Work Boots


The patented SPR leather construction and special tanning offer great protection against a wide range of chemicals; making your boots barnyard-proof. To complement this superior construction, the boots are fitted with proprietary oil-resistant polyurethane wedge outsoles at the bottom.

The polyurethane outsoles provide increased traction, stability, and protection against elements on hazardous surfaces. To guarantee durability and a strong bond, the polyurethane outsole is reinforced with proprietary Goodyear welt construction.

A covered cushioned midsole on the other end offers extra support and padding; allowing you to go all day without experiencing pain or fatigue. Furthermore, the work boots integrate a steel shank for underfoot support.

Pros

  • Barracuda gold leather molds to the shape of your foot
  • 10-inch mid-calf design for extra coverage
  • Oil-resistant polyurethane wedge outsole offers great traction
  • Steel shank for extra underfoot protection and support
  • Rugged SPR and special tanning for twice as much strength
  • Pull loops on either side of the boots for comfort

Cons

  • Shaft is a bit too small
  • Boots run a little tight

You may also like: Wedge sole vs heel work boots

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Wedge Sole Work Boots?

When choosing the wedge sole boots, you want to consider several factors. In fact, before you opt for these types of boots, you should consider your working conditions. If you work on hard surfaces or in conditions that require great traction – wedge sole boots are the best option.

Stability

Wedge sole work boots are amongst boot types known to offer adequate stability thanks to their outsole design. Thanks to this design, they can distribute your body weight more evenly – eliminating strain, pain, or fatigue that your feet may experience.

Thanks to this support, you will be able to walk more freely and even enjoy a more natural posture as you work without having to constantly worry about balance. Furthermore, due to the thick wedge sole, you don’t have to worry about other elements such as rainwater or dust penetrating your boots.

In addition to their inadvertent wedge sole design, these types of boots also allow you to enjoy extra comfort, stability, and cushioning thanks to their insole and midsole designs. Typically, you want to look out for designs such as EVA midsoles and polyurethane insoles to ensure you experience better cushioning.

Toe Box

Opt for work boots that feature a soft, composite, or steel toe box design that helps to accentuate their protection. Typically, soft toe boots offer your feet some protection and added comfort as they guarantee an extra room to wiggle your toes. However, they are not the best option to protect you against impact or crushing injury.

Nevertheless, they still keep you safe from chemicals, microbes, and pathogens as well as protect you against slip and fall hazards on wet or slick surfaces. Composite toe boots offer more protection. What makes these types of boots more favored is that they don’t contain any metal elements which makes them great for those working in areas with electrical hazards.

Instead of metal elements, these types of boots are built with hard plastics, carbon fibers, or rubber. Steel toe boots on the other end offer the most protection – allowing the boots to withstand high impact and high velocity crashes.

Additionally, they offer total puncture protection. However, these boot types also come with limitations. In addition to being a little bulky, if you don’t find good quality steel toe boots, you can easily crush your toe in case the steel razor twists during crushing impact.

Safety Features

When choosing which wedge sole boots to purchase, you want to pay attention to the safety features. The best quality wedge sole boots come with numerous safety features to improve your overall work experience. Amongst them include electrical hazard protection, waterproofing, steel shanks, and even slip resistance.

Electrical Hazard

You want to go for work boots that offer secondary underfoot protection against open electrical circuits. You can find boots that offer protection against high voltages of up to 18,000. To ensure you choose the right options, look at their ASTM certification, and cross-check to see if it is enough safety rating for the environment you will be working in.

Waterproofing

When it comes to waterproofing, the most common and reliable one is the membrane design. Opt for boots coated with a waterproof membrane that helps to protect your feet against water whilst offering adequate ventilation. A waterproof and breathable membrane allows sweat and moisture to easily escape from the interior of the boots whilst preventing water and rain from penetrating from the exterior.

Shanks

A steel shank is a load-bearing metal inserted between the insole and outsole. Steel shanks do more than just preserving the durability of your boots. These elements aid in providing extra balance, comfort, and support to prevent painful and aching arches.

Outsoles

To prevent frequent slips and falls, always pay attention to the outsoles. Choose boots fitted with rubber outsoles that are designed with intricate lugs to help improve the traction and to guarantee slip resistance.

Weight

Weight is a commonly overlooked feature. Yet, it holds significant relevance. Remember, you will be spending significant time on your feet when you are wearing wedge sole work boots. Therefore, you don’t want to invest in a pair of heavy and bulky boots that would only weigh you down; bringing on premature fatigue.

At the same time, you don’t want to invest in a pair of boots that is too light that it loses its safety and protective qualities. As a general rule of thumb, go for a pair of boots that weigh anywhere between 2.8 and 3.5 lbs.

What Are Wedge Sole Work Boots?

Wedge sole work boots are a type of boot that features a wedge-shaped cushioning that is slightly elevated towards the heels. They are normally fitted with a durable outsole integrating a Goodyear welt construction (for increased durability and bondage to the rest of the boot) which provides them with great traction even on oily and slippery surfaces.

These types of boots are suited for individuals who work long hours on their feet on flat, hard surfaces. Whilst these boots are not typically designed for outdoor use and for activities such as trekking, hiking, or traversing rough terrains, they still offer great versatility for work purposes.

The Advantages of Wedge Sole Boots

Wedge sole work boots come with several benefits to improve your overall performance and comfort, simultaneously. These include:

Large Contact Surface Area

Compared to traditional work boots, wedge sole work boots boast a larger contact surface area. Wedge sole boots are designed with full heel lengths which helps them to protect your feet against shock when walking. Additionally, thanks to this large contact surface area, these boots boast a better tread pattern to increase contact with the ground for superior traction.

Great For Flat and Hard Surfaces

As mentioned above, the best wedge sole boots for work are designed to improve your performance and comfort when working on hard surfaces or when you need great traction. This is because their thicker soles help to provide adequate cushioning and shock absorption to withstand hard surfaces for long periods.

Furthermore, these boots are normally designed with a superior tread pattern on the outsole which provides them with great traction. Their large contact surface area means that the soles come in complete contact with the ground.

However, in the outdoors, their thicker soles may not be the best option as they reduce their stability. Therefore, if your job site is primarily based in the rough outdoors, these types of boots may not be the best option.

Their Versatility

Perhaps, the most prized feature for wedge sole work boots is their versatility. These work boots are designed to cater to a cross section of flat and hard working conditions. Whether you are a construction worker, carpenter, handyman, ironworker, or even a farmer, their design makes them perfect for the type of working site you would typically find yourself in.

Additionally, thanks to their thick wedged heels, they are excellent for terrains that may have hazardous elements. For example, if you work on surfaces that may be strewn with sharp bits of chips or wood, they offer just the right amount of protection to prevent them from puncturing your feet.

Protect Against Elements

What makes wedge sole boots great for work is their ability to protect your feet from dirt and gunk. These boots are completely closed off thus, preventing them from tracking any dirt through the soles. Furthermore, these boots prevent any type of dirt or mud from accumulating over them –  leaving them clean at all times.

Difference Between Wedge Sole Vs Heel Work Boots

The main difference between a wedge sole work boot and a heeled one is their underfoot design. A wedge sole work boot features a single rubber outsole that tapers down from the heel to the toe – creating a wedge shape that comes in contact with the entire ground.

A heel sole work boot on the other end features a front outsole that tapers into the foot and a heal stack that creates a lift on the back of the foot. This design provides limited contact with the ground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Wedge Sole Boots Good For Flat Feet?

Yes, you can find several wedge sole boot that are specially designed for flat feet. These types of wedge sole boots are normally built to provide proper arch support; thus leaving your feet with no pain. The Danner Men’s Bull Run 8-Inch BRN Cristy Work Boots are a good example.

How Long Do Wedge Soles Last?

The longevity of your wedge soles depends on how frequently you use them as well as their quality. Typically, you should expect your wedge soles to last anywhere between 4 and 8 months.

Why Choose Wedge Sole Work Boots?

Answer: Wedge sole work boots come in handy in certain conditions. If you intend to work or be on your feet for long hours on hard and flat surfaces – you certainly want to go for wedge sole work boots.

Why Do Ironworkers Wear Wedge Boots?

Answer: Ironworkers prefer wedge work boots as these types of boots are designed to cater to their working conditions. Typically, ironworkers spend long hours on their feet – especially on hard surfaces. Wedge sole boots are designed to relieve pressure when you stand on hard surfaces for long periods, thus, reducing any chances of fatigue or pain on your feet.

Are wedge sole boots more comfortable?

If used appropriately, wedge sole boots are extremely comfortable and offer ample support. However, don’t expect to enjoy comfort if you wear these boots in unsuitable environments such as hiking or trekking trails.

Final Words

Investing in the best wedge sole work boots definitely goes a long way. With these boots, you will not only enjoy proper protection and be able to work for long hours. Wedge sole work boots are designed to offer optimal comfort in the process. Plus, they come with their fair share of style and versatility. It’s time to choose a pair so you can work even more safely and comfortably.

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